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Hummingbird hand-feeding in Mindo with a local guide

Mindo Cloud Forest – Private Day Trip from Quito

Pattern break: What if a hummingbird lands on your hand tomorrow? In Mindo, it's not a fantasy—it's often your first hello.

Hi, I'm Marco Herrera, a licensed National Tour Guide of Ecuador. We'll trade city noise for birdsong, cross a cable-car above the canopy, feel the spray of a waterfall, and end with chocolate that actually tells a story.

Emotional payoff: less rush, more wonder. Logical support: private transport, flexible timing, a guide who reads the weather, the road and your pace—so you just enjoy.

Why travelers pick this Mindo tour

You want a day that feels effortless and unforgettable. We keep the magic, remove the guesswork. Private ride, adaptable plan, real stories. And yes—moments worth framing.

Feel safe & unrushed

Door-to-door pickup, steady driving, time to breathe at each stop. You set the rhythm.

Moments that stick

Hand-feeding hummingbirds, misty trails, waterfall spray, warm chocolate notes—sensory memories.

Local advantage

Fast lanes for decisions: weather tweaks, best order of stops, lunch that actually hits the spot.

What we'll do (typical flow)

Order can adapt to weather, pace and interests.

  1. San Tadeo Birding: hand-feed hummingbirds (gentle, magical, close-up photos).
  2. Tarabita & Mindo Nambillo Waterfall: cable-car over the canopy + short cloud-forest hike.
  3. Lunch break: local spots in town (not included).
  4. Yumbos chocolate tour: bean-to-bar process & guided tasting.
  5. Butterfly garden: colorful species and metamorphosis corner.
  • ✔ Private transportation
  • ✔ Licensed bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
  • ✖ Entrance fees
  • ✖ Meals
  • ✖ Tips

Drive time: ~2 hours each way from Quito (traffic/weather dependent).

What to bring: walking shoes, light rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, cash.

Difficulty: easy–moderate (we can shorten/adjust trails).

Ask about availability
Tarabita ride over the cloud forest towards Mindo Nambillo waterfall Chocolate tasting at Yumbos during the private Mindo tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe?

Yes. I handle timing, roads and route choices. We also keep an eye on weather to pick the safest order of stops.

Can we go easy on the hiking?

Absolutely. There are gentler paths and we can shorten distances. Your energy sets the pace.

Do you pick us up at our hotel in Quito?

Yes, door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Quito are included.

What if it rains?

It's a cloud forest—light showers are common. We adjust the sequence and use covered spaces when needed. Bring a light rain jacket.

Can we add ziplining or more birding?

Yes. Tell me your preferences beforehand and we'll tailor the stops and timing.

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