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As the dry season comes to an end, Ecuador in September sees some of the best weather of the year. Temperatures are mild all around, ideal for hiking and embarking on Amazon adventures. Point your compass anywhere in the Andes and you will be blessed with good conditions. From Quito in the north to Loja in the south, there is pleasant outdoor weather everywhere. Go whale watching in the Galapagos, museum hopping in Guayaquil, or exploring Machala, the banana capital of the world, an Ecuador trip will fascinate you.

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Ecuador Weather in September

The weather in Guayaquil is warm in September.
Guayaquil sees warmer conditions in September.

The weather in Ecuador in September is exceptional with nationwide averages between 8°C and 19°C. Temperature in Quito hovers between 8°C and 18°C, with around 113mm of rain, ushering in the beginning of the wet season later in the month.

In Guayaquil, it is significantly warmer with the mercury reaching 32°C on the higher end and the average low of 20°C. September has the coldest sea temperatures in Guayaquil and it stays at around 23°C. In the Galapagos Islands, the water is still cooler at around 21°C, while the land temperature ranges between 19°C and 21°C.

It is spring in Loja and September is one of the months with the least rain. The place enjoys amazing weather with the temperature ranging between 11°C and 23°C.

For more information, check out our seasonal breakdown on the best times to visit Ecuador.

Weather in Ecuador in September - Rainfall and Temperatures

AugSepOct
Avg Daily (°C)191918
Avg Nightly (°C)888
Avg Daily (°F)676765
Avg Nightly (°F)474747
Avg Rainfall (mm)407080

Why Visit Ecuador in September

Locals wear colorful costumes and dance in Fiesta de Mama Negra.
You can see colorful dances when Ecuador celebrates Fiesta de Mama Negra.
See Hoatzin bird before the wet weather in Ecuador starts.
September is great month for bird watching in the Amazon.

There are tons of things to do in Ecuador in September thanks to the excellent weather. Here is a look at some of the highlights:

  • Fiesta de Mama Negra: Latacunga is transformed into a festival of note on 23 and 24 September. The festivities are colorful beyond measure with costumes, dances, music, and more—all celebrating the founding of Ecuador.
  • Feria del Banano: Celebrate the humble banana during the third week of September in Machala. You will be surprised to see how many incarnations there are of the main crop grown in this southern city.
  • Explore Amazon: Head into the jungle before the wet season starts and see birds showing off their colorful plumage as they bask in the sunshine.
  • Better rates: The colder ocean temperatures mean it is the low tourist season at the coast. So, grab the chance to enjoy lower rates in the west.

Where to go and what to do

Humpback whales breach the water in Ecuador.
You can see humpback whales during your Ecuadorian holiday.

September is one of the best times to visit Ecuador if you want to strap on your hiking boots. You will be spoiled for choice with hiking trails in Quito like the winding routes in Parque Nacional Cotopaxi or the famous Quilotoa Loop. If walking is not your main goal, you can still reach the magnificent volcanic peaks with a cable car.

Many people travel to Ecuador to explore its dynamic natural environment. As one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth, you will not have to look far to find some special places in nature. The Galapagos Islands are busy because of spring break holidaymakers during September. And though diving conditions are not great, this is the best time to see humpback whales frolicking in the waters. On land, you can see blue-footed boobies nesting, sea lions mating, and Galapagos penguins running the show.

It is a bit muggy in Guayaquil in September, but the city has a vibrant waterfront area and lots of museums to visit on one of those days when the weather is not quite beach friendly. Puerto Lopez is one of the best coastal places to visit in Ecuador in September, as you will have the best of both the beach and the rainforest. Spot whales in the morning and jaguars in the afternoon, all in a day’s work.

Visiting Cajas National park in Ecuador is a good idea in September.
You can spend more time outdoor exploring the national parks in Ecuador.

The September equinox is celebrated by native Andean communities. In Ecuador, it is called Killa Raymi and the goddess of fertility and mother earth, Pachamama, is celebrated. She presides over the crops and watches over harvesting and people in the Andes celebrate her on the 21st of September. You will see local communities lay out offerings and plant new crops ahead of the rainy season. Although you will not see grand parades like many other celebrations in Ecuador, you will have a newfound appreciation for the ancient traditions that are still kept alive in the highlands.

If you are wondering how many days to spend in Ecuador, refer to our handy itinerary guide offering a variety of options.

The temperature in Ecuador in September is among the best to go exploring the country. Both the highlands and coastal regions have plenty to offer during this time of year. Moreover, Ecuadorians make the most of the last few dry weeks with a slew of celebrations. Contact our local travel experts to plan a customized holiday in Ecuador.

Other related articles:
Ecuador in August
Ecuador in October
Summer in Ecuador

Published by Tim Green, updated on May 22, 2023

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