Best time to visit Ecuador

Ecuador may be South America's fourth-smallest country, but its climate zones are as varied as its landscapes are dramatic. From snow-capped Andean peaks to the steamy Amazon jungle to those iconic Galápagos Islands, timing your visit right can make all the difference to your experience. The mainland's Andean highlands shine during the dry season (June to September), when clear mountain vistas and comfortable temperatures create perfect conditions for exploring colonial Quito or hiking around the stunning crater lake of Quilotoa. Meanwhile, the Amazon puts on its most accessible face during these months too, with slightly less rainfall making those jungle trails slightly less squelchy underfoot and wildlife viewing that bit easier. Beach bums should point their compass toward Ecuador's Pacific coast between December and April, when warm sunshine bathes the shoreline, and you can leave those rain jackets at home. Montañita's surf breaks peak during these months too, drawing board-riders from across the continent. The Galápagos Islands operate on their own magnificent schedule. While you'll never struggle to spot wildlife (it's practically tripping over your feet), December to May brings warmer waters, perfect for snorkeling alongside sea lions and marine iguanas. The seas are calmer too – good news for anyone with a delicate stomach. Flip the calendar to June through November, and you'll find cooler temperatures but nutrient-rich currents that transform the underwater world into a feeding frenzy of marine activity.

One insider tip: if witnessing the famous blue-footed booby mating dance is on your bucket list (and why wouldn't it be?), aim for June to August when these charming birds are feeling particularly romantic. Whatever season you choose, Ecuador's mind-boggling biodiversity and rich cultural tapestry will leave you wondering how they packed so much into such a compact country.