In Mindo, we stayed at Casa Divina Lodge, a remarkable getaway in the Ecuadorian cloud forest, northwest of Quito in the Andes Mountains. Casa Divina is hidden away, perhaps 5 kilometers away from the center of town, over unpaved roads, a steep bridge over the Rio Mindo, and a stream that crosses the road. Upon arrival, there are naturally landscaped boardwalks that lead to the lodge and its very private guest rooms.
The lodge is a big, welcoming space where meals are shared in an atmosphere of camaraderie. Upstairs, there is an open third level that is used as a treetop bird observation area at 6:00 AM, followed by sunrise bird observation walks, prior to a hearty breakfast. The guest rooms are remarkable, with sturdy hand-hewn furniture, beautifully decorated in an understated and eco-friendly manner. The bathrooms are truly beautiful, with stone tubs/showers, and there are porches that provides windows into the forest below, with comfortable furniture and a hammock. Our second-level room had a particularly pretty view into the treetops.
During our stay, owner Efrain Toapanta arranged for one of his fellow guides to take us out for a lengthy session of bird watching. With the assistance of this ornithologist, we identified 74 species of birds in one day, including 18 species of tanagers and 16 species of hummingbirds. Truly remarkable, and utterly amazing.
Mindo is seeking to establish a 
reputation as a destination for birding and a broader range of tourist activities, including white-water rafting on the Rio Mindo, a butterfly conservatory, and ziplines through the forest. Though Casa Divina Lodge concentrates on birding and more natural endeavors, the owners are at the forefront of developing a broad base of tourism appeal. On our way out, we stopped for a tour of the El Quetzal artisan chocolate company – a tasty and highly informative visit.
Andean Cock-of-the-Rock in the Mindo Cloud Forest
