When to go to Avenue of the Volcanoes

Discover the best time of year to visit Avenue of the Volcanoes in Ecuador with our handy month by month guide.

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December - February

The Avenue of Volcanoes enjoys year round spring-like temperatures in these months averaging around 19-21°C depending on exact altitude, although nights are colder at around 9-10°C. Sunny clear mornings are common enough, but being the wet season so are afternoon rain showers and overcast days, although the frequency and amount of rains eases a little in January to mid-February, before picking up again as the wettest months approach. Carnival celebrations (February/March), take place throughout the Avenue of Volcanoes even in the smallest of villages.

19°C Average max daytime temperature

4°C Average min nighttime temperature

15 days per season rainfall

None humidity

Cotopaxi

March - May

The wet season continues during these months in the Avenue of Volcanoes. Clear sunny spells become rarer although average max temperatures remain an agreeable 19-21°C, depending on exact altitude. Afternoon rains are to be expected most days in March and April, the wettest months of the year, and the nights get chilly with an average of 9-10°C. Easter is celebrated with religious processions and cultural events and is very colourful in this indigenous region, even if generally on a smaller scale than in the cities.

19°C Average max daytime temperature

4°C Average min nighttime temperature

17 days per season rainfall

None humidity

Cotopaxi

June - August

June marks the arrival of the dry season in the Avenue of Volcanoes. The ever pleasant spring-like temperatures remain, with average highs of around 19°C during the day but chilly nights. Although it can (and does) still rain, this time certainly experience less rainfall and lots more sunshine making it the best time for hiking and trekking in the highlands and for unobstructed views of the volcanic peaks. Initi Raymi (between 18-24June) celebrations take place throughout the region but are particularly impressive and organised at the ancient Inca ruins of Ingapirca.

18°C Average max daytime temperature

3°C Average min nighttime temperature

11 days per season rainfall

None humidity

Avenue of the Volcano

September - November

September is the final month of the dry season. There’s a little more rain than in preceding months as the rainy season approaches, but the year-round spring like temperatures continue and there are still lots of sunny and clear days to be enjoyed. The wet season rains arrive in October, increasing into November, with more overcast days and frequent afternoon downpours although you can still expect some morning sunshine during these months. Dia de Todos los Santos (all souls day/day of the dead, 2nd November) is particularly interesting in this region, the traditional indigenous heartland of Ecuador.

19°C Average max daytime temperature

3°C Average min nighttime temperature

13 days per season rainfall

None humidity

Avenue of the volcano

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