Just 15 minutes south of Quito, in a valley hidden among mountains, lies Lloa, a rural parish where nature maintains its own rhythm and the air smells of earth, volcano, and tranquility.
Although many people from Quito have heard its name, few know the magnitude of its landscapes and the warmth of its people.
Spending a day in Lloa is rediscovering the essential: walking among rivers and moors, savoring rural food, and feeling the silence of the Andes.
Lloa is part of the Metropolitan District of Quito and is located at an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level, right at the foot of the Guagua Pichincha volcano, the natural guardian of the city. Its access is easy: from the La Mena 2 neighborhood, a winding road takes you through green hills to reach the heart of the parish, where life goes by slowly.
First stop: the village and its history
The journey begins in the parish center, a small village with cobblestone streets and adobe houses, where time seems to have stood still.
The Church of San Lorenzo de Lloa, with its white tower and serene surroundings, is one of the first points that catches the eye. In front of it, the central square concentrates local life: farmers arriving with fresh produce, children playing with a ball, women selling oven-baked bread and artisanal cheese.
A must-visit stop is the Casa de la Cultura de Lloa, where visitors can learn more about the traditions, music, and history of this rural community. There are ancient objects, photographs, and stories that show how the inhabitants have lived for centuries alongside the volcano and its changes.
From the village, you can see the first signs of Guagua Pichincha, its imposing silhouette among the clouds, reminding us that this land is part of the most active volcanic belt in the world.
Waterfalls and hidden nature
But Lloa is not just a volcano: it is also water.
Throughout the parish, rivers and streams flow that form small waterfalls and natural pools.
One of the most recommended places is the Cascada del Río Blanco, a hidden spot among vegetation where the sound of water and the singing of birds create an atmosphere of complete peace.
Another option is to visit the natural hot springs, which emerge in some nearby areas due to geothermal activity. These places, still little known, are perfect for relaxing after a hike.
If you are looking for a deeper connection with nature, Lloa has ideal areas for ecological hiking and birdwatching.
From its hills, you can observe condors, hawks, and other species native to the Quito Andes.
Tastes of the Quito countryside
No full day in Lloa would be complete without enjoying its traditional cuisine.
The restaurants and farms in the village offer dishes that summarize the essence of rural life: fried pork, potato locro, wind empanadas, and canelazo prepared with local fruits.
You can also taste products made in the area, such as artisanal cheese, bee honey, or bread baked in a wood-fired oven.
Many visitors take the opportunity to buy food directly from the producers, thus strengthening the local economy.
A recommended experience is to visit one of the agroecological farms, where the owners showcase their crops, explain sustainable practices, and offer lunches prepared with ingredients from their own garden.
Community tourism and living culture
Lloa has opted for a model of responsible tourism, where the community actively participates.
Some local groups offer guided tours, themed walks, and rural accommodations that allow visitors to experience rural life up close: milking cows, harvesting vegetables, or learning how to make cheese and bread.
In addition, throughout the year there are colorful and musical festivities celebrated, such as the Fiesta de San Lorenzo (in August) and Corpus Christi, where traditional parades and dances fill the streets with life.
This type of sustainable tourism not only preserves the natural environment but also strengthens the pride and identity of the community.
Sunset and return
Before returning to Quito, it is worth stopping at one of the natural viewpoints that surround the valley.
As evening falls, the sun paints the mountains in shades of orange and pink, while the clouds intertwine among the peaks.
It is the perfect moment to take a photograph or simply contemplate how nature bids farewell to the day.
The return to the city is short, but the feeling that remains is long: Lloa makes you feel far from the noise, but close to what is essential.
Lloa, the secret of southern Quito
Visiting Lloa on a full day trip is to discover a different facet of Quito: that of vibrant countryside, powerful volcanoes, and a community that preserves its roots.
It is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure without losing connection with local culture, or simply for those who need to breathe fresh air and remember that nature is just a step away.
In just one day, you can walk through the paramo, taste rural food, see waterfalls, and contemplate an active volcano.
But the best thing about Lloa is not only its landscapes but also its people: friendly, proud, always ready to welcome you with a smile and a warm meal.
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Discover Lloa, the Andean valley of Quito filled with nature and tradition.
