Less than an hour from Quito, Nono feels like a different world: an Andean valley with grazing cows,
cold rivers, and mountains covered in cloud forest, where time seems to slow down. This is where
famous bike routes to Tandayapa and Mindo start, waterfalls and clear streams begin, and life still
revolves around farming and raising animals.
Officially called San Miguel de Nono, it has become a popular spot for nature tourism near
Quito—easy to get to but quiet enough to feel far from the city.
If you want a place to bike, hike, watch birds, or just enjoy tasty food with mountain views, Nono is a
nearby getaway worth visiting again and again.
Nono: rural parish of the Chocó Andino and gateway to the Ecoruta
Nono is a rural parish in the Quito canton, officially called San Miguel de Nono. It became a
church parish in 1660 and a civil parish in 1720, making it one of the oldest in the Metropolitan
District. Traditionally, it has been an agricultural and livestock area, with pastures, grains, root
vegetables, and other crops growing in its rich soil. Stone quarries have also played a role in
its economy.
A rural valley very close to Quito
Even though Nono is a rural area, it’s surprisingly close to the city. It’s about 18 km northwest of
Quito, roughly a 45-minute drive. To get there, take Mariscal Sucre Avenue (Occidental) going north-
south; just before Condado Shopping, you’ll see signs for Ecoruta Paseo del Quinde and Nono. From
there, a paved road followed by a gravel road leads through green hills to the small town center.
Nearby communities include Alto Perú, Yanacocha, Alambí, and Alaspungo. The Pichán and Alambí
rivers flow through the area, coming from the slopes of Guagua Pichincha. These rivers are great for
activities like sport fishing, hiking, and visiting waterfalls.
Life in Nono still centers around farming: milking cows, planting crops, and caring for pastures.
Visitors can see this everyday life in signs advertising “cheese and milk for sale,” dogs sleeping in
front of houses, and the quiet that settles in at night. This mix of peace, beautiful scenery, and
genuine local life is why the Ministry of Tourism calls it “a unique place for nature tourism.”
Nono within the Andean Chocó
Nono is part of the Andean Chocó region, one of the most biodiverse forests in the world, located
across several rural areas in northwest Quito. The old Nono-Mindo road, now called Ecoruta Paseo
del Quinde, links this valley with Nanegalito, Tandayapa, and Mindo. This ecological corridor is
famous for its birds, cloud forests, and lush green landscapes.
Because of its location, Nono is a perfect starting point for ecotourism, offering everything from day
trips to longer adventures that go from the high Andes down to the cloud forests of the Chocó.
Ecological and Social Importance of the Chocó Andino Green Valley
The Chocó Andino green valley near Quito is not only a natural treasure but also very important
ecologically and socially. It is recognized as a Biosphere Reserve and plays a key role in protecting
biodiversity. It is home to important species like the Andean Bear (Tremarctos ornatus) and the Black-
breasted Puffleg Hummingbird (Eriocnemis nigrivestis), which help show how healthy their
ecosystems are.
The rich biodiversity here also supports local communities through sustainable activities like
community forest management. Groups such as UNESCO, the Ministry of Environment (MAATE), and
the Metropolitan District of Quito (DMQ) work together to manage these forests and make sure
conservation efforts meet local needs.
However, this balance faces threats, especially from mining activities that harm both nature and
community well-being. Protecting the Chocó Andino’s valuable resources while encouraging
sustainable growth remains an important challenge for everyone involved.
What to Do in Nono: Mountain Biking, Trails, Waterfalls, and
Birdwatching
Nono is known for its mix of outdoor activities all close together. It has famous bike routes,
forest trails, river swimming spots, and small family-run places offering fishing and local food.
Bike Routes: From Nono to Alaspungo, Tandayapa, and Mindo
If you enjoy mountain biking, Nono is a popular spot. The Nono–Alaspungo route, promoted by Quito
Turismo and local brands, follows smooth dirt roads. It features gentle downhill stretches, small uphill
parts, and wide views of the valley. This route is great for cyclists with some experience who want to
ride in the mountains without facing a tough challenge.
A bit more challenging is the Nono–Tandayapa–Mindo route. It covers about 50 to 60 km, depending
on where you finish. Starting at around 2,800 meters in Nono, it descends to about 1,200–1,300
meters near Mindo. Along the way, you’ll find long downhill sections, tough climbs like the one to
Bellavista, and changing scenery—from high mountain grasslands to cloud forests—passing through
small villages and trout farms.
In recent years, Quito has become known for adventure tourism thanks to routes like these. They let
you explore mountains, rivers, and forests by bike at different difficulty levels. Nono’s easy access
and beautiful surroundings have made it a key starting point for these trails.
Trails, Waterfalls, and Easy Walks
If you enjoy walking, there are many options available. Guides and travel websites recommend
activities such as hiking in Monte Verde, exploring the Guagrapamba waterfall, and
discovering other nearby small waterfalls. These walks typically last between 45 minutes and
two hours.
In the parish of Nono, you’ll also discover the “first waterfall in the northwest of Quito,”
situated at the beginning of the Ecoruta Paseo del Quinde. This location is a favorite spot for
families and friends looking to spend a day outdoors.
As you trek along these trails, you’ll come across farms with animals, open fields, and quaint
gardens. This creates an authentic experience, making it feel as though you’re strolling
through a genuine, well-maintained landscape rather than an artificial park.
Birdwatching and Nature of the Chocó Andino
Nono and the Ecoruta Paseo del Quinde attract many birdwatchers. The Ministry of Tourism calls this
ecoruta an “irresistible magnet” for bird lovers visiting Ecuador, highlighting that it was the first place
in South America recognized as globally important for birds.
A Haven for Bird Species
The Chocó Andino is home to hundreds of bird species, including:
● Tiny hummingbirds
● Colorful toucans
● Tanagers
● Trogons
● Birds of prey
Ideal Spot for Beginners
Nono, with its moderate altitude and easy access, is a great starting point for beginners who want to
go birdwatching without traveling far from Quito. Many local farms and businesses offer:
- Hummingbird feeders
- Viewing spots
- Guided tours focused on birdwatching
Community Efforts in Forest Conservation
Besides its rich wildlife, the Chocó Andino is known for strong local efforts in forest conservation.
Communities here actively manage natural resources to use forests sustainably while protecting their
environment.
This community-based forest management helps locals take care of their natural surroundings and
feel responsible for preserving them.
Networks Supporting Sustainable Development
Many of these communities are part of networks like the International Model Forest Network (IMFN)
and the Ibero-American Model Forest Network (RIABM). These groups support sustainable
development and allow members to share knowledge and learn from each other’s conservation
experiences.
How to Visit Nono from Quito and Useful Tips
Getting to Nono from northern or central Quito is simple. Generally, you take Occidental
Avenue and, a few kilometers before or after Condado Shopping (depending on your
direction), follow signs to Nono and the Ecoruta Paseo del Quinde. From there, the road goes
uphill and then gently down through the mountains until you reach the town center. The trip
takes about 45 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic.
Some tour companies offer full-day trips with transportation included, especially for bike tours
between Nono and Mindo or for hiking and birdwatching. This way, you don’t have to worry
about planning your route.
However, keep in mind that metal mining concessions near Nono and in the Chocó Andino region
pose environmental risks. These mining activities threaten local ecosystems and communities,
causing ongoing conflicts. In fact, mining is banned within the Metropolitan District of Quito to protect
nature and support sustainable development.
When planning your visit, think about how these industrial pressures might affect the area’s wildlife
and cultural sites.
When to Go and What to Bring
You can visit Nono any time of the year, but be ready for typical Andean weather: strong sun, rain,
and fog all in one day. At a minimum, bring:
● Layered clothes (t-shirt, light warm layer, and windbreaker).
● Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes with good soles if you plan to walk or bike.
● Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
● Light rain jacket or poncho.
If you’re biking, also bring gloves, your own helmet (if you prefer not to use the one from the tour
company), enough water, and snacks. Some routes, like Nono-Tandayapa-Mindo, have long
stretches without stores or towns.
For a relaxed day—walking around the village, visiting a trout farm, trying local food, and a short
hike—you just need comfortable clothes and a wish to escape city noise.
