Activities in Mindo

Hiking, Bicycling

V!VA User‘s Description

Most of the activities in Mindo take advantage of its spectacular natural setting and rich variety of flora and fauna. The Jardín de Orquídeas, Orchid Garden, just across from the sports stadium in town is worth a stroll. The Mariposario, Butterfly Farm, is 3 km (2 miles) outside of town on the road headed to the waterfall, natural paths and a few hotels. Entrance is $2 per person.

Tubing is a popular sport and involves reclining on several inner tubes tied together with rope down the mellow rapids on Río Mindo ($5-7 per person). The price includes the drive up to the launch point, helmet, guide, life jacket and, of course, the tubes.

Bike Rental is available at several different spots around town. You can bike to the waterfalls on two different paths – one mostly uphill, and one a little longer but less difficult. Rental is usually about $5 per person per day. For more information on biking in Ecuador, see our section within adventure travel.

Horseback riding can also be done in Mindo, although quality of horses is often questionable. For more information on horseback riding in Ecuador, see our section within adventure travel.

A ride on the cable car, tarabito, from one mountainside to another costs $2 per person if you just want a round-trip ride. It offers excellent photo opportunities and spectacular views of the cloud forest and river. For a round-trip ride on the cable car and access into the private reserve on the other side, with paths down to the waterfall, the price is $5 per person.

Bird watchers, nature lovers, and people interested in learning a little more about flora and fauna in the area can rent a local biologist guide either through their hotel (El Monte and Septimo Paraiso provides guides to all guests, Mindo Gardens can rent a guide for guests interested at the cost of $100 per day) through an international or Quiteño travel agency when you are planning your trip or through locals. If you choose to rent a guide locally, you probably won’t be able to get a bilingual guide, but you will learn a lot about local politics and life.

Among the rare bird species spotted in Mindo are the toucan-barbet, the cock-of-the-rock and the golden-headed quetzal.