Tarabita de Mindo and Waterfalls Sanctuary
Soar over the cloud forest canopy on the Tarabita cable car and hike to stunning waterfalls in Mindo's lush sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Tarabita de Mindo and Waterfalls Sanctuary
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar over the cloud forest canopy on the Tarabita cable car and hike to stunning waterfalls in Mindo's lush sanctuary.
"Absolutely beautiful experience! Make sure you bring your bathing suit and enjoy the Cascades."
Bring Your Swimsuit! 🩱
Don't forget your bathing suit to take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls.
Rain Gear is Key ☔
Mindo is a cloud forest; a light rain jacket or poncho is highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tarabita Cable Car
Entrance to the sanctuary
Soar over the lush canopy for breathtaking bird's-eye views of the Mindo valley. A thrilling start to your adventure!
Cascades and Waterfalls
Sanctuary trails
Hike through the forest to discover multiple stunning waterfalls, some perfect for a refreshing dip. Route 1 boasts the largest cascade.
Well-Maintained Trails
Sanctuary paths
Enjoy clean and well-maintained paths that make exploring the cloud forest and its waterfalls a pleasant experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Cloud Forest
Tickets & Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Swimsuit! 🩱
Don't forget your bathing suit to take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls.
Rain Gear is Key ☔
Mindo is a cloud forest; a light rain jacket or poncho is highly recommended.
Mosquito Repellent Needed 🦟
Pack some Deet or other mosquito repellent to ward off any biting insects.
Alternative Waterfall Routes 🗺️
Explore Route 1 for the largest waterfall, or Route 2 for the most cascades.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Swimsuit! 🩱
Don't forget your bathing suit to take a dip in the refreshing waterfalls.
Rain Gear is Key ☔
Mindo is a cloud forest; a light rain jacket or poncho is highly recommended.
Mosquito Repellent Needed 🦟
Pack some Deet or other mosquito repellent to ward off any biting insects.
Alternative Waterfall Routes 🗺️
Explore Route 1 for the largest waterfall, or Route 2 for the most cascades.
Skip the Tarabita? 🚶♀️
There's a path to the waterfall if you're afraid of heights or prefer to hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful experience at Tarabita de Mindo and the Waterfalls Sanctuary, highlighting the well-maintained paths and improved infrastructure. The Tarabita cable car offers stunning bird's-eye views, and the multiple waterfalls provide opportunities for refreshing dips. While generally positive, some wished for a faster cable car ride.
"Absolutely beautiful experience! Make sure you bring your bathing suit and enjoy the Cascades"
Vanessa R
"Fun experience. I visited here many times over the years and you can see many improvements now. The paths are very clean and well maintained. The waterfall has good infrastructure around it that has been improved. There are clean bathrooms and a small restaurant. There is also a path to get to the waterfall without using the tarabita if you're afraid of heights. We bought tickets right at the cable car, but you can also buy anywhere in town."
Jessica Gifford
"Beautiful hike. I would have a light rain jacket/poncho rain happens in a cloud forest. 3 route. Route 1 has the best largest waterfall, Route 2 has the most waterfalls. Waterfall 2 an3 were supposed to bevthe next best. We enjoyed those 2. I say keep hiking but we left. Route 3 is not high on one of the guides list so we skipped that one. Bring some Deet or the other anti-mosquito repellent in a 3.4 ounce squirter bottle like Dollar Tree if possible. IDK not sure if I got bit or not. It seems it's worse in the USA. Humid hot places like Wichita, KS. People here said no anti-malarial or Yellow fever vaccine needed here. However, overall a great hike. Not too strenuous but not simple and straight pathes either. Gorgeous views. Great inexpensive trip with the Yellow sky trolley to take you to and fro."
Damon Oliphant
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Mindo by bus from Quito. Once in Mindo, many visitors use the 'Yellow Sky trolley' which conveniently takes you to and from the sanctuary.
Information on specific parking availability is limited, but the 'Yellow Sky trolley' is a popular and recommended transport option within Mindo.
While the 'Yellow Sky trolley' is convenient, it's possible to walk to the sanctuary from Mindo town, though it will take longer.
The 'Yellow Sky trolley' is a local transport service in Mindo that helps visitors get to attractions like the Tarabita de Mindo and waterfalls sanctuary.
Taxis are available in Mindo and can be used to reach the Tarabita de Mindo and Waterfalls Sanctuary if you prefer not to use the trolley.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly at the cable car station or in various locations around Mindo town.
Pricing details are not explicitly mentioned, but reviews suggest it's an inexpensive trip. It's best to check on-site for current ticket prices.
Specific operating hours are not provided in the reviews, but visiting in the morning is generally recommended to avoid crowds and heat.
Based on reviews, tickets can be bought on the spot, so advance booking may not be necessary.
While not explicitly stated, different routes to the waterfalls are mentioned, suggesting potential variations in access or experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Route 1 is known for its largest waterfall, while Route 2 offers the most waterfalls. Visitors enjoyed both Route 2 and 3.
The hike is described as not too strenuous but not simple either, with gorgeous views along the way.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their bathing suits to enjoy the cascades and waterfalls.
Yes, there are clean bathrooms and a small restaurant available at the sanctuary.
Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended. Given it's a cloud forest, a light rain jacket or poncho is also advisable.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tarabita itself offers incredible panoramic views of the forest canopy. The various waterfalls also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Yes, the Tarabita provides a unique vantage point for capturing the expansive cloud forest landscape.
A wide-angle lens would be great for the panoramic views from the Tarabita. For waterfalls, a tripod can help with long exposures.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The well-maintained trails leading to the waterfalls are manageable for most children, offering opportunities for exploration and adventure. Remember to pack swimsuits so the kids can enjoy a refreshing splash in the natural pools. Bringing mosquito repellent and light rain gear is also a good idea to ensure everyone stays comfortable throughout the visit.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While the Tarabita offers a unique experience, there's also an option to hike to the waterfalls if you want to save on the cable car fee. Purchasing tickets directly at the site or in town is straightforward and avoids potential markups.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls Sanctuary
Beyond the Tarabita, the sanctuary features a network of well-maintained hiking trails leading to several beautiful waterfalls. Visitors can choose different routes, with Route 1 being famous for its largest cascade and Route 2 offering a greater number of waterfalls. The trails are described as moderately challenging, offering a good balance of exertion and enjoyment with gorgeous scenery.
It's essential to be prepared for the cloud forest environment. Packing a light rain jacket or poncho is highly recommended, as rain can occur unexpectedly. Additionally, bringing mosquito repellent is advisable to ensure a comfortable hiking experience. For those who enjoy a refreshing dip, many of the waterfalls are suitable for swimming.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Transportation within Mindo is made easy with options like the 'Yellow Sky trolley,' which is a popular and convenient way to reach the sanctuary. If you prefer an alternative, taxis are also available. For those who are afraid of heights or simply wish to hike more, there is a path that leads to the waterfalls without using the Tarabita.
Amenities at the sanctuary include clean bathrooms and a small restaurant, adding to the convenience for visitors. The trails are kept clean and well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant exploration of the natural beauty. Overall, it's considered an inexpensive and rewarding trip for nature lovers.
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