Weather in Ecuador

Ecuador's diverse geography means that the "best time to visit" varies significantly by region, and fortunately the peak seasons complement each other for those planning multi-region trips. The Galápagos Islands can be visited year-round, but the main differences are: June through December brings cooler, drier conditions with better underwater visibility and large swells on the western islands; January through May is warmer and wetter but with calmer seas and increased green sea turtle and marine iguana nesting activity. No season is bad for the Galápagos.

For mainland Ecuador, the highland Andes are most accessible during the dry season from June through September, when mountain views are clearest and hiking conditions best for Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and the Avenue of Volcanoes. The market towns and festivals are year-round delights, though June's Inti Raymi celebrations in Otavalo and Cayambe are spectacular. The Amazon receives rain throughout the year but is driest and easiest to navigate from December through February and June through September. The Pacific coast beaches are best visited June through August when warm sunny weather prevails along the Montañita and Manta coastlines, though whale watching (humpback whales migrating past) is prime from June through September.