Mindo Cloud Forest Travel Guide
Important bird area on the western slopes of the Andes
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Mindo cloud forest has an incredible diversity of avian fauna, particularly hummingbirds, as well as butterflies. This area of primary forest also has some of the highest rates of plant endemism in the world: orchids, bromeliads, heliconias, ferns, vines, mosses and lichens grow in abundance here.
The region of Mindo is located within the protected Mindo-Nambillo forest, a short two-hour drive to the northwest of Quito. Here visitors can discover the mysteries of the Cloud Forest, where unique flora and fauna line natural pathways, flanked by crystalline rivers.
The 48,000-acre (19,200 hectares) Mindo-Nambillo Protected Forest stretches over the slopes of Pichincha Volcano and covers diverse ecosystems ranging from the cloud-high, treeless plateau or "paramo" through subtropical forest to tropical jungle.
Within its flora we can find cedar trees, aguacatillo, arrayan, canelo and plants like berries, hill red peppers and the ortiga. But its most significant characteristic are the orchids, up of 4 500 species. Mindo is an excellent place for birdwatching, as it shelters more than 350 species of birds. Other fauna attractions are butterflies, bats, squirrels, deer, elusive spectacled bears and small amphibians.
Attractions in Mindo Cloud Forest
Hikes of different durations and at different times of the day will lead you to find nature's undiscovered treasures on trails through lush, epiphyte-laden cloud forest.
Drive downhill to the Valley of Mindo, past the quaint little village of the same name and on to the Butterfly Vivarium, housing 25 varieties of butterflies.
Visit El Pahuma Reserve for a nature hike alongside a lively, sparkling creek to the 40-meter (135 foot) Pacaya waterfall and hundreds of orchids in their Orchid Garden. Outstanding birdwatching, particularly for hummingbirds.
Activities in Mindo Cloud Forest
There are many activities available to fill your time in Mindo, including:
El Pahuma Orchid Reserve
Butterfly Vivarium
The Valley of Mindo
Nature Hikes
Birdwatching
Maquipucuna Reserve
Relaxing
The area of Mindo offers comfortable yet unpretentious accommodation in several lodges, and good quality food.
Getting Around
A good 4x4 is ideal. Good paved road to the north-west of Quito or via the old Nono-Mindo dirt road.
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