Getting to Mindo From Guayaquil

We (2 people) are planning a short trip in Mindo (coming from Miami). Quito is the closest International airport to Mindo. But, flying to Guayaquil would save us about $250 dollars. So, We are considering flying to Guayaquil and traveling by land to Mindo.
Does anyone know,,,,
1. How long the trip by bus from Guayaquil to Mindo would take, and how frequently the busses run?
2. How many times, and where, would we have to change busses?
3. How much the bus would cost?
4. Which bus company is recommended for the trip?
5. Besides the bus, are there any other options for traveling from Guayaquil to MIndo? We would be open to hiring a driver/ car service to take us, (we've done so on past trips to Ecuador), if any one can recommend someone.

Thanks

Hi
Actually Quito is closer to Mindo than Guayaquil but saving 250 USD is great!! I could recommend you taking the overnight bus from Guayaquil to Quito. It will cost from 7 to 9 usd depending on the company and you need around 7 hours to reach Quito. There you can switch a bus to Mindo. It will cost you around 2.5 USD for a 2 1/2 trip. I guess on weekdays you have 2 direct buses Quito - Mindo leaving at 8 and 15 00. On weekends you have more frecuencies available.
Mindo is a good choice, enjoy your trip!

Carlos

Thanks Carlos.