Travel advice for Ecuador
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Ecuador
written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 13.11.2024
Get ready for your autumn trip with our guide to the weather in Ecuador in September. Find out what this month presents when it comes to rainfall, temperature, and unique experiences, so you can prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Travel ideas for Ecuador
Created by local experts
What is the weather like in Ecuador in September?
The weather in Ecuador in September is a mixture of different conditions, taking you from the sultry coastal Guayaquil to the misty highlands of the Andes.
On the coast, you'll find sunny days with temperatures of 24°C-32°C (75°F-90°F) — perfect beach weather and an invitation to enjoy the Ecuadorian sunshine.
Meanwhile, in places like Tena and Puyo in the Amazon rainforest, September begins with a symphony of showers and humidity, creating a green paradise for nature lovers. This weather practically begs you to grab your raincoat and embark on a tropical adventure.
As you climb to the top of the Andes where Quito rises, September marks the end of the dry season. Daytime temperatures range between 10°C and 21°C (50°F-70°F). Meanwhile, cool evenings whisper of the approaching change of season.
Don't forget the Galapagos Islands, where the warm season begins in September. Imagine snorkeling in waters ranging from 21°C to 27°C (70-80°F), surrounded by colorful marine life.
Ready to explore Ecuador? Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our Ecuador travel experts.
Bartolome Island, Galapagos, Ecuador © Seumas Christie-Johnston/Shutterstock
Is Ecuador warm in September?
The weather in Ecuador in September brings warmth to different regions. On the coast, temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F-90°F), creating the perfect beach atmosphere.
In the Amazon, it's warm with heavy rains, encouraging lush nature. In the Galapagos Islands, the warm season also begins, inviting you to explore the islands in comfortable temperatures between 21°C and 27°C (70°F-80°F).
However, in the highlands of the Andes, the end of the dry season brings cool days with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 21°C (50°F-70°F) and even cooler evenings. So, be sure to pack warmer clothing when planning a trip to this region of the country.
Rough Guides tip: Find even more ideas for your autumn adventure with our guide to the best places to travel in September.
Is September a good time to visit Ecuador?
September is a fantastic time to explore Ecuador's diverse landscapes. On the coast, you can bask on the beach and enjoy a seaside vacation. At the same time, the Amazon rainforest bursts with lush greenery and occasional warm showers.
The Andean highlands enjoy comfortably cool weather — ideal for exploring historic sites — while the Galapagos Islands boasts warmer temperatures, making it a great season for underwater adventures.
Overall, September combines warmth, coolness, and colorful nature, making it an exciting, balanced time to explore Ecuador.
Haven't picked the right time for your Ecuador trip yet? Explore our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador.
The weather in Ecuador in September sees Yasuni National Park Biosphere Reserve in lush livery
What about crowds and costs?
Although September is part of the high tourist season, you may notice a slight drop in the number of tourists compared with the peak months of June through August.
Nevertheless, it should be recognized that September still attracts a pretty large number of tourists, which affects the demand for popular attractions and accommodation.
As a consequence, the increased demand can affect the cost of accommodation and entertainment. Travelers should be prepared for the fact that prices may increase during this period.
To effectively manage costs, plan ahead, book your accommodation in advance and explore budget options that will help improve your overall experience.
Want to learn more useful information before your upcoming trip to Ecuador? Read our tips for traveling in Ecuador. You might also find it helpful to read about what you need to know before traveling to Ecuador.
Festivals and events in Ecuador in September
In September, Ecuador offers a variety of cultural and traditional festivals that provide an exciting backdrop for visitors.
Yamor Festival in Otavalo
In the first week of September, Otavalo hosts the Yamora Festival, an indigenous cultural festival that celebrates the blessing of the first yamora harvest.
This event includes colorful parades, cultural contests and lively concerts.
Cotacachi Festival
The Cotacachi Festival runs from 6th-14th September, and is a vibrant celebration of the culture and heritage of Ecuador's indigenous peoples.
Participants dress in traditional attire and perform ancestral dances, creating a lively spectacle that showcases the region's rich heritage.
Women dancing in Ecuador's traditional folk costumes © Raquel Pedrosa/Shutterstock
Festival of the Imbabura Lakes
From 24th-28th September, Ibarra hosts the Imbabura Lakes Festival. Known as the White City, Ibarra not only enchants tourists with its scenic beauty but also celebrates its legends and traditions during this event.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture while enjoying festivities that showcase the city's rich heritage.
Plan your trip with our Ecuador itineraries
Our Ecuador itinerary is crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of it as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.
- Ecuador itinerary 7 days: Spend a week exploring the main attractions of Ecuador. Ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of everything.
- Ecuador itinerary 10 days: Dive deeper with ten days in Ecuador, adding adventures in the Amazon rainforest or Cotopaxi National Park.
- Ecuador itinerary 14 days: A two-week journey lets you fully explore Ecuador. Great for travelers who want to experience the country’s diversity at a relaxed pace.
- Galapagos itinerary: Discover the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos Islands with an itinerary that covers the main highlights. Flexible options let you choose land-based stays or cruises.
- Galapagos itinerary 7 days: A week in the Galapagos gives you time to visit key islands. Ideal for wildlife lovers who want an immersive but compact experience.
- Galapagos itinerary 10 days: Spend ten days exploring several islands, with plenty of time for snorkeling, hiking, and spotting rare species of animals. Perfect if you want to delve deeper into the Galapagos ecosystem.
Malecón 2000, waterfront, Guayaquil, Ecuador © Shutterstock
