El Quetzal de Mindo is the beginning of the Ruta de Cacao (Chocolate Route) in Ecuador. See the entire process of making chocolate at an artisan small batch scale. We begin at the cocoa tree, taste fresh fruit and see the entire process to the finished chocolate. We will end with a tasting of a variety of chocolate, our chocolate barbecue sauce and chocolate tea and of course our world famous brownie. Tours operates seven days per week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Every hour on the hour we will begin a new tour.
Marcelo's experience, character, knowledge and passion for birding makes this a fantastic opportunity to see a variety of species in their natural enviroment without having to arrange anything yourselves.
The guide is well known for his ability to spot and identify a wide range of the local birdlife. He uses audio calls to summon them closer and identify them. Powerful scopes and quality binoculars are provided and the guide will help you make use of them to capture impressive and memorable photos of the experience.
Mindo Ziplines Tour offers you an incredible experience to observe the cloud forest and the treetops from the air, suitable for the whole family. 3600 meters in 10 different cables, with all the necessary safety equipment; cable with double line, petzel equipment, track pulleys, helmets, gloves, carabiners and 100% trained guides. The flight is combined by the cables with small walks between the points of arrival and departure. During which we can observe the diversity of existing flora and fauna, they can also perform pirouettes at no extra cost such as “bat”, “Mariposa” or “superman”. Adrenaline is guaranteed.
Real Birdwatching Experience in Mindo Cloud Forest
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the high-altitude cloud forest of Mindo, one of the world's premier biodiversity hotspots. Led by an expert professional guide, this immersive tour takes you deep into lush, ancient trails where you will discover the towering native trees, rich ecology, and fascinating plant life that makes this ecosystem so unique. To ensure you don't miss a single moment, every traveler receives their own personal pair of binoculars. As you trek through the pristine canopy, your guide will help you spot and identify stunning, brilliantly colored birds—from vibrant toucans and tanagers to luminous hummingbirds. You'll learn captivating details about their unique behaviors, calls, and habitats in real time. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and birding enthusiasts, this educational hike offers an intimate, up-close look at the dazzling wildlife hidden within the Mindo mountains.
Experience a deep sensory connection with the history and spirit of cacao. This immersive tour takes you through the ancestral, artisanal process of cacao: you’ll discover the dried cacao bean, roast it over a traditional clay pan, peel it by hand, and grind it using a stone or mortar—just like in ancient times. The experience culminates in the preparation and tasting of an energizing cacao drink made with honey and spices, all accompanied by live drumming. This journey honors the spirituality, history, and vital force of cacao as "the drink of the gods," awakening body and mind. Includes: Introduction to dried cacao and its ancestral uses Roasting and hand-peeling of cacao beans Traditional grinding with stone or mortar Preparation and tasting of ancestral cacao drink Live music with local drummers
Chaquimallana Reserve : Mindo's Best Hummingbird Experience.
Hand-Fed Magic: The Exclusive Hummingbirds Most travelers see hummingbirds from a distance; at Chaquimallana, they land in the palm of your hand. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a profound, soul-stirring connection with the "Fairies" that most people only ever see in documentaries. Why This is an Absolute Must: The "Human Perch" Experience: Feel the literal thrum of life as up to 12 different species of hummingbirds trust you enough to feed directly from your hand. Photographer's Paradise: Capture world-class, close-up shots that are impossible anywhere else. No zoom lens can replace this proximity. Expert Insight: Learn the secret lives, incredible metabolism, and survival tactics of these vibrant jewels from our master naturalists. Pure Serenity: An intimate, peaceful setting away from the Mindo crowds. If you leave Mindo without feeling the weightless touch of a hummingbird, you haven't truly experienced the cloud forest. Book your spot now before this magical window closes!
Discover Mindo, Ecuador’s premier birdwatching destination and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Nestled within the Andean Chocó Cloud Forest, this guided birding tour offers exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph Ecuador’s incredible avian diversity in a stunning natural setting. Explore pristine cloud forest trails and visit renowned bird feeders where you may encounter hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans, trogons, quetzals, flycatchers, woodcreepers, cuckoos, woodpeckers, hawks, falcons, and many other species. Mindo is internationally recognized as one of the best birdwatching hotspots in South America and a paradise for bird photographers and nature enthusiasts. Led by an expert local guide, you'll learn about the region’s unique ecosystems, conservation efforts, and remarkable wildlife. Whether you are an experienced birder or a first-time visitor, this immersive birdwatching experience showcases the extraordinary biodiversity of Ecuador’s cloud forest.
Full-Day Private Birding Tour in La Paz Refuge & Hummingbirds
With 1690 registered bird species of which 124 are hummingbirds Ecuador is a paradise for nature lovers, exotic birds, and birdwatching. Discover rock birds, antpittas, toucans, woodpeckers, lek and many other species in your own cloud forest near Mindo in the Andes. So prepare your list of birds, your binoculars and your camera that you will have an unforgettable experience.
Night Jungle Adventure: Discover Mindo’s Hidden Creatures
The Glass Frog & Hidden Giants Quest When the sun sets, Mindo’s true predators and wonders emerges. While standard night walks stick to gravel paths, we take you deep into the living heart of the Andean Chocó. This is the premier nocturnal expedition for those seeking the rare, the transparent, and the exotic. Why We Own the Night: The Transparency Specialists: We are experts at locating the iconic Glass Frogs, along with diverse Pristimantis species you won't find on casual walks. Macro-World Mastery: Discover the forest’s "aliens," from giant Stick Insects and cryptic Tarantulas to glowing Scorpions under UV light. Pro-Gear Advantage: We provide high-lumen tactical flashlights and expert guidance on how to spot eye-shine like a pro. Photographer's Dream: Our guides are trained to help you get the perfect macro shot without disturbing the wildlife. The jungle is calling. Don't settle for a basic stroll—book the ultimate Mindo night encounter and see what most travelers miss!