Full-Day Tour to Mindo with Friends: How to Plan Your Perfect Trip in Quito
Are you a nature lover looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Quito? Mindo, a lush cloud forest located just two hours away from the city, might be the perfect destination for you. With Friends Expeditions, you can book a full-day tour to Mindo and explore the forest’s diverse flora and fauna. Here’s how to plan your perfect trip:
Overview
The Full-Day Tour to Mindo with Friends Expedition is a private tour that starts at 7:00 AM and lasts approximately 10 hours. The tour includes transportation in a private vehicle, a bilingual guide, tickets to activities, and lunch at a local restaurant. Alcoholic beverages, tips, and extra activities not included in the itinerary are not covered by the tour price.
What’s Included
During the tour, you will:
– Take a scenic drive from Quito to Mindo
– Explore the Butterfly Garden and Hummingbird Sanctuary, where you can observe over 20 species of hummingbirds in their natural habitat
– Take a walk through the cloud forest to the Nambillo Waterfall
– Visit a chocolate factory and learn about the chocolate-making process
– Have lunch at a local restaurant
Lunch
Your tour guide will take you to a local restaurant in Mindo, where you will have a chance to try traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as ceviche or locro de papas. Vegetarian options are also available.
Private Transportation
You will travel to Mindo in a private vehicle that can accommodate up to four people. If you are traveling with a larger group, transportation arrangements can be discussed with Friends Expeditions for an additional cost.
Bilingual Guide
Your guide will be a bilingual (English-Spanish) local expert who will share their knowledge of the forest, its history, and wildlife with you. They will also help you with any questions or recommendations, so you can make the most of your experience.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price, but you will have a chance to purchase them at the restaurant or any of the other stops.
Tips
Gratuities for your guide are not included in the tour price. Tips are not mandatory but are highly appreciated if you are satisfied with the service.
Tickets to Activities
Tickets to the Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Sanctuary, Nambillo Waterfall, and chocolate factory are included in the tour price. However, if you want to do any additional activities, such as zip-lining or birdwatching, they are not included and you will have to pay for them separately.
Meeting And Pickup
The meeting point for the tour is at Friends Expeditions’ office in Quito:
Junín Oe1- 61 y Quito
170401 Ecuador
The company provides pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel within Quito’s central district. However, if you are staying outside of the district, transportation arrangements can be discussed for an additional cost.
What To Expect
Mindo’s cloud forest is home to over 450 species of birds, 250 species of butterflies, and 80 species of mammals, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. During the tour, you will have a chance to see some of the forest’s most unique and colorful creatures, such as toucans, tanagers, and sloths. In addition, you will learn about the forest’s importance for the local ecosystem and its current conservation challenges.
Additional Info
– Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
– Infant seats are available upon request.
– Infants must not sit on laps.
– The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
– Transportation arrangements can be discussed for groups of more than four people, with a small extra cost to pick up from your own accommodation.
– Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time are also not refundable.
Book the Tour Here
If you are interested in experiencing the beauty of Mindo’s cloud forest with Friends Expeditions, you can book the tour through the following link:
Don’t miss the opportunity to escape Quito’s hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse areas. Book your full-day tour to Mindo with Friends Expeditions today!
Quito: Your Ultimate Guide
Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in South America. From its stunning colonial architecture to its rich cultural heritage, Quito is a city that has something for everyone. But as with any destination, there are always questions that need to be answered before you go. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Quito.
Where is Quito?
Quito is located in the northwestern part of South America in the Andean region. It is the capital city of Ecuador and is situated in the middle of the country, approximately 9,350 feet above sea level. Quito is surrounded by the Andes Mountains, including Pichincha, which is an active volcanic mountain.
What language is spoken in Quito?
The official language of Ecuador is Spanish, so you will hear Spanish spoken in Quito. However, many people in Quito, especially in the tourist areas, speak English as well. If you are planning to visit Quito, it’s a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you communicate with the locals.
What is the weather like in Quito?
Quito has a subtropical highland climate, which means that the weather is generally mild and temperate. However, due to its altitude, Quito can experience sudden changes in weather, such as heavy rainfall or strong winds. The average temperature in Quito is around 60°F, but it can drop down to the lower 40s at night, so it’s a good idea to bring warm clothing.
What is the best time to visit Quito?
The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season from June to September. This is when the weather is most predictable, and you’re less likely to experience any heavy rainfall. December to January is the peak tourist season in Quito due to the Christmas holidays, so if you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
What are some of the top attractions in Quito?
Quito has a wealth of historic and cultural attractions, including:
1. Old Town
Old Town is the historic center of Quito and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to over 2,500 colonial-era buildings, including churches, palaces, and museums. Some of the top attractions in Old Town include the Church of the Society of Jesus, the Presidential Palace, and the La Compañía de Jesús Church.
2. Mitad del Mundo
The Mitad del Mundo is located approximately 23 miles north of Quito and marks the equator line. It’s a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can take part in various activities, such as taking a photo with one foot in each hemisphere or testing the equator’s effects on the balance of objects.
3. Teleférico
The Teleférico, or cable car, takes visitors up the Pichincha mountain to an elevation of 12,943 feet. It offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking.
Is Quito safe for tourists?
Like any other large city, Quito has its share of crime, but it’s generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions, such as not carrying too much cash or valuables and avoiding walking alone at night in less crowded areas.
What are some of the traditional dishes in Quito?
Quito has a vibrant and delicious culinary scene, with traditional dishes such as:
1. Locro
Locro is a hearty soup made from potatoes, cheese, corn, and avocado. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day in Quito.
2. Ceviche
Ceviche is a popular seafood dish found in many Latin American countries, and Ecuador is no exception. It typically consists of raw fish marinated in citrus juices and spices.
3. Empanadas
Empanadas are savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They make for a tasty and easy-to-eat snack while exploring the city.
What is the currency used in Quito?
The currency used in Quito, and the rest of Ecuador, is the US dollar.
Do I need a visa to visit Quito?
If you are a citizen of the United States, Canada, or any country within the European Union, you do not need a visa to visit Ecuador for up to 90 days. However, if you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa.
Conclusion
Quito is a vibrant and exciting city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the colonial architecture of Old Town, taking a cable car up Pichincha mountain, or sampling the delicious cuisine, Quito has something for everyone. By reading this guide, you should now have a better understanding of what to expect when visiting Quito and how to make the most of your time there.
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