Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 56 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! worth booking?
Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! is a 8-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $59 per person. It scores 82 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 56 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 82 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (56)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $59 per person
Mindo is a small town in the Andean foothills of Ecuador. Set in beautiful cloud-forest, it attracts birdwatchers first and foremost, but also has attractions for other tourists. Mindo is located to the north west of Quito. This town was founded in 1861 and the current population is around 3000 inhabitants. Mindo is surrounded by the Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest; the forest is home to hundreds of species of birds many of them are in danger of extinction. Here you have a possibility of activities to choose from that are not included in the price of the tour; such as hiking the waterfall, canopy/ziplining, participate in process of making chocolate, and explore the world of butterflies.
What you get
About this experience
Mindo is a small town in the Andean foothills of Ecuador. Set in beautiful cloud-forest, it attracts birdwatchers first and foremost, but also has attractions for other tourists. Mindo is located to the north west of Quito. This town was founded in 1861 and the current population is around 3000 inhabitants. Mindo is surrounded by the Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest; the forest is home to hundreds of species of birds many of them are in danger of extinction. Here you have a possibility of activities to choose from that are not included in the price of the tour; such as hiking the waterfall, canopy/ziplining, participate in process of making chocolate, and explore the world of butterflies.
What's included
Included
- Transport
- Lunch
- Guide
Not included
- What’s Not Included:
- Canopy/Ziplining $20
- Chocolate Farm $10
- Entry to Butterfly Farm $8
- Entry to Waterfall $6
- Additional Snacks / Beverages
- TIPS
- Breakfast
What you'll see and do
Meetting point in Carpedm officce. Departure at 7am from Carpedm’s office we will Set off towards Mindo. The drive takes about two and a half hours. Our first stop is the Zip lines or Canopy as they call it here as you are literally above the canopy. There are 10 lines in total and if you are feeling brave you could even try the superman or Butterfly. After about an hour of adrenalin fueled fun you will head towards the Tarabita which is a cable car that takes you to the start of your waterfall walk. As you walk through the cloud forest you could see a variety of different birds and butterflies. if you bring a swim suit you could take a swim in the crystal clear water. Once you have dried off a little we will head for lunch. After lunch optional activities are either: 1. Visit to chocolate factory (not included in price). OR 2. Visit to butterfly Farm / Hummingbirds (not included in price)
15 minutes here
Mindo
Mindo is a small town in the Andean foothills of Ecuador. Set in beautiful cloud-forest, it attracts birdwatchers first and foremost, but also has attractions for other tourists. Mindo is located to the north west of Quito. This town was founded in 1861 and the current population is around 3000 inhabitants. Mindo is surrounded by the Mindo-Nambillo Cloud Forest; the forest is home to hundreds of species of birds many of them are in danger of extinction.
30 minutes here
Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve
Will head towards the Tarabita which is a cable car that takes you to the start of your waterfall walk. As you walk through the cloud forest you could see a variety of different birds and butterflies. if you bring a swim suit you could take a swim in the crystal clear water. Mindo is a mountainous watershed in the western slopes of the Andes, where two of the most .. private reserves and lodges known for their montane forests, waterfalls and unique cloud forest biodiversity
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Mariposas de Mindo
Butterfly Garden in Mindo you will see more than 100colorful butterflies floating around you. Observation Tower and deck Spot hummingbirds .
40 minutes here · Admission not included
6:00 pm Drop off Go F.A.R Office
5 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Quito
7:00 am Go F.A.R./CarpeDM Operations Office
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
7:00 am Go F.A.R./CarpeDM Operations Office
Options you can book
Mindo Daytour
VIP CarpeDM
VIP CarpeDM Private Tour
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- CarpeDM Adventures
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- What to bring:
- Waterproof jacket/rain jacket
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- binoculars * nice to have
- camera
- water
- snacks
- Face masks
- Hand sanitizer
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 56 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
56 verified traveler reviews for Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Exploring Mindo!
We had a great day with Alejandro taking us around to the coolest spots in Mindo! The hummingbird sanctuary and butterfly house were especially great! Alejandro was very knowledgeable on many things we saw and it was nice getting dropped off right at our hotel in Mindo afterwards.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great day exploring Mindo with Alejandro. The hummingbird sanctuary and butterfly house are wonderful places to experience the incredible biodiversity of Ecuador’s cloud forest, so we’re especially happy to hear that these were highlights of your trip. It’s also great to know that Alejandro’s knowledge helped you appreciate the places you visited even more. We believe that having a knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guide can make all the difference when discovering a destination like Mindo. We’re glad we could also make your day a little easier by dropping you off directly at your hotel in Mindo! Thank you for choosing CarpeDM Adventures. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Alejandro, and we hope you enjoy the rest of your time in Ecuador!
via Tripadvisor
Amazing tour of Mindo
We had an absolutely amazing experience on our tour to Mindo, and so much of that was thanks to our incredible guide, Alejandro! He was extremely knowledgeable about the area, the wildlife, and everything we saw along the way. He made the entire experience fun, interesting, and completely stress-free. One of our favorite things was how flexible he was and how much he wanted us to enjoy the experience. He gave us options and allowed us to choose our next adventure based on what we were interested in, rather than simply following a set itinerary. He was incredibly polite, patient, and accommodating throughout the entire day. Alejandro also went above and beyond to make sure we had great memories to take home with us. He took so many wonderful pictures of us and was genuinely happy to help capture the experience. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide! Alejandro was knowledgeable, kind, professional, and truly went the extra mile to make our day in Mindo unforgettable. We would absolutely recommend him to anyone looking for an amazing tour guide in Ecuador!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for such a wonderful and detailed review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that you had such an amazing day in Mindo and that Alejandro played such an important part in making the experience so memorable. It’s fantastic to know that his knowledge of the area and wildlife helped bring everything you saw along the way to life, while also keeping the day fun and completely stress-free. We especially appreciate you highlighting Alejandro’s flexibility. We believe that a great day tour should leave room to adapt to our guests’ interests rather than simply following a fixed itinerary, and it’s wonderful to hear that you enjoyed having the freedom to choose what you wanted to experience next. We’re also very happy to hear that Alejandro was patient, polite, and accommodating throughout the day. And of course, we love that he helped capture so many memories for you with his photos! Sometimes those pictures become just as valuable as the experience itself once you’re back home. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Alejandro. He’ll be thrilled to know that his enthusiasm, knowledge, and genuine care helped make your visit to Mindo unforgettable. Thank you for choosing CarpeDM Adventures and for your enthusiastic recommendation. We hope to welcome you back to Ecuador for another adventure in the future!
via Tripadvisor
Mindo - amazing day!
What an amazing day and experience - Alejandro helped us choose activities in Mindo including Hummingbirds, Butterflies, Waterfalls and Chocolate Factory in Mindo - he also arranged a great lunch at Archie’s in Mindo and knew so much about be the area- highly recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such an amazing day in Mindo with Alejandro. It sounds like you made the most of this incredible cloud forest, from getting close to the hummingbirds and butterflies to exploring the waterfalls and discovering the world of Ecuadorian chocolate. We’re especially pleased that Alejandro was able to help you choose the activities that best suited your interests and share his knowledge of the area along the way. And of course, a great lunch is an important part of any adventure! We’re glad you enjoyed your meal at Archie’s as well. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Alejandro. Thank you for choosing CarpeDM Adventures and for recommending us. We hope to welcome you back to discover even more of Ecuador soon!
via Tripadvisor
Family Trip to Mindo
Booked a 1-day trip from Quito to visit Mindo and the surroundings for 2-adults & 2-children. From Dorian in the booking office to our wonderful guide Felipe I would give carpeDM 5-stars from start to finish. An amazing trip with my personal highlight being the chance to feed hummingbirds by hand. Thank you Felipe & Dorian 👍
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that your family had such a fantastic day exploring Mindo. It’s especially rewarding to know that you felt well looked after from the initial booking with Dorian through to the tour itself with Felipe. We’re so glad that the hummingbird experience was a highlight! Getting so close to these incredible wild birds is a truly special experience, and we’re happy it became a memorable moment for your family. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with both Dorian and Felipe. Thank you for choosing CarpeDM Adventures, and we hope to welcome your family back to Ecuador for another adventure in the future!
via Tripadvisor
Great day in the forest
Such an amazing experience seeing and interacting with the animals of the forest. The hike to the waterfall was so peaceful and nice. The cable car ride had breathtaking views.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $59 to $210
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 20
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by CarpeDM Adventures, who run 8 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 67.1.
See everything CarpeDM Adventures runsWhy this scores 82
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.
How much does Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! cost?
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Prices start at $59 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.
Is Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 82 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 56 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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Around 20 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
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On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Quito?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Quito?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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Included: Transport; Lunch; and Guide. Not included: What’s Not Included:; Canopy/Ziplining $20; Chocolate Farm $10; and Entry to Butterfly Farm $8. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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7:00 am Go F.A.R./CarpeDM Operations Office Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland! if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Quito. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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Across 56 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Mystical Mindo Marvels: A Daylong Dive into Nature's Dreamland!?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Mindo Daytour, VIP CarpeDM. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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