Weather in Ecuador in February

Planning a trip to Ecuador in winter? FInd out everything you need to know from this detailed guide to the weather in Ecuador in February. Covering rainfall, temperature ranges, and humidity levels, it'll equip you for the climate and help you plan an unforgettable adventure in Ecuador.

Ecuador in February at a glance

February in Ecuador is steamy and festive. Expect humid days, surprise showers, and countrywide Carnival chaos — water balloons, foam spray, and plenty of dancing. Cities like Guaranda and Ambato are the heart of the action.

• Temperatures along the coast range from 80°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C), while the highlands hover between 57°F and 68°F (14°C to 20°C). The Galápagos stays warm and humid, with highs up to 88°F (31°C) and water temperatures around 77°F (25°C).
• It’s a great time to soak up local culture — if you don’t mind getting wet. The Amazon’s lush and alive, while the Galápagos is ideal for spotting nesting birds and sea turtles.
• Book ahead for Carnival weekend, as prices spike and accommodations fill fast. Outside the vacation rush, things are relatively calm — and affordable — across most regions.

What's the weather like in Ecuador in February?

The weather in Ecuador in February varies significantly across its diverse regions. The coastal areas, including cities like Guayaquil, typically experience warm temperatures averaging around 79°F (26°C). Meanwhile, the highlands, such as in Quito, are cooler with averages of 59°F (15°C). At the same time, the Amazon region is warmer and more humid.

Rainfall in February can be quite pronounced, especially along the coast and in the Amazon. The coast sees around 200 mm (7.9 inches) of rain, while the highlands receive about 100 mm (3.9 inches). 

This makes February one of the wetter months to visit Ecuador, particularly in the coastal and Amazon areas. This can impact outdoor activities and transportation plans.

February falls in the high season for the Galápagos Islands due to the wildlife viewing opportunities. However, for the mainland, it's more of a shoulder season because of the rain, though the Carnival season can see a spike in local tourism. 

In summary, expect a mix of sunny weather and rain, and be ready to adjust your outdoor plans and travel routes — planning a trip to Ecuador means staying flexible.

Is Ecuador warm in February?

In Ecuador in February, temperatures vary from region to region. On the coast, warm weather is expected with temperatures averaging around 79°F (26°C). In the highlands, temperatures are milder and hover around 59°F (15°C), while the Amazon region tends to be warmer and more humid.

Temperatures are warm in coastal areas and the Galapagos Islands, making February ideal for beach vacations, snorkeling and wildlife excursions.

Cooler temperatures in the highlands are ideal for cultural sightseeing, hiking and enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Andes.

In the Amazon, warm and humid conditions provide excellent opportunities to explore the rainforest, spot wildlife and immerse yourself in nature.

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

Is February a good time to visit Ecuador?

Yes, February is a favorable time to explore some of the best places to visit in Ecuador, offering a mix of experiences across its diverse regions. 

Coastal areas enjoy warm temperatures, making it an excellent time for beach activities. In the highlands, the weather is milder, ideal for exploring cultural sites and hiking. The Amazon region provides a unique opportunity for rainforest adventures. 

While rain can be expected — especially along the coast and in the Amazon — February marks the Galápagos Islands' high season, as it's a great month in terms of showcasing wildlife. 

Whether you're seeking beach relaxation, cultural exploration, or nature adventures, Ecuador in February provides a balanced mix of favorable conditions.

Not sure when to take your Ecuador trip? Explore our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador.

What about crowds and costs?

In Ecuador, February sees moderate crowds, striking a balance between the bustling high season and quieter times. The Carnival season brings a burst of color and celebration, drawing both local and international visitors — lively, but not overwhelming.

Costs stay fairly reasonable, though you might notice slight price bumps in tourist areas due to the festivities. Still, accommodation and tours remain affordable, making Ecuador a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers.

It’s also a fun time to explore Ecuador with kids. Parades, music, and a festive atmosphere offer a cultural experience that’s exciting and family-friendly, without the full-on peak season pressure.

Where to go in Ecuador in February

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Wet season means flooded trails — but that’s exactly what makes Cuyabeno so unique. Explore by canoe, gliding silently through mirror-like waterways. This remote Amazon reserve bursts with life in February: squirrel monkeys chatter overhead, caimans lurk along riverbanks, and if you're lucky, you’ll spot pink river dolphins. Lodges are rustic but immersive, with guided night walks and shamanic visits giving you a deeper look at rainforest life. Yes, it’s humid. Yes, you’ll get wet. But you’ll also get a raw, unforgettable Amazon experience that feels completely removed from the outside world.

Montañita

If you're craving sun, sand, and a party, Montañita brings it. February is peak season here, and the town doesn't hold back. Think full-moon beach raves, DJs spinning until sunrise, and a carefree crowd from across the globe. Surf’s up too—waves are solid this time of year, and surf schools are everywhere. But there’s more than mayhem. Head just outside town for quieter beaches or coastal hikes. Stay in the thick of it, or retreat to hilltop hostels for a sea-view detox. Just don’t expect peace and quiet — this town comes with a built-in bassline.

Zaruma

Not many travelers make it to Zaruma, which makes it all the more rewarding. Tucked into the southern highlands, this old gold-mining town feels like stepping back in time. Wooden balconies hang over cobbled streets, and cafes serve thick coffee with a view. February’s light rains keep the hills lush, and you’ll likely have hiking trails all to yourself. Explore abandoned mines, or hit the nearby Bosque Petrificado Puyango, filled with ancient fossilized trees. It's a great detour if you're road-tripping between Cuenca and Machala — and a welcome change of pace from Ecuador’s more hyped-up stops.

Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February vacation.

What to do in Ecuador in February

Celebrate Carnaval in Guaranda

Forget orderly parades — Carnaval in Guaranda is pure chaos, and that's the point. Held just before Lent, it’s a raucous mix of Indigenous and Catholic traditions, where the entire town becomes a battleground of water fights, foam spray, and canned paint. Locals embrace the madness with music, dancing, and endless shots of canelazo, a hot cinnamon-and-booze drink. Expect to get soaked, covered in flour, and maybe even blessed by a dancing devil or two. Bring a change of clothes — or just surrender to the mess. It’s one of Ecuador’s most unfiltered, fun festivals.

Raft the Río Pastaza

February's rains crank up the flow of the Río Pastaza, turning it into a wild ride for white-water rafting. Based out of Baños, you’ll tackle Class III and IV rapids through jungle-lined gorges with expert guides. There’s a serious adrenaline buzz, but also calm stretches where you can soak in the scenery — steep cliffs, waterfalls, and tropical birds flashing overhead. You don’t need experience, just a willingness to get drenched and paddle hard. Combine it with a soak in the nearby hot springs for the ultimate waterlogged day.

Take a cacao tour near Vinces

Skip the standard chocolate stores and go straight to the source. Near Vinces, in Ecuador’s coastal lowlands, you can tour old plantations where cacao trees grow in sticky, tropical heat. February is harvest time, so you’ll see the full process — from pod to bar. Try raw cacao fruit (surprisingly tangy), learn how beans are fermented and dried, and finish with rich, handmade chocolate. Some tours include horseback rides or canoe trips through river-fed farmland. It’s a sweet escape from the usual highland loop — and a great way to taste Ecuador’s world-class chocolate at its roots.

Plan your trip to Ecuador in February

February’s a mixed bag — wet in the Amazon and Galápagos, drier in the highlands. Carnival brings street parties and parades, especially in cities like Ambato and Guaranda. If you don’t mind some rain (and the occasional water fight), it’s a fun time to explore — just plan with a little flexibility.

Check the Carnival calendar

Carnival usually falls in February, and it’s a big deal in Ecuador. Expect water balloons, foam spray, and street parades — fun, chaotic, and messy. Popular spots book up fast, so plan ahead if you’re traveling around those dates.

Plan your itinerary

Our Ecuador itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as starting points — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to match your own pace.

• Ecuador in 7 days – Wander Quito’s colonial streets, take a selfie at the equator, then spend a few days hiking and ziplining around Baños. If there’s time, squeeze in Cotopaxi or the cloud forest in Mindo.
• Ecuador in 10 days – Same vibe, more depth. After Quito and Baños, head to the Amazon for jungle treks and night safaris. Then cut through the highlands to Cuenca — think relaxed plazas, Inca ruins, and good food.
• Galapagos itinerary – Spend a week or more island-hopping. Snorkel with reef sharks, go birdwatching on Genovesa, or kayak past sea turtles. Cruises cover more ground, but land-based trips give you more flexibility (and let you sleep in).

What to pack

Rain is likely — especially in the jungle and on the islands — but you’ll still get sunny spells. Come prepared for both.

• Rain jacket. Even in the highlands, showers can sneak up on you.
• Quick-dry clothes. Handy for the humid Amazon and splashy Carnival fun.
• Sturdy shoes or sandals. Useful on muddy trails and volcanic islands.
• Swimsuit + towel. Hot springs, waterfalls, ocean dips — February’s got them all.
• Dry bag. Keeps your gear safe when you're boating or caught in a downpour.

Expect mud and river crossings in the Amazon

Trails can be waterlogged this time of year, and river levels run high. Waterproof trunks and a sense of humor go a long way — embrace the mess.

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.