LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL GUIDEBOOK INFORMATION
When to Go
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Ecuador is a year-round destination. Each region of Ecuador – the Andes, the Pacific coast, the Oriente and the Galápagos – has its optimal visiting season. Details are given in respective chapters. In terms of weather, there are only two real seasons – the rainy season and the dry season – but there are significant variations among the geographical regions, and temperature is often a factor of altitude. Even during the rainy season, most days are sunny until the afternoon.
The highland dry season is June through until the end of September. In the Oriente, it rains during most months, but August and December through March are usually the driest. Both seasons have their advantages and disadvantages.
In the Galápagos, the wildlife is there year-round. If you’re at all prone to sea sickness, avoid the rough-sea months of July through October. The dry season (June to December) is also cool and often misty.
On the coast, the wet season (roughly January to May) sees sunny days with daily afternoon downpours, but it’s the best beach weather. The dry season (roughly June to December) is cooler and usually overcast.
Tourist high seasons throughout Ecuador coincide with European, North American and Ecuadorian vacation periods, roughly mid-December through January and June through August. During this time, accommodation rates are highest, and reservations at more popular lodging options are advised.
Accommodations can be hard to find during local festivals, so reserve in advance if you plan to arrive during a town celebration. Dates for these are provided in respective destination sections.
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