When Is the Best Time to Go to Ecuador?
Ecuador is located on the equator, and because of this you'll find temperate climates year-round at most of Ecuador's top destinations.
Peak tourist season in Ecuador occurs from mid-June to early September, and then again in late December. This has more to do with vacation time in the U.S. than the seasons. You can visit Ecuador during any time of the year, but keep the following information in mind.
It can be confusing deciphering what the "dry" and "wet" seasons mean in Ecuador. December to May is the wet season, but also the best time to visit the coast. Counterintuitively, it’s actually sunnier on the coast during the wet season. During the wet season, rainy evenings follow a sunny morning and afternoon. From April to November, the dry season brings overcast skies but little rain.
If you’re thinking of visiting the Ecuadorian Amazon, know that it rains year-round, but much more so during the December-May wet season.
During the wet season, it’s slightly warmer in the highlands, although the temperature doesn’t change much. In Andean cities like Quito and Cuenca, temperatures usually range from the low 50s to the low 60s Fahrenheit (10 to 20 degrees Celsius).
Seasons in the Galápagos are give-and-take. During the wet season, the air and water get warm, but it rains frequently. In the dry season, you’ll find colder temperatures and rougher waters, but less rain.
During Carnaval, Easter, and Ecuadorian Independence Day (May 22nd) many Ecuadorians travel, and hotel prices increase. That being said, all of these holidays involve raucous, colorful street festivals, events you may not want to miss.
Related Questions
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Ecuador's Best Places
In a country as beautiful as Ecuador, it can be difficult to put out a list declaring "Ecuador's best places." Whatever travel experience you're seeking, you can't go wrong — as a visitor, this is a very good issue to have. However, it can make it difficult to know where to begin. When you visit Ecuador, do go off the beaten path, but also make sure you leave time for some of the destinations outlined here, because they are Ecuador's top places to visit for a reason. Included are the incredible ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands — a destination on almost every list of "Places to See Before You Die." You'll also find the quaint cities of Quito and Cuenca, and the surf-friendly beaches of Montañita. If you're heading to South America with your entire family, or simply a travel companion with tastes different from yours, then Ecuador's top places to visit will do the impossible — satisfy everyone. "Top Destinations" tend to have an assortment of activities —including natural, adventurous, and cultural options — and good restaurants. Try to visit at least a few of these destinations during your trip to Ecuador and see what no one should miss.
Amazon
Descending from the cool, high Sierra plains into the eastern side of Ecuador brings a dramatic change in surroundings—dense jungles and stifling humidity. A lesser known and remote part of Ecuador, visitors to the Amazon are quickly immersed in ancient rainforests, indigenous cultures and abundant wildlife.
Pacific Coast
The mesmerizing hues of blue that line Ecuador’s Pacific shoreline attract many travelers from the country’s mountainous regions. The arid coastline offers visitors beautiful beaches, a great diversity of marine life, and fresh seafood.
Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands straddle the equator roughly 600 miles (965 km) off the coast of Ecuador and are home to one of the world’s most unique and pristine ecosystems. This remote, volcanic archipelago is a hallmark of biodiversity—they support a wide variety of endemic marine and terrestrial species seen nowhere else on Earth. And without any natural predators, the wildlife here is not only unintimidated by humans, but it’s usually quite curious about them. While roaming these islands, a wide variety of bird, tortoise and iguana species can be seen. Jump into the crystal blue waters and watch sea lions, turtles, penguins and sharks glide right in front of you. In other words, there’s a reason why the famous naturalist Charles Darwin was so inspired by the Galapagos, and it’s likely that you will be too.
Cuenca
Cuenca is a colonial marvel and one of the most attractive cities in Ecuador. Nestled in the highlands, its charming streets, grand plazas and churches span multiple levels of the mountainside, making the city more than postcard-worthy.
Quito
Set an elevation of 9,350 ft (2,850 m), Quito is the highest capital city in the world. The population of this bustling city is a contrasting mix of Ecuadorians sporting sleek business suits and colorful indigenous clothing. These contrasts exemplify the mix of politics, history and culture that define Quito. Founded in the 16th century atop the ruins of an Inca city, Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a premier destination for those visiting Ecuador.
