Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
periences more rainfall, and is comparable to Colombia, whereas the
southern coast is a transition zone into the deserts farther south, due
to the interaction between the cold Humboldt Current that flows
north from Chile to Ecuador. And even though the southern coast is
apt to get plenty of rainfall, its desert-like landscape is apparent in
many areas.
The climate in the highlands varies according to the altitude. A sub-
tropical climate prevails in the Andean valleys; at higher altitudes it
is spring-like during the day, but cold at night. In Quito, the tempera-
ture ranges from55
F year-
round. Above 16,350 feet, permanent glaciers cover the highest peaks
and temperatures throughout the higher elevations can be consis-
tently chilly, with the wind often a factor. Generally, October through
May is the rainy season, with rainfall picking up from February to
April, though it can rain at any time. But this general rule varies, de-
pending on which side of a volcano you are on. On the Eastern Range
(Cordillera Oriental), for example, the weather along the western
slopes that face the Sierra Valleys and Avenue of the Volcanoes may
be quite different from the eastern slopes, where the climate is af-
fected by the Amazon.
°
F at night to 78
°
F at noon, averaging 64
°
The Amazon region normally has a warm, humid and rainy climate.
The average temperature varies from 72
F. It can rain at any
time, and does, but generally rainfall is heaviest from around May
through December. The effects of a downpour can transforma scorch-
ing hot day in the Amazon to one that is chilly and wet.
°
to 80
°
The Galápagos Islands often enjoy warm and dry weather, with an
average yearly temperature of 85
F. The cool Humboldt Current and
resulting “la garua” misty season kicks in around June in the
Galápagos and on the Ecuadorian coast, with dry fog and chillier wa-
ter temperatures. Days will be reasonably warm, but nights can be
chilly, which - combined with rough seas - can make for an interest-
ing evening cocktail out on deck. Thismay last throughNovember. By
December-January, air and water temperatures are quite warm,
with tropical downpours common during this rainy season.
°
Flora & Fauna
When it comes to flora and fauna, Ecuador's natural diver-
sity is exceptional for a country its size. Located in the
heart of the tropics and born of the Andean mountain
chain, the country contains numerous ecological life zones,
Search WWH ::
Custom Search