Loja has two universities and the self-proclaimed reputation of being the country's music capital. Indeed, there is a vibrant music scene here. On weekends, bands often play in the Parque Central.
The most popular bars in town include Casa Tinku (tel. 08/5568-759), on Calle Lourdes between Avenida Bolívar and Sucre; and Santo Remedio (tel. 08/4738-910) on Mercadillo between Bolívar and Valdivieso. Both attract a college crowd and sometimes have live bands. La Fiesta (tel. 07/2578-441), on Av. 10 de Agosto 10-59, between 24 de Mayo and Juan José Pena, is Loja's all-out salsa and merengue dance club. For a more quiet time, try La Siembra (tel. 07/2561-3470), on the corner of Macara and Mercadillo, an intimate bar that serves local fare, grilled meats, and pizzas; or El Viejo Minero (tel. 07/2585-878), on Sucre 10-76 near Azuay, a down-home, no-frills watering-hole, popular with local college students, that sometimes features live local folk music.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
