Thinking of spending 2 days in the Mindo Cloud Forest? You’re in the right place!
During a volunteer trip to Ecuador, I had some time off to explore. My first stop was the Mindo Cloud Forest.
Located 2 hours northwest of Quito, Mindo has no shortage of things to do. It’s one of Ecuador’s hidden gems, but word has gotten out. Mindo is a perfect stop for 2 full days of cloud forest adventure.
How to Spend 2 Days in the Mindo Cloud Forest
Mindo, Ecuador is set in a valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains.
The rivers and elevation combine to create a lush cloud forest more than 100 square miles in size. The landscape and climate in Mindo are ideal for more than 450 different types of birds, numerous species of exotic butterflies, and a variety of animals and reptiles who call the cloud forest home.
The town of Mindo is fairly compact at its center. Most hotels and restaurants are within walking distance of the main street running through town. For activities in the Mindo Cloud Forest, bikes, taxis, and tours are plentiful and easy to rent or arrange.
Where is Mindo Cloud Forest?
Nestled in the Andes mountains, just a couple of hours’ drive northwest of Quito, Ecuador, lies the enchanting Mindo Cloud Forest – a true natural gem with lush mountainsides and winding rivers all around.
Mindo may be a little town, but it’s one of the best places to explore for nature lovers. Within minutes, you can find yourself hiking to breathtaking waterfalls or soaring through the treetops on thrilling zipline rides.
Things to Do in Mindo Ecuador
Whether you want to be active, taste artisan-made chocolate, or just find a strategic spot to bird-watch, you’ll never wonder what to do in Mindo. As you plan your Ecuador itinerary, 2 days will be ideal for most visitors to experience Mindo and the surrounding cloud forest.
It was quite easy to take part in the activities below. Reservations were either not needed or could be arranged the same day, perfect for spontaneous travelers figuring plans as they go.
1. Hike the Mindo Cloud forest to the Mindo Waterfalls.
Trekking into the cloud forest is an absolute must! The Mindo waterfall hike is one of the best things to do when you visit this small town just a couple of hours from Quito, Ecuador.
Set off on an adventure along the waterfall trail and prepare to be amazed by not 1, not 2, but 7 breathtaking waterfalls nestled within the lush forest canopy (yes, you heard that right – 7 Mindo waterfalls in just a day!).
With three unique routes to choose from, the Mindo cascadas are yours to discover: Ruta 1 Cascada Nambillo, Ruta 2 Cascada La Reina Hike, and Ruta 3 Waterfall Sanctuary Trail.
Starting with the shortest but no less spectacular trail, Cascada Nambillo offers a quick yet rewarding 20 to 30-minute trek each way from the Tarabita station to the majestic Nambillo waterfall.
Once you’ve marveled at Nambillo, consider continuing your journey along the Mindo Waterfall Sanctuary Trail, the most popular route where five enchanting waterfalls await. Keep an eye out for Cascada Ondinas, Cascada Guarumos, Cascada Colibries, Cascada Madre, and Cascada de los Maderos, slightly off the beaten path but well worth the slight detour.
Just remember, when you reach Cascada Madre, you’ll need to cross the river, so be sure to assess the water levels before crossing.
Last but certainly not least, tackle the Cascada La Reina trail, home to the tallest waterfall in the Mindo cloud forest. While it’s the longest route and might test your stamina after exploring the other trails, trust me when I say the breathtaking sight at the end makes every step worthwhile!
The trees drip with moisture from the clouds sitting atop the forest canopy. Pre-historic leaves line the hiking trails on the way to the cascadas, a.k.a. the Mindo waterfalls. While brightly colored flowers look like jewels sparkling in a sea of verdant green. As you walk along the trail, you’ll love the sound of a variety of birds chirping from the trees.
As you hike to these different waterfalls, be prepared to pay small fees ($2-$3) along the way to uniformed cloud forest workers to continue along to each cascade, take photos, and swim in the pool at the base of the Cascada Nambillo.
2. Ride the Tarabita Cable Car
To kick off your Mindo waterfall hike, you’ll need to hop on the Tarabita Cable Car. It’s not just a way to get there; it’s a scenic adventure in itself, offering unbeatable views of the stunning mountains and lush greenery from way up high.
As you glide across the valley, suspended in the air, you’ll be able to take in a breathtaking panorama of Mindo’s natural habitat. The thick canopy of the cloud forest spreads below you, while the distant peaks of the mountains form a striking backdrop against the sky, creating the perfect setting for your adventure.
For just $5 (round trip), you can take a quick trip across the treetops to access the waterfall walks. The gentle sway of the cable car adds a hint of excitement to the journey, giving you that rush of adrenaline as you hang above the ground.
Since there’s no public transport linking Mindo and the cable car, you can either walk or hail a taxi to get to the cable car terminal. The walk though takes about 1 hour. This is ideal if you’re trying to save up and you don’t have plans on hiking through the park.
A better plan is to take a taxi from Mindo to Tarabita which will save you time and energy so you can enjoy more of the Mindo cloud forest.
Operating hours for the cable car are typically from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Sunday, but it’s wise to double-check the schedule in Mindo before your journey, as their opening hours can be subject to change.
3. Ride the Park Chairlift through the Mindo Cloud Forest
The chairlift ride in Minjoy Park is one of the best ways to see the beauty of Mindo’s unique ecosystem.
With the sturdy safety bar lowered on the teleferico chairlift, the adventure kicks off. On this 15-minute ride, you’ll immediately feel the thrill of how long and high this ride is. You can even make it a round trip if you want!
We decided to hop on the chairlift after a super fun hike to the Cascada Reina as a quick and easy way down the mountain. As you glide above the lush canopy, the views are absolutely mind-blowing. There’s this one part of the ride where you cover a huge distance at a crazy elevation, adding extra thrill to the ride. And best of all, you can combine this journey with the Tarabita cable car ride to explore more of the forest from above.
It’s worth noting that because of its height and length, this chairlift ride might not be the best idea for little kiddos or anyone who’s not too keen on heights. But if you’re up for it, it’s totally worth the $8 for a round trip. It’s a steal for the incredible experience you get in return!
4. Fly through the Trees on a Mindo Canopy Adventure.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time zip liner or a pro flying over the trees with your arms spread wide.
A canopy tour over a lush cloud forest is just thrilling! Mindo Ziplines Tour came highly recommended by a local Ecuadorian from our volunteer project and it did not disappoint. We flew across the cloud forest on 10 cables ranging between 500 feet and 1,600 feet long.
Our guides Hugo and Matteo were knowledgeable and took the time to point out flowers and different types of birds, like toucans, as we hiked from platform to platform.
Even after having been zip lining in Costa Rica and the Caribbean, this ranks as a top zip line experience. Not to mention, the canopy tour didn’t blow our budget to bits compared to other destinations with ziplining.
5. Learn about Mindo Chocolate.
The first thing that strikes you as you learn about the process of going from cacao beans to chocolate is, “How on Earth did humans ever discover chocolate?!” There are numerous steps, several of which are not obvious at all. Whoever first made chocolate surely did so by accident!
If you’ve never done a chocolate tour before, prepare to be amazed by the intricate process of transforming cacao beans into the delectable treat we know and love as chocolate. At El Quetzal Mindo Chocolate, a guide will walk you through each step starting with the origins of the cacao bean in South America.
One of the highlights of the chocolate tour is discovering how modern-day artisans adjust the cacao-to-sugar ratio to achieve different levels of sweetness in the final product. It’s a delicate balance to make the best chocolate with a range of flavors.
The chocolate factory is available seven days a week, with tours starting from 9 AM to 5 PM. Simply arrive a few minutes early to purchase your tour ticket and prepare to embark on a chocolate-filled experience.
And if you’re feeling hungry before or after your tour, be sure to check out El Quetzal’s restaurant for a delicious bite to eat.
6. Go River Tubing on the Rio Mindo.
Experience the ultimate relaxation or thrill-seeking adventure with river tubing in Mindo.
As you drift down the river, you’ll have the option to soak up the tranquil beauty of the flatter sections or brace yourself for an exhilarating ride through the rapids. It’s all about the type of adventure you’re craving!
For calmer waters, single tubes are used, while multiple tubes are tied together to create a raft for navigating the rapids. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be treated to a unique perspective of slicing through the heart of the Mindo cloud forest by water, completely immersing yourself in the untamed splendor of the Mindo area.
Depending on your thrill threshold, you can select from three different levels of tubing adventures:
Level 1 Mindo River: Embark on a 1.8-mile journey (approximately 1 hour) through semi-rapid waters, perfect for those seeking a mild adrenaline rush.
Level 2 Cinto River: Dive into a 6.2-mile expedition (about 2.5 hours) that includes semi-rapid waters and exciting white-water rapids, ideal for adventurers craving a bit more excitement.
Level 3 White River: Take on the ultimate challenge with an 18.6-mile thrill ride (around 4 hours) featuring semi-rapid waters and adrenaline-pumping white-water rapids, designed for the most daring adventurers.
No matter which level you choose, river tubing in Mindo guarantees a fun experience as you enjoy one of the most popular activities in Mindo!
7. Explore the Mindo Cloud Forest by bike.
Mindo’s rugged dirt roads and winding cloud forest trails are a mountain biker’s paradise.
Rent a bike in town and set off on your own adventure, exploring the lush scenery of the Mindo cloud forest at your own pace. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, join a guided tour that will take you deep into the mountains for an action-packed ride.
One of the best things about biking in Mindo is that it allows you to access remote areas of the cloud forest that are otherwise unreachable. Plus, it’s a fun and eco-friendly way to get around town, giving you the freedom to explore every corner of this stunning natural paradise.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, biking in Mindo promises an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and discovery.
8. Surround yourself with butterflies at Mariposario Mindo.
At Hosteria Mariposas de Mindo, you’ll find a fantastic variety of butterfly species, along with the chance to witness all four stages of their life cycle up close.
As you step into the butterfly garden, it’s amazing to watch these beautiful creatures emerge from their cocoons. You can even interact with them by feeding them, adding an extra touch of magic to your experience.
Admission to this butterfly sanctuary in Mindo is just $8.50 for adults so it’s affordable, as well as really fascinating.
To get to Mindo Butterfly Farm, you have a couple of options. You can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the dirt road, which is only a mile outside of town. Or, if you prefer a quicker journey, you can hop into a taxi for just a few dollars.
9. Join a Mindo Bird Tour.
Mindo is a bird watcher’s paradise! Because of its unique position in the cloud forest with open valleys leading to the coast, the climate is perfect for many species of birds nesting, particularly with their young.
What makes the experience even more interesting is the help of a tour guide with an unparalleled knowledge of the area’s diverse bird life. They know this place like the back of their hand and have eyes like a hawk (I just couldn’t help myself with that one! 😉 ).
With the help of a guide, you can learn bird calls to spot even the most elusive bird species hidden among the trees and foliage. Tours last about 4 hours. You’ll need to get up bright and early for more chances to catch birds in action.
Whether it’s your first-time bird watching or you’re a seasoned birder, a bird tour in Mindo gives you the chance to see some of the most beautiful and interesting birds in the world!
10. Take a Rainforest Night Walk to Hear the Frog Concert.
Ever heard of a frog concert? No, it’s not frogs jamming in a band or croaking classical tunes in tuxedos! This intriguing tour caught our attention and it was worth checking out! (I was traveling with my 10-year-old nephew who needed to see what this was all about!)
For just $6, you get to join a guided night walk from Lago Mindo while being serenaded by a chorus of frogs. It’s the perfect setting for a nighttime activity in the cloud forest! Along the way, you’ll encounter all sorts of critters, from adorable little frogs to fascinating insects, and if you’re lucky, maybe even spot a tree snake slithering by.
Although the tour was conducted entirely in Spanish except for a few words in English here and there, don’t worry if you’re not fluent. The experience is so engaging that language barriers hardly matter. Plus, it’s a great way to see nocturnal forest life safely.
All in all, the frog concert and rainforest night walk delivered a memorable and immersive journey, giving us a special peek into the enchanting world of the Mindo cloud forest after dark.
How to Get to Mindo
From Quito to Mindo, there are direct buses that run throughout the day.
The ride takes about 2 1/2 hours and costs about $3 each way. Be sure to purchase all tickets in Quito or immediately upon arriving in Mindo, especially if you’re just visiting for the day. Expect weekend buses to be more crowded than weekday buses because locals also love to visit the Mindo cloud forest.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Mindo Cloud Forest?
The best time to visit Mindo Cloud Forest depends on your preference. Although it’s recommended by some to visit during the dry season, between June and September, so the forest trails are not that muddy. During this time, you can also still see the majestic waterfalls flowing with plenty of water.
Keep in mind that regardless of the season, Mindo is always characterized by its misty and damp conditions due to being situated in a cloud forest. The rainy season, which typically occurs from October to May, brings occasional showers and cooler temperatures, but it also results in a burst of growth and increased wildlife activity in the forest.
So, whether you’re into sunnier skies and slightly warmer temps or a bit of a wetter landscape and wildlife sightings, Mindo has something to offer no matter the season.
Where to Stay – Mindo Ecuador Hotels
Mindo has a good variety of hotels, hosterias, casas, and lodges for every type of traveler in all budget categories. Calle Quito is the main street running through the town and most accommodations are situated along this street or within 5-7 minutes by foot. When comparing Mindo hotels, consider location even if it means spending a bit more per night.
I had a really fantastic stay at the Hosteria Saguamby, located alongside the Rio Mindo just a few minutes walk from Calle Quito.
Bungalow-style rooms are spaced throughout the property. The bedding and bathrooms were cozy and clean. The constant sound of the river flowing in the background was soothing and made it easy to fall asleep.
The wifi was excellent and the staff was so welcoming and helpful. Breakfast was included in the rate and served in an elevated, open-air, gazebo-like building with hummingbirds zipping in and out of the flowers. Lunch and dinner were also available.
How Many Days to Spend in Mindo?
While you can technically make Mindo a day trip from Quito, a 2-day-stay in Mindo is a good amount of time to explore the unique places in this tiny town. During your stay, you’ll have enough time to engage in a variety of activities, whether you want to hike and zipline or savor delicious Ecuadorian chocolate while mixing in some bird watching.
You could easily spend another day in Mindo if you plan a deeper dive into all the cloud forest has to offer.
What to Pack
In Mindo, there were a few indispensable items I was glad to have packed! Regardless of how you plan to spend your days in Mindo, these items will come in handy.
Daypack: I always travel with my Osprey daypack. It’s compact, yet holds all the essentials with no problem. For excursions into the cloud forest, you’ll need a place for water, your camera, and bug spray.
Hiking Shoes: Trails are often slippery and muddy because the cloud forest is usually wet. You’ll need a solid gripping shoe with great support. These Keen hiking boots have been my go-to since my Patagonia trip years ago and my feet couldn’t be happier.
Hiking Pants & Long Sleeve Shirts: Whenever I plan a trip into a dense forest like the one in Mindo, my hiking pants are the first to get packed. They keep the bugs off my legs, are super lightweight, dry quickly, and even protect against the sun.
Ecuador’s weather can change quickly and the elevation can make the air cooler than you’d expect. You’ll be thankful for a long-sleeved layer if it’s cool and to keep the bugs away! I pack these shirts, particularly for my sun-sensitive skin but also because they’re lightweight.
Bug Spray: Mindo is in a moist cloud forest surrounded by rivers. Mosquito repellant is extremely important no matter when you visit.
Water Bottle: Ecuador’s water is not safe for drinking so bottled water is a must. Whenever possible, I buy larger bottles of water and use them to refill my water bottle to cut down on plastic waste. Be sure to carry water with you whether you’re bird-watching or hiking.
Binoculars: Having binoculars on hand for a night nature walk is a game-changer when it comes to spotting animals. This is especially true in the thick forest cover of Mindo’s cloud forest whether you’re hoping to spot a particular type of bird or want to see some monkeys swinging through the trees.
Head Torch: An absolute must-have for lighting your way and navigating the trails after dark on a Mindo night walk. Plus, it leaves your hands free to take photos of the natural wonders around you.
Is Mindo Ecuador Safe?
I traveled to Mindo with my 10-year-old nephew and we had no problems. On the contrary, everyone we met in town was warm and friendly. Throughout our visit, safety was not a concern, and we felt completely at ease exploring the town on our own.
As always, it’s important to use common sense and take precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night in secluded areas, and keep your belongings secure.
Is Mindo Worth Visiting?
Absolutely!
Mindo is definitely worth visiting for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Quito. With its stunning cloud forest setting, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities, Mindo offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the cloud forest.
Plus, the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the town and its friendly locals make it an enjoyable addition to your Ecuador itinerary. So if you’re considering some time in Mindo, go for it – you won’t be disappointed!
Immerse Yourself in the Mindo Cloud Forest!
Whether you’re spending 2 days or more, you’ll never wonder what to do in Mindo. There’s no shortage of activities to explore the natural beauty of the cloud forest.
Mindo’s cloud forest is a great contrast to other popular spots in Ecuador and helps you appreciate and experience the natural diversity Ecuador has to offer. Happy travels!
So, what are your questions about visiting the cloud forest in Ecuador?
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