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Cloud Forest & Highland Retreats
At the edge of the Andes, the cloud forest of Mindo and the highland retreat of Papallacta offer distinct windows into Ecuador’s natural richness. Mindo is known for its biodiversity, lush landscapes, and easy going rhythm—perfect for travelers seeking immersion in the cloud forest. Papallacta, perched at 10,800 feet in the eastern cordillera, is home to crisp air, páramo grasslands, and thermal springs fed by glacier runoff.
Birding in Mindo Cloud Forest
North of the Equator and the town of San Antonio de Pichincha, the E25 highway curves westward into densely forested mountains. Within two hours of Quito, the road reaches the Mindo Cloud Forest. This mist-shrouded woodland is one of the most biodiverse zones in the Northern Andes. Over 400 bird species have been observed in Mindo, including Golden-Headed Quetzals, 19 species of Hummingbirds, and five varieties of Toucans. Much of the Mindo Valley is protected as an “absolute reserve”—open only to wildlife and researchers.
Brilliantly colored orchids and bromeliads flank the area’s many waterfalls.
Papallacta & The Antisana Volcano
The regions southeast of Quito are also well-regarded for their natural beauty. Papallacta is a village 40 miles (90 minutes) southeast of Quito on highway E20. Perched 10,825 feet above sea level, Papallacta is best known for its nearby hot springs and rewarding views of the ice-capped Antisana Volcano. Past Papallacta, the highway descends from the chilly Eastern Cordillera into the humid Amazon Basin.
What to do in Mindo, Papallacta, & Beyond
A collection of well-managed private reserves allows visitors to experience the Mindo cloud forest by foot, horseback, mountain bike, or zip-line. The lodges here offer expertly guided nature hikes, many focused on early birding. Itineraries can also include waterfall hikes, visits to conservation projects, and cacao experiences that highlight sustainable cultivation and chocolate making.
Horseback, mountain bike, and trekking tours of Papapallacta can all be arranged as day trips from the capital.
What is the Weather Like?
Mindo has a humid, temperate climate with average daytime highs between 60°F and 75°F. Rain is possible year-round, with heavier showers typically from December to April. June through November tends to be drier, though mornings often begin misty.
Papallacta, located at 10,800 feet, has cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from 40°F to 60°F. Rain is common throughout the year, and conditions can shift quickly at higher elevations.
These averages are changing. Please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
Mindo is located about two hours northwest of Quito by road. Papallacta lies approximately 90 minutes to the east. LANDED arranges private transfers throughout the region, allowing for seamless travel between your destinations.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in Mindo, Papallacta, & Beyond.
How to combine Mindo, Papallacta, & Beyond
Have some extra time? Here are some options for you to combine with.
