What Is the Weather Like in Quito?
March 2025
When I announced my move to Quito, my family asked surprised, “Won’t you melt in that heat?” Their reaction revealed a common misconception about places close to the equator. What they didn’t realize is that Quito’s extraordinary elevation at 2,850 meters (9,350 ft) completely transforms tropical climate expectations of sweltering, oppressive humidity.
To put this into perspective, cities like Denver, Colorado, and St. Moritz, Switzerland – both renowned for their high-altitude settings – sit at around 1,600 and 1,800 meters respectively. Yet Quito towers more than 1,000 meters higher, creating a climate that defies geographical expectations.
Perched in the Andes, Ecuador’s vibrant capital offers a spring-like climate that feels like nature’s best-kept secret. Now I enjoy a beautiful mild climate year-round, while my family melts during the European summer, and freezes during the winter.
Quito Weather in a Nutshell
One of the main reasons Quito is such a popular retirement destination for expats is its subtropical highland climate with spring-like weather year-round. The average temperature is 15°C (59°F) pretty much every month, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 22°C (47°F to 72°F). The two main factors that make for these Goldilocks conditions are:
- Proximity to the equator: Quito lies only about 26 km (16 miles) south of the equator line; hence the weather has little seasonal variation.
- Elevation of 2850 m a.s.l. (9350 ft): While places at similar latitudes have a tropical climate with high temperatures, Quito has mild temperatures thanks to the altitude.
Does Quito Experience Seasons?
Yes, Quito has two seasons:
- Dry season from June to September
Often referred to as “summer”. Skies are usually clear and there are days (sometimes even weeks) without any rainfall. Sun radiation can be very high, so it is important to use proper sun protection. Otherwise lush, green areas in and around Quito might look arid and brown. - Wet season from October to May
Often referred to as “winter”. Days are often cloudy, and it rains more frequently, although not every day. Sunny mornings and rain showers during the afternoon and at night are common. Parks and the hills in and around the city are lush and green.
Due to its location on the equator, sunrise and sunset times almost don’t vary throughout the year. Sunrise is at around 6:15 am and sunset at around 6:15 pm. So, a day in Quito always lasts about 12 hours.
Weather Data for Quito
The following climate graph illustrates recent weather data of Quito. It showcases the little temperature variations throughout the year and which months experience the most and the least rainfall.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Quito?
Due to its mild temperatures year-round, Quito is lovely to visit any time of year. Even when it rains, it never gets too cold and even when the sun is out, it never gets too hot.
As Quito can still be considered a hidden gem, there is no mass tourism and there is no rise in prices for tourist attractions and accommodation during peak season.
The advantage of visiting during the dry season, from June to September, is that amazing views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, including Cotopaxi and Cayambe, are almost guaranteed.
The advantage of visiting during the wet season is that the green spaces in and around Quito are truly green and lush, instead of brown and arid. My sister usually visited me in Quito during her summer holidays in July and I remember her delight in finding Quito surrounded by green, when she came for the first time in December.
Weather Forecasts
We have had many clients concerned because of grim weather forecasts for Quito. Don’t worry, weather forecasts are often inaccurate. The weather in Quito is very unpredictable and can change quickly because of the city’s location near the equator and its high elevation amidst the Andes.
Quito also has distinct microclimates due to its special location and varied topography. Therefore, the weather can vary significantly between neighborhoods. In general, the south experiences more rain than the north.
Sun Radiation
Due to the proximity to the equator and the altitude, the UV index is often very high in Quito and sun protection is essential. Sunscreen should have a sun protection factor of at least 50. From personal experience, I’ve learned that even cloudy days can cause sunburn. Stay hydrated and whenever possible, spend noonday inside or below shade.
Packing List for Quito
Due to the mild temperatures but unpredictable, often quickly changing weather in Quito, we recommend you pack the following for your trip to Quito:
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Shorts and jeans
- Sweaters or jacket for evenings and early mornings (temperatures drop quickly, once the sun has set)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Light wind-resistant rain jacket (always bring it, especially during wet season, although it might not look like rain in the morning)
- Comfy walking shoes
- Hiking boots (if you plan on hiking nearby mountains)
If you are used to the four seasons, you can basically pack for spring- or autumn-like weather and dress in layers.
If you come from a warmer climate, you might want to bring a thicker jacket, scarf and warm hat.
The rule for Quito is: Always be prepared for sun and rain. Often mornings are sunny but there can be rain showers in the afternoon, and sometimes it’s the other way around.
How Might the Weather Affect My Daily Activities in Quito?
Quito’s mild climate means that extreme weather rarely disrupts travel plans. Our tours operate normally in both sunshine and rain, with the key being flexibility. Sometimes, a simple adjustment to your activity schedule can turn an unpredictable day into an unexpected adventure.
For the most spectacular experiences, timing is everything. When planning to ride the TelefériQo cable car to Rucu Pichincha, aim for clear skies to fully appreciate the breathtaking panorama of surrounding mountains and volcanoes, including Cayambe, Antisana, and Cotopaxi.
Quito offers plenty of alternatives when the weather becomes challenging. A sudden rain shower or intense midday sun provides the perfect excuse to explore indoor attractions. Seek refuge in the city’s fascinating museums or historic churches, or duck into a local eatery to savor Ecuadorian delights like empanadas, coffee, artisanal chocolate, and craft beer.
One practical consideration: rain in Quito typically increases traffic congestion. What would normally be a quick journey might take significantly longer, so build extra time into your travel plans and remain patient.
While unexpected rain might seem inconvenient, Quito turns even sudden showers into an opportunity for local entrepreneurship. The moment droplets begin to fall, resourceful vendors appear on street corners, umbrellas in hand – a testament to the city’s adaptable spirit. So don’t stress if you’re caught unprepared; Quito has a way of transforming potential inconveniences into delightful local experiences.
Just as I surprised my family by choosing Quito, I now invite you to surprise yourself with a destination that defies climate expectations. Escape the scorching summers and freezing winters, and discover a place where spring is not just a season, but a way of life. Pack your layers, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, leave your temperature worries behind, and experience Quito!