Mindo Cloud Forest

The steamy Mindo Nambillo Reserve features over 20,000 hectares of lush valleys and rolling cloudforest and is a true paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

Perched in the shadow of the snow-capped mountains between 1400 and 4778 metres above sea-level, Mindo forms part of the Andean Choco corridor, one of the richest biodiversity hotspots on the planet. The dense vegetation teems with wildlife including over 400 species of birds as well as armadillos, peccaries, monkeys and even Spectacled Bears. From Quito, a short 2 hour drive takes you into the heart of the reserve where a number of rustic eco-lodges, shrouded in orchids, bromeliads and ferns, provide the perfect base to explore the cloud-forest.

Mindo Cloud Forest Hotels

Mashpi Lodge$$$$$

Striking contemporary design at the heart of Mindo’s steamy cloud-forest, the Mashpi Lodge is the first of its kind in South America. Nestled in a 3212 acre private reserve, the lodge was constructed with sustainability at its very core and blends seamlessly into the surrounding forest, a bio-diversity “hotspot” that boasts a staggering 500 species of birds. Floor to ceiling windows bring the forest into every corner of the hotel, while the chic minimalist design makes Mashpi a landmark...