This small town, located only 2.5 hours outside of Quito, is one of the principle ecological tourist attractions in the province and a favorite spot for nature lovers that want to experience Ecuador’s cloud forest.

The town is surrounded by primary and secondary forest that contains more than 500 species of birds and about 40 different types of butterflies; and such much diversity in such a small area is unique in South America. While in Mindo, you will visit a Butterfly Farm or Orchid Garden, observe birds, and if you take the cable car across the creek, you can walk and swim by waterfalls!

Located at a lower elevation than Quito, the climate is warmer. Wear a jacket you can take off at your convenience. Breathable clothing recommended. Comfortable shoes or hiking boots recommended (it may get muddy). Bathing suit (just in case).

Flora and Fauna The primary forest has an immense biodiversity and one of the highest rates of plant endemism in the world with orchids, bromeliads, heliconias, ferns, vines, etc. Among the rare exotic bird species you can see here you will find Toucan-Barbet, Cock-of-the-rock and the Golden-headed Quetzal.

Tubing, hiking, swimming… Mindo is small place full of activities; you may go down the mellow rapids of the Rio Mindo on recycled inner tubes tied together, hike in the cloud forest (and get excellent photo opportunities of the forest and the river), and walk down to the waterfall (and for the daring…go for a swim…)

We reserve the right to modify the itinerary - due to weather conditions, etc. - in the best interest of our clients.