Mindo: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Mindo, Ecuador's premier destination for eco-tourism and outdoor fun amidst lush cloud forests.
Nestled in the lush cloud forests of Ecuador, Mindo is a breathtaking destination renowned for its rich biodiversity, thrilling outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture. Perfect for eco-tourists and adventurers alike, this charming town offers a unique getaway filled with spectacular scenery and unforgettable experiences.
A brief summary to Mindo
- W6X9+WXM, Quito, EC
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the dry season (June to September) for the best weather and visibility.
- Don't miss the opportunity to try locally produced chocolate; it's a highlight of Mindo!
- Bring comfortable walking shoes for the various trails and nature walks.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
- Stay overnight to fully enjoy the area's natural beauty and activities.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from Quito, take the E28 highway west towards Mindo. The drive is approximately 2 hours and covers about 80 km. Once you reach the town of Mindo, follow the main road into the town. Look for signs for parking areas as they are limited. Expect to pay around $1 to $2 per hour for parking.
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Bus
For public transportation, head to the 'Carcelén' bus terminal in Quito. There, you can catch a bus to Mindo. The bus companies that operate this route include 'Transportes Quito-Mindo' and 'Flota Imbabura'. Buses leave frequently, approximately every 30 minutes, and the journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The cost is around $3 to $5. Once you arrive in Mindo, simply walk into town; it’s a short distance from the bus terminal.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct option, you can take a taxi from Quito to Mindo. This is a more expensive option, with fares typically ranging from $60 to $100 depending on your negotiation skills and the time of day. The taxi will take you directly to your desired location in Mindo, making it a convenient choice if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
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Shuttle Service
Some hotels and tour operators in Quito offer shuttle services to Mindo. You can check with your accommodation to see if they provide this service. The cost is usually around $25 to $40 per person, and the shuttle will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off in Mindo.
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Local Transport in Mindo
Once you arrive in Mindo, local transport options include taxis and motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis). These are readily available and can take you to various attractions within the Mindo Cloud Forest area. Fares will vary, but expect to pay around $1 to $3 for short trips in town.
Discover more about Mindo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bare Foot coffee house
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Ecuadorian coffee culture at Bare Foot Coffee House, a cozy retreat surrounded by the lush beauty of Mindo.
Minroot Restaurante
0.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ecuador at Minroot Restaurante, where traditional dishes meet local ingredients in a vibrant setting.
Hostal La Tranquilidad
0.5 km
Experience serenity in the heart of Mindo at Hostal La Tranquilidad – your gateway to Ecuador's breathtaking biodiversity and adventure.
CasKaffeSu
0.6 km
Discover the tranquility of CasKaffeSu in Mindo, a perfect blend of comfort and nature amidst Ecuador's stunning cloud forests.
La Isla Mindo
0.6 km
Explore the amazing biodiversity and adventure activities at La Isla Mindo, your essential guide to the wonders of Ecuador's cloud forest.
The Beehive in Mindo
0.6 km
Experience the warmth of Mindo at The Beehive, a charming café offering local delicacies and artisanal coffees in a serene setting.
Mindo Casa de Piedra
0.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mindo Casa de Piedra, a charming retreat in Ecuador's cloud forest, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
La Bicok EcoLodge
0.7 km
Discover the beauty of Mindo at La Bicok EcoLodge, where comfort meets nature in an eco-friendly haven.
Cabañas Armonía y Jardín de Orquídeas
0.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Mindo at Cabañas Armonía y Jardín de Orquídeas, your perfect eco-friendly retreat in Ecuador's lush cloud forest.
Mindo Nature
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking cloud forests of Mindo, Ecuador, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers with diverse outdoor activities.
La Casa de Cecilia Mindo
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich culture of Ecuador at La Casa de Cecilia Mindo, your perfect getaway in San Carlos.
MINDO REAL LODGE - Hosteria con piscina al aire libre en Mindo Ecuador
0.8 km
Discover serenity at Mindo Real Lodge, a tranquil escape in Ecuador's lush cloud forests with outdoor pools, wellness amenities, and adventure at your doorstep.
Restaurante Cuyana
0.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ecuador at Restaurante Cuyana in Mindo, where local flavors meet culinary artistry in a stunning natural setting.
Mindo Toucan Platinum Suites
0.9 km
Experience the beauty of Mindo at Toucan Platinum Suites—where luxury meets nature in Ecuador's breathtaking cloud forests.
Mindo Tours Udestplor Bird Watching
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mindo, Ecuador, through expert-led birdwatching tours with Mindo Tours Udestplor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Punto Ornitológico Mindo
0.3 km
Explore the stunning avian diversity at Punto Ornitológico Mindo, a top birdwatching destination in Ecuador's lush cloud forests.
Mindo BirdAdventure
0.4 km
Explore the stunning cloud forests of Ecuador with Mindo BirdAdventure, where birdwatching becomes a thrilling journey through nature's wonders.
Mindo Valley
0.6 km
Explore the lush beauty and adventure of Mindo Valley, Ecuador, a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Bird Paradise Tours Mindo
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant biodiversity of Mindo with Bird Paradise Tours, where thrilling outdoor adventures meet stunning cloud forest landscapes.
Mindo Sign
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant Mindo Sign in San Carlos, an iconic photo spot and gateway to the lush wonders of Ecuador's cloud forest.
Mindo Central Park
0.7 km
Explore Mindo Central Park, a tranquil oasis in San Carlos, Ecuador, offering lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and serene trails for nature lovers.
Mindo cloudforest tours
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity of Mindo Cloudforest, a birdwatcher's paradise in the heart of Ecuador's lush landscapes.
Butterfly House Nathaly Mindo
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Butterfly House Nathaly in Mindo, Ecuador, a sanctuary of colorful butterflies and lush gardens, perfect for nature lovers.
El Quetzal de Mindo with Chocolate Tour
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting world of chocolate at El Quetzal de Mindo, where delightful culinary offerings meet the beauty of Ecuadorian nature.
Mindo Lago
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking biodiversity and adventure activities at Mindo Lago, a nature lover's dream destination in Ecuador's enchanting cloud forests.
Mindogreen Turismo Ecológico
0.7 km
Experience the lush biodiversity of Mindo at Mindogreen Turismo Ecológico, a premier eco-tourism destination promoting sustainability and nature exploration.
Biohostal Mindo (home made chocolate tour)
0.7 km
Discover the magic of Mindo at Biohostal Mindo, where homemade chocolate tours meet cozy accommodations in Ecuador's breathtaking cloud forests.
Tours de Café y Chocolate / Quinde Mindo.
0.9 km
Discover the art of chocolate-making and savor exquisite coffee at Tours de Café y Chocolate in Mindo, Ecuador, a sweet paradise for every traveler.
Mindoxtrem birds Operador turistico
1.0 km
Explore Mindo, Ecuador's enchanting cloud forest, home to rich biodiversity, thrilling adventures, and vibrant local culture.
SUYANA MINDO ECO PARK
1.7 km
Uncover the natural beauty and adventure at Suyana Mindo Eco Park, a must-visit eco-tourism destination in the heart of Ecuador.
Essential places to dine
El Chef
0.4 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at El Chef in San Carlos - where every dish tells a story!
Zafiro Boutique Hotel Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover exceptional dining at Zafiro Boutique Hotel Restaurant in Mindo – where local flavors meet serene ambiance amidst nature.
Las Delicias De Mindo
0.5 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Las Delicias De Mindo – where flavor meets nature in beautiful Mindo.
Persian house
0.5 km
Experience authentic Persian cuisine in the heart of Mindo with delicious dishes that delight your senses and warm your heart.
Mindo Chill Cafe
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at Mindo Chill Cafe - where exquisite flavors meet Ecuador's breathtaking cloud forest scenery.
El Cheff de Mindo
0.5 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at El Cheff de Mindo in San Carlos - where every dish tells a story.
Saguambi Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Saguambi Restaurant in Mindo—where every dish is crafted from fresh local ingredients.
Street Food PIZZA ARGENTINA
0.6 km
Discover authentic Argentine pizza at Street Food PIZZA ARGENTINA in Mindo—where every slice tells a story.
Cacao Mindo Restaurante
0.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of Ecuador at Cacao Mindo Restaurante – where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry amidst stunning natural beauty.
Restaurante Don guillo
0.6 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Restaurante Don Guillo in Mindo's charming barrio la Magdalena.
Parrilladas Don Bolo
0.6 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Parrilladas Don Bolo in Mindo - where flavor meets tradition.
Sabor de Angi
0.6 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Ecuador at Sabor de Angi in Mindo – where every meal tells a story.
Mindo Cascai
0.6 km
Experience culinary excellence amidst nature at Mindo Cascai in Ecuador's picturesque cloud forest.
Mindo Obansi
0.6 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Mindo's cloud forests at Mindo Obansi.
El kade
0.6 km
Discover El Kade in Mindo for an unforgettable dining experience showcasing Ecuadorian cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Los Sandwich de Mindo
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of Mindo at Los Sandwich de Mindo, where fresh ingredients meet exceptional coffee in a cozy café atmosphere.
TropicalSweet Frozen Yogurt
0.5 km
Indulge in a refreshing array of flavors at TropicalSweet Frozen Yogurt, the ultimate dessert destination in Mindo's vibrant center.
Fantasy Companion Dolls
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of handcrafted dolls at Fantasy Companion Dolls in 210102, a dream destination for collectors and families alike.
Boutique y Papelería P&P
0.6 km
Explore the artistic charm of Boutique y Papelería P&P, your go-to destination for unique stationery and local crafts in Mindo.
EL MANA BAKERY
0.6 km
Discover Mindo's El Mana Bakery, where fresh artisan bread and pastries meet the lush beauty of Ecuador's cloud forests.
Toucanet Coffee Mindo
0.7 km
Indulge in the flavors of Mindo at Toucanet Coffee – your ultimate destination for coffee, breakfast, and desserts in Ecuador's cloud forest.
CreArte Mindo
0.7 km
Explore the flavors of Mindo at CreArte Mindo, your go-to grocery store for local produce and handmade crafts in Ecuador's lush landscapes.
Ferretería Jhordy
0.7 km
Explore the heart of Mindo at Ferretería Jhordy, your go-to hardware store for tools and local craftsmanship in Ecuador's lush landscape.
SUOLO - Food Lab & Interpretation Center
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Mindo's culinary artistry at SUOLO, where organic meets artisanal in a delightful food journey.
Crepes-Art, Mindo
0.7 km
Discover the flavors of Mindo at Crepes-Art, where delicious crepes and refreshing drinks await in a cozy atmosphere.
Mindo Forest Coffee & Tea
0.8 km
Discover the rich flavors of Ecuador at Mindo Forest Coffee & Tea, where every sip tells a story of the lush Mindo cloud forest.
Mindo Carpentry
0.8 km
Explore Mindo Carpentry: A gem of handmade crafts in the heart of Ecuador's lush Cloud Forest, perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Mishqui Quinde
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of vegetarian cuisine at Mishqui Quinde in Mindo, where every dish is a celebration of local ingredients and creativity.
Mindu's Coffee
0.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Mindo's Coffee at Mindu's Coffee, a cozy retreat for coffee lovers in the heart of Ecuador's lush landscapes.
Margarit Boutique Hotel
1.1 km
Discover the charm of Mindo at Margarit Boutique Hotel, where comfort meets nature in Ecuador's enchanting cloud forest.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gallera El Buchón
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Mindo at Gallera El Buchón, a cozy bar offering refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere amidst stunning nature.
Coffe, Creps y algo más...
0.6 km
Discover the culinary magic of Coffe, Creps y Algo Más in Mindo, where delicious crepes and rich coffee await in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
CREPERIA Van Gogh
0.6 km
Experience the flavors of Mindo at CREPERIA Van Gogh, where artisanal crepes and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable culinary moments.
Bar mi vita
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mindo at Bar mi vita, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.
Mindo night time bar discoteca Karaoke
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mindo at the Mindo Nighttime Bar, where karaoke and camaraderie meet for an unforgettable evening.
Bar comedor
30.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Quito at Bar Comedor, where local flavors and lively ambiance come together.
HOTSPOT - Cerveza Artesanal Cócteles Alitas bbq Hamburguesas Parrilla Bar Grill Bar karaoke
33.7 km
Discover Quito's HOTSPOT for artisanal beers, BBQ delights, and lively karaoke nights, where great food meets unforgettable experiences.
Trapiche del duende
34.5 km
Indulge in the flavors of Ecuador at Trapiche del Duende, where every grilled dish tells a story of local tradition and culinary excellence.
LICORERIA EL AMANECER
34.7 km
Discover Quito's vibrant nightlife at Licoreria El Amanecer, a lively bar offering an array of local drinks and authentic cultural experiences.
Imbabura
34.9 km
Discover Imbabura, a cozy bar in Quito's Centro Histórico, where local flavors meet a warm atmosphere for a perfect evening out.
EDISON BAQUERO
35.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Edison Baquero, a vibrant bar in the heart of Quito's historic district.
Zona Seven
35.0 km
Experience the culinary delight at Zona Seven, a grill restaurant in Quito, where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Whiskey A Go Go
35.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Quito at Whiskey A Go Go, where delicious food and great drinks meet lively entertainment.
Sinners Microcerveceria - Centro Historico
35.1 km
Discover the vibrant craft beer scene at Sinners Microcerveceria in Quito's historic center, blending great brews with local flavors.
Lavoe Salsa Danceclub
35.4 km
Dive into Quito's vibrant nightlife at Lavoe Salsa Danceclub, where salsa and rhythm come alive in an unforgettable atmosphere.
