TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

The area northwest of Quito is a paradise of biodiversity. The area from Mindo to Puerto Quito, is one of the planet’s richest areas with respect to the concentration of bird species, including hummingbirds (recognized as the bird of Quito) and the cock of the rock, as well as numerous butterflies, insects, amphibians, and mammals. The area is also home to a wide variety of species of orchids that are prominent throughout the area.

Mindo is located just two and a half hours from Quito (approximately 79 km.), accessible by taking the Mitad del Mundo-Calacalí-Los Bancos road which is in excellent condition. The entrance to Mindo is located twenty minutes past Nanegalito on the left hand side of the road. Mindo is situated between the high temperate area and the tropical rainforest, giving Mindo its characteristic frequent and abundant precipitation. The average temperature in Mindo fluctuates between 16° and 22°C and the sunniest months in Mindo are between June and September.

Mindo has about 2'500 inhabitants whose livelihood comes mainly from agriculture and tourism. This wonderful and peaceful place is nestled between mountain chains and surrounded by 19'000 hectares of primary and secondary forests. This area counts more than 500 different kind of birds and about 40 different sorts of butterflies, which is the biggest variety.