Day tour: Explore The Enchanting Mindo Cloudforest In Ecuador

Start from Quito, Ecuador’s capital city. We depart from your hotel or preferred starting point. 8h00 am departure

• Tandayapa, Mindo Nambillo Ecological reserve

Tandayapa, situated within the Mindo Nambillo Ecological Reserve, is a location we love introducing to travelers. This region spans approximately 217 hectares and hosts 132 species of birds.

Our guides possess the skills to locate these birds, providing a remarkable experience for bird enthusiasts. Imagine being enveloped by verdant flora as hummingbirds skitter about – a spectacle that demonstrates Ecuador's abundant biodiversity.

Trekking through this forest feels like stepping into a domain where nature is the prominent force.

"Every journey to Tandayapa presents something novel – an uncommon bird, a hidden waterfall... It's our small piece of paradise.”

• Guided nature walk to see waterfalls

Join us for a guided nature walk through the most stunning waterfalls. This part of the journey takes you on beautiful paths, offering unforgettable views of the Mindo Valley. Don't forget to bring bug repellent and sunscreen as recommended.
 

• Mindo Nambillo Cloudforst reserve

Explore the heart of Mindo Nambillo Cloudforest Reserve, a haven with more than 500 bird species and over 200 kinds of orchids. The reserve features trails that lead to 15 waterfalls, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

• Guided birdwatching tour to see hummingbirds

Join us on a guided birdwatching tour to spot the gems of the Cloud Forest: hummingbirds and many other bird species. This forest is a paradise for bird lovers.

• Learn about orchids

You'll notice the bright label that makes these flowers unique. Our guides will tell you how to identify these plants and their importance in the cloud forest.

• Mindo Village

This small town is an eco tourism hub, just 2 ½ hours from Quito. It is excellent for people who love eco-friendly adventures. Locals are very close to nature and know all about the birds, butterflies, and plants.

• Lunch in town, included at local restaurant

Lunch is provided at a cozy local restaurant. This meal offers a chance to try local dishes and helps support small businesses in Mindo. As our guests, you will enjoy food made from fresh, local ingredients, offering an authentic taste of Ecuador. Dietary needs are taken care of including veggie or vegan options.

• Adventure cable car ride to the other side of the mountain

After lunch. You'll go on an exciting cable car ride over mountains. You'll see amazing waterfalls and green forests like never before.

• Hike to five different Waterfalls

Then, it's time to check out up to five different waterfalls (depending on your fitness level you may be able to reach all of them) - "Ondinas," "Guarumos," "Colibríes," "Madre," and "Los Maderos." These names become real when you hear the waterfall sounds and feel the mist on your face.

You'll need sturdy shoes for walking on wet and muddy paths. The views are stunning. Sometimes, you may have to walk through water.

• Afternoon visit to Chocolate making workshop or Butterfly farm

Just before we head back to Quito, pick a trip to either a chocolate workshop or a butterfly farm for an incredible afternoon. 

At the chocolate workshop you can learn how cacao beans turn into chocolate bars and the local efforts to restore habitats.
At the butterfly farm, you can see more than 1,200 varieties of butterflies in their natural setting.

"Seeing how beans turn into chocolate or walking among thousands of butterflies gives special glimpses into Mindo's natural beauty.”
 

• Educational experiences focused on conservation efforts

We team up with the Mindo Cloudforest Foundation to educate you on bird tourism and restoring habitats.

Our guides collaborate closely with colleges and local groups in teaching about the environment. This gives you a thorough insight into the importance of keeping these special ecosystems safe.

Return to Quito around 5 pm.

Inclusions

Our tour includes everything you need: tickets, a private guide, travel in private vehicle, and lunch. You get to relax and explore without any worries. Read on to see how we make your adventure unforgettable.

All tickets included

All entrance fees for every attraction on the Mindo Cloudforest tour are covered as listed. This means you won't have to pay extra at the waterfalls, bird sanctuary, or butterfly farm. Enjoy cable car rides over mountains and visits to chocolate makers without stressing over tickets.

Private guide

Tours are provided with a personal guide, who offers focused attention throughout your journey. These guides are specialists, They are bilingual in English and Spanish, augmenting your adventure through detailed insights about the region's unique flora and fauna. The guide will adapt to your physical fitness level and pace the tour accordingly.

Private transportation

We include private transportation in our package, so you can enjoy a comfortable ride on your schedule.

Our service makes your trip better by keeping it personal and adaptable. You won't have to share with strangers or adjust to other people's plans. It's all about enjoying the journey and the amazing views while we handle the driving.

Driving times

It's a two-hour drive from Quito. Private car transport means more time exploring waterfalls and less time worrying about getting around

Hiking Times (aproximate)

Depending on the trails you choose your hiking time can extend up to 4 hours.

Dietary preferences

We understand how important your diet is to you, and we feel the same way. Our tours offer a wide range of meal options to suit everyone. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or interested in trying local foods, we have something for you.

Commitment to eco-friendly and low-impact practices

Our team takes our environmental impact seriously. We put a lot of effort into ensuring our tours, such as those in Mindo Cloudforest, have the lightest impact as possible. We do not have single-use plastic items on our tours.

Our guides also educate about preserving plants and wildlife. This approach makes your journey unique while helping keep places like Mindo pristine for all.

Support for local communities and conservation initiatives

We collaborate with the Mindo Cloudforest Foundation, a front-runner in advocating birdwatching. This practice helps the birds and also attracts visitors who have a fondness for nature.

Our tours visit wildlife reserves that protect forests and link them, shaping superior habitats for wildlife.