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Climate and Clothing:
The oft-repeated quote about Quito is that the four seasons often make an appearance on the same day. As a consequence of its location at latitude zero as well as its elevation at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level, the weather is mainly temperate, frequently compared by visitors to springtime New York . Air temperatures fluctuate between a maximum of 25 or 26º Celsius on warmer days and a minimum rarely dropping below 6ºC in the cooler months, especially at nights and during the early morning.
October to April (sometimes extending into May) is the local rainy season, characterized by showers and occasional heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings. Typically, the mornings are sunny or partially cloudy with average noontime temperatures reaching around 20ºC , with the thermometer usually falling to around 8ºC at night. Dry spells, however, are frequent during December and January. The dry season, with little rain except for odd showers, is between May and October, characterized by clear skies throughout the day, plentiful sunshine and temperatures hovering between 20 to 23ºC . The nights and very early mornings, though, can be even cooler than in the rainy season since the clear skies encourage the cold air streams carried on the prevailing winds from the nearby snow-covered summits.
Recommended clothing for Quito includes warm garments which can be removed or added in layers as the temperature varies. Particularly useful are comfortable pants of good quality material together with long sleeved-shirts. One or two sweaters or jackets are also useful, with waterproof rain protection or an umbrella for the rainy periods. Comfortable walking shoes, together with accessories such as sunglasses, back-up glasses, sun block (on the Equator and at an altitude of nearly 3,000 meters , the sun's UV rays are intense, even on cloudy days). Protection should always be used. Don't forget your photographic and video equipment, as well as back-up batteries and other accessories that may not always be available.
Pack your swimwear for the pools or for excursions to places with warmer climate. You will also need denim or cotton clothing for field trips. A wide-brimmed hat or cap is also recommended, as well as comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget to bring any medicines you use, whether regularly or only occasionally. Usual restaurant attire is smart casual or informal in most places. However, one or two restaurants still require jacket and tie for gentlemen and equivalent dress for ladies. Shorts, though, are not usually acceptable, especially for night dining or on semi-formal outings. Almost all churches, museums and convents, as well as some other public places prohibit access for those wearing shorts, strapless tops and other types of scanty clothing. Some churches and museums have restrictions on the use of video or photographic equipment.
