3-Day Quito & Mindo Immersive Experience – Boutique Private Tour

Explore the richness of Andean history with the soft mystery of the cloud forest—colonial streets, lively local markets, ancestral knowledge at the Equator, bird-filled trails, waterfalls, chocolate workshops, and artisan coffee farms. Designed as a boutique private land tour, it offers slow-paced exploration, curated activities, and warm encounters with local culture and nature. With handpicked accommodations in the Mindo Cloud Forest and a balance of urban and natural experiences, this journey feels personal, sensory, and deeply connected to Ecuador’s heart.

Departure

All year round

Duration

3 días, 2 noches

Group Size

Up to 12 travelers

Travel-Style

small group immersive expedition

Recommended Age

6+ years old

Adventure Pace

Moderate (tooltips: balanced pace, active but not extreme)

Incluye

2 nights accommodation, private transportation, guided activities, local project visits, bilingual guides, meals (tooltips: breakfasts and lunches), entrance fees, and gear for activities.

No incluido

airfare, travel insurance, dinners.

Takiri Tip

Add an extra day and visit the Otavalo Market and the Cuicocha turquoise lagoon!

DAY 1 – QUITO OLD TOWN, LOCAL MARKETS & THE EQUATOR → MINDO CLOUD FOREST

Your day begins in Quito’s Historic Center, where the cool morning air carries the scent of fresh bread and the sound of church bells echoing between centuries-old buildings. Explore the towering Basilica del Voto Nacional, stroll through Plaza Grande, and wander the narrow colonial streets before heading to Iñaquito Market to taste tropical fruits and learn about beloved local ingredients. In the afternoon, stand at the center of the world at the Intiñam Museum, discovering Andean astronomy and ancestral traditions. By late day, you descend into the lush Mindo Cloud Forest to settle into your boutique lodge, surrounded by mist, birdsong, and green rolling hills.

DAY 2 – BIRDWATCHING, FOREST TREK & CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE

At dawn, the cloud forest awakens softly with the calls of toucans, motmots, hummingbirds, and tanagers—your early-morning birdwatching walk brings you close to this extraordinary diversity. After breakfast, follow a gentle trail through orchids, waterfalls, and butterfly-filled clearings as cool air and forest scents ground you in nature. The afternoon brings a chocolate workshop where cacao beans transform into rich, silky chocolate through the hands of local artisans. You return to your lodge for a quiet evening, wrapped in the forest’s natural calm.

DAY 3 – RUMISITANA COFFEE FARM & RETURN TO QUITO / AIRPORT

Your final morning takes you to Rumisitana Coffee Farm, perched on the green hills surrounding Mindo. Walking through the plantations, you learn how sustainable coffee is cultivated, harvested, and roasted by local families, ending with a warm tasting overlooking the valley. After this boutique encounter with one of Ecuador’s signature traditions, begin your private transfer back to Quito or directly to the airport—bringing with you the scents, colors, and peaceful rhythm of the cloud forest.

Our immersive boutique itineraries focus on connection—slow pacing, curated cultural encounters, local expert guides, and hand-selected accommodations that reflect the character of each destination. With Takiri, you experience Ecuador not as a quick visit, but as a warm and meaningful journey crafted with care.

Is this private tour suitable for all ages?

Yes, this private experience is designed to be flexible and enjoyable for travelers of all ages. Because it’s a private tour, we tailor the pace, activities, and level of adventure to your needs, whether you’re traveling with young children or seniors. If you have specific mobility considerations or special requests, just let us know and we’ll customize the experience accordingly.

Do you offer customized tours?

Yes, all our itineraries can be personalized up to your preferences and budget. Whether you want to upgrade your accommodations, extend your stay, or combine it with tours in Ecuador’s mainland or the Galapagos. You just need to contact us, and we’ll put together a trip for you.

¿Qué fauna puedo esperar ver?

Mindo is one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse regions, including hummingbirds, tanagers, toucans, and the elusive Andean cock-of-the-rock. You may also spot butterflies, reptiles, frogs, and small mammals. Depending on the season, it’s also possible to see unique orchids and a wide range of cloud-forest insects.

What’s the best season for visiting Mindo?

Mindo is a year-round destination thanks to its mild cloud-forest climate. The drier months (typically June to September) offer sunnier days and are great for outdoor activities like hiking. The wetter months (October to May) bring greener landscapes, more active waterfalls, and excellent bird activity — especially for hummingbirds. No matter when you visit, Mindo’s biodiversity is always impressive.

What should I bring for birdwatching and forest trekking?

Comfortable walking shoes, lightweight layers, and a rain jacket are essential. Bring binoculars, a camera, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A small daypack is useful for carrying personal items during hikes.

Can the tour end directly at the airport?

Yes. We can finish the tour with a direct drop-off at Quito Airport (UIO). Just let us know your flight details in advance so we can schedule the timing comfortably.