Geography
Let us introduce you to the middle of the world and share some insights to help you choose the best time to travel to Ecuador. Ecuador straddles the equator and is a country rich with natural wonders and a unique culture. Honestly, there is not a bad time to visit, rather, there are more optimal times and seasons for specific types of adventures.
The towering Andes mountains with their snow capped mountain peaks draw a line down the center of the country and divide it into several distinct regions. To the east lies the Amazon rainforest and to the west lie coastal beaches kissed by the Pacific Ocean. If you sail about 1000 km west from the mainland coastline, you’ll discover the fourth region of Ecuador- the enchanting Galapagos Islands. Verdant plants and incredible wildlife bring the majestic landscapes to life in each region of this unforgettable country.
Climate
Since it is located on the equator, Ecuador doesn’t experience four seasons like much of the rest of the world does. Instead, there is a wet season and a dry season. The drier months are June-September and the wetter months are October-May. The wet season is typically the warmer and more humid season of the two and you can expect to see about 12 hours of daylight year round.
The coastline and the Galapagos Islands have a fairly humid, subtropical climate. The Andes mountains and their foothills are generally dry and sunny, but be prepared for the temperature to drop the higher you climb. In the Amazon, you can expect typical rainforest conditions- high humidity levels and warm to hot temperatures.
So, when is the best time to travel to Ecuador?
Mainland Ecuador
Most travelers visit mainland Ecuador between June and September. This time of year the majority of days are sunny and dry and perfect for outdoor activities and taking in the sights. Do keep in mind that the peak season also means higher prices and more tourists. Lots of businesses offer discounts for travelers who take advantage of the shoulder and off seasons for their travels. Plus, if you are looking for lots of time to relax on the beach, you will want to wait for the rainy season! It sounds contrary, but December through May, when the overall temperature is warmer and the mornings tend to be sunny followed by short bursts of rain throughout the afternoon, are perfect for relaxing beach vacations. The beaches during the dry season are usually colder than most sunbathers are happy with.
The Amazon
The Amazon rainforest sees rain all year long, but December through May are particularly soggy months and many roads become difficult to navigate or blocked completely. Also, the cooler weather during this time means that the animals are a bit more difficult to find and the mosquitos are out in force. The dry season is much more optimal for adventures through the Amazon.
The Andes Mountains
The mountains and their surrounding highlands typically see fairly consistent weather year round. That being said, the warmer and wetter season from December to March/April is usually less conducive to great hiking. The dry season generally has better conditions for hiking, exploring, and seeing lots of wildlife. Whatever time of the year you come to the mountains, be prepared for a wide variety of weather conditions. The days tend to be hot and the nights are frigid. The weather can also turn from warm and sunny to rainy or hail storms in a matter of minutes. If you plan to explore close to one of the breathtaking volcanoes along the mountain range, keep in mind that volcanic activity affects the weather too.
The Galapagos Islands
June through September and December through January are the peak seasons for visitors in the Galapagos Islands. This is because those months fall within school holidays and breaks for most American and European countries. If you plan to go during these times, it’s recommended to book your trip as far in advance as possible. If you don’t have to plan your trip around a school break, December through May are the months that have the best weather for adventures in the Enchanted Islands by boat. The wind is more calm and visibility is much better above and under the water than it is during the dry season. The wildlife tends to be very active and visible in the Galapagos Islands all year round. If you have specific things you want to catch, like the sea turtles hatching or the birthing season for sea lions, please check out our Galapagos Wildlife Guide!
The Best Time is Your Time
From climate conditions to crowds and wildlife patterns, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best time to travel to Ecuador. Keep in mind, there really isn’t a bad time to visit, just times of the year that are more suited for specific activities. Ecuador is unbelievably beautiful and brimming with incredible adventures around every corner- come experience it for yourself!
