Places to stay in Mindo, Ecuador

There are a variety of accommodations in Mindo, Ecuador spanning all budgets.

I will say the best in town option is El Descanso (currently 18usd w/ breakfast). Rodney, is a superb host and he keeps a clean house. The rooms are rustic, clean, and the water is hot. The building is quite nice and he has a garden full of birds. There were 15 species of hummingbirds on my visit and 53 species of all types at the Christmas count. Rodney feeds the birds daily so there is always plenty to look at. Guests who are not staying pay 2usd to sit and watch birds at El Descanso. Though you are just on the edge of town the village sounds are muffled by bird chatter. As I sit writing this the Banaquits have taken over all of the nectar feeders and the hummingbirds (10 species right now) sit impatiently waiting their turn.

It is a the best place to stay in town (currently 18usd/night including breakfast), however, if you do not require Wifi then I suggest getting a bit further out. Other in town places I stayed are the Bio Hostal (18usd w/ breakfast) and CaKaffesu (16usd) are clean and right in town but that means more noise from local construction, etc. Also in town are the extreme budget places, Tranquilidad and Cecelia. Good for extreme budget travelers and Cecelia is right on a rushing, loud river if you fancy water sounds.

In town but a bit further out:

The Yellow House (Rooms start at 22usd w/ breakfast) Offers decent attention to clients and it’s own wildlife trails. It’s has magnificent views of the Mindo valley but it’s station over the village carries much of the sound from town, though night is always quiet in Mindo. The Yellow House is not just for birders but mammal lovers as well with sightings of porcupines, armadillos, and, if you are lucky, the Andean Speckled Bear.

Away from town:

Septimo Paraiso (starting at 58usd w/ meals) a first class ecotourism lodge offering most modern amenities and a strict recycling program. All your meals are included and the food is delicious. They have knowledgeable guides and offer a variety of programs during your stay. Don’t forget your bathing suit for an afternoon dip . Septimo also caters to different budgets, contact them at the link above to find out about their special promotions. Wifi costs an additional 18USD/ day.