It is still prime time for visiting Ecuador's Highlands, and a great opportunity to explore the country's jungles by foot because of the drier weather in those regions. Low season continues on the coast while there is cooler weather on the Galapagos but also great diving to be had. Add on some great festivals in the Highlands and on the coast and you have a very interesting month for visiting.
Cooler weather is coming to the Highlands, where November is a so-so month with spells of sun and, increasingly, rain. By Oriente standards, it's another dry month in the jungle, while on the coast and in the Galapagos the weather and, as a result, the visitor numbers, start to pick up again towards the end of November.
It's the end of high season on the coast, but low season in the Highlands and jungle. Despite continued heavy rain in these latter two regions, the sun still does come out and crowds are low. The Highlands have wet weather activities from Unesco-listed colonial churches to superb handicrafts markets, and the jungle's rivers are good for exploring now that they have swollen. April sees a dramatic increase in interesting festivals across Ecuador, too.
Seven to eight days is the most popular trip length for Ecuador travelers interested in visiting both Quito and Cotopaxi, especially when also including Baños or Archidona. If you're not interested in Baños, five to seven days is enough for your Quito and Cotopaxi trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as four days. For the best itineraries, including Quito and Cotopaxi, keep reading below.