Mindo Overview

V!VA User‘s Description

Mindo is set in breathtaking cloud forests (including 47,444 acres of the nationally protected reserve, Bosque Protector Mindo-Nambillo) teeming with birds. Over 350 species have been identified in the areas around Mindo alone. Tubing is a popular activity on the low-level rapids, as well as waterfalls, which are ideal for snapping photos, wading in the nearby pools and jumping into the icy waters just below the falls – a 10 m (33 ft) leap!

One of the most ecologically-aware towns in Ecuador, Mindo has recently seen a huge tourist boom. Weekends bring an increase in visitors - make sure you have reservations! Holidays and long weekends will often find the road entering Mindo in bumper-to-bumper traffic. As a result, the town exists almost entirely on tourism. Many private homes will paint a sign "Hostal" and hang it on their fence, offering rooms for around $5 per person. However, a strong local government and an even stronger common awareness of ecology and environmental protection have so far saved Mindo from exploiting this tourist niche too far. Much of the tourist activities work to promote ecologically-aware tourism activities.

Mindo Seasons and Weather

The climate tends to be milder than weather in Quito, temperatures ranging from about 15ºC – 24ºC (60ºF – 75ºF) year-round. Rain storms are common, so bring proper gear. There is no true dry season, but the climate is driest from May – September.

As far as the tourist season goes, July - October are the busiest months, but weekends and national holidays throughout the year find Mindo packed to the brim with Quiteños dying for some fresh air.