December signals the return to the mainland wet season, especially on the coast and in the Amazon, with frequent afternoon rain. The Galápagos shifts toward its warmer, wetter season, with calmer seas favorable to some marine activities.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Ecuador in December.
Guayaquil, Salinas, Manta, Montañita
December returns to hot, humid conditions with the onset of the main rainy period; cities like Guayaquil experience sticky evenings and frequent, heavy afternoon storms. Holiday travelers will find busier airports and beach towns filling up despite the rain, and marine excursion operators sometimes adjust itineraries for weather. Pack waterproof bags, expect warm seawater, and check schedules closely for any weather-related changes.
Otavalo, Ibarra, Cayambe, Imbabura
December usually features regular showers but with some clear windows, and festive markets around towns like Otavalo pick up for the holiday season. Mountain mornings can be dramatic with clouds lifting to reveal snow on the highest summits; evenings are cold and often damp. Travelers should expect green scenery and slower travel between rural sites due to muddy conditions.
Quito, Cotopaxi, Latacunga, Baños
December is wet but festive: Quito and surrounding towns host holiday events while the countryside is very green and waterfalls run high. Short clear mornings occur, but afternoon rains are common, so plan indoor activities or early starts for treks. Travelers should bring layered clothing, waterproof footwear, and be prepared for cool, damp evenings.
Cuenca, Loja, Vilcabamba, Cajas
December is generally wet but with intermittent clear spells that make for dramatic mountain vistas when clouds lift; holiday traffic brings more visitors to Cuenca despite the rain. Evenings are cool and damp, so a warm, water-resistant jacket is recommended. Travelers should plan for lush scenery and be prepared for occasional itinerary changes due to weather.
Tena, Coca, Lago Agrio, Yasuní
December is firmly back in the wet season with heavy rainfall common and high humidity; boat travel becomes dominant for moving between communities and lodges. Jungle lodges are atmospheric with dense green growth and roaring rivers, but expect muddy conditions and frequent inconvenience for land travel. Bring waterproof gear, insect protection, and be prepared for schedules impacted by river and road conditions.
Santa Cruz/Puerto Ayora, San Cristóbal, Isabela, Floreana
December completes the shift back into the warm, wet season - days grow warmer and shorter showers return while the islands stay green and active. Boat traffic increases with holiday travelers and popular visitor sites are busier; sea conditions are generally calmer for snorkeling and day trips. Bring light rain protection, reef-safe sunblock, and book inter-island transport early for the holiday period.
Quito's founding festival includes concerts, parades and cultural events centered on the capital's historic center.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.