Quito: Birdwatching tour with local guide & breakfast

Early birds, mountain air, and Marcelo’s stories in the Andes

You’ll join local guide Marcelo for a relaxed morning of birdwatching near Quito, spotting rare hummingbirds and tanagers through binoculars and telescope. Enjoy a simple breakfast outdoors as you listen for calls in the cool mountain air. With private transport and all gear included, it’s an easy way to experience Ecuador’s wild side, and maybe hear some stories you’ll remember long after the trip.

Step-by-step itinerary

Bird Watching in Mindo

• Bird watching with Marcelo

The experience

Ever wondered what it feels like to stand in the misty hills outside Quito at sunrise, just listening? I didn’t think I’d care much about birds, honestly, but then there we were, bundled up against the chill, waiting for Marcelo to set up his telescope. He’s got this way of whistling that actually gets the birds to answer back (I tried once and scared off a squirrel instead). The first time he pointed out a Sword Billed Hummingbird (that beak!). I nearly dropped my binoculars.

The whole birdwatching tour felt more like hanging out with an old friend who knows every secret path. Marcelo would pause mid-sentence when he heard a call, then quietly gesture for us to look. Sometimes you’d catch a flash of scarlet or blue between the mossy branches: Scarlet bellied Mountain Tanager, he said, like it was no big deal. Breakfast was simple but warm, eaten leaning against the van while fog curled around our boots. There’s something about hot coffee in cold air that just hits different.

I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for the distant calls, even the city felt far away. Four hours passed faster than I expected. Patience is part of it, but so is luck (and Marcelo’s uncanny ear). If you’re curious about birding near Quito or just want a morning that feels oddly peaceful, this is worth waking up early for. Not sure I’ll ever pronounce “Rufus Antpitta” right though: Marcelo laughed and said not to worry.

What’s included

Your morning includes private transportation from Quito, all necessary gear like binoculars and telescope (plus Marcelo’s expert bird calls), and a simple outdoor breakfast before heading back after four hours of exploring Ecuador’s wild birdlife together.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 06:00

Book up to12h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancy

Operated by Marcelo Arias Birding Guide

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long does the birdwatching tour last?

The birdwatching tour lasts about 4 hours.

Is transportation included in the birdwatching tour?

Yes, private transportation is included for the tour.

What kind of birds can I expect to see near Quito?

You may see Sword Billed Hummingbirds, Barred Fruit Eater, Scarlet bellied Mountain Tanager, Black Chested Mountain Tanager, Rufus Antpitta and more.

Is breakfast provided during the birdwatching experience?

Yes, breakfast is included during the tour.

Do I need to bring my own binoculars or camera?

No need for binoculars. They are provided along with a telescope. Bring your own camera if you want photos.

Is this birdwatching tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

This activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers.