When is the best time to visit Ecuador?

One of the most fascinating things about Ecuador, and one that I have been surprised by, is how quickly the weather change and how important it is to dress In layers. The seasons don’t work the same way as in Europe but depending on where in the country are. And in fact, you can’t really say that there are seasons in Ecuador, but instead you talk about the rainy season and the dry season, since the country is located on equator.

With the Andes, Amazon, the pacific coast and the Galapagos islands, Ecuador offers year-around experiences. After five weeks here, I have learn that there is actually no wrong time to travel here – but some periods are better suited for certain journeys.

The Andes (Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños)

·      The best moths: June to September – the dry season, perfect for hiking, volcano tours and cloudless views

·      Rainy months: October to may – still possible to travel but expect afternoon showers.

·      My tip: During the rainy season the morning are often sunny, so it is a good idea to start the hiking early

Amazon

·      Tropical weather all year round, but with small differences:

·      June to November: little drier, lower water level which do the jungle trek easier.

·      December to may: more rain but higher rivers which allow sailing longer further the jungle.

The coast:

·       December to may: warm, sunny and ideal for beach vacation

·       June to November: cooler and cloudier – But it is the high season for humpback whales, especially around Puerto Lopez.

Galapagos island: 

·      January to May: warmer weather, calmer seas and good conditions for snorkeling and diving.

·      June to November: cooler and more nutrient-rich sea water which attracts a wealth of marine life – however the waves can be strong. 

The food follows the seasons

Something you can also notice, about Ecuador is that the food changes with the seasons. On the coast the fruit season means juice and smoothies popping up everywhere. In the mountains is potatoes and corns absolutely central, especially in the cooler moths. Regardless of when you travel, there is always fresh raw materials, which adds flavor to the experience.

So when is the best time to visit Ecuador?

It all depends on what you want to experience: volcano hikes I the dry mountain season, whale watching on the coast or snorkeling among sealions on Galapagos Island. The beautiful thing about Ecuador is that every season has its own high point – So the best time to go is really whenever you have the opportunity.

"Wondering when to visit Ecuador? Discover the best time to travel to the Andes, Amazon, Pacific Coast and Galápagos. Get tips on weather, seasons and must-do experiences."

by Explorsierra Tourism Agency Ecuador