One of Ecuador’s areas most densely packed with bio-diversity, Mindo is known as one of the most ecologically minded towns in Ecuador and is a nexus for scientists studying its incredible volume of birdlife and plants. Ecuador’s most popular cloud forest destination for tourists, Mindo is less than two hours from Quito and easily accessible by private or public transportation. The Mindo hotels below come highly recommended.

El Monte – offers charming riverside cabins in the Cloud forest surrounding Mindo. El Monte, provides an array of activities including, horseback riding, hiking, birding, and whitewater inner tubing. At the end of the day, savor home-cooking by candlelight and listen to the night-sounds of the forest. Moreover, El Monte has opened up the Mindo Biological Station for researchers, students groups, and ecologically focused tourists looking to truly explore and discover the natural treasures of the cloud forest.

Las Terrazas de Dana, Mindo – is a newly built series of bungalows with excellent views of the Mindo Valley located just a few minutes outside of town.  They feature a list of amenities rarely found in ecologically friendly lodging options such as: In-suite jacuzzi, wi-fi, television, and room service that enables you to dine on your own private deck. With modern, innovative water treatment and energy conservation measures in place, Las Terrazas de Dana lets you enjoy the cloudforest ecosystem of Mindo while minimizing any environmental impacts. The friendly owners can help organize tours or activities in the Mindo area such as their night time trekking, a two-hour hike discovering cloud forest species rarely seen during the day. Has received rave reviews from other travelers.

The spectacular flora is just one reason to explore the area around Mindo.