Climate - Ecuador

Each of Ecuador’s main geographical areas has a its own distinct climate, allowing travelers to visit the country all year long. The climate is generally tropical, though the Andes’ influence means it is also moderate. Temperatures are therefore relatively cool in higher altitudes, and there are considerable variations between regions. In short, Ecuador has two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season lasts from December to May in the flatlands and from January to April on the coast, with daily showers that get stronger later in the day. It rains all year long in the Amazon region, though more precipitation occurs between April and June. The dry season lasts for the rest of the year.

The coast benefits from a warm and dry climate all year long, particularly between April and June. The beaches are lovely and the temperatures are generally ideal for swimming. The rainy season takes place between January and April. Later in the year between July and August, clouds and fog appear. The cold Humboldt Current influences climate in the southern coast, where temperatures are generally cooler.

The Sierra | The Sierra’s climate is often described as “permanent spring”. Here, temperatures stay cool, particularly in higher altitudes (14°C to 18°C), and temperature differences between night and day are surprising. The rainy season lasts from December to May, but there is considerable cloud cover throughout the year. The best time to visit is between June and September, when temperatures are generally comfortable and there is less humidity.

The Oriente | As one would expect, the Oriente climate is hot and humid, with rainfall occurring throughout the year, especially between April and June. The tropical forest covers most of the eastern half of the country, and the average temperature is 25°C. It can get pretty cold in the forest, particularly at night and when it rains.

The Galápagos | The climate of the Galápagos Islands is influenced by the Humboldt Current and is thus dry and tropical. There are two main seasons: the dry season (or Garua season) and the warm season. During the dry season, which lasts between June and November, temperatures oscillate between 20°C and 24°C and the waters are cooler than during the rainy season. There is very little rain, but the wind blowing from the south brings a quasi-permanent fog (Garuas). During the warm season, which lasts from December to May, average temperatures rise to 25°C, with a warm sun and sporadic rains.