Mindo Birdwatching Tour: birding hot spots in the Western Andes

Quito , Ecuador

Mindo Birdwatching Tour: birding hot spots in the Western Andes

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About this experience

Combining photography and adventure will lead us to discover different places and species in the cloud forest. Explore the birding capital of Ecuador along with a Birdwatching Guide from Mindo. Perfect tour for enthusiastic or amatheur birders. Live this experience in an exclusive natural reserves such as Zuroloma Birding from the western Andes. Start your adventure from the city of Quito. Descend through the western foothills of the Ecuadorian Andes (9,000 feet) until you reach the Mindo Cloud Forest (3,937 feet). This area is part of the Unesco-Choco Andean Biosphere Reserve. Live about 500 species of birds in this well-preserved forest. The bird reserve is located on what was once an indigenous settlement known as the Yumbos. Enjoy an authentic birdwatching experience with local guides who promote rural tourism. Also, we have time to visit the Andean Cock of the Rock lek one of the most beautiful birds in the Chocó Andino.

Available options

Mindo Birdwatching Tour: birding hot spots in the Western Andes

Pickup included

What's included

1-night accomodation in a standard hotel with breakfast

A Professional Guide/Driver with private transportation

Telescope and binoculars

Pick up from Quito city or Airport

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Departure and pick up from the city or Quito Airport at 5:30 a.m. We will head towards the cloud forest of Mindo. We will pass through several Andean ecosystems. We will descend from the mountains to the sub-tropical forest.

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.

We'll visit one of the best leks to see the Andean Cock of the Rock. The perfect place to watch these iconic bird of the cloud forest perform. The Andean Cock of the Rock gather every day in a kind of brotherhood to sing their thunderous songs. The most notable features are its colors, which range from intense red and white to black on. One of the best species of the Cotingidae family. its wings.

Strategic and convenient hotel to stay and be next to the natural reserves we can visit by Mindo area. Overnight in Mindo town in a standard hotel with breakfast included.

Our first activity will be the night walk. For this it is important to bring your flashlight. During the walk we will be able to observe insects, tarantulas, glass larana, amphibians, owls, listen to the forest and our guide will make an interpretation of all the sounds produced by the forest.

Stop 6

Early departure from the hotel to start our birdwatching program. This activity will carried out at 1,000 msl / 4,000 feet above sea level. The species that can be observed are: Orange-bellied euphonia, Yellow-throated toucan, Choco 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.

What's not included

Travel insurance

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.