Mindo Tour with traditional breakfast at Hummingbirds Sanctuary

Looking for a full-day escape from Quito that combines stunning scenery, wildlife, and a taste of local culture? This Mindo Tour with a traditional breakfast at Hummingbirds Sanctuary offers all that and more. For $125 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring the cloud forests, crossing scenic views on a cable car, and enjoying a hearty breakfast while watching hummingbirds dance around. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip promises a blend of physical activity, nature encounters, and authentic Ecuadorian charm.

What we love most about this tour is the unique experience of breakfast amid hummingbirds, and the spectacular views from the Tarabita cable car crossing. Both highlight the tour’s focus on close encounters with nature, making it a memorable outing. The fact that it’s limited to just six travelers means you’re likely to get a more personal, engaging experience.

One potential consideration: the tour involves some walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Plus, tickets for optional activities like ziplining and visiting the butterfly sanctuary are not included, so you might want to budget extra if those interest you.

This tour fits travelers who appreciate authentic wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and a well-organized day trip that balances activity with relaxation. If you’re eager to see Ecuador’s cloud forests up close, this adventure could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic birdwatching experience with hummingbirds while enjoying breakfast.
• Scenic cable car crossing offering panoramic views of the cloud forest.
• Hiking to waterfalls with opportunities to swim and cool off.
• Small group size for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible optional activities like butterfly sanctuary or chocolate tasting.
• Includes transportation and some tickets but leaves room for additional activities.

Exploring the Mindo Tour in Detail

An Early Start with a Scenic Drive

We begin our day at 7:00 am, departing from a central meeting point in Quito. The early start helps us beat the crowds and makes the most of the day. The drive on the outskirts of Quito is a comfortable ride, giving us glimpses of Ecuador’s diverse landscapes as we head west toward the cloud forest. The journey itself is a reminder of how quickly the scenery shifts from bustling city streets to the tranquil greenery of Mindo’s lush surroundings.

The Hummingbirds Sanctuary and Breakfast

Our first stop is at Guaycapi Lodge, where we’re greeted by the sight of dozens of hummingbirds fluttering around feeders and flowering plants. Watching these tiny, brightly-colored birds zip around is mesmerizing. It’s a rare chance to see such a vibrant display of wildlife up close, and having breakfast in this setting elevates the experience. The lodge’s restaurant offers a traditional breakfast—think fresh bread, local fruits, and Ecuadorian coffee—while hummingbirds dart just inches away, adding a splash of color and life to the scene.

The fact that the admission ticket is included makes this stop convenient. Reviewers have praised the guide’s knowledge about hummingbird behavior, enriching the experience beyond just a pretty sight. One guest called it an “excellent way to start the day,” emphasizing the combination of good food and nature.

Main Attraction: Mindo’s Cloud Forest

Next, we arrive in Mindo, a small town famous for its vibrant birdlife and lush forests. This is the heart of the tour. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the scenery is captivating—trees dripping with moss, hummingbirds flitting through the air, and the constant hum of nature.

The highlight here is the cable car (Tarabita) crossing, offering breathtaking views of the forest canopy. Prepare your camera—this is a picture-perfect moment. The cable car ride lasts just long enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed, and the admission is included, which adds value to the overall experience.

Waterfall Hike and Swimming

After crossing, we embark on a 40-minute hike to the Mindo Nambillo Waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and winds through the cloud forest, giving us plenty of opportunities to see local flora and fauna. When we reach the waterfall, it’s a perfect spot to cool off—bring your bathing suit and towel if you plan to dip into the refreshing water.

The hike is described as beautiful, with reviews noting the waterfalls are worth the effort. One guest mentioned that each waterfall was “spectacular,” and the chance to swim adds a refreshing break after the walk. The trail’s length and terrain are suitable for most moderately fit travelers, but those with mobility issues might want to inquire further.

Optional Activities: Butterflies and Chocolate

Post-hike, you have a choice: visit the Butterflies Sanctuary or the Chocolate Factory. The butterfly sanctuary lets you get close to dozens of species, some of which you might be able to hold or photograph vividly. The chocolate spot, Yumbos, offers a tasting of dark chocolate brownies and bars—delicious and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Both options are not included in the base price, so you should prepare for an extra expense if these appeal to you. The reviews highlight that these add-ons offer a nice break and a chance to learn more about Ecuador’s rich biodiversity and local products.

Return Trip and Final Stops

Refreshed and perhaps with a bag of chocolates, we head back toward Quito, making a brief stop at Mariposas de Mindo, a butterfly sanctuary where you can observe and photograph butterflies in a natural setting. Then, a quick visit to Yumbos Chocolate provides an opportunity to purchase some local treats before concluding the day.

The trip wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Quito, arriving in the late afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to relax or explore the city afterward.

Valuable Aspects of the Tour

Transportation is private, which means a relaxed schedule and comfortable travel. The small group limit (max six travelers) ensures personalized attention and more space to enjoy the scenery. The price of $125 includes the breakfast, the cable car tickets, and transportation, offering good value considering the variety of activities and sights packed into the day.

Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more enriching. One reviewer mentioned that Jorge was “an excellent guide,” and this personal touch can turn a good trip into a great one.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, it does involve some physical activity—hiking, walking, and possibly swimming—which means it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. If you’re looking to relax completely, this might feel a little energetic. Also, some activities like ziplining are not included, so if that’s a must-do for you, factor in extra costs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideally suited for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those eager to see Ecuador’s cloud forests without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s great for travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity and want a combination of wildlife, scenic views, and local culture in one day. Families, small groups, and solo travelers will all appreciate the intimate, personal feel of this tour.

Final Thoughts

In all, the Mindo Tour with breakfast at the Hummingbirds Sanctuary offers a well-rounded experience of Ecuador’s cloud forest, wildlife, and local flavors. The inclusion of a scenic cable car ride, waterfall hike, and optional butterfly or chocolate stops makes it a versatile choice for many travelers. The combination of beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and authentic encounters makes this a memorable day trip.

If you love nature, enjoy a bit of physical activity, and want a glimpse of Ecuador’s rich biodiversity, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a chance to step away from the hustle of Quito and learn about the peaceful, vibrant world of the Mindo region. For those seeking a meaningful, well-organized adventure that balances scenic beauty with cultural charm, this tour is a strong contender.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the traditional breakfast at the hummingbirds sanctuary, private transportation, and tickets for the cable car crossing. Some optional activities and attractions, like the butterfly sanctuary or chocolate tasting, are not included in the base price.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning in the late afternoon, offering plenty of time for each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there is hiking involved. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to check with the tour provider first.

Can I add activities like ziplining?
Yes, ziplining is available but not included in the tour price. You would need to purchase tickets separately if you wish to try it.

Are meals provided during the trip?
Only breakfast is included. Lunch is not, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy a meal in Mindo.

How big are the tour groups?
The maximum group size is six travelers, which ensures a more personalized and flexible experience.

What is the best time to book this tour?
It’s recommended to book about 35 days in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or want to guarantee your spot.

What should I bring on the trip?
Comfortable walking shoes, a bathing suit and towel if you plan to swim, camera, sun protection, and some cash for additional activities or souvenirs.

This tour offers a fantastic mixture of adventure, wildlife, and local flavor in one carefully curated day. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a lover of waterfalls, or simply want to see a different side of Ecuador’s natural beauty, it’s worth considering for your Quito itinerary.