Mindo Cloud Forest Adventure: Birds, Nature & Waterfalls

4.9
(142 reviews)
Quito, Ecuador

8 to 9 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

Book now and experience the best summer adventure in Ecuador.

Explore an impressive Biosphere Reserve in the western Andes. The reserve is a protected area for many species of plants, trees, orchids, mammals, amphibians and arthropods.

Waterfalls, rivers, trails, ravines, archeological sites are also part of the cloud forest.

Mindo is a rural area located just 2 hour drive from Quito.

Hummingbird paradise, hiking to waterfalls, cable car over the forest, butterfly garden, orchids, chocolate tour, ziplining, Yumbos archaeological museum, tubing in the Mindo river are activities that Mindo offers for the delight of visitors.

These activities are on the menu you can choose according to your taste and interest.

Activities you can order a la carte

What's Included

Activities according your expectations
Quito Pick up or includes transfer from the airport if needed.
A Professional Guide/Driver with private vehicle
Travel Insurance
Meals
Entrance fees

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pick-up from the Quito Airport is offered at no extra cost

Itinerary

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Quito

    Join us for an unforgettable eco-tour from Quito to the Mindo Cloud Forest, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. We’ll depart early in the morning, heading northwest through stunning Andean landscapes. After about 65 minutes, we’ll stop at the Alambi or San Tadeo Bird Reserves – both world-famous for their incredible variety of hummingbirds. Once in Mindo, where the daytime temperature averages 19°C / 62°F, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve – a birdwatcher’s paradise home to hundreds of colorful bird species, butterflies, and orchids. Whether you’re a passionate photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful Ecuador eco-adventure, Mindo offers the perfect setting. You can customize your experience with your expert guide to focus on specific species or enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by nature’s beauty. Experience Mindo, where every moment is filled with the sounds of tropical birds and the serenity of the Andean jungle.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve

    Top-rated Mindo tour. Waterfall sanctuary is the best. Refreshing waterfalls are located within a pristine protected forest in Mindo. We will take the Cable car.. The cable car will be the beginning of our adventure. We will cross over from one slope to another one, covering a distance of approximately 500 meters. From the cable car, we will observe the beautiful of the humid and warm Cloud Forest, cover by a dense and green vegetation of trees and plants of different sizes. Walk along by trails that will lead us to a series of waterfalls, starting from the smallest one until we reach the largest waterfall where visitors can enjoy a swim or dive in the refreshing and clear waters. The hike is about 2.5 km / 1,5 miles, on irregular terrain, where there are downhills and uphills. The activity is intended for children, adults and senior people. You do not need to have special training, although you should have a little experience in medium-distance walks.

    3 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 3

    The local guide will explain what type of cocoa is used to make the famous chocolate bars. The fermentation and refining of the chocolate is extremely important. The steps to be followed are careful to obtain a high quality chocolate bar. There will be a tasting of the different fruit flavored chocolate fusions. Part of this experience is to taste the honey and cocoa barbecue sauce.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 4
    Mindo

    Besides, Mindo offers activities such as: Zipline which consists cross over 2 different cables in the cloud forest (For this activity, we suggest you bring your GoPro camera and its helmet support). It is a thrilling zipline experience. If you love water sports, a great option is tubing. Tubing consists of getting on a series of inner tubes tied together and descending 3 km on the Mindo River for level 1. The suggested activities will be coordinated by our Guide, according to the available time or passengers' expectations. Finally, return to Quito city.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Nestled in the lush Andean Cloud Forest near Quito, the Alambi Hummingbird Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers. This family-run reserve is home to more than 30 species of hummingbirds, along with tanagers, toucanets, and other sub-tropical birds that thrive in Ecuador’s biodiverse highlands. Visitors can observe these vibrant species up close as they hover around feeders and native flowers in a peaceful natural setting. The reserve also protects river habitats and native trees that provide shelter for countless forest species. Located just 1.5 hours from Quito, Alambi Reserve is an essential stop on any birdwatching or eco-tour in Ecuador, offering a magical glimpse into the country’s extraordinary wildlife and the importance of local conservation efforts that keep this cloud-forest sanctuary alive.

    45 minutes Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Galapagos My World

Tags

Day Trips
Hiking Tours
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
4WD Tours
Walking Tours
Nature Walks
Car Tours
Excellent Quality
Adventure Tours
Additional fees
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 142 142 reviews
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