Compare the direct public bus, Uber and pre-arranged private transportation from Quito or Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). Use the schedules, airport connection steps and map below to choose the route that fits your arrival time, luggage and plans in Mindo.
Send your pickup point, date, passengers, luggage, and whether the transfer connects with a birding tour.
The cheapest route is not always the best match for a late flight, an early birding tour or several pieces of luggage.
Take the direct bus from Terminal La Ofelia in north Quito. Buy the ticket on the day of travel and allow extra time for the terminal connection and possible transport from Mindo town to your lodge.
Check the app for a live fare and driver. A long-distance ride is confirmed only after a driver accepts it, and Uber should not be assumed to be available for the return from Mindo.
Arrange pickup from your Quito hotel or UIO, direct drop-off in Mindo and a scheduled return. We confirm the route, timing, vehicle and space needed for passengers, bags and photography equipment.
Use this quick planner to understand timing and vehicle needs. Final pricing depends on availability, pickup time, and exact route.
These are planning estimates only. Confirm the final value before booking.
Schedule supplied locally. Operations can change, so confirm directly with Flor del Valle before traveling.
| Route | Monday–Saturday | Sunday | Published fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Ofelia → Mindo | 08:00, 09:00, 11:40, 16:00 | 08:00, 09:00, 11:40, 13:00, 16:00 | $3.60 one way |
| Mindo → Quito | 06:30, 11:00, 15:15, 17:00 | 06:30, 11:00, 15:15, 16:00, 17:00 | Confirm when buying |
Before you leave: Flor del Valle says advance reservations are not required and tickets are sold on the travel day. Confirm the departure at the official route page or call +593 2 236 0094. The last listed Quito departure is 16:00.
There is no verified direct public bus from UIO to Mindo. This route requires two connections.
Planning estimate for one person: approximately $9.10–$10.10 and 3½–4½ hours, depending mainly on the connection at La Ofelia. If your flight arrives after 14:00, the 16:00 final bus can be difficult to reach after immigration, baggage collection and transfers. Prices and times are locally supplied estimates, not guaranteed fares.
Flor del Valle, Terminal La Ofelia, Av. Diego de Vásquez and Los Ciruelos, opposite Liga Deportiva Universitaria's stadium.
Uber operates in Quito and supports UIO pickups, but Mindo is not listed as an Uber service city.
Request the route in the app and wait for a driver to accept. The price changes with distance, time, demand, tolls and the selected vehicle. For a time-sensitive flight or return from Mindo, arrange a backup rather than assuming a car will be available.
Before entering, match the license plate, vehicle make and model, and driver photo with the app. Ask the driver to confirm your name, wear a seat belt and share the trip status with someone you trust.
Designed for travelers who want the outbound trip and return coordinated before travel.
We confirm the pickup point, time, driver and vehicle before departure.
Start at your Quito hotel or UIO and travel directly to your Mindo accommodation or agreed meeting point.
Passenger count, luggage, cameras and spotting scopes are considered when arranging the vehicle.
The direct Flor del Valle bus leaves from Terminal La Ofelia in north Quito, not Terminal Carcelén.
You can request the trip in Quito or at UIO, but the ride exists only after a driver accepts it. Do not assume that an Uber will be available for the return from Mindo.
It may be difficult. The final listed La Ofelia departure is 16:00, and the airport route requires a bus to Carcelén plus a taxi to La Ofelia.
Send the date, pickup and return locations, times, passenger count, luggage, photography equipment and Mindo accommodation.
Send your date, pickup point, passenger count, and main goal: birds, photography, private guiding, or a Quito day trip.