Mindo: Cloud Forest, Butterflies and Chocolate
Discover the biodiversity of the Andean Chocó: observe hummingbirds up close, walk among hundreds of tropical butterflies and learn the Ecuadorian chocolate process from cacao to bar.
Unique Experiences in Mindo
Live four unforgettable moments in the Andean Chocó cloud forest
Observe Exotic Cloud Forest Birds
Get close to hummingbirds, tanagers and toucans in their natural habitat. Feed hummingbirds from your hand at San Tadeo Birding while your guide tells you about these unique Andean Chocó species.
Walk Among Hundreds of Tropical Butterflies
Enter Mindo’s butterfly garden and walk surrounded by hundreds of vibrant colored species. Learn about the fascinating metamorphosis process in an interactive and educational environment.
Discover the Fine Aroma Chocolate Process
Visit Yumbos Chocolate and experience a complete sensory journey: from the cacao fruit on the tree to the chocolate bar. Taste premium quality Ecuadorian chocolate.
Cross the Tarabita and Explore 7 Natural Waterfalls
Optional: cross the Mindo river on a rustic cable car and access the Waterfall Sanctuary. A network of trails leads you to 7 spectacular waterfalls ideal for refreshing and connecting with nature.
Detailed Itinerary
Complete journey through Mindo’s cloud forest
Pick-up and Middle of the World (Pass By)
Punctual departure from your Quito hotel. Along the way we pass the Middle of the World Monument — your guide will share interesting facts and you’ll have the opportunity to stop for the perfect photo at the center of the planet. As we descend from the Andes towards Mindo, you’ll feel the climate change and witness the magical transformation of the landscape towards the cloud forest.
San Tadeo Birding — Bird Watching
Explore natural trails designed to observe and delight in the presence of vibrant hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans and many other cloud forest species. Feed hummingbirds from your hand and learn about the Andean Chocó’s biodiversity.
Tarabita and Waterfall Sanctuary
Cross the Mindo river on a rustic cable car to access trails and waterfalls (cable car cost not included, approx. $5). This experience offers a unique perspective of the forest from above. After crossing, you’ll find the Waterfall Sanctuary, where a network of trails leads you through nature to 7 beautiful waterfalls — ideal for refreshing and recharging.
Butterflies of Mindo — Butterfly Garden
Visit the butterfly garden, a world of color and grace. You’ll have the opportunity to walk among hundreds of butterflies as they flutter around you, offering close encounters and unique photographs. You’ll learn about the fascinating metamorphosis process, turning your visit into an interactive lesson in the cloud forest’s fresh air.
Lunch Time — Local Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious lunch with fresh local ingredients at a cozy Mindo restaurant, with options for all tastes.
Yumbos Chocolate — Bean-to-Bar Tour
We’ll take a delicious tour through the museum for an immersive and delicious experience. You’ll learn the entire process of making Ecuadorian fine aroma chocolate, from the cacao fruit on the tree to the finished chocolate. Tasting included.
Return to Starting Hotel in Quito
After a day immersed in Mindo’s biodiversity, we’ll return to your original hotel in Quito. The journey back offers time to relax and reflect on the unique combination of cloud forest nature, hummingbirds, butterflies, and chocolate you’ve experienced throughout the day.
Mindo Gallery
Moments captured in the cloud forest
What’s Included in This Tour?
Complete transparency about what’s included and what’s not
Included
- Private transportation (SUV/Van depending on group)
- Certified bilingual guide/driver (Spanish and English)
- All entrances to San Tadeo Birding, Butterflies of Mindo and Yumbos Chocolate
- Bottled water throughout the tour
- Valid SPPAT insurance and civil liability
- 24/7 support via WhatsApp +593 96 721 2104
Not Included
- Lunch (approx. $12-18 USD per person at local restaurant)
- Tarabita / Cable Car to Waterfall Sanctuary (approx. $5 USD, optional)
- Optional activities not listed (canopy, tubing, rafting)
- Tips for guide/driver (suggested but not mandatory)
- Personal expenses and purchases at local shops
- Personal travel insurance (recommended but not included)
Important Information
Everything you need to know before your tour
What to Bring
Comfortable clothing, trekking shoes, waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera and cash for optional purchases.
Weather
Average temperature: 18-24°C. The cloud forest is humid and can rain at any time. Bring a raincoat or umbrella.
Duration
8-9 hours total from your Quito hotel. Departure 8:00 AM, approximate return 5:00-6:00 PM.
Effort Level
Moderate. Gentle walks on forest trails. Suitable for all ages. If visiting waterfalls, requires 30-45 min hike.
Cancellation
+48h before: 100% refund (minus 5-8% admin). 24-48h before: 50% refund. -24h or No Show: No refund.
Contact
24/7 WhatsApp: +593 96 721 2104. Response in less than 10 minutes for clients in operation.
What Our Clients Say
Real reviews from travelers who experienced Mindo
Sarah M.
«The Mindo tour exceeded all my expectations. Seeing hummingbirds feeding from my hand was magical. The guide was very knowledgeable and the chocolate tour at Yumbos was the best ending. Highly recommended!»
James T.
«Perfect experience for families. My children were fascinated by the butterflies and waterfalls. The driver was punctual and professional. The cloud forest is simply spectacular.»
María G.
«Andean Roots made our Mindo day unforgettable. The flexibility of the private tour allowed us to adjust timing to our pace. The chocolate tour was educational and delicious. We’ll be back!»
Ready to Live This Experience?
Fill out the form and we’ll send you a personalized quote in less than 2 hours. You can also write to us directly on WhatsApp.
Ready to Discover Mindo’s Cloud Forest?
Live an unforgettable experience surrounded by biodiversity, hummingbirds, butterflies and the best Ecuadorian chocolate. Private tour with expert bilingual guide.