When is the Best Time to Visit Ecuador?

Our Experts Say...

"The Galapagos is a year-round destination, with incredible wildlife viewing opportunities every month. If you have a specific species on your wish list, I recommend discussing this with your travel specialist to ensure you travel at the best time. Whether it be the waved albatross on Española Island - seen between May and December - or the puffed-out chests of the frigate birds on Genovesa - seen only between April and June - we can plan around your desires to ensure that you are visiting at the perfect time.

"Otherwise, the Galapagos seasons are split into two: warm and wet (December - May) and cool and dry (June - November). The waters of the archipelago are roughest between August and October in case you're considering a cruise experience. The cooler months attract more marine life as food is in abundance, which make it great for snorkeling, although visibility can be a little better in the warmer months in case you're planning to dive."

Kira McNeil, Latin America Specialist

Ecuador's climate diversity makes it an appealing destination year-round, with its weather and seasons shaping unique travel experiences each month. The country is split into distinct climatic zones: the coast, mountains, and Amazon rainforest, each influencing the best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos.

Quito and the Central Highlands experience consistently warm and mainly dry weather throughout the year due to the region’s position on the equator. However, because of the Andes’ altitude, the temperature changes dramatically between day and night. During the day, temperatures average 73-77˚ F, while at night it drops to around 50˚ F. In general, skies are clear in the morning but cloud over in the afternoon, with rain possible but not frequent. The wet season runs from October to May, with March and April seeing the heaviest rainfall. There is a brief dry patch in early December too. The best time to visit Ecuador’s central regions is from June to September.

Southern Ecuador sees the highest temperatures in the country, sitting in the 80s most of the year. Its rainy season is from January to April. The Amazon has no defined dry season and rain can be expected at any time of year, being a tropical rainforest, but you will usually find sun every day as well. The drier season runs from the end of May to the end of September.

The Galapagos are cool and dry from July to November, and warm and wet from December to June. The best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos is between December and June, as there’s more sun, the seas are calmer and underwater visibility is at its best. The average temperature ranges from a pleasant 70°F to 80°F, however being on the equator, the sun is very strong. The Galapagos can be great off-season if you wish to enjoy the national park without all the crowds, and the wildlife can be seen all year (although please speak to your travel specialist if there is a particular species you are interested in catching).

Seasonal Overview of Ecuador and the Galapagos

From the lush rainforests of the Amazon to the pristine shores of the Galapagos Islands, each season brings its own set of adventures and festivals, promising memorable journeys across this vibrant country.

Exploring Ecuador’s Top Destinations

The Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands, a historical archipelago off the coast of Ecuador, are renowned for their unique biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Key highlights include up-close encounters with endemic species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring volcanic terrains. The best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands for wildlife viewing is during the wet season, from January to May when the seas are warmer and calmer. However, the islands offer year-round adventures due to their equatorial location, ensuring a constant influx of visitors captivated by their untouched beauty and the rare chance to observe species not found anywhere else on Earth.

If you want to see certain animals, you might be dictated by their seasonal habits. For example, the waved albatross relies on the wind to fly and so are only found on Española between April and December, before they fly away again. Many birds will nest their eggs between February and April, making the months on either side a good time to see mating calls (between June and August for the blue-footed booby) or new babies. Sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins tend to gather in groups for their mating and breeding season between June and December. You’ll see giant tortoises all year round, but their eggs begin to hatch in December and babies can be seen emerging until April. To find out the best time of year to visit the Galapagos for you, speak to our travel experts.

Highlight Destinations

Ecuador's rich tapestry of destinations offers adventurers, history buffs, and beach lovers alike a treasure trove of experiences. Venturing into the Amazon Rainforest presents an unparalleled opportunity for immersion in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. Here, the dense canopy teems with exotic wildlife, and the rivers whisper secrets of ancient civilizations. Whether it's wildlife spotting, visiting indigenous communities, or river cruising through serene waters, the Amazon delivers unforgettable adventures, especially during the Ecuador wet season when the rainforest is most vibrant.

The historic cities of Quito and Cuenca are gateways to Ecuador's rich cultural heritage, each city boasting well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning churches. Quito, the capital, sits high in the Andes, offering breathtaking views and a chance to stand in the middle of the world. Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, charms with its cobblestone streets and flowering plazas, encapsulating the soul of Ecuadorian history and culture. Exploring these cities reveals the climate in Ecuador's highlands, where the weather remains mild and inviting year-round.

Ecuador's beaches stretch along the Pacific coast, offering diverse experiences from serene sunsets at tranquil bays to the lively surf scenes of towns like Montañita. The best time to travel to Ecuador for beach enthusiasts is during the dry season when the sun casts a perpetual summer glow, perfect for surfing, whale watching, or simply basking in the coastal beauty.