Quito Weather in December

December: damp and cool

December feels cool rather than hot in Quito. Days reach about 16°C, but evenings can fall to 7°C. Rain comes on 21 days, and skies are often cloudy, so outdoor plans can feel damp and views may disappear.

You can still explore the historic centre's churches and museums, or pause over locro de papa, a potato-and-cheese soup. Leave room to swap a walk for an indoor stop if rain sets in. The cloud can also spoil the views from the TelefériQo, Quito's cable car; don't make its summit the only reason for a trip.

Festivities and crowds

Quito's Fiestas de Quito bring concerts, dancing and traditional chiva bus parties around the city's founding celebrations in early December. Christmas brings church services and family gatherings. On December 31, people burn Año Viejo effigies, figures made to represent the old year.

For families keen on local celebrations, the early-month festivities offer plenty to see, though some streets and venues get busy. December is not usually as popular for good weather as July to September. Crowds and hotel prices can rise around the festivities and Christmas–New Year, while quieter weeks may feel easier on the budget.

A useful local tip

Keep a flexible day for La Ronda, the old town's narrow, lively street. It's a pleasant place to browse craft shops and try canelazo, a warm cinnamon-and-fruit drink, when the weather turns chilly. Check local transport on event nights, since celebrations can affect routes through the centre.

December's weather score is poor, and this is worth taking seriously if you're coming mainly for hiking or far-reaching views. Pick indoor sights as your backup, then head outside when the clouds lift.