Full-Day Private Birding Tour in La Paz Refuge & Hummingbirds
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
With 1690 registered bird species of which 124 are hummingbirds Ecuador is a paradise for nature lovers, exotic birds, and birdwatching. Discover rock birds, antpittas, toucans, woodpeckers, lek and many other species in your own cloud forest near Mindo in the Andes. So prepare your list of birds, your binoculars and your camera that you will have an unforgettable experience.
Available options
Private Service
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Admission fee in Alambi, Hummingbird Garden
Entrance admission to La Paz Bird Refuge
Breakfast
Certified English/Spanish Naturalist guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Ecuador is considered one of the wonders of the natural world with a high percentage of endemism in birds.Depart early in the morning by heading to the North west of the city to a private cloud forest located between Nanegalito and the road to Mindo. This área of primary and secondary recovering cloud forest has multiple side trails where our birding naturalist guide will take you to see the most amazing bird show in the wild. You can see birds that would be almost impossible to see in the wild only 5 ft away! They have trained the Giant Antpitta (called Maria), the Mustached Antpitta, the Yellow-breasted Antpitta to eat worms. Also, there is a lek that has been performing since 2005 with the beautiful Cock-of-the-rock. There are also fruit feeders that are frequently visited by the Sickle-winged Guan, the Crimson-rumped Toucanet, the colorful Tucan Barbet, the elusive Olivaeous Piha, the Blue-winged Mountain-Tanager and the Black-chinned Mountain-Tanager. After this bird refuge, we will visit the hummingbird Garden. There are humming bird feeders where it is possible to see the Velvet-purple Coronet, the Violet-tailed Sylph, the Purple-bibbed Whitetip, the Brown Inca, and the Booted Racket-tai and much more if we are lucky( up to 22 hummingbird species)
What's not included
Lunch
Tips
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Pick up time at 4:30 am from Quito. Please send us hotel name and location to avoid delays the tarvel date
About Mindo
Mindo is a small town nestled in the lush cloud forests of Ecuador's Andes Mountains. Known for its biodiversity, Mindo offers a unique blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility, making it a perfect destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve
A protected area known for its biodiversity, including numerous bird species, orchids, and butterflies. It offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Butterfly Garden
A small garden showcasing a variety of butterfly species native to the cloud forest. It's a great place to learn about the life cycle of butterflies.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget
Nambillo Private Reserve
A private reserve offering guided tours through the cloud forest, with opportunities to see a variety of wildlife and plant species.
Nature
Half day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Main Course
Meat
Encebollado
A hearty fish soup with yuca and onions.
Soup
Fish, contains gluten
Chocolate
Mindo is famous for its high-quality chocolate made from local cacao.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains allergens (nuts, dairy)
Popular Activities
Hiking
Zip-lining
Birdwatching
Hot springs
Chocolate tasting
Coffee tours
Local markets
Traditional dining
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This period offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with lower rainfall and cooler temperatures. It's the ideal time for birdwatching and exploring the cloud forest.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
UTC-5
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mindo is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when walking alone at night.
- • Use reputable tour operators and services.
Getting there
By air
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 85 km from Mindo
By bus
Quito Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable but may not run frequently. They are a good option for getting to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No common apps, book through local services
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Mindo Town
Day trips
San Miguel de los Bancos
30 km from Mindo • Half day
A small town known for its hot springs and scenic views. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Festivals
Mindo Chocolate Festival • October
Pro tips
- Bring a good pair of binoculars for birdwatching.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes for exploring the cloud forest.
- Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Carry small denominations for local purchases and tipping.
- Respect wildlife and natural habitats, and follow eco-friendly practices.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
