Discover the Enchanting Yanacocha Biological Reserve

Getting There

• Walking

  Start from the center of Mindo, specifically from the main square where the church is located. Head east on Calle 9 de Octubre for about 5 minutes until you reach the intersection with Avenida Quito. Turn left onto Avenida Quito and continue walking for approximately 10 minutes. You will pass several shops and restaurants on your left and right. Keep walking straight until you reach the bus terminal (Terminal Terrestre de Mindo). From the bus terminal, you can take a local bus heading towards Quito. The bus ride will take around 1 hour and will cost you a small fare. Make sure to tell the driver you are heading to Yanacocha Biological Reserve. Once you arrive at the stop nearest to Yanacocha, follow the signs to the entrance, which is a short walk from the bus stop.

• Bicycle

  If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Mindo. Start at the main square and head east on Calle 9 de Octubre. After 5 minutes, turn left onto Avenida Quito and continue for about 10 minutes until you reach the bus terminal. From there, you can take a bus to Quito as described above. If you want to cycle all the way to Yanacocha, be aware that it is a challenging ride due to the hilly terrain. Ensure you have a map or GPS on your phone to guide you. The route will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace.

• Hiking

  For the more adventurous, you can hike to Yanacocha Biological Reserve. Begin your trek from the main square in Mindo and head towards the bus terminal, following the same route mentioned earlier. From the bus terminal, instead of taking a bus, continue along the path that leads up into the hills. This hike is not well-marked, so it’s recommended to have a local guide or a map. The hike will take approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on your fitness level and the trail conditions. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks for the journey.