Mindo Birding: Andes to Cloud Forest in 2 Days

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Quito Old Town

  We depart Quito at 6:00 a.m., crossing the northern side of the city before ascending into the dramatic landscapes of the Andean mountains and páramo. Our journey leads us to Zuruloma—an extraordinary birding haven set at more than 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). Surrounded by sweeping grasslands and towering ridgelines, this high-altitude sanctuary offers breathtaking scenery and unparalleled wildlife encounters. One of the most fascinating aspects of Zuruloma is its location: tucked behind a historic volcano whose last major eruption occurred centuries ago, adding a touch of mystery and grandeur to the experience. Species present in Zuroloma Bird Spot; Chestnut-naped Antpitta, Mountain Velvetbreast, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Black-breasted Puffleg (critically endangered hummingbird endemic to Ecuador) among others.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 2

  A hot spot for birding located in the Western Andes of Ecuador. An ideal place for photography, as it has a platform nearby where hummingbirds, tanagers, and other species come. Zuroloma is a place of peace in the midst of nature and green Andean landscapes. After this activity, we will have a short break to have brunch. In this beautiful place you can find species such as: Sapphire-vented Puffleg, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Hooded Mountain Tanager, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Equatorial Antpitta, among others. New lifers!!! come to your Ebird list.

  2 hours • Admission ticket included
• 3

  Alambi Reserve is an excellent destination for birdwatching, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters (4,920 feet). Its pleasant subtropical climate attracts a remarkable diversity of bird species that gather here daily, making it one of the most rewarding birding locations in the region. Surrounded by lush mountains and native forest, the reserve is crossed by the beautiful Alambi River, whose waters originate on the upper slopes of the Pichincha Volcano near Quito. This unique combination of habitats creates ideal conditions for wildlife, offering visitors outstanding opportunities to observe hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans, and many other species in their natural environment. Species in Alambi Reserve: Black-capped Tanager, Torrent Tyrannulet, Buff-tailed Coronet, Purple-throated Woodstar, Violet-tailed Sylph, Crested Quetzal, White-capped Dipper, Russet-backed Oropendola, White-throated Daggerbill, Spotted Barbtail, etc.

  45 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 4
  Mindo

  Day 2: Early departure from the hotel to start our birdwatching program. The species that can be observed are: Yellow-throated toucan. The latter are very visible in feeders until June, but it is possible to observe them all year round. Scarlet-rumped Cacique, Blue-and-white swallow, Dusky chlorospingus, Scaly-throated foliage-gleaner, Purple-bibbed whitetip, Common Pauraque, Green-crowned brilliant, Crowned woodnymph, Crimson-bellied Woodpecker (This woodpecker is very rare species to watch, it can be seen a few times a year), White-whiskered hermit, Crested guan, White-tipped dove, Bananaquit, Zeledon's Antbird, Bay-headed Tanager, Fawn-breasted Tanager, Rusty-margined Flycatcher, White-shouldered Tanager, among others. We will also visit the lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock—one of the true icons of the Chocó Andino. This spectacular species is a dream sighting for birdwatchers and photographers alike, thanks to its vibrant scarlet plumage and unforgettable courtship displays.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Pedro Vicente Maldonado

  This place has a coastal-style climate. It is located on the right bank of the Caoní River. On the outer slopes of the western Andes. It sits at an altitude of 605 msl and has a tropical rainy climate with an average temperature of 23°C. We will visit a beautiful popular place for birdwatching. Fruttitour offers an exceptional birding. Here, you’ll explore a serene family-run property known for attracting some of the region’s most colorful species to natural fruit and nectar feeders. Expect close encounters with dazzling tanagers, Crimson-rumped Toucanets, Andean Motmots, and a rotating selection of forest treasures. Your naturalist guide will provide expert interpretation of the local ecosystem, assist with bird identification, and help you capture memorable photographs. Easy access, comfortable viewing areas, and constant bird activity, Fruttitour is one of the easiest and most rewarding birdwatching stops in the region. Species can be spotted: Baltimore Oriole, Bronzy Hermit, etc.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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