Cheapest and Most Expensive Time to Visit Ecuador

The cheapest and most expensive times to visit Ecuador will vary based on seasons. Knowing when to go—and when not to—can help you save hundreds or ensure you get the experience you're really after.

Here’s a complete breakdown of Ecuador's seasonal travel costs, highlighting off-season, peak season, and shoulder season, and what to expect during each time of year.

Cheapest Time to Visit Ecuador

The cheapest time to visit Ecuador is during the wet season on the mainland, which typically falls between March and May, and again from October through mid-December. These months are considered the off-season, especially for mainland destinations like Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca.

Rain showers are common but often short, and they help thin out crowds at popular spots. If you're visiting the Amazon or the Andes, you'll find lower prices on flights, hotels, and even multi-day tours. The Galápagos Islands may be more expensive year-round, but you’ll still find lower demand and occasional discounts in early May or late fall.

Off Season Highlights:

• Best prices on mainland hotels and domestic flights
• Fewer tourists in major cities and national parks
• Lush scenery, especially in the Andes and jungle areas
• Good time for culture, food, and local festivals

Most Expensive Time to Visit Ecuador

The most expensive time to visit Ecuador is during the dry season, especially from June through September, and again in late December through early January around the holidays. This is the peak season, when weather is generally more stable and popular destinations—especially the Galápagos Islands—are in high demand.

During these months, international tourism increases, and prices for flights, cruises, and accommodations go up across the board. If you're heading to the Galápagos, this is when many travelers plan far in advance, and last-minute bookings can be both expensive and hard to come by.

Peak Season Highlights:

• Dry, sunny weather in most regions
• Best time for wildlife viewing in the Galápagos
• Clear skies and cooler temps in the Andes
• High demand for cruises, tours, and national parks

Best Time to Visit Ecuador on a Budget

The best time to visit Ecuador if you're on a budget is going to be during the shoulder seasons, especially May to early June and late September through October. These months offer great weather, lower crowds, and cheaper rates—especially if you’re planning to explore both the mainland and the Galápagos.

You’ll miss the heaviest rains and the priciest peak season rates, while still enjoying clear skies in the highlands and plenty of wildlife activity in the Galápagos. Traveling during shoulder season also helps you avoid booking issues and last-minute price spikes, while keeping your itinerary full.

Shoulder Season Highlights:

• Moderate weather with fewer interruptions
• Lower prices on lodging, cruises, and tours
• Fewer crowds at top attractions
• Best value for both mainland and Galápagos trips without risking bad weather ruining your plans