Explore the Mindo Cloud Forest on a 2-day adventure. Visit the Middle of the World, admire Pululahua Crater, see colorful wildlife, ride the cable car, and enjoy chocolate, waterfalls, and nature.

Highlights

• Feel the thrill of crossing the river on a cable car to the Waterfall Sanctuary
• Explore the Middle of the World and learn about the equatorial line
• Visit the Pululahua Viewpoint and see one of the world's inhabited craters
• Discover the art of chocolate-making at a local factory in Mindo
• Enjoy a guided hike through the Mindo Cloud Forest and see waterfalls

Description

Day 1: Arrival to Mindo Cloud Forest – Middle of the World, Hummingbirds Garden & Chocolate Factory Get picked up from your hotel in Quito or the airport area at 9:00 AM. Head north of the city to visit one of Ecuador’s most iconic sites: The Middle of the World. Admire the equatorial line, marked by a large monument with a globe on top, and visit the museum that explains how the line was calculated in 1736. Nearby is the Intiñan Museum, where you can enjoy interactive activities that teach about the equatorial zone from a scientific perspective. Continue on the highway and take a detour to the Pululahua Viewpoint, overlooking one of only two inhabited volcanic craters in the world, located at approximately 2,743 m (9,000 ft). From here, see crops, farms, and houses set within this unique geo-botanical reserve. As you approach the Mindo Cloud Forest, stop at Los Armadillos Hummingbirds Garden, where you will have free time to relax and take photos before continuing the journey to Mindo. Arrive at the lodge around 1:00 PM, where you will be welcomed with a fresh drink. After check-in and a short briefing, our staff will accompany you to your private bungalow. Once you’re refreshed, enjoy a delightful lunch in the restaurant. After lunch, and when you feel ready, begin your afternoon visits in Mindo town. Your first stop is The Hummingbirds Garden, where you can appreciate the colorful variety of these magnificent birds. Continue to the famous Chocolate Factory, where you will learn about the artisanal chocolate-making process, including its aroma, flavor, and texture—an experience that delights all the senses. Finally, return to the lodge for relaxation on your private terrace or a swim in the pool. Around 7:00 PM (flexible schedule), an exquisite dinner awaits you at the restaurant. Day 2: Cable Car, Waterfalls & Butterfly Farm – Return to Quito Wake up surrounded by nature and birdsong, with beautiful views from your private terrace. Breakfast begins at 7:30 AM in the restaurant. When you’re ready—preferably no later than 9:30 AM—continue to the cable car, which crosses the river toward the Waterfall Sanctuary. From the cable car, enjoy impressive views of the Mindo Cloud Forest ecosystem, world-renowned for its biodiversity and birdwatching. Persistent low-lying clouds bring moisture that fuels dense, lush vegetation. During the morning hike, it’s easy to see five or six waterfalls, as your private naturalist guide leads you through this magical forest. At the end of the excursion, you’ll cross back via cable car, where your transport will be waiting to take you to the next stop: the Butterfly Farm. Prepare to be amazed by more than 1,000 colorful butterflies flying around you. The bamboo and pambil towers offer an elevated view of the Cloud Forest. After this wonderful morning, return to the lodge. You will have time to pack and prepare for check-out at noon. Finally, your private transfer to Quito or the airport area will be ready.

Includes

Accommodation at the lodge Private round-trip transportation from Quito or Airport area Private English–Spanish speaking guide All entrance fees (Middle of the World, Intiñan Museum, Pululahua Viewpoint, Hummingbird Gardens, Chocolate Factory, Cable Car, Waterfall Sanctuary, Butterfly Farm) Meals as per itinerary (Day 1: lunch & dinner; Day 2: breakfast & snack box) Welcome drink, refillable water bottle, coffee/tea station Unlimited use of lodge facilities (pool, gardens, social areas, Wi-Fi, room service) Unlimited laundry service Satellite Television, Wi-Fi internet service, Safety Deposit Box and Room Service.

Important Information

• The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; walking is easy to moderate. Wear comfortable clothing, hiking shoes, and bring a light rain jacket as the cloud forest is humid. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a camera for wildlife and scenic views. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or food allergies in advance. This tour operates in both English and Spanish; other languages available upon request. After booking, we will confirm your hotel pickup location in Quito or Airport area. Weather can be unpredictable in the cloud forest; activities may be adapted for safety. Tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but not included.

Easy cancellation

Cancella fino a 24 ore prima per ricevere un rimborso completo