Bird Watching Tour Ecuador: the Andean Cock of the Rock in 2 Days

This bird watching tour in Ecuador takes 2 days to see the Andean cock of the rock, hummingbirds and tanagers with a specialist birding guide from Quito. Prices start at $350 per person.

On this Bird Watching Tour you will discover the magic of the Andean Cock of the Rock on an unforgettable 2-day adventure.

Explore the rich biodiversity of the Mindo Cloud Forest with this bird-watching tour, where you can discover the iconic Andean Cock of the Rock and immerse yourself in a world of vibrant wildlife.

Enjoy visits to the Mindo Butterfly Garden, hike to the picturesque Nambillo Waterfall, try optional activities such as zip-lining or visiting the Coffee Museum, and savor an artisanal chocolate experience.

With expert guides who will take you to see antpittas and other rare birds, this tour offers an immersive wildlife experience and a peaceful overnight stay in the heart of nature.

The highlight of the second day is the famous Andean Cock of the Rock lek. Arrive at dawn to witness the spectacular courtship displays of these vibrant scarlet birds as they sing, dance, and compete for attention among the misty trees a truly unforgettable spectacle for birdwatchers and photographers alike.

Highlights

• Explore the rich biodiversity of the Mindo Cloud Forest, home to hummingbirds, toucans, quetzals, and hundreds of unique species.
• Visit the Mindo Butterfly Garden and interact with colorful butterflies while learning about their life cycle.
• Enjoy an artisanal chocolate experience, including a guided tour and tasting of high-quality local cacao.
• Spot elusive antpittas with expert local guides who help you find giant, chestnut-crowned, mustached, ocher-breasted, and yellow-breasted species.

Itinerary

1. Day 1Birdwatching, Nature & Chocolate Experience in Mindo

   

   Your adventure begins in the bird paradise of the Mindo cloud forest, where lush vegetation and gentle mist create the perfect setting to observe hummingbirds, toucans, and quetzals up close at designated feeding stations.

   The experience continues at the Mindo Butterfly Garden, a magical place filled with colorful species fluttering freely around you.

   You’ll then explore the rich biodiversity of the Mindo Cloud Forest on a hike to the Nambillo Waterfall, with opportunities to take a cable car ride or enjoy nature photography along the way.

   To end the day, you’ll enjoy an artisanal chocolate experience, learning the process from bean to bar and tasting high-quality cacao produced in Mindo. After this day full of nature and adventure, you will stay overnight in Mindo to prepare for an early departure the next morning.

   Overnight: Sisakuna Lodge or similarMeals: lunch

2. Day 2Andean Cock of the Rock & Antpitta Birdwatching Experience

   

   The second day starts before dawn with a half-day birdwatching experience at the Paz de las Aves Refuge.

   Your first stop is the Andean Cock of the Rock lek, where bright red males perform their impressive courtship displays in the morning, an unforgettable sight for bird lovers and photographers.

   After this show, the tour continues with the search for elusive antpittas, guided by local experts who help increase your chances of spotting several rare species. Although sightings vary, their deep knowledge of the forest makes each encounter special.

   This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the cloud forest’s rich biodiversity and leaves you with lasting memories of Ecuador’s extraordinary birdlife before returning to Quito.

   Meals: breakfast, lunch

Prices per person