Easy Level           

1800 m

1 days

The old route that leads to Mindo is also known as the Eco-route «El paseo de Quinde». The Mindo Nambillo reserve protects 19,000 hectares of cloud forest, the area is famous for its great variety of species of birds, approximately 500, 90 species of butterflies and 170 species of orchids. Bromeliads, helicons, ferns, vines, mosses and lichens fill the surroundings. Mindo was considered one of the most important Tambos on the way from Esmeraldas to Quito. It is in this zone where Chasquis and Mindalaes used to rest and exchanged products and merchandise.
There are several versions of the meaning of the term Mindo (Mindu), one of which comes from the word mindalaes which means merchants. In this place you can do several activities, such as hiking, taking a cable car over the treetops, tubing, observing the unique flora and fauna of the area.

Day Program

• Departure from Quito to Mindo
• On the road visit The Mitad del Mundo equatorial line and the Pululahua’s volcano viewpoint
• Continue the road towards the Mindo-Nambillo cloud forest
• Visit the butterfly station and observe also hummingbirds
• Cross 230 feet by cable car over the forest and visit the Nambillo Waterfall
• Walk along a pleasant path to the sanctuary of waterfalls
• Optional canopy tour is available on the same road
• Explanatory tour about the wonderful world of Ecuadorian chocolate
• Return to Quito or to your destination