VILCABAMBA
The magic of Vilcabamba
– the Sacred Valley of longevity
The name ‘Vilcabamba’ is derived from quichua, the language of the incas. ‘Vilca’ is the quichua word for the sacred huilco tree while ‘bamba’ simply means valley, and thus Vilcabamba is often referred to as “la valle sagrada” or “the sacred valley”. It has a base elevation of 1500 meters, allowing inhabitants and vistors to enjoy a spring-like climate all year long with average temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees celsius (65 to 85 degrees fahrenheit).
The most striking feature of vilcabamba’s landscape is mandango mountain, which flanks the village like a magnificent natural monument. The incas and those who came after them perceived the distinctive rock formation as the profile of a sleeping god, and thus mandango has always been regarded as an especially magical place and protector of this sacred valley. Legend has it that the incan warriors and royalty journeyed to restore their health and vitality in this mystical oasis nestled in the andes mountains.
“Vilcabamba – the only place in the world where years are added to your life and life is added to your years.”
The valley of longevity
Vilcabamba was little known by outsiders until scientists discovered that a strikingly large percentage of residents were over a hundred years old. While the exact reasons for these astounding facts have not yet been conclusively determined, some of the factors suspected of contributing to the remarkable vitality and longevity of vilcabamba’s residents are:
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year-round spring climate
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fresh, local food
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mineral dense, pure drinking water
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clean air
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organic soil
Podocarpus National Park
From Vilcabamba there is easy access to Podocarpus National Park, which is named after the only conifer native to northern South America. The park is one of the most biodiverse in the world and in it you can find many plant species including the malaria-healing cascarilla, prehistoric tree ferns, unique orchids and bizarre bromeliads. Podocarpus National Park is located in an area of high biodiversity and endemism in the southern region of Ecuador.
The National Park is an important example of mountains in tropical latitudes, which is one of the main reasons why ecuador is so biodiverse. Many studies show that most of the country’s biodiversity is packed into these intermediate altitudes, where the cold is not so extreme and where humidity, microclimates and geographical barriers abound. The area around podocarpus is considered a site of global importance for biodiversity conservation. Thanks to this abundance of plant life, Vilcabamba has fantastic air quality. Come take a deep breath and feel it for yourself!
Discover why so many internationally renowned health practitioners have made vilcabamba their home and sanctuary. This high-vibrational environment is the perfect place to heal. Nurture the body, clear the mind, and ignite the spirit. Open your heart…as you let go and feel the new you emerge. Reserve your space at the sacred valley health retreat today!
It is a place renowned for its majestic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the high number of centenarians – people who live to be over 100 years old because of a healthy, holistic lifestyle.
Contact
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