Full-Day Adventure and Nature Tour of the Mindo Cloud Forest from Quito, Ecuador

Quito , Ecuador

Full-Day Adventure and Nature Tour of the Mindo Cloud Forest from Quito, Ecuador

Active

(5 reviews)

7h - 8h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Mindo Valley is located at the meeting point of two of the most biologically diverse regions: the Chocoan Lowlands and the Tropical Andes. Visit various spots in the Mindo-Nambillo Ecological Reserve. Observe birds and choose between a zipline adventure or a walk to a waterfall. Taste delicious local specialties and visit a bird or butterfly reserve before returning to Quito.

Available options

Friday departure.

Pickup included

What's included

Bilingual professional guide

Lunch

Transport to/from Quito (hotels within the urban perimeter ONLY) - Mindo Cloud

Hiking Trip

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Early in the morning leave Quito by car driving northwest of Pichincha province. Ride through the road to the Coast (Mitad del Mundo - Calacalí – Los Bancos) and enjoy the view of small towns in the highway witnessing an astounding landscape transformation on the way. After approximately one 1 and 1/2 hour, arrive at the lovely Mindo Parrish

Once you arrive in Mindo Cloud Forest take a small walk I the town and then head towards the Butterfly farm and Hummingbird Feeders (don´t forget your camera).

Afterward, you may choose your desired adventure:

Option 1: For adventure seekers, go for the Canopying, 13 zip lines of different lengths that range from 20 to 400 meters, an adrenaline-filled ride which enables an amazing view of the cloud forest. (Cost of the Canopy activity not included in the price of the tour)

Option 2: Go for a trekking adventure across the cloud forest towards a waterfall and a ride Mindo’s famous “Tarabita”(Cable tram). Take your time to observe Mindo’s natural beauties and diversity.

Take a break for a local-style lunch.

Explore Mindo once a more and visit another special spot to view hummingbirds, butterflies and, with some luck Tanagers and Toucans.

Head back to Quito around 5 pm.
* IMPORTANT NOTE:

For Friday departures (open departures), meet with your guide and fellow travelers at 6:45am at the centrally located meeting point at Mariscal Barrio at 6:45am.

For Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat and Sun departures, the guide will pick you up at your hotel in Quito around 8:00 - 8:30am.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (meeting point is in Mariscal Barrio - See notes)

On site chosen activities

Canopy ride

Additional food and drinks.

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For tours taking place on Mon, Tue, Wed, Thus, San, the hotel pick-up will be from hotels within the urban perimeter ONLY.

Important notes

Emergency ONLY phone number (local): (593) 992747880

NOTE: This day tour is subject to availability and last minute changes due to forces beyond our control (force majeure) - no refunds will be applicable in this case. This tour is not private - travelers will share the services with a group of fellow travelers (max 12 per group)

NOTE (IMPORTANT): The following info from each traveler is a compulsory requirement in order to be included in the supplier’s insurance. Please provide this information as soon as possible (before travel date).

Names (as they appear on the passport):

Passport Number:

Date of Birth:

Emergency Phone Number:
* If travelers fail to provide this information two days prior to date of travel, the health insurance cannot NOT be applied.

NOTE (travel insurance age restriction): Travel insurance for this tour is applicable to travelers up to 69 years old ONLY. We encourage travelers of more the 69 years to hire private travel insurance, as unfortunately, they will not be covered with ours.

DAY-TRIP INCLUDES:

Bilingual Professional Guide

Transportation from Quito and back (at meeting point in Barrio Mariscal)

Lunch (not a la carte)

NOT INCLUDED

Other Meals

Cost of extra activities not listed in the itinerary (Canopy)

Tips & gratuities (optional)

All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.

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.