Climate Overview
The climate in Tulcán is hot. The average annual temperature is 32°C and approximately 50mm of precipitation falls per year. December is the wettest month, receiving around 33mm of rainfall. Tulcán sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Temperatures in Tulcán vary considerably across the year, with a 24°C difference between the coldest and warmest months. March is the hottest month, with daytime highs reaching 44°C and an average of 37°C. January is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 20°C and an average of 20°C. On average, daily temperatures fluctuate by about 12°C between overnight lows and afternoon highs. The sharpest temperature change occurs between January and February, with a 11°C shift in average temperatures.
Precipitation
Tulcán is a quite dry location, receiving approximately 50mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 4mm per month. The wettest month is December, averaging 33mm of rainfall. January and November also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is February, with just 0mm. That's 33mm less than December, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Tulcán is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 4km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is January, averaging 6km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in December, with average winds dropping to 2km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind speeds vary significantly across the year, with a 4km/h difference between the calmest and windiest months. This level of variation is worth factoring into travel plans.
Seasons
16 days until Autumn
It is currently summer in Tulcán, which began on June 21, 2026. Tulcán sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced — temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in March at around 44°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in January near 20°C. Autumn is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 — 16 days from now.
Spring
Temperatures range from 25 to 44°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 1mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 5km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season — a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from 22 to 39°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 0mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 4km/h. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 25 to 43°C. Precipitation is minimal, with only around 2mm for the entire season. Winds are generally light, averaging 4km/h. Layered clothing works best as temperatures gradually cool — enjoy the crisp air and changing scenery.
Winter
Temperatures range from 20 to 39°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 47mm over the season and a monthly average of 16mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 4km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tulcán is during January, when the weather is most comfortable for travellers. During these months, average temperatures hover around 20°C with modest rainfall averaging 14mm per month. By contrast, March can be uncomfortably hot with temperatures reaching 44°C. With minimal rainfall expected, you can pack light and plan outdoor activities with confidence.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Tulcán based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.