Mindo Cloud Forest: Hummingbirds, Birding & Waterfall Tour

Begin your Mindo Cloud Forest tour from Quito and discover one of Ecuador’s top birdwatching destinations, traveling from the high Andes to the lush subtropical cloud forest. Upon arrival in Mindo, enjoy the mild climate (19°C / 62°F) as you enter the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, a protected sanctuary rich in birdlife, orchids, butterflies, and unique species found nowhere else. Led by an expert guide, your experience is thoughtfully tailored—whether you wish to focus on birdwatching, photography, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting. Discover Mindo as a sensory journey filled with birdsong, lush forests, and unforgettable moments in a Bio-Reserve. To fully enjoy this birdwatching experience, we recommend bringing your camera with a telephoto lens. Don't forget to pack extra batteries, memory cards, and your charger to ensure you're ready for every photographic opportunity.

rd Sanctuary offers an exclusive and intimate encounter with Ecuador’s remarkable biodiversity. This carefully preserved, family-owned reserve is home to over 30 species of hummingbirds, along with vibrant tanagers, toucanets, and other sought-after sub-tropical birds. In this serene and uncrowded setting, guests can observe these dazzling species at close range as they move gracefully between feeders and native flowers, creating exceptional opportunities for photography and quiet appreciation of nature. The reserve also protects pristine river habitats and native forest, sustaining a rich diversity of wildlife. For a more rewarding experience on this Mindo tour, we highly recommend bringing binoculars and a camera equipped with a quality telephoto lens to fully appreciate and capture magnificent birds in their natural habitat.

Step into a hidden world of color and transformation at the Mindo Butterfly Garden, where nature reveals one of its most delicate and fascinating processes. Surrounded by the misty beauty of the Chocó Andino Cloud Forest, this intimate experience invites you to slow down and observe life at its most intricate. Guided by expert hosts, you will witness the remarkable journey from chrysalis to butterfly—an extraordinary transformation that reflects the fragile balance of this biodiverse ecosystem. As butterflies move freely around you, enjoy a rare opportunity to connect with them up close, even feeding them gently in a serene and immersive setting. This is more than a visit—it is a sensory encounter with nature, where light, color, and movement create unforgettable photographic moments. A refined experience designed for travelers who seek authenticity, beauty, and meaningful connection in one of the world’s richest ecosystems.

s a rare and intimate encounter with the biodiversity of Ecuador’s cloud forest, set at 1,800 meters above sea level. In this carefully preserved environment, guests can observe an extraordinary variety of species, including the elegant Violet-tailed Sylph, along with sought-after birds such as the Glistening-green Tanager, a true highlight for experienced birders. The forest also reveals iconic toucans like the Toucan Barbet and the Crimson-rumped Toucanet, while sightings of unique mammals such as the Tayra or American Agouti add to the sense of discovery. During certain times of the year, especially from June onward, you will have an excellent chance of spotting one of the most iconic birds of the cloud forest: the Plate-billed Mountain Toucan.

orest, where adrenaline meets refined natural beauty. Glide effortlessly across a series of canopy lines suspended above lush valleys, offering sweeping views of the Andean landscape and dense tropical vegetation. This expertly guided experience combines safety, comfort, and exhilaration, allowing you to explore one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse regions from a privileged aerial perspective. Designed for travelers seeking both excitement and sophistication, this activity offers a unique way to connect with nature while enjoying a seamless and memorable adventure in the heart of the cloud forest.

Discover one of Mindo’s most exclusive natural experiences at a pristine waterfall sanctuary hidden within a protected cloud forest. Your journey begins with a scenic cable car ride, gliding approximately 500 meters across lush valleys, offering breathtaking views of the dense, emerald-green canopy below. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk along well-maintained trails leading to a series of cascading waterfalls, each more impressive than the last. At the final waterfall, guests may relax, swim, or simply take in the serenity of this untouched environment. The hike covers approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) with gentle ascents and descents, suitable for travelers seeking a comfortable yet immersive nature experience. This activity blends soft adventure with tranquility, making it ideal for those who value both comfort and authenticity in the heart of the cloud forest.