What Is the Weather Like in Ecuador?
Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.
Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler. The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius).
Coastal cities, like Guayaquil, have a warmer, tropical climate, and the temperature varies from the low 70s to high 80s (20 – 30 degrees Celsius).
The Oriente jungle is wet throughout the year, and experiences sudden, intense rainfall even during its dry season. It is also warm throughout the year.
The Galápagos Islands are warmer in the dry, sunny season, although the water around the island chain gets cooler during this period. If you plan on snorkeling, bring a wet suit.
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Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands straddle the equator roughly 600 miles (965 km) off the coast of Ecuador and are home to one of the world’s most unique and pristine ecosystems. This remote, volcanic archipelago is a hallmark of biodiversity—they support a wide variety of endemic marine and terrestrial species seen nowhere else on Earth. And without any natural predators, the wildlife here is not only unintimidated by humans, but it’s usually quite curious about them. While roaming these islands, a wide variety of bird, tortoise and iguana species can be seen. Jump into the crystal blue waters and watch sea lions, turtles, penguins and sharks glide right in front of you. In other words, there’s a reason why the famous naturalist Charles Darwin was so inspired by the Galapagos, and it’s likely that you will be too.
Guayaquil
As the largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is the commercial heart of the country. Its crowded streets contain a vast number of impressive hotels, restaurants and plazas.
Quito
Set an elevation of 9,350 ft (2,850 m), Quito is the highest capital city in the world. The population of this bustling city is a contrasting mix of Ecuadorians sporting sleek business suits and colorful indigenous clothing. These contrasts exemplify the mix of politics, history and culture that define Quito. Founded in the 16th century atop the ruins of an Inca city, Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a premier destination for those visiting Ecuador.
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