Climate and monthly weather forecastOtavalo, Ecuador

The climate of Otavalo

Located in the highlands of Ecuador, Otavalo is characterized by a Mediterranean, warm summer climate, denoted as Csb in the Köppen climate classification. This climate designation is harmonized with an average annual temperature variance from 7.1°C (44.8°F) to 17.8°C (64°F), making Otavalo a location with a mild and balanced temperature throughout the year.

An interesting aspect of Otavalo's climate is the consistency in daylight hours, staying constant at 12.1 hours every month. Sunshine hours show small, but discernible variations, with the highest sun exposure registered at 9.6 hours in September and the lowest, 7.5 hours, prevalent in April. The UV Index is predominantly low, averaging between 3 and 4 throughout the year, ensuring that visitors can enjoy sunlight without worrying about too much UV exposure.

Rainfall displays a pronounced disparity, peaking at 231mm (9.09") in April and plummeting to a low of 38mm (1.5") in August. Rainfall days reflect these conditions, with around 30 days of rainfall in April and as few as 17.6 days in July. On the other hand, atmospheric pressure stays relatively consistent from 1012.7 mb to 1015 mb.

Wind speed varies marginally from 4.2km/h (2.6mph) to 9.2km/h (5.7mph), thus we can conclude Otavalo is not very windy. Cloud coverage oscillates between a low of 23% in September and a high of 53% in November.

The best time to visit Otavalo

Considering the climate variations throughout the year, the most favorable time to visit Otavalo is during the period of July to September. These months are characterized by the lowest amount of rainfall, with July seeing the least at 48mm (1.89"). Simultaneously, ambient temperatures remain pleasantly warm, providing a joyous balance between 7.1°C (44.8°F) and 17.8°C (64°F). An added bonus during this period is an increased amount of sunshine from 9.1 to 9.6 hours per day, perfect for exploring the city’s charming avenues and stunning landscapes.

The worst time to visit Otavalo

Contrastingly, the months of March and April can be challenging for outdoor activities due to the high volume of rainfall. The precipitation reaches its annual peak of 231mm (9.09") in April, with an average of 30.4 rainfall days recorded for the same period in March. Combined with the lowest sunlight hours and cooler temperatures, it defines this particular period as the least inviting season for a visit.

Spring weather in Otavalo

Spring in Otavalo, spanning March through May, sees a progressive drop in rainfall from a high 228mm (8.98") in March to a relative low of 173mm (6.81") by the end of spring. Temperatures remain balmy, floating between a cozy 8.3°C (46.9°F) to a mild 16.9°C (62.4°F). While sunshine hours are on the lower side, ranging from 7.5 hours in April to 8.2 hours in May, relative humidity levels maintain a steady high, oscillating between 82% and 84% during this period.

Summer weather in Otavalo

The summer months from June to August offer ideal weather conditions in Otavalo. The rainfall recedes significantly, culminating in mere 38mm (1.5") in August, paired with a drop in the number of rainfall days to 17.6 days in July. Concurrently, temperatures maintain a warm trend varying from 7.4°C (45.3°F) to 17.8°C (64°F), coupled with increased sunshine hours, reaching a peak of 9.2 hours in July.

Autumn weather in Otavalo

In autumn, from September to November, an escalating trend cane be observed in rainfall, starting from a low of 72mm (2.83") in September to a significant high of 214mm (8.43") in November. Despite this, temperatures remain welcomingly warm, averaging from 7.6°C (45.7°F) to 17.5°C (63.5°F) while sunshine hours subtly decline from 9.6 hours in September to 7.5 hours in November.

Winter weather in Otavalo

Winter in Otavalo, spanning December to February, witnesses a gradual increase in the temperature range, from 7.8°C (46°F) to 16.3°C (61.3°F). Rainfall also marks a subtle hike going from 184mm (7.24") in December to 182mm (7.17") in February. Sunshine hours remain consistent at 7.6 to 7.9 hours, and the wind speed reduces to a tranquil 4.2km/h (2.6mph) in January, ensuring a peaceful winter atmosphere.

Weather in January

January in Otavalo brings an air of freshness as the new year starts. Temperatures prove relatively consistent with December. An increased precipitation of 177mm (6.97") contributes to the city's lush landscapes. Despite the rain, the city maintains a balance as there's considerable daylight and hours of sunshine. Weather in January »

Weather in February

Stepping into February, the weather in Otavalo experiences minor changes, the temperature sees a slight rise from the previous month. Increased humidity and moderate winds cultivate an atmospheric envelope around this Ecuadorian city. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The weather dynamic alters more noticeably as March sets in Otavalo. The city gets the maximum rainfall between January to March, recording 228mm (8.98") over the span of 30.4 days. Inching together with a minor rise in temperature, March gears up as the rainiest month of the first quarter. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Otavalo's weather trajectory maintains a uniform course into April. Though the city receives less rainfall than March, 231mm (9.09") still marks a significant quantity. Paving through the April showers, daily life in this quaint city unfolds under the comforting warmth of abundant sunshine hours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

The weather in May indicates a shift in Otavalo's climatic paradigm. Overall, temperatures remain fairly stable with gentle winds weaving through Otavalo's streets. A substantial decrease from April's showers, rainfall nosedives to 173mm (6.81"). Weather in May »

Weather in June

June kickstarts the refreshing break from continuous wet spells in Otavalo. With the lowest humidity from January to June, airiness dominates the city's landscapes. Offering a significant drop to 93mm (3.66") of rainfall over 26.3 days, June gifts the city with a dry yet comfortable charm. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July continues the steady trend of receding rainfall in Otavalo, recording a staggering 48mm (1.89"). The declining showers unveil the mountains and skies of this Ecuadorian city in all their glory. While temperatures hold steady, a shift in wind patterns and clear visibility reinforce July's position as a month welcomed by residents for the crisp and clear climate. Upon the beginning of July, Otavalo's high-temperatures register at a still enjoyable 16.9°C (62.4°F), closely mirroring the preceding month. Weather in July »

Weather in August

The weather pattern in August carries forward the streak from July. Otavalo experiences the least rainfall of the year, merely 38mm (1.5"), painting the city in a dry palette. The decrease in humidity coupled with clear skies and extended sunshine hours assure an ideal atmosphere. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As September steps into Otavalo, the rain inches its way back. The city receives an increased 72mm (2.83") of rain. However, the balance maintained by fair temperatures and continued long hours of daylight makes September an exceptional time of the year. Weather in September »

Weather in October

The weather tableau transitions as October brings with it increased rainfall of 174mm (6.85"). Temperatures tend to remain stable, while the diminished wind speeds accommodate a warmer ambience. Despite the escalated rain showers, scattered with evenly spread sunshine, it assures Otavalo a relaxing touch, making it the city’s little-known secret season. October brings an average high-temperature of a still refreshing 17.5°C (63.5°F), showing a slight difference from September's 17.8°C (64°F). Weather in October »

Weather in November

November signals an upswing in Otavalo's Mercedes of weather features. Witnessing a climb in humidity and rainfall of 214mm (8.43") in 29.5 days, the city homes the start of an exceptional wet season. Combining moderate wind speeds with cooling temperatures, November's weather aesthetic vouches for the city's comforting cool. With the onset of November, the average high-temperature registers at a still enjoyable 16.7°C (62.1°F), subtly different from October's 17.5°C (63.5°F). Weather in November »

Weather in December

Closing the year in Otavalo, December continues November's wet season with a rainfall of 184mm (7.24"). Despite the dip in temperatures, Otavalo manages to keep its hospitable charm intact. The appreciable cloud cover and reasonable visibility stretch out a humble invite to the year-end holidays. Weather in December »