Instead of the familiar ocean’s roar in the Galapagos and scorching heat, I adjusted to a raging river, downpours, chilly mornings and cool nights during my ten days in Mindo. Cloud forest is the perfect name for this region. The frequent rains with a confluence of climate and hilly landscape create robust waterfalls, rivers, and a verdant forest which hosts an extraordinary array of birds, butterflies, and orchids.

I came here for the birds-Mindo is renown for them. Yet I am immediately struck by not seeing any. I hear them singing, chirping, whistling, and making the various sounds that birds do, but they are elusive and I strain to catch a glimpse of any as they swoop or flutter by.

The Galapagos has spoiled me. On the islands birds know no fear and allow a proximity that is, I am quickly reminded, atypical. It will take a walk with a professional guide and binoculars to see these evasive creatures.

Fortunately hummingbirds are the exception enticed by feeders that adorn most residents’ porches, eaves, and trees.

The splendor of butterflies and orchids are abundant in private domains one enters for a fee and in the wild.

My days are spent hiking, birding, meeting locals,foreigners-some passing through others staying on for months or years, and a few outstanding dogs.

My tongue is loosening to the sounds of Spanish.

Mindo is a special place.

To be continued…