Ecuador in April: Weather Tips and Indoor Activities
When the equator runs straight through the country, it is hard to distinguish between summer and winter. Ecuador in April is typically characterized by lots of rain in the highlands and warm weather on the coast. Weather-wise, it might be one of the worst months to visit the country but, in contrast, it is one of the best times to venture out to the Galapagos islands.
You will not be hiking much in April but the flooded rivers bring a whole heap of new adventures. Quito is overtaken by Easter celebrations in April and Cuenca is taken over by a similar jovial atmosphere. April calls for slow travel through Ecuador, urging you to get creative with the places you visit and delve deeper into cultural attractions along the way.
- Goranka
Ecuador Weather in April
The weather in Ecuador in April is a polarizing topic. Temperatures in the highlands are a bit warmer, but it is also the height of monsoon season, which does not sit well with everyone. The average temperature in Ecuador is between 9°C and 17°C, which is mild but the conditions across the country are not ideal.
The weather in Quito is very wet with almost 28 days of rain throughout April. The temperature is consistent with the national average, ranging between 9°C and 16°C. The weather in the Galapagos Islands is warm with the mercury in Puerto Villamil hovering between 25°C and 27°C, while the sea temperature is around 26°C. The Galapagos are less rainy in April only around 11 days of rainfall.
The coastal city of Guayaquil is much warmer around this time, with temperatures fluctuating between 22°C and 32°C, but it remains rainy with around 200 mm of rainfall across the month.
Have a look at our guide on the best time to visit Ecuador for a monthly breakdown of Ecuador’s weather.
Weather in Ecuador in April - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 18 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 65 | 63 | 63 | 63 | 63 | 65 | 65 | 67 | 67 | 65 | 65 | 65 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 47 | 47 | 49 | 49 | 49 | 47 | 47 | 47 | 47 | 47 | 47 | 47 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 70 | 100 | 90 | 70 | 60 | 40 | 20 | 40 | 70 | 80 | 60 | 50 |
| Mar | Apr | May | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 17 | 17 | 17 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 63 | 63 | 63 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 49 | 49 | 49 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 90 | 70 | 60 |
Why Visit Ecuador in April
Visiting Ecuador in April is not without its challenges. But there are still a few reasons to visit this marvelous country during this month. Here are some:
- Easter celebrations: If Easter falls in April you can expect celebrations across the country during the Holy Week. The processions in Quito are especially popular when Cucuruchos make their appearance in their purple robes and head coverings.
- Founding Day in Cuenca: The south-central mountain town of Cuenca celebrates Founding Day on 12 April. Expect parade floats and lots of traditional food, music, and dance.
- Hatching season: Visit the Galapagos Islands in April to catch the end of the giant sea turtle hatching season and see the beginning of the green sea turtle hatching season. Land Iguana eggs also hatch on Isabela Island around this time.
- Better rates in the highlands: Rainy season is the time to grab a tour and accommodation at a steal. This is the cheapest time to visit Ecuador if you are heading to the highlands.
- Lesser crowd in the highlands: As the crowds flee the rain, you are guaranteed to have many sites to yourself in the highlands.
Where to go and what to do
Ecuador in April is at the height of the rainy season and many travelers cower at the thought of it. But the truth is, there are plenty of things to keep you busy, come rain or shine. April is generally considered one of the best months to visit the Galapagos Islands, as it is the end of the rainy season and the weather is warm. Snorkelers enjoy fantastic visibility and on land, you can spot many animals reveling in lush greenery.
Cuyabeno Reserve is the second largest reserve in Ecuador, and in April, you can make the most of the rain-fed creeks and rivers. Glide through the murky water in a canoe to spot all manner of wildlife, like alligators making their appearance at the water’s edge.
If you are taking advantage of the low rates in mountain areas like Quito or Cuenca, you will be spending a lot of time indoors due to the rain. This is not all bad news though. Take this time to eat your way through the hearty cuisine of Ecuador and try specialties like Bolon de Verde, Cuy Asado, and Llapingachos. Think potatoes, cheese, and meats, the ultimate comfort dishes. This is also the best time to tour the museums, like the National Museum of Ecuador and Capilla del Hombre.
Have a look at our comprehensive guide on how many days to spend in Ecuador, depending on your interests and budget.
Ecuador in April might not be everyone’s cup of tea but if you can brave the rain, you will be richly rewarded with low prices and crowd-free traveling experience in the highlands. There are also quite a few natural treasures in April that make the journey worth it. Contact our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to Ecuador.
Other related articles:
Ecuador in March
Ecuador in May
