We stayed two nights at Hotel Madre Tierra. We had Unit #5, which has a charming balcony with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and a hammock for enjoying a relaxing afternoon. The hotel is a five or ten minute walk into Vilcabamba or a $1.00 taxi ride. We arrived in Vilcabamba from Loja by taxi, a $15 ride. The cab driver did not have any trouble locating the hotel after inquiring in town and discovering we had passed it just before Vilcabamba.
Plantings on the grounds are lush and tropical. These, with the fountains and tiered pools, make for a calming, lovely setting. The food is quite good and the staff very helpful. Most speak English and the new owners and manager are very welcoming. Because the cabins are in a wooded setting, an occasional insect might appear, but the bedding and bath are clean and comfortable. Showers were hot. We would definitely consider staying here again on our next visit to Vilcabamba.