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When to go to Ecuador

The best time to visit Ecuador depends on what you'd like to do, as Ecuador is a year round destination. There are different regional zones that have their own microclimates and best times to visit, which should be considered when you are planning your trip. Generally speaking, you may also wish to bear in mind the peak tourism season, from mid-December to end of January and again from June to August. The fascinating wildlife of the Amazon can be found in Ecuador along the ‘Oriente’ in the eastern part of the country. As this rainforest feeds into the Amazon Basin, it is a hot and humid area that experiences rain all year round. The drier months tend to be August and December through to March, meaning these are slightly better times to travel.

Home to the capital, Quito, the Andean Highlands in the northern area of Ecuador has a dry season from June to September, which is usually warm and sunny. There is rain outside of these months but not as frequent as other areas of the country. Due to the altitude of the Andean Highlands the evenings tend to milder in temperature throughout the year. The Pacific Lowlands in the south of Ecuador experience two very distinct seasons. There is beach-friendly sunshine throughout January to May, although there are still downpours in the afternoon. The dry season runs from June to December but the temperatures are colder with a prolonged cloud build up.

St Ecuador Andes Riobamba Julian Peters Photography
ECU Etienne Delorieux E5sp18o40ya Unsplash

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The best time to visit Ecuador


  • JAN
  • FEB
  • MAR
  • APR
  • MAY
  • JUN
  • JUL
  • AUG
  • SEP
  • OCT
  • NOV
  • DEC

Although a wet month across a lot of the country, the coast sees plenty of sunshine and is great for beach visits. It is a good time to combine a trip to the Galapagos Islands at the same time, as the weather around the islands is better this time of year.

January to May

Although Ecuador is an all-year country, January to May is cooler and wetter than the rest of the year. There is still plenty to do and take advantage of, and many combine it with their travels to the Galapagos islands as the waters around there are particularly warm and calm. The further south, the more sunshine is experienced.

June to December

Between June and December, the skies are clearer and the temperature is warmer in most parts of the country. This is usually the best time to travel in the northern part of the country and the Andean highlands. The wildlife throughout Ecuador can typically be seen all year round, but this may be a better time to travel to see birds in the clear, blue skies.

What to do in Ecuador

Visit the Amazon Rainforest

Explore the Amazon rainforest, which covers a significant portion of eastern Ecuador. Take guided jungle treks, boat tours, and canopy walks to spot diverse wildlife, including monkeys, toucans, parrots, jaguars, and colorful butterflies. xperience the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador's eastern region. Go on jungle treks, boat rides, and birdwatching excursions to see monkeys, toucans, and more. Stay at jungle lodges in the Amazon to immerse yourself in the rainforest and take night walks.

Hike Cotopaxi Volcano

Climb one of the world's highest active volcanoes, Cotopaxi, and hike in Cotopaxi National Park, home to Andean wildlife like wild horses, foxes, and deer.

Birdwatch

Ecuador is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 1,600 bird species. Explore various ecosystems to spot hummingbirds, toucans, tanagers, and Andean condors.

Explore the Cloud Forests

Explore the Mindo Cloud Forest, known for its incredible biodiversity, and the Mashpi Reserve to see rare and endemic birds, including the Andean cock-of-the-rock and toucan barbet. You can also enjoy activities like zip-lining, birdwatching, and butterfly and orchid gardens.