We discuss your interests, target birds, timing, and any special needs.
YOUR PRIVATE BIRD GUIDE IN MINDO
Meet Your Private Bird Guide in Mindo, Ecuador
I’m Chicho, a local birding guide born and raised in Mindo. With deep knowledge of the cloud forest and years of field experience, I design private birdwatching tours that match your interests, pace, and target species.
- 6+ years guiding in Mindo’s cloud forest
- 400+ bird species identified in the region
- Local route, timing, and bird activity knowledge
- Private and customizable birding experiences
6+Years GuidingLocal experience since 2018
400+Bird SpeciesIdentified in the Mindo region
284Species in 2.5 DaysLocal record with guests
100%Private & CustomTours tailored to you
Field moments with Chicho and guests in Mindo.
Meet Chicho
I grew up listening to the sounds of the cloud forest and watching birds from a young age. That curiosity turned into a passion, and today I’m fortunate to share that passion with travelers from around the world.
I know the best trails, the right times, and the secret spots where special birds show up. More than that, I care about your experience, helping you see, learn, and connect with Mindo’s incredible nature.
Born & Raised in Mindo
Passionate About Conservation
Nature Lover & Photographer
Patient, Friendly & Dedicated
How I Guide Your Birding Experience
I select the best routes based on recent sightings, weather, and conditions.
I use local knowledge and expert tracking to help you see more and enjoy more.
I adapt to your pace and share tips for beginners, photographers, and kids.
Interview: Get To Know Chicho
Key questions about his experience, guiding style, and love for Mindo.
What inspired you to become a birdwatching guide?
I’m deeply inspired by the opportunity to observe so many wonders and colors in Mindo every day.
How long have you been guiding birdwatching tours in Mindo?
I’ve been guiding for about six years, but I keep discovering new things that motivate me to continue learning.
What do you enjoy most about birdwatching in the cloud forest?
What I enjoy most is starting each morning with the diversity of bird songs and colors, which bring a sense of peace within nature.
Do you have any childhood memories related to nature or birds that left a mark on you?
As a child, my first experience was observing a Cock-of-the-Rock, an emblematic bird with very striking colors.
I remember seeing it through binoculars, which allowed me to appreciate it even more closely. Its songs, size, and colors left a lasting impression on me.
What is your favorite bird species to observe in Mindo, and why?
I have two favorites: the Cock-of-the-Rock and the Highland Toucan. Their songs and colors stand out in the forest,
and having the privilege of finding them in Mindo is a blessing.
How many bird species have you identified in the area?
In my experience as a guide, I’ve been fortunate to find around 400 species, including birds and hummingbirds.
What is the most exciting or rare bird you’ve seen on a tour?
My best experience was guiding an American couple who were bird enthusiasts. In just two and a half days, we saw 284 species.
They were so excited that they called me every night from Ecuador to say they couldn’t believe they had seen so much variety.
Can you share a memorable experience with a group of birdwatchers?
The experience with the American couple was very special. Their best memory and experience was visiting Mindo and meeting me as their guide.
What can visitors expect on a tour with you?
People who join me will always find someone friendly, who makes them feel confident about spotting colorful bird varieties.
In Mindo, we’re privileged to have so many species, and visitors always leave with beautiful memories.
What makes Mindo such a special place for birdwatching?
Mindo is special because, in a small area, we can observe a great variety of flora and fauna.
In just one square meter, you can see up to six different bird species. That’s why Mindo is called the Bird Capital.
How do you help beginners enjoy the experience?
It’s always good to help and motivate people who are just starting out. Sharing respect for nature is the best thing one can do,
as it offers us so much beauty.
What is the best time of year to visit Mindo for birdwatching?
The best times are from late January, when more birds gather. It’s the season when they come out with their chicks,
and you can find them in greater numbers. It’s also easier to see them flying everywhere.
Do you have a favorite bird call?
My favorite call is that of the Highland Toucan. It’s a loud call that, when you hear it, seems to say, Watch out, I’m here.
It has a lot of personality, and hearing it always makes me happy because it’s not very common.
What’s a fun fact that surprises most people?
A fun fact that always surprises tourists is that in Mindo, we can always find wonders. There’s no tourist who doesn’t discover something interesting.
If you could be a bird, which one would you choose?
If I were a bird, I’d be a Highland Toucan. Its call and colors are special. It’s a calm toucan, but when it sings, it commands a lot of personality.
I’ve been lucky enough to see up to 17 Highland Toucans in a single tree.
Why is conservation important?
It’s important because birds are part of the natural wealth we have. Going out to observe them is like finding the green gold of nature.
How do your tours help protect biodiversity?
My tours help convey respect for nature and showcase the beauty that surrounds us. This motivates people to value and protect biodiversity.
What advice would you give to someone starting birdwatching?
My advice is to do it with passion. There’s nothing better than going out to discover so much beauty in nature.
Be prepared to see how special birds, mountains, and rivers are.
Watch Chicho in Action
A second vertical YouTube Short from the field.
Another short field moment with Chicho in Mindo.
Watch Chicho in Action
A vertical YouTube Short from Mindo cloud forest.
Chicho behind the binoculars during a birding outing.
PLAN WITH YOUR GUIDE
Tell Chicho what you hope to see in Mindo
Send your travel dates, birding level, photography goals, target species, and available time. We will help choose a realistic private route in the cloud forest.