Weather in Ecuador in December

Get ready for an extraordinary trip with our guide to the weather in Ecuador in December. Find out what this month presents in terms of rainfall, temperature, and unique experiences, so you can prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

Ecuador in December at a glance

December brings warm weather, festive energy, and the start of the wet season in many parts of Ecuador. Christmas and New Year celebrations light up cities and towns.

• Coastal areas and the Amazon see temps around 79°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C), while the Andes range from 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). The Galápagos hits 84°F to 88°F (29°C to 31°C), with warming seas.
• It’s a lively time to visit, especially if you’re into festivals, markets, and outdoor dinners. The Galápagos starts to wake up with the return of tropical rains and calmer seas.
• Travel costs climb sharply around the vacations — book everything early if you're planning a year-end escape.

What is the weather like in Ecuador in December?

The weather in Ecuador in December is a mix of different conditions that will add variety to your trip. 

In the coastal cities of Guayaquil and Manta, you'll bask in the warmth of 77°F (25°C), but keep your umbrella at hand — the wet season is approaching and the sunny weather can be interrupted by occasional downpours.

Now let's head up to Quito, the realm of the Andes, where December offers daytime highs around 66°F (19°C) — ideal for exploring historic sights. 

If you decide to take an adventure into the Amazon rainforest, towns like Tena and Puyo offer temperatures of around 77°F (25°C). At this time, the tropical forest offers a lush, colorful spectacle that's as lively as the local fauna.

Whether you plan to admire sunsets on the coast, unravel ancient tales in the highlands, or enjoy the rhythms of the rainforest, visiting Ecuador in December offers a multi-faceted experience — especially when you know how to plan a trip to Ecuador.

Is Ecuador warm in December?

The weather in Ecuador in December offers a warm embrace. In coastal areas, you can bask in temperatures of around 77°F (25°C) — perfect for beach lovers.

As you ascend to the wonders of the Andes, daytime highs of around 66°F (19°C) create favorable conditions for cultural excursions.

Continuing the trend, the Amazon rainforest sees warm average temperatures sit around 77°F (25°C).

And we mustn't forget the enchanting Galapagos Islands, where December invites you to explore a unique ecosystem in temperatures in the region of 75°F (24°C).

Besides all the other benefits, the Galapagos is also great for a family vacation. To prepare for such a trip, read our guide to Ecuador with kids.

Is December a good time to visit Ecuador?

December is a superb time to explore some of the best places to visit in Ecuador. In coastal areas, you can enjoy water sports, relax on beautiful beaches, and immerse yourself in local culture.

In Quito, nestled in the Andes, December is the perfect month to explore the city's rich history, from its colonial architecture to its indigenous markets.

Venture into the Amazon rainforest for a unique tropical experience with lush greenery and a variety of wildlife.

Not to forget the jewel of Ecuador — the Galapagos Islands, where December offers excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving, and observing unique fauna.

Whether you enjoy beach vacations, cultural exploration, rainforest adventures, or wildlife encounters, December in Ecuador promises many exciting experiences.

Haven't picked the right time for your Ecuador trip yet? Take a look at our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador.

What about crowds and costs?

In December, the number of tourists in Ecuador can vary from region to region. Coastal cities, due to the warmer weather, especially during the vacation season, may see a greater influx of visitors. Popular attractions and beaches can be much busier.

Quito, the cultural center of Ecuador, may see increased tourist activity, especially around Christmas and New Year.

The Galapagos Islands, known for their unique wildlife, tend to become even more popular at this time, which can lead to an increase in demand for tours and accommodation.

Although prices can be affected by the vacation and vacation season, Ecuador generally remains an affordable destination. It is recommended to plan and book early to get the best deals and avoid last-minute price spikes during peak vacation periods.

Ready to explore Ecuador? Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our Ecuador travel experts.

Where to go in Ecuador in December

Quito

Quito goes full-on festive in December, especially during Fiestas de Quito (early in the month). Expect street parades, chivas (party buses), concerts, and dancing in plazas. The city dresses up with lights, nativity scenes, and nonstop events. Weather-wise, it’s mild with some rain, but nothing that’ll stop a good party. Visit colonial churches, grab canelazo (hot spiced aguardiente), and dance with strangers in the street. Just book your accommodation early — Quito fills up fast this time of year.

Ayampe

This little beach town south of Puerto López is the coast’s worst-kept secret — but in December, it’s still low-key. Surfers come for the consistent waves, but yogis, digital nomads, and sunset-lovers are equally hooked. It’s dry, breezy, and just the right amount of busy. Eat tuna ceviche, take lazy walks to nearby rivers, or sit on the beach doing absolutely nothing. Ayampe doesn’t have a lot of nightlife — but that’s the point.

San Gabriel

In the far north near the Colombian border, San Gabriel is a sleepy Andean town full of 19th-century architecture and zero crowds. December is quiet here — misty mornings, green hills, and glowing Christmas lights strung over cobbled streets. Visit the El Ángel Ecological Reserve for eerie landscapes of frailejones plants and highland forest. It’s a hidden corner of Ecuador that feels totally untouched by modern tourism.

Decided to book a December break? For further inspiration, discover more of the best places to visit in December.

What to do in Ecuador in December

Celebrate Christmas in Cuenca

December 24th in Cuenca is home to El Pase del Niño Viajero, one of Latin America’s biggest Christmas parades. It’s a swirl of costumes, floats, marching bands, and baby Jesus statues — some tiny, some comically oversized. Families dress up, toss candy, and parade for hours through the colonial center. It’s chaotic, beautiful, and deeply Ecuadorian. Arrive early, grab a street-side coffee, and settle in for the show.

Climb Rucu Pichincha by cable car

In December’s clear mornings, Quito’s Teleférico (cable car) gives you jaw-dropping views of the city and snow-dusted peaks. At the top? The trail to Rucu Pichincha—an accessible summit hike that feels way more epic than its elevation suggests. It’s steep and chilly, but manageable with layers and snacks. The views? Outrageous. On a clear day, you’ll see Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and the entire Avenue of the Volcanoes laid out below.

Visit Otavalo’s pre-Christmas market

Otavalo’s market swells with pre-vacation energy in December. It’s not just about gifts — it’s a feast of color, sound, and food. Indigenous families travel in from nearby communities to sell woven goods, ceramics, and vacation snacks. Expect folk music in the plaza and hot chocolate from stalls by sunset. It’s the perfect place to stock up on handmade souvenirs — or just take in the vibe.

Plan your trip to Ecuador in December

December kicks off Ecuador’s high season — especially in the Galápagos and the highlands. Expect warm days, clear skies in the Andes, and the start of the wet season in the Amazon. It’s a great month to travel, but you won’t be alone — book early if you’re headed anywhere popular over the vacations.

Vacation season gets busy

Christmas and New Year are big here. Hotels fill fast, flights get pricey, and buses can be packed. If you’re traveling in late December, reserve transport and rooms ahead of time — especially in the Galápagos or major cities.

Plan your itinerary

Ecuador itineraries that help you plan, not over-plan. Here’s how to hit Ecuador’s best spots — with room to breathe.

• 7-day Ecuador itinerary: Kick off in Quito, then head north to Otavalo for indigenous markets and misty hikes around Lake Cuicocha. Swing south through the Avenue of Volcanoes — hike around Cotopaxi or zipline in Baños. Short trip, big variety.
• 10-day Ecuador itinerary: After seeing Quito and Otavalo, dive into the Amazon for canoe rides and wildlife tours. From there, detour to Baños for a soak or swing off the “End of the World”. End your trip with Cuenca’s cobbled lanes and laid-back charm.
• Galapagos itinerary: Whether you’re cruising or doing it land-based, the Galápagos is all about otherworldly nature. Swim with marine iguanas, hike volcanic trails, and visit research stations to see conservation in action. No two islands are the same.

What to pack

Weather can vary wildly by region — December’s dry in the highlands, but wet in the Amazon and Galápagos. Pack light, layer up, and be ready for rain.

• Rain jacket. Essential for the Amazon and afternoon showers on the islands.
• Warm layers. Quito and the Andes cool off at night.
• Sturdy shoes. You’ll be hiking, scrambling, and exploring.
• Swimwear + sandals. Hot springs, island beaches, jungle rivers — you’ll use them all.
• Insect repellent. Especially important in the rainforest.

Bring small cash for markets and buses

US dollars are used everywhere, but coins and small bills are key for local buses, street food, and market shopping — especially outside major cities.

Ready to plan your adventure?

Get more practical tips in our guide on how to plan a trip to Ecuador, or dig deeper with our full Ecuador travel guide. If you'd rather skip the planning altogether, check out our tailor-made trips for Ecuador.