How to get from Quito to Mindo

Planning a cloud-forest escape from Quito to Mindo? Here’s exactly how to get there by bus, transfer, or car so you can focus on waterfalls, hummingbirds, and chocolate instead.

At A Glance (Quito to Mindo)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚌 Direct Bus (Terminal La Ofelia → Mindo)	~2–2.5 hours	Budget travelers, locals, backpackers
🏷️ Cost: ~US$3–4 one-way (pay at terminal ticket window)
🚖 Private Transfer or Taxi (Door-to-Door)	~2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic	Fastest, comfort, groups, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~US$70–120 per vehicle from central Quito; airport pickups a bit more (compare pre-booked services or ride-hailing apps).
🚗 Self-Drive / Rental Car	~2–2.5 hours (97 km via Calacalí–La Independencia)	Road-trippers, stopping at viewpoints & attractions
🏷️ Cost: Rental from ~US$40–70/day + fuel, tolls, parking » compare car rentals
🌿 Guided Day Tour / Shared Shuttle	~10–12 hours round-trip (full-day excursion)	Easy day trips, first-time visitors, activities included
🏷️ Cost: ~US$60–150 per person including transport + activities » see guided day trips | Mindo tours on Klook

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & most convenient: If budget allows and you want door-to-door service (especially with luggage or kids), go for a private transfer or taxi. You’ll be picked up at your hotel or the airport and dropped right at your lodge in Mindo.
• Cheapest & most local: The direct bus from Terminal La Ofelia is the classic backpacker choice. It’s very affordable, reasonably comfortable, and lets you travel like locals do.
• Most flexible & scenic: If you want to stop at viewpoints, hummingbird reserves, or combine Mindo with other Andean towns, renting a car and self-driving is ideal.
• Zero-planning day trip: If you just have one day and want activities bundled (waterfalls, zip-lines, chocolate tours), pick a guided day tour or shared shuttle that includes round-trip transport from Quito.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Booking the bus: For the direct bus, you usually buy your ticket in person at Terminal La Ofelia on the day of travel. Check current schedules with the operator (Cooperativa Flor del Valle) on their official Quito–Mindo route page.
• Reserving tours & shuttles online: If you prefer a packaged experience, you can pre-book a full-day Mindo cloud forest tour from Quito on GetYourGuide, or look at similar Mindo day trips on Klook’s Quito tours page and curated options on Trip.com.
• Booking private transfers: From the airport or your hotel, you can arrange a fixed-rate transfer with services like Welcome Pickups in Quito or compare quotes globally through GetTransfer. As an alternative, ride-hailing apps like Uber and inDrive also operate in Quito for rides to bus terminals or for negotiating longer trips toward Mindo.
• Car rental tips: If you’re self-driving, compare deals on Booking.com’s car rental search and pick up your vehicle in Quito or at Mariscal Sucre Airport. Verify that your rental agreement allows travel on mountain roads and that insurance is adequate.
• Luggage storage in Quito: If you’re visiting Mindo as a quick side trip and don’t want to bring big suitcases, consider leaving excess luggage at your Quito hotel or at an independent storage provider such as Radical Storage in Quito.
• Staying overnight in Mindo: Mindo has a wide range of eco-lodges and small hotels; you can browse options and reviews on Booking.com’s Mindo listings and filter by budget, pool, breakfast, or birding packages.
• Weather & packing: Mindo is cooler and wetter than Quito. Pack a light rain jacket, quick-dry layers, insect repellent, and sturdy shoes; keep your valuables in a small daypack you can keep with you on buses.

🚌 Option #1 — Direct Bus (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Local experience Fixed departure times

• Overview: Direct intercity buses run from Terminal Microregional La Ofelia in north Quito to Mindo’s small bus terminal. The journey takes around 2–2.5 hours along the scenic Calacalí–La Independencia road, dropping you a short walk from most guesthouses in town.
• Schedule & frequency: The main operator, Cooperativa Flor del Valle, usually runs several departures per day in each direction (mornings and afternoon). Always double-check current departure times on their official Quito–Mindo timetable or at the terminal ticket window, especially on holidays and weekends.
• How to book (with price): Tickets are typically purchased same day at the Flor del Valle window in Terminal La Ofelia. Expect to pay about US$3–4 per person one-way, plus a small terminal fee (around US$0.20) collected at the entrance to the departure platforms.
• Onboard experience: Buses are basic but comfortable enough for the short ride, usually with assigned seats. There may or may not be onboard toilets; many buses play music or movies. Keep valuables with you in a small daypack and store larger bags in the under-bus luggage hold, making sure they are tagged.
• Pros: Cheapest option; no haggling; straightforward; very popular with budget travelers and birders.
• Cons: Limited departure times; buses can sell out near holidays or long weekends; less convenient if you’re staying far from La Ofelia or arriving late at night.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus from Quito to Mindo

1. Plan your departure time: Check the latest Quito–Mindo schedule for Cooperativa Flor del Valle (for example on their official route page) and decide which departure works best. Morning buses are often preferred for clearer weather and more daylight.
2. Reach Terminal La Ofelia: From central neighborhoods (Centro Histórico, La Mariscal, La Carolina), allow at least 30–45 minutes to reach Terminal La Ofelia. You can take the city’s Trolebús / Ecovía / Metrobus-Q system, or simply order an Uber or inDrive ride to “Terminal La Ofelia” for a quick, direct trip.
3. Pay the terminal fee & find the ticket window: On arrival, you may need to pay a small access fee at the terminal gate. Then follow the signs to the interparroquial/intercantonal area and look for the Flor del Valle ticket counter listing “Mindo”.
4. Buy your ticket: Request tickets for the next available departure and ask which gate you should board at. Keep your ticket handy—staff will usually check it both at the gate and again on the bus.
5. Board the bus: About 15–20 minutes before departure, go to the assigned gate. Hand larger luggage to the attendant to store underneath the bus and hold onto the baggage tag. Choose your seat, keep your daypack at your feet or on your lap, and avoid placing valuables in the overhead racks.
6. Enjoy the ride: After leaving the city, the road climbs and then drops into cloud forest, with lush valleys and occasional views of the surrounding mountains. The bus may stop in small Andean villages along the way.
7. Arrive in Mindo: The bus will drop you near the main street and central park. From there you can walk or take a local taxi (pickup truck) to your lodge; some accommodations also offer pickups if arranged in advance.

Getting to the main embarking points (Terminal La Ofelia)

• From Centro Histórico: Use Quito’s integrated bus corridors (Trolebús / Ecovía / Metrobus-Q) toward the north and connect to the line that serves “Terminal La Ofelia”. For general information on municipal bus services, the Empresa de Transporte de Pasajeros de Quito website outlines the main routes and operating hours.
• From La Mariscal or La Carolina: A metered yellow taxi or ride-hailing app (Uber or inDrive) is usually the simplest way, costing only a few dollars and taking around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
• From Quito Airport (UIO): If you’re arriving by air and heading straight to Mindo, you’ll first need to get into the city—typically to La Mariscal or another central neighborhood—before going on to La Ofelia. You can pre-book an airport transfer into town with Welcome Pickups, arrange a fixed-price car through GetTransfer, or take a licensed taxi / Uber from the arrivals area.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚖 Option #2 — Private Transfer or Taxi (Fastest & Most Comfortable)

Door-to-door Flexible departure Higher cost

• Overview: A private transfer or taxi takes you directly from your hotel or the airport to your accommodation in Mindo, with no need to navigate bus terminals or timetables. Travel time is around 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic leaving Quito.
• Typical prices: Expect roughly US$70–120 per vehicle from central Quito (split between passengers) and a bit more from Mariscal Sucre Airport due to the longer distance. Prices vary with vehicle size, time of day, and whether the driver waits for you as part of a day trip.
• How to book: You can arrange this through your hotel, a local tour agency, or online. Services like Welcome Pickups in Quito let you pre-book a vetted driver in advance, while global platforms such as GetTransfer allow you to request a quote and choose from several vehicle options. Within Quito, ride-hailing apps like Uber and inDrive are often used for city rides and can sometimes be negotiated for intercity trips too (agree on the fare before confirming).
• Pros: Fastest and most relaxing; you pick the departure time; ideal if arriving late, traveling with kids, or carrying bulky gear (camera equipment, bikes, etc.).
• Cons: More expensive than the bus; you’ll want to choose reputable drivers or companies and confirm whether tolls and waiting time (for stops en route) are included.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer / Taxi to Mindo

1. Request a quote: Ask your accommodation in Quito for a recommended driver, or request a ride quote using a platform like GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups airport transfer if you’re coming straight from UIO.
2. Confirm details: Share your pickup address, desired time, and the exact destination in Mindo. Confirm the total price, vehicle size, whether child seats are available (if needed), and how payment will be handled.
3. Meet your driver: At the agreed time, meet your driver at your hotel lobby or airport meeting point. Verify the vehicle and driver details (plate number, name) before getting in, and secure your luggage in the trunk.
4. Enjoy flexible stops: Along the way you can ask to stop at Mitad del Mundo, viewpoints, or coffee spots. Make sure to agree in advance on any extra waiting charges for these stops.
5. Arrival in Mindo: You’ll be dropped directly at your lodge, which is especially handy at night or in rainy weather when walking with luggage is less pleasant.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel / Airport Pickup)

• From Quito neighborhoods: Most private drivers and transfer services will collect you directly from popular areas like Centro Histórico, La Mariscal, La Floresta, or La Carolina—just share your full address and a contact number.
• From Quito Airport (UIO): If you are landing in Quito and heading straight to Mindo, consider booking a combined airport pickup and onward transfer. With Welcome Pickups at Quito Airport or another pre-booked transfer, your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall and drive straight toward Mindo after any quick stops in town you’ve arranged.
• Ride-hailing as a backup: If you haven’t pre-booked anything, you can open the Uber or inDrive app once you reach central Quito and request a longer ride. Always check that the driver is comfortable doing an intercity trip and agree clearly on the total fare.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #3 — Self-Drive / Rental Car (Most Flexible & Scenic)

Maximum freedom Great for side-trips Requires confident driving

• Overview: Renting a car in Quito and driving yourself to Mindo lets you set your own schedule and stop wherever you like—at viewpoints, bird reserves, or roadside cafés. The usual route follows the highway toward Calacalí and then down into the cloud forest, taking around 2–2.5 hours.
• How to rent (with price): Daily rental rates typically start from around US$40–70 for a basic car. Compare offers and pick-up locations on Booking.com’s car rental page, or look for options at Mariscal Sucre Airport if you’re starting there.
• Road conditions: The main road is paved and in generally good condition, though it can be wet and foggy. The final 6–7 km down into Mindo are also paved but can be narrow in places; drive slowly, watch for landslides in rainy season, and be cautious of trucks and cyclists.
• Parking: Many lodges in Mindo offer free on-site parking. In town, always park in well-lit areas or in designated lots and avoid leaving valuables in sight.
• Pros: Total flexibility; easy to explore nearby spots like San Miguel de los Bancos, Milpe, or other birding reserves; ideal for small groups.
• Cons: Not ideal for those uncomfortable with mountain driving or tight curves; you’ll need to budget for fuel, occasional tolls, and parking.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive from Quito to Mindo

1. Book your rental car: Reserve a vehicle in advance via Booking.com Cars or another rental platform, selecting a pick-up either in central Quito or at the airport.
2. Collect the car & check it: Inspect the vehicle for existing damage, verify that the spare tire and tools are present, and confirm that your insurance coverage is valid for rural roads.
3. Set your navigation: Enter “Mindo, Pichincha” into your GPS or mapping app and choose the route via Calacalí–La Independencia. Download offline maps if your mobile signal might be spotty.
4. Drive out of Quito: Leave the city via the northern exits, following signs toward Calacalí and then toward Mindo / Los Bancos. Traffic can be heavy at rush hour, so leaving early is often calmer.
5. Descend into the cloud forest: After Calacalí, the road winds down into lush forest. Keep your speed moderate, use low gears on steep sections, and watch for fog, rain, and sharp curves.
6. Arrive at your lodge: Once in Mindo, follow your accommodation’s directions. Some more remote lodges may be a few extra kilometers along side roads; in heavy rain, ask your host whether a 4×4 is recommended.

Getting to the main embarking points (Rental Offices & Pick-ups)

• Airport pick-up: Many travelers pick up their rental car directly at Mariscal Sucre Airport and drive to Quito or straight toward Mindo. Check airport pick-up options and hours when booking.
• City pick-up: If you’re staying a few days in Quito first, you can choose a city rental office near your hotel. Use a short Uber or inDrive ride to collect the car and then set out toward Mindo.
• Bikes & scooters: For exploring Quito before or after Mindo, you can also rent bicycles or scooters by comparing offers on BikesBooking’s Quito bicycle rental page or its related motorcycle/scooter listings.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🌿 Option #4 — Guided Day Tour / Shared Shuttle (Easiest with Activities Included)

Hassle-free Activities bundled Less schedule freedom

• Overview: Guided day trips and small-group tours from Quito to Mindo include round-trip transport plus a curated itinerary—waterfall hikes, zip-lining, hummingbird gardens, and chocolate tastings. They’re perfect if you want everything handled in one booking.
• Typical duration & price: Tours usually run from around 08:00 to 18:00–20:00, with pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point. Expect to pay roughly US$60–150 per person depending on group size and included activities/entrance fees.
• How to book: You can compare itineraries and reviews for a guided Mindo cloud forest day trip from Quito or similar options on GetYourGuide’s Mindo-Nambillo page. Klook also lists Mindo day trips and experiences from Quito, and you can browse curated experiences for Mindo on Trip.com.
• Pros: No need to figure out buses or directions; hotel pickup often included; you’re accompanied by a guide who explains local nature and culture.
• Cons: Less flexibility with timing; you’ll follow a group schedule; sometimes more expensive than organizing everything independently, especially for long stays.

Step-by-step: Guided Day Tour or Shared Shuttle

1. Browse tours: Compare several Mindo day tours on platforms like GetYourGuide’s guided tours in Mindo Valley and the Quito tours section on Klook. Look closely at what’s included: transport only, or also lunch, activities, and entrance fees.
2. Pick date & group type: Decide if you prefer a small-group tour or a fully private experience. Private tours cost more but allow customized stops and pacing.
3. Confirm pickup details: When booking, note the pickup time and location—many tours collect you from your hotel, while some use central city points.
4. Pack smart: Take a small daypack with water, snacks, swimwear (for waterfalls), a rain jacket, and insect repellent. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for muddy trails.
5. Enjoy the itinerary: Your guide will lead you through the main sights, often including a cable-car (tarabita) ride, waterfall hikes, hummingbird or butterfly gardens, and a chocolate-tour stop.
6. Return to Quito: In the late afternoon or evening, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel or the original meeting point, tired but with minimal logistics to worry about.

Getting to the main embarking points (Tour Meeting Spots)

• Hotel pickup: Most tours include pickup from major tourist neighborhoods. Be ready in your hotel lobby a few minutes before the agreed time.
• Central meeting points: If your tour uses a set meeting point (often in La Mariscal or near parks like La Carolina), use a short taxi, Uber, or inDrive ride to get there on time.
• After the tour: If you plan to continue to the airport or another destination the same evening, factor in likely arrival times back in Quito and keep a time buffer before any onward flights.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Quito to Mindo)

How long does it take to travel from Quito to Mindo?
The road distance is roughly 90–100 km depending on your starting point in Quito. By direct bus or private car, most journeys take about 2–2.5 hours, though it can be longer if there is heavy traffic leaving the city or roadworks along the route.

Is there a direct bus from Quito to Mindo?
Yes. Direct buses run from Terminal Microregional La Ofelia in northern Quito to Mindo, mainly operated by Cooperativa Flor del Valle. You usually buy tickets at the terminal on the day of travel; check current departure times in advance if you’re traveling on weekends or holidays.

Can I visit Mindo as a day trip, or should I stay overnight?
Mindo works both as a long day trip and as a 1–3 night getaway. A day trip gives you a taste of the cloud forest—perhaps a waterfall walk, zip-lining, and a chocolate tour—while an overnight stay lets you enjoy slower mornings, more birdwatching, and the relaxed village atmosphere.

Is it safe to travel between Quito and Mindo?
Thousands of locals and visitors use this route regularly. As with any travel, take sensible precautions: avoid flashing valuables on buses, keep your luggage secure, use reputable taxi or transfer services, and try to travel during daylight hours when possible. In bad weather (heavy rain, fog), drivers should slow down and be extra cautious on winding sections of the road.

Can I go directly from Quito Airport (UIO) to Mindo?
There’s no direct public bus from the airport to Mindo, but you can arrange a private transfer or taxi to pick you up at the arrivals hall and drive you straight to Mindo, or first go into Quito city and continue by bus from Terminal La Ofelia the next day.

Do I need to book buses or tours in advance?
For buses, same-day ticket purchase usually works fine outside of major holidays, though it’s wise to arrive early for morning departures, especially on weekends. For guided tours and private transfers, advance booking is recommended so you can secure your preferred date, pickup time, and language of guide.