The peak seasons for travelers in Ecuador last from June through September and from late December through early January, because most American and European visitors have vacation time during these months. Cruises in the Galapagos will be booked solid during these times of year. But since Ecuador is hardly Disney World, you'll always be able to find a room [
or a berth on a ship], and the country never feels overcrowded. I find that Ecuador is great throughout the year, so whenever you visit, you won't be disappointed.
There are four distinct geographical zones in Ecuador that are all subject to their own weather patterns. In the
Galapagos, from June through September, the air and water are chilly and the winds can be a bit rough. From October through May, the air and water temperatures are warmer, but you can expect periodic light rain almost daily.
On the
coast, the rainy season lasts from December through May; this season is marked by hot weather and humidity. The cooler air temperature from June through September attracts whales and dolphins to the waters off the coast.
In
Quito and the
highlands, the weather is coolest from June through September [
the dry season], but it's only a few degrees colder than the rest of the year. Keep in mind that although
Quito is practically on the equator, the temperature can get quite cool because it's at such a high altitude [
more than 9,000 ft. above sea level]; the city has an average high of 67°F and an average low of 50°F. In the jungle area, it rains year-round, but especially hard from December through April.
The temperature in the
jungle can reach 80°F to 90°F during the day; it's a bit cooler at night.
