Ecuador in February: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for February
Average temperature across Ecuador in February.
City Weather in February
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quito | 19° | 7° | 124 mm | very high | Cool |
| Guayaquil | 30° | 22° | 267 mm | very high | Warm |
| Tumebamba | 22° | 9° | 85 mm | very high | Cool |
| Santo Domingo, Ecuador | 27° | 19° | 452 mm | very high | Mild |
| Ambato, Ecuador | 20° | 9° | 50 mm | very high | Cool |
| Portoviejo | 31° | 22° | 125 mm | very high | Warm |
| Durán, Ecuador | 30° | 22° | 274 mm | very high | Warm |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Pacific Coast (Guayaquil, Salinas, Manta, Montañita)
February keeps the coast warm and often wet, especially after a strong El Niño year when rainfall increases significantly. Manta and Esmeraldas get more frequent heavy showers and river mouths can run high, so expect occasional road delays after storms. This is still a good time for surfing and whale-watching excursions off the coast, but carry waterproof bags for gear and be prepared for humid evenings in Guayaquil.
Northern Highlands (Otavalo, Ibarra, Cayambe, Imbabura)
February brings frequent afternoon showers higher in the Imbabura and Cayambe foothills, making waterfalls and cloud forests lush and green. Markets and craft villages still bustle between showers, but high-altitude trekking routes can be slippery and streams may be swollen. Travelers should allow extra time for day trips and carry waterproof gear for cameras and electronics.
Central Highlands & Quito Area (Quito, Cotopaxi, Latacunga, Baños)
February brings regular showers to the central sierra that keep páramo and Andean valleys vibrant; Baños is especially splashy with powerful waterfalls after storms. Quito’s historic center often has comfortable, cool days with occasional downpours-pack an umbrella for sudden showers. High-altitude volcano routes like Cotopaxi can be hazardous in heavy rain, so check with guides before attempting ascents.
Southern Highlands (Cuenca, Loja, Vilcabamba, Cajas)
February remains fairly wet in the southern sierra with frequent showers that keep the páramo and cloud forests lush; Loja’s surrounding cloud forests are particularly damp. Birdwatchers find active species but should expect muddy tracks and occasional road slowdowns. Carry insect repellent and a good rain jacket, and plan indoor/cultural fallback options when heavy rains make remote access trickier.
Amazon Basin (Tena, Coca, Lago Agrio, Yasuní)
February remains intensely humid with substantial convective rainfall characteristic of the upper Amazon; temporary flooding of low trails is common and canopy hikes can be steamy. Wildlife-viewing by boat is productive because animals use river edges, but terrestrial trails are slippery. Bring quick-dry clothing, waterproof boots, and expect warm, wet nights in jungle lodges.
Galápagos Islands (Santa Cruz/Puerto Ayora, San Cristóbal, Isabela, Floreana)
February remains warm and often wet across the islands, with occasional heavy rain showers and lush inland vegetation on islands like Santa Cruz and Floreana. Marine life is abundant and chances of seeing sea turtles and manta rays while snorkeling are high; beach landings are comfortable. Travelers should bring reef-safe sunscreen, lightweight clothing, and be mindful that El Niño years can bring unusually warm, rainy conditions that change wildlife behavior.