Ecuador's premier cloud forest destination: Located in a lush valley on the western slopes of the Andes, Mindo is a world-renowned hub for ecotourism, situated in one of the most biodiverse cloud forests on the planet.
A world capital for birdwatching: The Mindo valley is a global hotspot for birdwatching, home to hundreds of species, including the famous Andean cock-of-the-rock, toucans, and a dazzling array of hummingbirds.
A hub for adventure and nature sports: The area is a major center for adventure activities. The town is buzzing with visitors heading out to go zip-lining (canopy), waterfall rappelling, and river tubing.
The heart of artisanal chocolate production: Mindo is famous for its "bean-to-bar" artisanal chocolate tours. Visitors can learn the entire process, from harvesting the cacao fruit to tasting the final product at numerous small factories.
Home to waterfalls and butterfly farms: The surrounding forest is filled with attractions, including the "Santuario de Cascadas" (Waterfall Sanctuary) accessible by a cable car ("tarabita"), and numerous "mariposarios" (butterfly farms).
A popular weekend escape from Quito: Due to its proximity to Quito, Mindo is a favorite weekend getaway for "Quiteños." Its climate is much warmer and more humid than the highlands, offering a lush, tropical experience.