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Mindo is a popular place for eco-tourists and thrill seeking backpackers. I took a taxi from Quito bus station straight to the village just to save time. There is a daily direct bus or one of the many buses that pass along the main trans Andean road can be used - then walk down 5 miles/8km. There are lots of hotels in the village to suit all tastes and budgets. I stayed in Mindo for 6 nights at the Hostal Lydia $8-12/night. Up to 3 meals daily if required. Unfortunately it is right next to a very busy quarry. No problem though as I was out birding from dawn till dusk.
The trails to the cloud forest and waterfalls plus the river road were the only ones I had success with. The road up the mountain from the village to the main trans Andean route was terrible, a construction site with no birds. I walked the cloud forest route every day finding different species each time. The star bird of the whole trip was here, Golden-headed Quetzal. Also my rarest bird of the trip, Hoary Puffleg, a near threatened hummingbird. It is also popular with tourists some using 4x4s so be careful. The off road trails can be slippery as well as steep, sometimes they fall away from under foot, no problem though :)
The cloud forest lived up to its reputation for being wet. Clouds would build up during the morning, with light rain starting in the afternoon for a few hours. Nothing to worry about though, waterproof optics, an umbrella or a rain jacket are all that are needed. Side tracks to wonderful waterfalls lead off the main route. These tracks get steep and slippery, all adding to the fun. The steep sides help with viewing birds in the tree tops. Andean Cock of the Rocks are to be found early morning by the waterfalls ($3 entry).
There is no shortage of guides and tour companies willing to show you the sights, birds, take you inner tubing, 4x4s, etc but I personally do not need them so I will not recommend any although several are very good.
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