Ecuador Weather & Climate: Monthly Averages

Although Ecuador is not a particularly large country, it has many different climate types, largely determined by altitude. The lower parts of the country in the southwest have a subtropical climate, while the northwest has a tropical climate. Once you go further inland, the climate changes to a maritime climate, and the highest areas have a high mountain climate.

Climate Variations

It is mild year-round in the mountain valleys, humid in the tropical Pacific coastal areas, and the lowlands are covered with rainforests that experience heavy rainfall during certain periods. Due to its location on the equator, Ecuador experiences little variation in daylight hours throughout the year.

Rainfall Patterns

Along the coastal areas, almost all precipitation falls from January through May. After May, it suddenly becomes much drier, and there are places where not a drop of rain falls for weeks. In the Galápagos Islands, rain falls throughout the year, and the total annual rainfall is very high. Again, due to altitude differences, there are significant variations in both precipitation and temperature from location to location. The eastern Amazon region and the extreme northwest of Ecuador receive the most rain.

Snow and High Altitudes

On the higher elevations of the Andes Mountains, which cross the country from north to south, you will find snow. The peak of Mount Chimborazo, at [6,300 meters] ([20,669 ft]) high, is covered with eternal snow.

Best Time to Visit

It is quite difficult to name one period as the overall best travel time for Ecuador. Based on temperatures and precipitation, we would suggest July, August, and September. If you're visiting the beautiful Galápagos Islands, the warm rainy season from January to April is the best time for snorkeling; the rest of the year, the water is cooler, around 20°C (68°F).