Quito , Ecuador

Full Day of Adventures in Mindo Area

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(4 reviews)

11h

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About this experience

In this trip we will stop at the best of what Mindo has to offer. Spend a day immersed in the beauty of Ecuador’s Mindo Cloud Forest when you embark on this full day tour from Quito. Hike into the forest with a our guide and visit a butterfly farm, or an Hummingbird Garden, do a breath taking canopy, see beautiful waterfalls, visit a chocolate factory, and more.

Available options

Full Day of Adventures in Mindo Area

What's included

Authorized tourist transport

Bilingual guide Spanish/English

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

This would be our first stop,
you will have a choice either the butterfly farm or San Tadeo, which is like a garden of hummingbirds,
we would go to the place the majority of the group wants to go.
In the butterfly farm you would be able to see many different butterflies, typical to this area. you would be able to see also the growing process of a butterfly, you would also be able feed a butterfly, pretty awesome isn't it?
In the hummingbirds garden you would be able to see different kind of hummingbirds typical to this area, you would be able to see them eating.

Stop 2

Nambillo is an ecological reserve, with approximately 22.000 hectares of primary forest.
Here we will have a hike, and we will visit Nambillo waterfall, you will have a chance to swim in the river.

Here you will have an opportunity to do a 2 km Canopy zipline in the cloud forest of Mindo :)

we will have lunch here.

You would be able to do a small chocolate tour in this chocolate factory, you would be able to see the process of making chocolate starting from the cacao beans.

What's not included

Extra food and drinks

Tips

Butterfly farm entrance fee (Approx. 10$ per person)

All these activities are optional of course

San Tadeo Birding

Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve

Yumbos Chocolate

Mindo Canopy Adventures

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Necessary Equipment: Clothing, Swimming Clothes, Camera, Sun Caps, Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Comfortable Shoes.

All times are approximate

We can accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please kindly indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

The remaining time is for transportation

Meeting point

Our guide will be waiting for you with our white bus, he will have a list of the passengers going to this trip. we will also provide you with an emergency phone/whatsapp number. pick up time 6:55am

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.