MINDO CLOUD FOREST: Nature & Adventure - Flexible Private Day Tour
San Carlos, EC
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Hike in the Mindo Nambillo Reserve
- Visit the Nambillo Waterfall Sanctuary
- Experience Canopy Zip Line Park
- Explore the Butterfly Farm
- Tour the Artisanal Chocolate Factory
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Duration 8 to 9 hours
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Private transportation included
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Lunch with soft drink included
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Certified bilingual guide
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Entrance fee to Alambi Reserve
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Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Mindo Cloud Forest. Just two hours away from Quito, this lush paradise offers a range of activities for all nature enthusiasts. Start your day with a hike in the Mindo Nambillo Reserve, where the Chocó lowlands and the Western Tropical Andes meet, creating a diverse ecosystem. Marvel at the Nambillo Waterfall and cool off in the refreshing river. If you're feeling adventurous, soar through the treetops at the Canopy Zip Line Park or tube down the river. For a more relaxed experience, visit the Butterfly Farm or the Artisanal Chocolate Factory. The choice is yours! The tour is fully customizable, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your interests. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this unique cloud forest and create lasting memories.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English, Spanish; Castilian
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the biodiverse Mindo Cloud Forest on a private tour filled with adventure, hiking, and customizable activities for nature lovers.
Included
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OtherLunch with soft drink -
OtherPrivate transportation
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OtherCertified, bilingual naturalist guide
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OtherEntrance fee and coffee at Alambi Reserve
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OtherHotel pick-up and drop-off
Excluded
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GratuitiesGratuities -
OtherAlcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
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OtherEntrance fees to additional activities (i.e. Canopy Zip Line Park, Butterfly farm, Chocolate tour)
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at 8 am for a scenic 2 hour drive towards the western slopes. Mindo is surrounded by forested mountains and offers a wide variety of activities for all interests and tastes. You'll will start the day with a hike in the Mindo Nambillo Reserve. This is a transitional sub-tropical rainforest also known as cloud forest that ranges from 950 to 2800 m.a.s.l. where 2 of the most biologically diverse ecoregions in the world meet: the Chocó lowlands and the Western Tropical Andes. The reserve is home to an outstanding number of orchid, bird, mammal, insect and reptile species. The Nambillo Waterfall Sanctuary is one of the main attractions and invite you to test the refreshing waters of the river. On the way back, it is possible to ride a cable car above the canopy where you'll have an amazing perspective of the beauty of this unique ecosystem. If you are afraid of heights, it's possible to walk back instead.
120 minutes
The town of Mindo is full of options to suit all tastes and interests. Time permitting, once you are done exploring the forest interior, you can opt for one or more of the several additional activities available in the area (entrance fee not included). Talk to your guide about your interests and expectations and he will make sure to run the tour accordingly. You can admire an interactive butterfly farm where you'll witness at close range all the life stages of these wonderful beings; or you can visit a local chocolate factory that processes organically grown cacao, and allows you to participate in the chocolate making process- from plant to bar. If you are in a more adventurous mood, you can choose to go the a Canopy Zip-line Park instead, and enjoy the thrill of exploring the forest from a different perspective or venture down the river in a tubing adventure.
60 minutes
Enjoy a delicious lunch in a local restaurant
60 minutes
Alambi Reserve
After a delicious lunch you'll start your way back to Quito. A final stop before reaching the city will reveal another hidden treasure of the cloud forest: Alambi Reserve. This is one of the best places in Ecuador to watch hummingbirds at close range. Up to 18 species have been recorded in less than 30 minutes!! You'll be amazed with the beauty of this winged jewels. Drop-of at your hotel around 5 pm.
60 minutes
Finca La Victoriana
OPTIONAL ADD-ON: In the afternoon you can add a visit to a lek of one of the most iconic bird species in the cloud forest; The Andean Cock of the Rock. This species exhibits marked sexual dimorphism, the male has a large disk-like crest and a very unique vivid scarlet plumage. Gatherings of males compete for breeding females with each male displaying its colorful plumage, bobbing and hopping, and making strident calls. This visit would take place after your lunch in Mindo. The visit to Alambi reserve in this case will be in the morning, on your way to Mindo. If you take this trip extension you'll be dropped off in your hotel around 7:00 pm. Make sure to choose the right option that includes the entrance fee to this reserve
120 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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A small amount of walking is involved along trails with irregular terrain although if participants require longer hiking trails are available. -
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
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Children must be accompanied by an adult
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Copy of passport of one of the group members is required for billing purposes (local tax exemption)
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Difficulty of the hikes can be adjusted to travelers´ requirements
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Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
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Service animals allowed
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
What our experts say
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Try the local chocolate factory tour! -
Bring waterproof shoes for hiking.
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Don't miss the hummingbird viewing spot.
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Visit the butterfly farm for a unique experience.
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Enjoy lunch at the charming El Chef restaurant.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the breathtaking Mindo Cloud Forest. Surrounded by lush green mountains and located just two hours away from Quito, this flexible private day tour promises to be an experience like no other. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you explore the Mindo Nambillo Reserve, a mesmerizing sub-tropical rainforest where two of the world's most biologically diverse ecoregions converge. With three rivers and numerous streams, the landscape is a paradise waiting to be discovered.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect a total duration of 480 to 540 minutes, allowing ample time to embrace the wonders of the Mindo Cloud Forest. The adventure kicks off with a scenic 2-hour drive to the Mindo Nambillo Reserve, where you'll embark on a thrilling hike. As you traverse this transitional rainforest, you'll encounter an incredible array of orchids, birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles. Don't miss the chance to cool off in the refreshing waters of the Nambillo Waterfall Sanctuary. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there's the option to soar through the treetops on a canopy zip line, explore the forest on a tubing adventure, visit an interactive butterfly farm, or indulge in a chocolate-making experience at a local factory.Who is this for?
This tour is suitable for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone with a desire to connect with the captivating beauty of the Mindo Cloud Forest. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The tour can be customized to meet your specific interests and preferences, ensuring a personalized experience that caters to all ages and fitness levels. Embrace the opportunity to learn about the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem and create memories that will last a lifetime.Why book this?
Embarking on the Mindo Cloud Forest tour is an extraordinary opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Discover the enchanting beauty of the rainforest as you hike through the Mindo Nambillo Reserve, marvel at the cascading waterfalls, and spot the vibrant wildlife. Engage in thrilling activities like zip-lining or tubing, or opt for a more relaxed experience at the butterfly farm or chocolate factory. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the flora, fauna, and cultural significance of this remarkable region. Don't miss your chance to create lifelong memories in one of the world's most biologically diverse destinations.Good to know
Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes as you'll be exploring the forested trails of the Mindo Cloud Forest. Don't forget your swimsuit if you'd like to take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Nambillo Waterfall Sanctuary. A delicious lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour, offering a chance to savor traditional flavors of the region. Transportation to and from your hotel in Quito is provided, ensuring a stress-free journey. If you opt for the optional add-on, you'll have the opportunity to witness the striking Andean Cock of the Rock bird during its unique courtship display. Captivating and immersive, this day tour promises to leave you in awe of the wonders of the Mindo Cloud Forest.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on the Mindo Cloud Forest tour have raved about the natural wonders they encountered. From the breathtaking beauty of the rainforest to the exhilarating activities, this experience has left a lasting impression on many. Visitors have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides who provide insightful information about the diverse flora and fauna. The opportunity to witness hummingbirds up close at Alambi Reserve has been a highlight for bird enthusiasts. Overall, the tour has received glowing reviews for its seamless organization, exceptional customer service, and the chance to immerse oneself in the magic of the Mindo Cloud Forest.
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