I spent the night in a chocolate factory in ecuador

The small town of Mindo, Ecuador is nestled tightly in the Andes Mountains cloud forest, one of the richest bio-diverse ecoregions in the world.  Mindo is a well-kept secret and has no shortage of fascinating attractions, but its reputation and popularity as an adventure destination is growing rapidly. 
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Just a block or two off the main square, you will find a tall building looming over the trees.  Featuring on-site chocolate making, a delicious cafe, locally roasted coffee, and rooms with a view, El Quetzal is THE destination for chocolate lovers and adventure seekers the world over.

After you grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious cafes in town, you can check into your room at the chocolate factory!  Located up a few flights of stairs, we choose the room that features a balcony, swinging hammock, and amazing views of Mindo and the surrounding mountains.

Because we were guests in the lodge, we were permitted free entrance into one of their world-famous tours. You can follow along as a guide walks you step by step through the bean-to-bar chocolate-making process.  Starting with the cacoa bean, you will learn about the ins and out of how modern-day artisans have turned this amazing bean into one of the most lusted after flavors across the world.  You'll even get to sample a batch of fresh chocolate brownies and experience for yourself the rich flavors grown right in the Ecuadorian valley!

Breakfast the next day was the cherry on top!  We woke up and were treated to special seating on the veranda, surrounded by beautiful foliage and the sounds of the town waking up.  Choose from a selection of cooked-to-order meals and fresh coffee-there's really no better way to start your day!

​Staying at El Quetzal was more than just finding a room on Airbnb- we got to experience part of the amazing chocolate-making culture of Mindo.  The secluded atmosphere allowed us to observe Mindo life from above, taking it all in.

​Need to Know:
- Chocolate tours are offered 7 days a week, from starting each hour on the hour from 10:00am-5:00pm
- Cost $10/person (*Free entry if you are staying in one of their Airbnb suites!)
- You can book a stay in the lodge here

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