Mindo is one of those magical places that feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook. Nestled in the lush Andean mountains of Ecuador, this charming town is surrounded by misty cloud forests, gushing waterfalls, and an overwhelming amount of wildlife. We really recommend stopping here on your travels and having a go at these 5 things to do in Mindo.
1. Visit a Hummingbird Sanctuary
Many of the hummingbird sanctuaries in Mindo offer the chance to not only watch these incredible creatures up close but also to feed them by hand. It’s such a surreal experience to feel their little feet land on you as they zip in and out, and we couldn’t stop grinning the whole time. Bring your camera and prepare to stay longer than you imagined – we were there for hours!
2. Explore the Seven Waterfalls
The adventure begins with a short taxi ride from town to the “tarabita” cable car, which whisks you across a lush valley to the start of the trail. From there, it’s an easy-to-follow hike through dense forest, leading you to seven stunning waterfalls. It’s the perfect place for a swim, so don’t forget to pack your swimming gear and plenty of water.
3. Have Breakfast at Café Bristol
As two travellers from Bristol, walking into Café Bristol in the middle of the Andean mountains felt surreal. It’s a cosy spot run by a couple, one of who is from Bristol. We felt an instant connection to the place, and their breakfast did not disappoint. The coffee was rich and the Ecuadorian spin on the English Breakfast was really tasty. If you’re ever feeling a bit homesick or just want a hearty breakfast, Café Bristol is a must.
4. Take a Chocolate Tour
If you love chocolate (and who doesn’t?), the El Quetzal de Mindo chocolate tour is so much fun. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and will walk you through their gardens detailing the entire bean-to-bar process. Allowing you to taste everything from the raw cocoa beans to the finished product. At the end we got to try a selection of different treats such as, 100% cocoa chocolate, spice infused chocolate and even brownies.
5. Spot Toucans in the Mindo Cloud Forest
If we’re being honest, we’re not hardcore birdwatchers even though we’ve mentioned it twice in this article so far, but spotting toucans in the wild is something else entirely. Their bright colours and huge bills are so striking, and it feels like such a privilege to see them in their natural habitat. The best way to spot them is on an early morning tour with a local guide. Even if the toucans prove elusive, the cloud forest is full of incredible birds, so you won’t leave disappointed.
Mindo is a nature lover’s paradise, and its laid-back vibe makes it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, indulging in chocolate, or watching the hummingbirds flit by, there’s a little something for everyone.