Playing in Mindo, Ecuador

Mindo is such a fun place. A small town located approximately two hours by bus from Quito, it’s a really great escape from the crazy city.

Paco, his brother Fito and I decided to travel to Mindo to get away from the Pope and Quito’s resulting craziness. Initially unsure how long we were going to stay, we managed to walk around and find a great hotel that had awesome accommodation for very inexpensive prices. Fito was able to stay on a property at the river in a house with full kitchen, bathroom and deck area away from the main resort area for $15USD per night – bargain. Paco and I stayed in a double room that overlooked a beautiful pool within the resort for $25USD per person per night. The staff were so friendly and the accommodation so lovely we ended up loving Mindo so much we stayed from Tuesday to Saturday.

The outside deck of Fito’s house for $15USD per night.

Mindo is known for activities such as zip-lining above the canopy, hiking through waterfalls and tubing down the river. All these activities are very reasonably priced and I was completely thrilled to have the opportunity to fly through the clouds. Hundreds of meters above the canopy in a city at the top of the world, you’re able to let go and fly from mountain to mountain across valleys of lush jungle superman style, for the gringa price of $20USD. We did this through Mindo Canopy who were great, providing us with two guides and an hour and a half of zip-lining ten different cables that zigzagged across the valley. Very well run and extremely safety conscious I thoroughly recommend them.

The boys killing themselves laughing after swimming in the freezing waterfall.

The town of Mindo itself is small and unassuming. The people are friendly, the food is great and there are so many opportunities to explore through either walking, hiring bikes or doing a chocolate tour within the town.

Beautiful, freshly prepared river trout for $7USD.

I’ve had the time of my life here. Climbing waterfalls, flying above the trees, eating amazing food, and sharing my days with smiling, happy people has made my days recisimo (delicious). Home made Ecuadorian vegetarian feasts, constant laughter and smiles makes me feel complete.