Zamora's most famous landmark is the huge clock on the hill above the bus station, attractively decorated with flowers. The minute hand is 11.34m long. This may very well be the largest timepiece in Ecuador and, according to some, the biggest in the world.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Refugio Ecológico Tzanka

0.36 MILES

Head a block southwest of the main plaza and hang a right on the dead-end lane to find this wildlife rescue center. Housing colorful parrots, coatis (big,…

2. Podocarpus National Park

9.76 MILES

This national park fills in much of the triangle between Loja, Zamora and Vilcabamba, as well as a huge swath to the southeast. Because altitude ranges so…

3. Lagunas de los Compadres

12.9 MILES

Branching off from the Los Miradores Loop Trail is the challenging but enticing 14.5km trail to the two dozen or more lakes that make up the remote…

4. Parque Universitario PUEAR

17.01 MILES

Almost 5km south of the center, the 90-hectare reserve has excellent trails. You’ll need to cab it here ($1.25).

6. Mirador Teléferico

17.45 MILES

Loja's best viewpoint is at the top of the cable car from Parque Pucará, 1km south of Plaza de la Independencia up Olmedo. Walk or get a taxi ($1) to the…

7. Plaza de la Independencia

17.76 MILES

The plaza is hemmed in by the Church of San Sebastián and colonial-era buildings with pillared overhangs and shuttered wooden balconies. A brightly tiled…

8. Museo de la Música

17.79 MILES

This fun museum located in an old school explores the lives of famous musicians who hailed from Loja (most peaking in success during the golden 1890–1940…