Ecuador's diverse geography—encompassing the Andes, Amazon, and Pacific coast, plus the Galapagos—means there isn't one "best" time to visit the entire country, as regional climates vary considerably. Each season offers unique advantages and disadvantages depending on your chosen adventure, influencing weather, crowds, and potential pricing.
The high season for tourism generally spans June, July, August, and then again in December and January. These months typically offer drier, clearer weather in the Andean highlands and Amazon, making them popular for trekking and exploring. Consequently, you can expect larger crowds at major attractions, and accommodation and tour prices, particularly for the Galapagos Islands, tend to be at their peak due to increased demand and international holidays.
Conversely, February and March often constitute the low season. While this period can bring more rain to parts of the highlands and Amazon, it also means fewer tourists and potentially better deals on flights and lodging. The shoulder seasons, outside these peak and low months, can offer a pleasant balance of good weather, moderate crowds, and reasonable prices, providing an excellent opportunity for more tranquil and cost-effective travel.