The Galápagos Islands and Ecuador have quite different climates, so we have split them into each region below.
The best time to visit the Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination with only a few subtle differences in temperature and rainfall. January to June are considered the warmer but wetter months with sunshine, warm waters and short tropical showers. This is the best time of year for snorkelling.
July to December are cooler, drier months, although temperatures are still pleasant. The open seas can often be choppier as the cold Humboldt current pushes through on the trade winds. Up in the highlands a mist or fog called the garua can often descend. For a favourable combination of weather, water temperatures and wildlife activity, go in the transition months between April and May or November and December.
The best time to visit Ecuador
Although a relatively small country, Ecuador varies from Andean highlands to Amazon rainforest and coastal regions. With this diverse geography comes a changeable climate.
For Quito and the Andean towns the best time to visit is the dry season between April and October. The wet season is from October to May when the sun shines brightly in the morning but there are heavy downpours by the afternoon.
The climate in the Amazon is hot and humid with average temperatures around 24C to 28C and high precipitation throughout the year. September is the driest month, though showers are still possible.
On the coast the climate is generally hot and humid, temperatures averaging between 25C and 31C. The rainy season is between December and May when the humidity levels are at their highest.