Mindo Cloud Forest Day Tours PRIVATE by Richard Hernandez
Active
9h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We do offer:
Richard Hernandez as your licensed naturalist English/Spanish speaking local guide
Private tour JUST YOU can be customized
Toyota 4Runner as ground transportation
enjoy the nature wonders at your own pace.
pick up and drop off from/to Quito.
natural history,
birding for beginners to amateur level,
botanizing in its natural habitat,
nature hikes from Easy to moderate-difficult level,
sustainable and local support.
Street Dog affection:)
OR WE CAN EVEN CUSTOMIZE THE TOUR FOR YOU.
Available options
Mindo Cloud Forest Day Tours PRIVATE by Richard Hernandez
Pickup included
What's included
Binoculars
Licensed Naturalist English speaking guide
Spotting bird scope
Ground transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Birding
Street Dog Affection:)
Hiking
Botanizing
Photography
Local food
2
A professional licensed guided will take to discover the nature wonders of the cloud forest. Discovering waterfalls, water cascades, endemic birds like toucans, tanagers and hummingbirds. Taste the local food, enjoy of the beautiful subtropical weather like.
To book with a professional expert is a different way of discovering and learning about people and nature. Fluent English spoken.
3
A licensed naturalist guide with fluent Spanish/English spoken.
Discovering the nature wonders while hiking through easy or moderate hiking trails. Orchids, bromeliads, tree ferns, heliconias, reptiles, amphibians, trees, bioregulators, in general all the explanations from an local expert naturalist guide, his name is Richard Hernandez.
4
Excellent place for hiking and birding paradise.
Local place for trying an exotic local food (under request:)
5
Charming little town where we do pass by without stopping. People on weekends come from the mountains to listen the service in the town and buy their suppliers.
6
A charming town, local political parish.
We may stop here for lunch or any other attraction like: butterfly garden, water tubing, zip line,coffee or chocolate tour (under request):
7
Stop 7
A short stop by the Inty Ñan museum or Mitad del Mundo to visit the Equator line on the way back from the cloud forest.
8
We will get to visit the most economically prosperous county in the area. As an option for having lunch. Lunch is not included in the tour price.
What's not included
Lunch
Entrance fees
Breakfast
Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
29 reviews
5★
26
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
74 reviews
5★
70
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
4
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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
Our tour is a PROFESSIONAL SERVICE, people interested in other than ECO TOURISM, NATURE, BIOLOGY, or ECOLOGY, we firmly reject them.
Open minded to learn local flora, fauna, birds.
Affection for Street Dogs
Important notes
Passengers pay directly entry tickets to every single visitor site.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
