Paz de las Aves
Experience birds like never before
Paz de las Aves: More Than A Wildlife Refuge
“Bird Paradise in Mindo”
As the first farmers to embrace eco-tourism and birding in Mindo, Angel Paz and his family have protected woodland species like Andean Cock-of-the-rock and Giant Antpitta for two decades. With 458 bird species recorded in this renowned eBird hotspot, this Chocó Andes reserve offers a truly unparalleled birdwatching experience.
Peaceful
Immerse in protected, serene cloud forests of Mindo, Ecuador
Personal
Connect with nature as shy birds approach, offering intimate encounters.
Profound
Witness elusive species, creating unforgettable moments of a lifetime.
From Novice to Pro: Birding Tours for Everyone
“#1 of 21 things to do in Mindo” – TripAdvisor
At Paz de las Aves, expert guides work with birders of all levels, offering a warm, patient approach for beginners and sharing advanced techniques and insider knowledge with seasoned birders. Every tour is crafted to showcase Mindo’s incredible biodiversity, ensuring a rewarding experience for all. Choose from half-day to multi-day tours. In addition, curated tours including additional prime birding hotspots in the Chocó Andes are available.
Best of Paz de las Aves
3-days / 2-nights
Maximize your chances to see the forest’s incredible diversity.
Birding from dawn to dusk, expert guides, homemade meals, comfortable accommodations.
In-depth Paz de las Aves
4-days / 3-nights
Unbelievable in-depth access to hidden corners of Paz de las Aves Reserve.
Birding from dawn to dusk, expert guides, homemade meals, comfortable accommodations.
Best of the Chocó Andes
7-days / 6-nights
The beauty of Paz de las Aves AND other key birding hotspots of the Chocó Andes.
Birding from dawn to dusk, expert guides, homemade meals, and comfortable accommodations.
A Taste of Paz de las Aves
Half Day Tour
Enjoy a morning with the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock and several species of antpitta.
Birding starts at 6 AM, expert guides, homemade breakfast, and access to our hummingbird garden and bird feeders.
Our Guests Love the “Paz Experience”
From beginning birders to lifers, from photographers to ornithologists, our guests agree, Refugio Paz de las Aves is amazing. Check out their reviews.
“I have never seen so many birds in my life!”
I spent 9 days in Galapagos, but my one night in Mindo was a vacation highlight! I had the best time birdwatching and experiencing local culture… I have never seen so many birds in my life! The hummingbirds and Cock of the Rock were incredible. So many different colors and varieties. The guides were very knowledgeable. They shared their binoculars with us and helped us take nice bird photos…..
gracetravels
Beginning Birder, visited May 2024
Read full review on TripAdvisor.
“Must visit for birders.”
Must visit for birders. 5 Antpittas in one morning. Amazing views of the active cock-of-the-rock lek. Andy is an amazing guide going out of his way to find birds. So many hummingbirds and tanagers. Stayed for 2 nights and had great food, accommodation is very comfortable. Whole family is very friendly and welcoming. Worth every cent.
Abbey Dean
Guest in September 2024
Read more on Google Maps.
“One word – magical!”
One word – magical! Fantastic land, birds, food (must try the restaurant!), and great people. The people are the best.
Angie McBride Archer
Guest in June 2022
Read more on Facebook.
From Fields to Forests
“Enter Angel Paz, the ‘Antpitta Whisperer'”
Angel Paz and his brother, Rodrigo, knew nothing about eco-tourism when they started their small project on their parents’ property outside of Mindo, Ecuador. But a chance encounter with a shy forest bird transformed their lives, leading them from farming to becoming guardians of the forest.
