Ecuador is a country with a lot to offer visitors, from its vibrant culture and beautiful scenery to its exciting adventure activities. However, there are certain times of year when it is best to avoid visiting Ecuador.
- The rainy season, which runs from October to May, can make travel difficult and uncomfortable, with frequent showers and heavy downpours.
- In addition, the summer months (June to September) can be extremely hot and humid, making it unpleasant to be outdoors for long periods of time.
Above both rainy season and summer months, are considered as the worst time to visit Ecuador.
Why rainy season and summer months worst time to visit Ecuador?
Many people don’t know that the rainy season and summer months are actually the worst time to visit Ecuador. The combination of high humidity, constant rain, and extreme heat can make for a very uncomfortable experience. Here’s a breakdown of why these months are the least ideal for travel.
Rainy Season: The rainy season in Ecuador typically runs from October to May. This is also the country’s hottest and most humid time of year. The constant rains can make for very muddy conditions, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to sightsee or enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, many businesses close down during this time because of the weather. So, if you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, you may want to consider avoiding the rainy season altogether.
Summer Months: Although the summer months (June to September) are technically the dry season, they are still extremely hot and humid. This is due to the fact that Ecuador is located near the equator, so it doesn’t experience much of a temperature change throughout the year. If you do decide to visit during this time, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated!
Afterall, unless you’re a fan of extreme heat and humidity, we recommend avoiding Ecuador during the rainy season or summer months. However, if you do decide to visit during this time, be sure to be prepared for uncomfortable conditions.
Preparing for the Rainy Season in Ecuador
For many, the rainy season is the best time to visit Ecuador. The temperatures are cooler, the air is cleaner, and the crowds are thinner. But if you’re not used to dealing with wet weather, it can be tough to know what to expect and how to prepare. Here are a few things you should keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to Ecuador during the rainy season.
Bring the right gear. If you’re not used to walking around in wet weather, make sure you pack a good pair of rain boots and an umbrella. A lightweight rain jacket is also a good idea. And don’t forget your swimsuit! Even though it’s raining, there’s still plenty to do—you just have to be prepared.
Be aware of road conditions. During the rainy season, roads can become flooded and landslides are more common. So be sure to check the local news before setting out on any long drives. And if you do encounter flooding or landslides, don’t attempt to drive through them. Turn around and find another route.
Know what activities are still possible. Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all day. There are plenty of activities that can be done in bad weather, like visiting one of Ecuador’s many museums or taking a cooking class. Just make sure you check ahead of time to see what’s open and what’s not.
Be prepared for power outages. Heavy rains can sometimes lead to power outages, so it’s a good idea to charge your phone and other devices before they happen. And if you’re worried about staying connected while you’re traveling, consider buying a portable charger or two. That way, even if the power does go out, you’ll still be able to stay in touch with your family and friends back home.
A Guide to Summer in Ecuador
Apart from rainy season, if you’re planning on visiting Ecuador during the summer, there are a few things you should be prepared for. From the weather to the food, here’s what you need to know about summer in Ecuador.
Summer in Ecuador is generally hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees Celsius. The coastline can be particularly stifling, so if you’re planning on spending any time there, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and lighter clothing. June through September are also the rainy months in Ecuador, so be prepared for some showers (and even the occasional thunderstorm).
What to Pack
Because of the hot and humid weather, you’ll want to pack light, airy clothing that breathes well. Cotton shirts and shorts are always a good choice. You’ll also want to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat orsunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun. And don’t forget your swimsuit if you plan on spending any time at the beach.
Are there any areas of the country that are particularly dangerous to visit?
Ecuador is safe to visit. However, there are certain areas of the country that are more dangerous than others. For example, the northern city of Ibarra has a higher crime rate than the rest of the country, and petty theft and pickpocketing are common in tourist areas such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. There have also been reports of robberies on buses between these cities.
In terms of natural disasters, Ecuador is located in an earthquake zone, and there have been several large earthquakes in recent years, including a 7.8 magnitude quake in 2016 that killed hundreds of people. Additionally, the country is located in an area that is prone to volcanic eruptions; the most recent one occurred in August 2017.
Be sure to do your research before you travel so that you can stay safe while you enjoy everything that this beautiful country has to offer.
Final Words
Based on the information above, the worst time to visit Ecuador is during the rainy season and summer months.
Not only will the weather be less than ideal, but tourist attractions will be crowded and prices will be higher.
If you are determined to visit Ecuador during these times, be sure to pack your raincoat and sunscreen!
