Forget Florida, Retire To This South American Destination Known As 'The Valley Of Longevity'

Almost blending into the rugged ridges of the Andean valley surrounding it, the little town of Vilcabamba has been hailed as Ecuador's own long-life destination, thanks to its balmy weather, laid-back lifestyle, and mineral-enriched water resources. Put simply, there's something in the air here. Populated by numerous centenarians, locals and retirees alike can thrive in Ecuador's "Valley of Longevity." 

A number of destinations across Ecuador have attracted large communities of overseas retirees, particularly Cuenca, a scenic, tourist-friendly, white-walled city hidden in the Andes. However, fabulous Vilcabamba, nestled between the mountain ridges, isn't overcrowded with migrants from the U.S. or Europe, yet still has a significant English-speaking community for those still fine-tuning their Spanish. It still maintains its strong sense of Andean culture and its sleepy atmosphere, making it perfect for retirees looking to immerse themselves in their new society. It also has the perk of relatively low living costs and the use of the U.S. dollar as the official currency.

Located near the country's southern border with Peru, the nearest city is Loja, which is less than an hour away. The city isn't particularly accessible, only receiving direct flights from Quito. However, it takes less than an hour to fly to Loja from the capital city, which hosts direct flights to four U.S. airports and to a plethora of hubs across the continent for retirees looking to travel beyond their new South American home.

Ecuador, being carved apart by volcanic valleys and rugged Andes ridges, is a less-visited dream destination for adventurers. The mountains that wrap around the high-altitude village of Vilcabamba — and the outdoor activities they offer — are an important element of the healthy lifestyles of local residents. Right on the town's quiet frontier, you can find Podocarpus National Park. Undulating through the mountain range, the hiking, horseback riding, and biking trails that run through the park are populated with hundreds of species of birds, plants, and rare mammals. Active retirees can trek through the slopes on long or short routes, or take to the Mandango Trail, which starts just outside Vilcabamba and provides panoramic views of the village and the valley.

Daily exercise is a major contributing factor to the long lives and good health of the local population. Outdoor excursions can release new residents of the stress built up over years of work and city living. Vilcabamba's temperate climate adds to this. Here, you'll never have to contend with snowstorms or temperamental seasonal climes when planning your outdoor adventures.

Abundant fresh produce, plant-led diets, and healthy home-cooked meals are also essential to Vilcabamba's long-lasting lifestyles. Foreigners typically spend their time relaxing in the cafes that line the sloping streets, indulging in Ecuadorian dishes and the fresh coffee that grows all over the continent. The local joints dish up classic local dishes laden with seafood, which residents enjoy between meals made from the fresh vegetables and fruit sold at affordable market prices in town.

Beyond the locally grown produce and healthy diet that come easily to those living in Vilcabamba, the water that runs through Vilcabamba also contributes to sustaining the lengthy lives of its residents. Magnesium and iron are found in higher levels in the water supply, which, mingled with the clear air and outdoor activities on the town's doorstep, keep locals nourished without significant extra effort. While healthcare in the "Valley of Longevity" is lacking, retirees without significant health concerns can stay healthy by just mimicking the stripped-back lifestyles of the people who have lived to a ripe old age up in Ecuador's high Andean valley.