Mindo & the Chocó Andino
One of the world's top birding destinations
The Chocó Andino of Pichincha, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, harbors an extraordinary diversity of birds. Mindo, at its heart, is the ideal starting point to explore an altitudinal gradient ranging from Andean páramo to tropical humid forests.
Why Mindo?
Over 500 bird species recorded within a 30 km radius
Just 2 hours from Quito on paved road
Altitudinal gradient from 600 to 4,000 masl
High endemism from the Chocó biogeographic region
Well-established tourism infrastructure: lodges, reserves, feeders
Altitudinal zones
Páramo (3,500–4,500 m): Andean Condor, Ecuadorian Hillstar
High forest (2,000–3,500 m): Plate-billed Mountain Toucan, Tanager Finch
Cloud forest (1,200–2,000 m): Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Toucan Barbet
Humid lowland forest (400–1,200 m): Long-wattled Umbrellabird, Chocó Toucan
Best season
Mindo is a year-round birding destination. September through November offers moderate rain and peak breeding activity. June to August sees less rainfall. The Cock-of-the-rock leks are active all year.
Logistics
From Quito's airport (UIO), the drive to Mindo takes approximately 2 hours. All our tours include transport from Quito or from your accommodation in Mindo.
