Quito , Ecuador

Mindo Cloud Forest Private Day Tour

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(427 reviews)

8h - 9h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Mindo one of the most beautiful places close to Quito awaits for you!! Enjoy a very charming and unknown subtropical rainforest from the comfort of a customizable and flexible private day tour. Photograph hundreds of hummingbirds, toucans and many other exotic creatures from a very close distance!! Enjoy a spectacular view of the "cloud forest" from a cable car, and do a hike through a charming waterfall sanctuary...!!

Available options

Mindo Cloud Forest Private Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Certified English speaking guide

Private transportation

Detailed itinerary

Mindo – Nambillo is an ecological reserve, with approximately 22.000 hectares of primary forest. Inside this preserved area we can find a natural complex of 15 waterfalls, each one of them with a different height and beauty! Your guide will pick you up at 8:00 a.m. from your hotel in Quito, in order to visit this fascinating place full of wildlife!

Once at 1.900 meters above sea level (6,233 ft), hummingbirds, air plants, orchids and other surprising exotic species will take our full attention! After going all the way through the curvy road, we will stop at a Hummingbirds' farm to enjoy breath-taking experiences with this little creatures and the amazing scenery.

After taking lots of pictures, you will drive straight down to Mindo village, which is located at the southern edge of the Choco/Andean hotspots of biodiversity that stretches from south-western Colombia to north-western Ecuador. The Mindo area has international importance for birds, designated as the first area in South America by Birdlife International in 1997. On this enchanting green kingdom a profusion of life awaits your discovery! That is why you will take a cable car that goes through a 530 meters-long-cable, to the other side of the mountains!

Stop 4

After taking pictures, we will drive straight down to Mindo village, which is located at the southern edge of the Choco/Andean hotspots of biodiversity that stretches from south-western Colombia to north-western Ecuador. The Mindo area has international importance for birds, designated as the first area in South America by Birdlife International in 1997. On this enchanting green kingdom a profusion of life awaits your discovery! That is why you will take a cable car that goes through a 530 meters-long-cable, to the other side of the mountains!

Stop 5

After the unforgettable ride, it will be possible to hike between 1 to 2 hours, depending on your physical conditions, to visit the most beautiful waterfalls known as: “Ondinas”, “Guarumos”, “Colibríes”, “Madre” and “Los Maderos”. In any one of them you could have a refreshing soak! Your private guided tour will acquaint you with the exuberant vegetation of the cloud forest, its birdlife and the fascinating adaptations to life in this special environment.

You will have time for lunch and perhaps for other activities such as the visit to an orchid and butterfly farm or one of the highlights in town which is the chocolate factory!

Approximately at 5:30 p.m. you'll be back in your hotel of Quito.

What's not included

Meals

Cable Car Ride

Hummingbirds' Sanctuary

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

248 reviews

5★

223

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

179 reviews

5★

169

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Our guides and drivers will follow vehicle cleaning and personal care protocols, with disinfectant products during the tour.

Important notes

Important outfits: Camera, sunscreen lotion, cap or hat, sun glasses, gloves, walking sticks, binoculars, bathing suit, towel, sandals, backpack or handbag, comfortable hiking boots, walking shoes or tennis shoes, T-shirt or long sleeves shirt, long trousers, wind breaker or waterproof jacket, warm sweater, and some cash (US dollars) for snacks or drinks.

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.