When to go to Otavalo and the northern highlands
December - February
Otavalo and the northern highlands enjoy year round spring-like temperatures averaging 21°C during these months. It is the wet season, so rains (usually in the afternoon) are to be expected but sunny mornings are not uncommon. December and mid-Febrary onwards receive the most rain during these rainy season months. Carnival celebrations in Peguche and Cotacachi are particularly notable in this region.
19°C Average max daytime temperature
7°C Average min nighttime temperature
16 days per season rainfall
None humidity
March- May
The wet season continues in Otavalo and the northern highlands, with March and April experiencing the most and rainfall and heaviest downpours of the year. Sunny mornings can still be expected but there is a greater chance of overcast damp weather. Easter is celebrated throughout, but even in Otavalo the traditional processions are nowhere near at the same scale as in the cities.
19°C Average max daytime temperature
8°C Average min nighttime temperature
18 days per season rainfall
None humidity
June - August
The dry season in Otavalo and the northern highlands begins in June. These months are the sunniest time of the year. Average temperatures are 21°C but there are frequent hotter days although nights are still a chilly 9-10°C. There may be a little rain some days, but far less common during these months. Jul and Aug are driest and the best time for hiking in the mountains. The indigenous Inti Raymi festival (Festival of the Sun) is widely celebrated and particularly popular in Otavalo, Peguche and Cotacachi.
20°C Average max daytime temperature
7°C Average min nighttime temperature
10 days per season rainfall
None humidity
September - November
September is dry season and the climate is much like the previous months, but in October the transition to the wet season begins. Spring-like daytime temperatures and cold nights continue but visitors can expect fewer hours of sunshine, more overcast days and frequency and intensity of afternoon rains increasing through October and into November. Dia de todos los santos (day of the dead/all souls day) is on 2nd November and this largely indigenous region is an interesting area to see how catholic and indian traditions have combined in the honouring of the dead.
20°C Average max daytime temperature
7°C Average min nighttime temperature
16 days per season rainfall
None humidity
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