When to go, Ecuador

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Although directly on the equator and tropical in climate year round, there are still better times than others to visit the Galapagos Islands. The months of June, July and August (and into September) tend to be characterized by cool garúa (mist) and temperatures averaging 72 F. This time of the year the sea is at its roughest (but still relatively tame), the highlands tend to be dry, and the palo santo trees leafless.

If possible, it is better to visit the islands between January and May, when the climate is classically tropical: hot air temperatures, wide stretches of blue sky, and occasional - but brief - downpours. The rain brings wet richness to the highlands, making them velvety green and flowery.

Tourist traffic is at its height during summer and holiday months. These peak months can get so crowded that even finding a berth on a boat may prove difficult. Prices are also higher and flights need to be booked in advance. March, April and May, with few tourists and great weather are the ideal months to visit the islands.

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General Tips about Ecuador

» Required travel documents for Ecuador
» Electric power
» Area code to Ecuador
» Scuba Diving
» When to go
» Taxis in Ecuador
» Ecuador climate
» Ecuador Culture and Society
» Avoid travelling up El Panecillo on foot
» Quito - get around
» What to take to Galapagos
» Tipping
» What to takt to Galapagos
» Shopping
» What to Bring to Ecuador
» HIGH RISK in travel to border with Colombia
» Electricity
» Food and drink in Ecuador
» Visa information
» Saraguro
» Vilcabamba
» Parque Nacional Podocarpus
» Chimborazo
» Latacunga Loop
» Cajas National Park
» Mitad del Mundo
» Otavalo
» Quito
» La Sierra (Andes highlands)
» El Oriente (Amazon)
» Plazas
» Daphne Mayor
» Mosquera
» Seymour
» Sombrero Chino
» San Salvador (Santiago)
» Santa Maria (Floreana)
» Isabela Island
» Santa Cruz Island
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