El Monte Sustainable Lodge is a hidden gem nestled in the lush cloud forests of Mindo, Ecuador. Located just three kilometres from the town of Mindo. The lodge sits on a 110-acre private reserve adjacent to the Mindo-Nambillo Reserve, which spans over 40,000 acres. This prime location offers guests an immersive experience in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
Facilities & Rooms
El Monte is designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Guests stay in private riverside cabañas, each crafted from locally sourced wood and featuring full-sized bathtubs, unlimited hot water, and handcrafted furniture. The lodge prioritizes sustainability, using an independent waste treatment system that incorporates bamboo to filter nitrogenous buildup. Electricity is available in each cabaña, and WiFi is accessible near the main house. The main house serves as a communal space, featuring a kitchen, dining area, bar, and two open fire pits.
Dining
El Monte takes pride in its farm-to-table approach, sourcing many ingredients from its organic garden. Meals are predominantly vegetarian, with occasional poultry and seafood dishes, all prepared with a focus on sustainability. Guests can watch the chefs prepare meals, including homemade bread, coconut milk, and chocolate. Traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as tamales, encocados, and exotic fruit juices are incorporated into the menu.
Excursions & Birding
Mindo is internationally recognized as an Important Bird Area, making El Monte a paradise for birdwatchers. Guests can spot species like the Golden-headed Quetzal, Chocó Toucan, and Pale-Mandibled Aracari right from the lodge. Guided excursions include hiking, waterfall visits, ziplining, white-water tubing, and trips to the Butterfly Garden. The lodge ensures that all activities are led by local guides, enhancing the authenticity of the experience.
Sustainability & Ownership
El Monte was founded with a commitment to low-impact tourism, ensuring a balance between guest numbers and land conservation. The lodge operates on renewable energy, primarily from a microhydro plant, and minimizes waste through sustainable practices. The owners have made a conscious decision to keep the lodge small, allowing for a more intimate and eco-friendly experience.
Getting There
Access to El Monte is unique—guests arrive via a hand-pulled cable car that crosses the Rio Mindo, adding to the lodge’s secluded charm. This entrance enhances privacy while maintaining a connection to the surrounding cloud forest.
El Monte Sustainable Lodge offers a harmonious blend of nature, comfort, and sustainability, making it an ideal retreat for eco-conscious travellers seeking an authentic experience in Ecuador’s breathtaking cloud forests.
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