Full Day Mindo - Cloud Forest from Quito

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Alambi Cloud Forest Reserve, situated in Ecuador, is a biodiverse haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Nestled in the cloud forests of the Andes, the reserve offers guided birding tours where visitors can spot a myriad of avian species, including hummingbirds, tanagers, and toucans. Trails wind through lush vegetation, revealing stunning flora and providing opportunities for nature walks. The reserve's eco-lodge welcomes guests seeking an immersive experience, fostering a deep connection with the unique ecosystem. Alambi's commitment to conservation and education makes it a tranquil retreat where visitors can appreciate the rich biodiversity and serene beauty of Ecuador's cloud forests.

   20 min

2. Mindo, a quaint town in the cloud forests of Ecuador, is a nature lover's paradise. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a myriad of activities, from birdwatching in its renowned cloud forest to thrilling zip-lining adventures. The town is a gateway to diverse ecosystems, featuring butterfly sanctuaries and cascading waterfalls like Nambillo and Mindo. Chocolate tours provide a delectable journey through the cacao-making process. Hiking trails lead to scenic viewpoints, offering glimpses of vibrant orchids and exotic wildlife. Mindo seamlessly blends ecotourism and adventure, inviting visitors to explore the captivating biodiversity and natural beauty of the Ecuadorian cloud forest.

   Passes by

3. Cascada de Nambillo, nestled in the cloud forests near Mindo, Ecuador, is a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The site offers nature enthusiasts an immersive experience through hiking trails leading to the cascade, providing breathtaking views along the way. Visitors can partake in birdwatching, discovering the diverse avian species inhabiting the pristine surroundings. The serene atmosphere invites moments of reflection and connection with nature. Cascada de Nambillo, with its scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance, creates a perfect setting for outdoor exploration and appreciation of the biodiversity found in the captivating cloud forest ecosystem.

   1 h

4. Mindo Butterfly Farm, situated in the cloud forests of Ecuador, is a captivating sanctuary for butterfly enthusiasts. The farm offers immersive tours where visitors can witness the complete life cycle of these delicate creatures, from caterpillars to vibrant adults. Guided walks through lush gardens reveal a kaleidoscope of butterfly species in various stages of development. Educational programs highlight the importance of conservation and the interconnectedness of these beautiful insects with their environment. Mariposas de Mindo provides a unique opportunity for nature lovers to witness the enchanting world of butterflies and contribute to their preservation in a stunning natural setting.

   30 min

5. Join the Tour de Chocolate Yumbos in Mindo, a delightful journey through the town's sweetest spots! Experience tastings of artisanal chocolates, learn about local cocoa production, and indulge in chocolate-making workshops. Perfect for chocoholics and families, this tour promises fun, flavors, and unforgettable memories in a vibrant setting!

   30 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 40 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Showing reviews written in English.

• 5Fun mix of activities!

  Pick-up was right on time! Our guide and driver, David and Lucio, were very nice and funny people. They had interesting information to share with us throughout the tour. We visited a hummingbird reserve, Mindo forest cable car (tarabita) short hike, butterfly reserve, and chocolate farm. We stopped for lunch between activities (lunch not included in price). It was a fun mix of activities to experience different wonders of Ecuador. We had such a great day with David and Lucio, that we arranged another tour with them the next day around the town of Quito! Thank you both for sharing your wonderful country with us!

  BadmintonGalJuly 2026via Tripadvisor

• 5Incredible tour and highly knowledgeable guide!

  We had an absolutely incredible day trip from Quito to Mindo, and a huge part of what made it so special was our guide, David. From the moment the tour started, David was engaging, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. Not only did he guide us perfectly through the beautiful cloud forest of Mindo, but he also gave us an amazing, detailed overview of the history and culture of Quito and Ecuador as a whole during the drive. We learned so much about the country's geography, traditions, and daily life—it felt like getting a masterclass on Ecuador while enjoying a beautiful vacation! David's passion for his country really shines through, and his attention to detail made the entire day smooth and memorable. If you're planning a trip to Mindo, definitely ask for David. Highly recommended!

  MariaAdamakouJune 2026via Viator

• 5Great tour, would book this if you are staying in Quito area

  Had an excellent tour of the Mindo cloud forest. My guide was David and he did a great job, providing me with information about the sites, history of Ecuador, and helped me feel comfortable during the tour. On top of that he was flexible, allowing me to swap out one of the sites to visit Intinan equator museum/site, where you can stand on both hemispheres and try out scientific experiments. Overall would highly recommend this tour if you want to experience a cloud forest, try some delicious chocolate, or want a great tour guide to show you what Ecuador is all about!

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Patrick SJune 2026via Tripadvisor

• 510/10

  10 out of 10 , the tour guide Juan and druver Victor were amazing , we had a such a fun and amazing day , they made our day going so smooth , from cable car ride thru hiking and to Mindo chocolate factory and hummingbirds reserve , also they brought us to place with a amazing bbq , it couldn’t be better , also private group they take care of whatever you need , . You not gonna regret if you book with these guys ! 😊

  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

  Ivan JMay 2026via Tripadvisor

• 5Amazing last minute tour

  My friend and I booked a very last minute tour to Mindo. Our guide, David, was so hospitable, informative, and kind. We learned so much about Mindo and Ecuador from him! And he made us feel safe. During this trip, he picked us up from our hotel and we made our way to different destinations like hummingbird reserve, butterfly garden, waterfall hike, and chocolate experience! Highly recommend this tour with David!

  alinasQ6850TJMay 2026via Tripadvisor

• 5Great guide and great experience

  My friend and I had a last minute trip booked to Mindo. David, our guide, was phenomenal! He was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and answered all our questions. He was also very hospitable and made us feel safe. Highly recommend this tour with him!!

  Alina_SMay 2026via Viator

Know before you go

How it compares in Quito

• Its from-price is 31% below the median of the 338 day trips we list in Quito.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 46 of 338.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Quito

Quito, Ecuador's high Andean capital, has one of the best-preserved colonial centres in Latin America, ringed by volcanoes and green mountains.

The historic centre was among the very first places named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its churches, plazas and monasteries are spectacular. La Compañía de Jesús glows with gold leaf inside, the Basilica del Voto Nacional has gargoyles shaped like Ecuadorian animals, and Plaza Grande is surrounded by the cathedral and the presidential palace.

Top-ranked sights in Quito: Cotopaxi National Park, Basilica of the National Vow (La Basílica del Voto Nacional), Independence Plaza (Plaza de la Independencia).

See all 1008 experiences in Quito