In short
- Guided day tours cost from $90 and include hotel transport.
- Direct buses from Terminal La Ofelia take 2 to 2.5 hours and cost $3 to $5.
- Private taxis cost $60 to $90 each way for up to four people.
In this article
Choosing how to travel the 80 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of Quito depends on your budget and schedule. Guided tours simplify logistics by bundling entry fees and transport, while the public bus saves money but requires finding local taxis once you arrive.
What is the best way to get to Mindo from Quito?
A guided day tour is the easiest way to reach Mindo. These trips provide round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off from Quito.
Most day tours start between $90 and $150 per person. They usually last 8 to 10 hours and include an English-speaking guide. Tours stop at key attractions like the butterfly farm, waterfalls, and a chocolate factory. Prices change per platform.
How do you get a bus from Quito to Mindo?
You can take a direct public bus from Terminal La Ofelia in northern Quito. The bus ride takes 2 to 2.5 hours.
Tickets cost between $3 and $5. This is the most budget-friendly option. However, public transport only drops you in the town center. Mindo attractions are spread out across the valley. You will need to pay for local taxis or walk long distances to reach the trailheads and reserves.
Can you take a taxi to Mindo?
You can hire a private driver or take a taxi directly from Quito to Mindo. This drive takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
A private transfer costs $60 to $90 each way. This option works well for flexible schedules or groups of up to four people. It gives you the freedom to choose your own stops. The road down to Mindo crosses the Equator (latitude 0°) multiple times as it winds through the mountains.
How long does it take to get to Mindo?
The journey takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your transport method.
Guided tours and private cars are faster because they avoid multiple stops. Buses take longer but are much cheaper. See the comparison table below for a quick breakdown.
Questions travellers ask
Is Mindo worth a day trip from Quito?
Yes. Mindo is located just two hours northwest of Quito, making it an easy day trip. You can see waterfalls, hummingbirds, and cacao farms in a single day.
How far is the Mindo cloud forest from Quito?
Mindo is roughly 80 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of Quito. The drive takes 1.5 to 2 hours in a car or tour van.
Can you visit Mindo without a guide?
Yes. You can take the public bus from Terminal La Ofelia to Mindo for $3 to $5. Independent attraction entries cost $5 to $15 each once you arrive.
