Weather in Quito, Ecuador: What’s The Best Time To Travel
Quick Facts About Quito
| Altitude | 2,850 m |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Highs of about 20 to 22 °C and lows of about 8 to 9 °C all year (station averages) |
| Driest months | June to September |
| Sun | UV index frequently above 11 |
Our Take On Quito
Quito has moderate, spring-like weather all year, with a dry season from June to mid-September and fog possible at any time. The city sits at high elevation among mountains, so conditions can change abruptly and thunderstorms may appear without warning. We were there at the end of September and we never caught the rain. Still, bring an umbrella.
Quito, Ecuador has a moderate to subtropical mountain climate. Temperatures are moderate and spring-like all year, with a dry season from June to mid-September, which is more noticeable in the city’s northern outskirts. Fog may occur at any time of year, especially at night and in the early morning.
Since Quito’s average annual temperature is 15°C (59°F), there is never a bad time to visit this Ecuadorian city. The Andes Mountains‘ position greatly affects the city’s weather patterns.
The winter months of June, July, and August are the most popular times to travel to Quito since the weather is pleasant, bright, and dry with minimal wind or rain.
The rainy season in summer during the months of December through March deters some people from taking city walks. Throughout the year, keep in mind that it might be cool at night, especially when a cold front comes through.
How Does Altitude Affect The Weather In Quito?
Quito is located at an elevation of 2,850 meters, almost a mile above sea level, and is surrounded by mountains. Because of this great height and the neighboring mountains, the weather can change abruptly at any time. It is fairly common for a thunderstorm to appear out of nowhere.
| City | Altitude (m) | Average high (°C) | Average low (°C) | Rain per year (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quito | 2,850 | 20.7 | 8.6 | 1,100 |
| Cuenca | 2,550 | 20.9 | 10.6 | 876 |
| Otavalo | 2,532 | 20.1 | 8.3 | 814 |
| Baños | 1,820 | 22.1 | 12.7 | 1,447 |
| Guayaquil | 4 | 31.1 | 21.7 | 1,186 |
Averages from each city's own station; the periods differ slightly.
Quito is located at an elevation of almost a mile above sea level. Aside from the tremendous height, it is surrounded by mountains. Because of the great height and neighboring mountains, the weather might change abruptly at any time. It’s fairly unusual for a thunderstorm to appear out of nowhere.
What Weather Tips Should Travelers Know For Quito?
To avoid rainy days, visit between June and September. Rain falls often from October to May, heaviest in March and April. Temperatures stay around 20 to 22 °C by day and 8 to 9 °C at night, while humidity and rainfall fluctuate. Quito gets a steady 12.5 hours of daylight thanks to its equatorial position.
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| UV index on many days | Above 11 (extreme) |
| Highest record in a 2010 to 2014 study | 21.3, on 2 February 2010 |
- If you want to avoid rainy days in Quito, you should go between June and September.
- It may rain a lot in Quito from October to May, with the heaviest rain falling in March and April.
- Temperatures in Quito do not fluctuate significantly throughout the year. The rain – and the resultant humidity levels – do fluctuate.
- Quito gets a steady 12.5 hours of daylight every year due to its equatorial position.
- I would recommend taking ChlorOxygen 1-2 weeks ahead of the trip so it’s easier to deal with high altitudes.
When Is The Best Time To Travel To Quito?
The best time is June to September, the driest months, since rain and heavy rainstorms are less likely then. We were there at the end of September and never caught the rain. If you like rain, the rainy season lasts from October to May, with the heaviest rain in March and April.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20.3 °C | 8.6 °C | 81.3 mm |
| February | 20.2 °C | 8.7 °C | 109.1 mm |
| March | 20.4 °C | 8.8 °C | 142.4 mm |
| April | 20.3 °C | 9 °C | 168.2 mm |
| May | 20.5 °C | 9 °C | 120.5 mm |
| June | 20.9 °C | 8.5 °C | 41.3 mm |
| July | 21.3 °C | 8.2 °C | 22 mm |
| August | 21.6 °C | 8.1 °C | 31.5 mm |
| September | 21.4 °C | 8.4 °C | 69.4 mm |
| October | 20.8 °C | 8.6 °C | 112.1 mm |
| November | 20.1 °C | 8.5 °C | 108.5 mm |
| December | 20.2 °C | 8.6 °C | 93.6 mm |
Monthly averages from the Quito, Mariscal Sucre International Airport station, 1991 to 2020.
Although the weather in Quito fluctuates little, there are certainly better days to visit than others. Consider coming from June to September to avoid rain and the possibility of heavy rainstorms. We were there at the end of September and we never caught the rain.
If you like rain, the rainy season lasts from October to May, with the heaviest rain falling in March and April. And, while the temperature doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year, the humidity and volume of rain do.
Quito, Ecuador is a lovely city rich in culture and charm. Although you may expect temperate weather when visiting and exploring the city, don’t forget to bring an umbrella. Check the best things to do in Quito in our previous article.
Questions About Quito
What is the weather like in Quito?
Quito's average highs stay between about 20 and 22 °C and lows around 8 to 9 °C all year, because the city sits at 2,850 m.
What is the best month to visit Quito?
The driest months at the airport station are June to September (see the monthly table).
Why is it so cold in Quito?
Quito is at 2,850 m, which keeps the climate cool all year despite its position on the equator.
How should you dress in Quito?
Quito has spring-like temperatures year round, but nights can be cool, especially when a cold front arrives, and fog may occur at night and early morning. Weather can change abruptly, so an umbrella should be brought even in temperate weather.
Is the sun strong in Quito?
The UV index is frequently above 11 in Quito, and the highest record in a 2010 to 2014 study was 21.3.
Which is the rainiest month in Quito?
At the airport station April is the wettest month, with 168 mm of rain on average, and July is the driest, with 22 mm.
