Mindo, Ecuador: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Mindo, Ecuador? If you're planning to go to Mindo, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mindo, Ecuador

Based on the climate and weather in Mindo, Ecuador, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mindo, Ecuador

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mindo, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Mindo, Ecuador by month

January

In January, Mindo is chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mindo, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in Mindo is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

March in Mindo can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Mindo can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

May

May in Mindo is cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

June

If you go to Mindo in June, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you visit Mindo during July, you might find that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally around 50 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

August

August in Mindo is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

September in Mindo is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

October

October here is mild. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you visit Mindo during November, you may find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

In December, Mindo is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mindo, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mindo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

What to do in Mindo, Ecuador

Mindo is one of the most delightful towns in Ecuador, surrounded by lush greenery and adorned with cascading waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna, and a serene ambiance that promises to infuse you with tranquility. It is no wonder that it has become one of the country's top tourist destinations. There are many attractions in Mindo, Ecuador, that add to its beauty and charm.

1. Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve

One of Mindo's primary tourist attractions is the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve. This conservation park is a biodiversity hotspot, featuring an array of exotic flora and fauna, from butterflies, hummingbirds, and orchids to over 500 species of birds, including the famous Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. You can explore the reserve either alone or hire a local guide to take you to hidden waterfalls, pristine streams, and exciting hikes.

2. Waterfalls

Mindo boasts breathtaking waterfalls that are some of Ecuador's most picturesque. The Nambillo, Salto, and Lago Azul waterfalls are some of the most visited sites. Besides the grandeur and beauty of the falls, the area provides remarkable trekking opportunities. You can enjoy adventurous trailblazing through rugged terrains, wildflowers, mossy trees, and hanging vines.

3. Butterfly Gardens

Mindo plays host to several butterfly farms, allowing visitors the chance to experience a unique opportunity to witness the exquisiteness and fragility of butterflies. Mindo Butterfly Farm provides visitors the chance to witness the metamorphosis process, with butterfly breeding, and rearing methods explained to visitors.

4. Chocolate factory

Ecuador is famed for its cocoa, and a trip to Mindo is incomplete without a visit to Yumbos Chocolate factory, located on the outskirts of the town. The factory enables visitors to experience the journey of cocoa from bean to bar, with personalized tours offering an intimate opportunity to sample chocolate made right before your eyes.

5. Mindo zipline

Mindo is the perfect destination for adrenaline enthusiasts, featuring unique ziplining opportunities, with hundreds of meters of cable lines suspended over pristine forest canopies. Professionals safely operate the Mindo zipline, with all necessary equipment issued to visitors.

6. Cable Car

The Mindo cable car experience is another highly sought after attraction in the region. The cable car provides a surreal experience, gliding through Mindo's treetops complete with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.

In conclusion, Mindo is a hidden gem in South America, offering an unforgettable experience for everyone seeking a chance to unwind and connect with nature. The array of attractions, from wildlife tours, canopy walks, waterfalls, chocolate factories, and more, offer a range of activities and promise an unforgettable experience. A visit to Mindo, Ecuador, promises to infuse your soul with tranquility, offering an opportunity to disconnect from regular urban life and connect with nature.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Mbeya, Tanzania, Caldas da Rainha, Portugal, Matsumae, Japan, Santa Ana, El Salvador, Hluhluwe, South Africa, La Baule, France, Yverdon, Switzerland, Mansoura, Egypt, Skipness, Scotland, United Kingdom, Weishan, China, and East St.

Louis, Missouri, United States of America.