Quito's Weather and Climate

Quiteños brag that they get all four seasons every day of the year. For those of you coming from cooler climates, you will see that this is not totally true, but with Quito's location about 40 km south of the equator and at an altitude of almost two miles (2,800 m) above sea level, the temperature changes in a 24-hour period can be startling.

The city is set in a long, shallow valley at an elevation of 2,800 m (9,200 ft). Surrounded by green Andes peaks, Quito's weather is spring-like year-round. The sun is incredibly strong, so be smart about sunscreen and head gear. Also, because of its altitude, allow yourself at least one day to relax and acclimate after first arriving in Quito. Drink lots of bottled water and don't plan too much physical activity the first day or two.

Quito gets downright cool when the sun is down (from 6 p.m. - 6 a.m. every day of the year) and when it rains. But when the sun is out, which is most days before 4 p.m., you will find yourself stripped down to the bare minimum.

Consequently, wearing layers is fundamental to being comfortable in Quito. Pants, a light t-shirt or tank top topped with a long-sleeve shirt and jacket or sweater should be fine most of the year. Travelers coming from colder climates will laugh at the winter garb of most Quiteños from September - April which often includes jackets, scarves, gloves and hats. Winter is a strong word, but during these months, afternoon storms are common and tend to drop the temperature to around 50 degrees farenheit (10 degrees celsius). During sunny days, the temperatures can rise up to as high as 90 degrees farenheit (32 degrees celsius).