Best time to visit Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands, a breathtaking destination that welcomes visitors year-round, boasts mild Galapagos weather, stunning landscapes, and an array of unique species to observe. The best time to travel to the Galapagos Islands will depend on your interests and the activities you wish to do. That being said, the best time to visit Galapagos is from December to May, when is the islands’ warm season, during these months the climate is ideal for exploration. This blog will explore the Galapagos seasons in more depth, along with the diverse activities each season offers, and assist you in deciding on the ideal time to visit these enchanting isles.

December to January in Galapagos

December marks the beginning of the warm and wet season (we’ll get into detail about what Galapagos seasons entail in the next section further down below) which, for some visitors, could be regarded as the best time to visit the Galapagos. Green sea turtles begin mating, while land birds start their courtship displays. Baby giant tortoises begin hatching, and the first waved albatross chicks start fledging.  

Note: January is when waved albatrosses begin to migrate away from the Galapagos and won’t come back until around April, so try to avoid that span of months if you’re hoping to witness this epic bird! Again: January to April definitely won’t be the best time to visit the Galapagos if you want to see Waved Albatrosses!

Climate and Weather Conditions + Ocean Conditions

Temperatures on land range from 70-84 °F (21-29 °C), with occasional rain showers followed by sunny skies. The ocean is warmer compared to other times of the year (72.5-76 °F [22-24.5 °C]), making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling with excellent underwater visibility and abundant marine life. The waters are also relatively calm, ensuring comfortable boat excursions, kayaking, and paddleboarding. If this all sounds enticing, then these months definitely are the best time to visit Galapagos.

February to March in Galapagos

This is peak nesting season for marine iguanas, and land iguanas also begin mating. Many bird species, including the greater flamingo and Nazca booby, continue their courtship and nesting rituals. If you’re very lucky, you might catch green sea turtles laying eggs on beaches. These months offer some of the best snorkeling conditions, with crystal-clear water and active reef life.

Towards the end of March, Waved Albatrosses begin trickling back to Española Island while penguins are a more frequent sight around the islands of Isabela and Fernandina. Given the abundance of flourishing vegetation, this also is a prime time to enjoy hiking and wildlife observation on land in the Galapagos.

Climate and Weather Conditions + Ocean Conditions 

Temperatures on land remain warm, 75-88 °F (23-31 °C), with frequent but short-lived showers that are followed by equally refreshing periods of sunshine—an oscillation that might help make this the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands for some, especially if you’re looking to experience a lush and green Galapagos. The ocean is at its warmest, 75-82 °F (24-28 °C), providing excellent underwater visibility. Seas remain mostly calm, making inter-island travel, kayaking, and paddleboarding a much smoother experience than other months. If this aligns with your travel interests and availability, there’s no time like this pair of months to offer you the best time to visit the Galapagos!

April to May in Galapagos

Waved albatrosses return to Española Island to begin their elaborate mating rituals, while marine iguana hatchlings start emerging. Many birds, such as blue-footed boobies, perform their fascinating courtship dances. Sea turtles continue hatching, and snorkeling remains a spectacular activity to partake in with an abundance of rays, whitetip reef sharks, and tropical fish.

Climate and Weather Conditions + Ocean Conditions 

Temperatures begin to cool slightly as this period, particularly May, is often regarded as the “tail-end of the warm season,” when temperatures begin to drop down slightly to around 72-84 °F (22-29 °C). Rainfall starts decreasing, leading to drier landscapes. Ocean temperatures remain 73-81 °F (23-27 °C), ensuring warm and clear waters. The transition to the dry season begins, bringing calmer seas and pleasant breezes.

June to July in Galapagos

The cooler, dry season officially begins, bringing an explosion of marine activity. The Humboldt Current increases nutrient levels in the ocean, attracting large schools of fish, manta rays, and hammerhead sharks. Whales and dolphins are frequently spotted. Should your interests be more focused on the aquatic features of Galapagos and its marine life, then this period might be the best time of year to visit the Galapagos. On land, blue–footed boobies and flightless cormorants are in full nesting mode. Male frigatebirds, too, begin inflating their giant red pouches as part of their courtship. Giant tortoises begin migrating to lower elevations in search of food.

Climate and Weather Conditions + Ocean Conditions

Temperatures on land drop a little further down to 66-79 °F (19-26 °C). Ocean temperatures also cool down to 70-75 °F (21-24 °C), meaning springsuits (aka. shorty wetsuits) are recommended for those looking to more comfortably enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving. On land, this period makes for a comfortable climate to enjoy outdoor land explorations without the heat seen in previous months. The arrival of southeast trade winds means the breeze picks up too, leading to stronger currents and slightly choppier seas. If all this sounds like your kind of experience, this is likely the best time to visit Galapagos Islands.

August to September in Galapagos

August is a prime month for Galapagos penguin activity as they start to migrate toward central islands due to the colder waters. If you’re hoping to more easily spot these adorable creatures of the Galapagos, this is likely the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands!

Sea lion pups are born, making for delightful wildlife encounters along the beaches. Migratory birds, such as the Galapagos hawk and American Flamingo, are highly active. The cooler waters attract even more marine life, offering incredible experiences in the water.

Climate and Weather Conditions + Ocean Conditions 

This is the coolest period in the Galapagos, with temperatures on land ranging from 64-77 °F (18-25 °C). Ocean temperatures meanwhile drop to 66-73 °F (19-23 °C), and currents become stronger. Windier conditions lead to slightly rougher seas, but wildlife activity in the water is still at an exciting peak. If these highlights catch your eye, this is likely the best time to visit the Galapagos.

October to November in Galapagos

Sea lion pups become highly playful, often interacting with snorkelers. The breeding season for fur seals begins. Blue–footed booby chicks start fledging, and Galapagos hawks and American flamingos continue their nesting period. Manta rays and whale sharks are frequently spotted near Wolf and Darwin islands up in the northern region of the archipelago, making this a prime time for scuba diving.

These months also fall within the low tourist season, making it an excellent time to visit the Galapagos Islands, meaning you may discover fantastic prices on cruises and various other activities. As a result, and depending on your budget, this may make for the best time to visit Galapagos.

Climate and Weather Conditions + Ocean Conditions 

Temperatures slowly begin warming up during this period, particularly towards the end of November. Temperatures on land range from 68-81 °F (20-27 °C). Ocean temperatures remain cool at 68-75 °F (20-24 °C), but visibility is still excellent for snorkelers and divers. Winds start to subside, making seas gradually calmer as the transition back to the warm season begins. If you’re drawn to these aspects, these months may very well be the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands.

Galapagos Islands Seasons

For context, this majestic archipelago straddles the equator some 600 miles (1,000 kilometers) west of Ecuador’s coastline in the Pacific Ocean. Given its unique location, narrowing down the best time to visit Galapagos when it comes to weather requires that you only take note of its two distinct seasons, which are:

Warm and Wet Season (December to May)

The warm, wetter season, which lasts from December to May. This period offers pleasant temperatures ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s °F (21-30 °C), with sunnier days punctuated by brief yet refreshing showers. This period is excellent for hiking and exploring the Galapagos’ distinct landscapes, as the archipelago explodes with vegetation and, as a result, wildlife on land is at its most active. If any of those features (or the ones below) strike your fancy, then this season may very well be the best time to visit the Galapagos.

Notable wildlife during the warm and wet season in Galapagos

• Green Sea Turtles: Mating and nesting on beaches, with hatchlings emerging.

• Giant Tortoises: Baby tortoises begin hatching.

• Marine Iguanas: Peak nesting season, with hatchlings appearing later in the season.

• Land Iguanas: Mating season begins.

• Waved Albatrosses: Return to Española Island in April (after leaving in January) and start their elaborate courtship rituals. If you’re looking for the best time to visit the Galapagos to see the Waved Albatross, any time between April and December is the sweet spot!

• Nazca & Blue-footed Boobies: Engaging in fascinating and adorable courtship dances, potentially making this season a contender for the best time to go to the Galapagos.

• Greater Flamingos: Nesting season in lagoons.

• Whitetip Reef Sharks, Rays & Tropical Fish: Abundant in warm, clear waters, making snorkeling a highlight.

Top activities during the Warm and Wet Season in Galapagos

• Snorkeling & Diving: Exceptional visibility and warm waters teeming with marine life. This is the best season to visit Galapagos if you wish to thoroughly enjoy this activity in particular!

• Hiking: Lush green landscapes, making for scenic trails and active wildlife.

• Wildlife Observation: Peak mating, nesting, and hatching seasons for many species.

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Calm, warm waters perfect for exploring coastal areas.

• Photography: Vibrant landscapes and abundant wildlife create stunning photo opportunities.

Cool and Dry Season (June to November)

The cooler, drier season, which lasts from June to November, sees the Humboldt Current bring clearer skies and cooler temperatures ranging from the low 60s to low-80s °F (16-28 °C), with a surge of nutrient-rich waters that lead to an explosion of marine activity. As a result, these months offer spectacular opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and diving as the abundant marine life puts on an unforgettable show beneath the waves. If you find any of those features (or the ones below) compelling, then this season might likely be the best time to visit Galapagos.

Notable wildlife during the cool and dry season in Galapagos

• Galapagos Penguins: Highly active, migrating toward central islands.

• Sea Lions: Pups are born and later become playful, often interacting with snorkelers.

• Fur Seals: Begin their breeding season.

• Blue-footed Boobies: Nesting season continues, with chicks fledging in October.

• Flightless Cormorants: Nesting and courtship take place on Fernandina.

• Frigatebirds: Males inflate their red throat pouches to attract mates.

• Galapagos Hawks & American Flamingos: Highly active during nesting season.

• Manta Rays & Whale Sharks: Frequently spotted near Wolf and Darwin Islands, making this a prime time for divers.

• Whales & Dolphins: Common in the waters between Isabela and Fernandina.

• Lava Lizards: Engage in mating displays that include their distinctive “push-ups.”

Top activities during the cool and dry season in Galapagos 

• Snorkeling & Diving: Cooler, nutrient-rich waters attract an abundance of marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and large fish schools. 

• Wildlife Observation: Penguin activity peaks, sea lion pups play, and nesting birds are abundant. 

• Hiking: Cooler temperatures make for comfortable treks through diverse landscapes. 

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Best for spotting sea lions, penguins, and marine birds along the shore. 

• Photography & Stargazing: Dramatic skies, unique wildlife behaviors, and breathtaking marine encounters create stunning photo opportunities. Clear skies allow for optimal stargazing at night.

Unique and Diverse Animals: Best Time to Go to Galapagos for Wildlife

If you find yourself struggling with the question of “when is the best time to visit the Galapagos for wildlife?” then just know the following: Any time of the year is perfect for experiencing the abundance of curious wildlife the Enchanted Isles are home to. This is in large part thanks to the fact that there are no considerable migratory species that exist in the archipelago, save for one: the Waved Albatross.

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Galapagos for wildlife of this kind, have a look at the bottom of our list here to find out when is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands to see the majestic Waved Albatross in particular!

• Blue-Footed Booby: Famous for their vibrant blue feet and amusing courtship displays.

• Nazca Booby: The largest of the three booby species in the Galapagos, often seen nesting along the cliffs.

• Red-Footed Booby: The only booby that nests in trees and bushes, with striking red feet and a colorful beak.

• Flightless Cormorant: A rare bird that evolved in such a way that it actually lost its ability to fly. It now instead relies on its powerful swimming skills for hunting.

• American Flamingo: These bright pink birds are found feeding in brackish lagoons.

• Great & Magnificent Frigatebirds: Males attract mates with a dramatic red throat pouch that inflates like a balloon. The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands to witness this event is June, May, and November.

• Galapagos Hawk: The archipelago’s top predator, a rare sight that can sometimes be seen soaring above the islands.

• Land Iguana: A striking yellow reptile that thrives in dry, arid landscapes.

• Marine Iguana: The only lizard in the world that swims in the ocean, often spotted sunbathing on volcanic rocks.

• Santa Fe Iguana: Endemic to Santa Fe Island, this species has a distinctive pale coloration compared to other iguanas in Galapagos.

• Galapagos Penguin: The northernmost penguin species, mostly found on the islands of Isabela, Fernandina, and Bartolome. While they are in the archipelago throughout the whole year, the best time to travel to the Galapagos to increase your chances of seeing these adorable creatures is between July and September!

• Galapagos Sea Lion: Playful and curious, they often interact with snorkelers and sunbathe on beaches.

• Galapagos Fur Seal: More elusive than sea lions, these smaller seals prefer shady rocky crevices.

• Galapagos Giant Tortoise: The most famous species of the islands, these lumbering, gentle giants can live over 100 years!

• Galapagos Albatross: Found exclusively on Española Island, these majestic birds are known for their intricate mating dances and epic wingspan. If you plan on seeing them, just know that they are not present in the archipelago from January to April.

What to pack for your Galapagos trip according to the season

Packing for the Galapagos Islands will vary very slightly on the time of year you’re visiting, because don’t forget: they’re a year-round destination with no best time to visit the Galapagos Islands! Nevertheless, a few essentials will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip no matter when you choose to go!

Given the outdoor adventures and varied conditions, your packing list should cover both land and sea activities.

Essentials for Any Time of Year

• Lightweight, neutrally colored, and breathable clothing: Quick-dry fabrics for warm weather and hiking.

• Waterproof jacket or windbreaker: Sudden rain showers can occur, even in the dry season.

• Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals: Essential for walking on lava rocks and uneven terrain.

• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): Protects marine life while keeping your skin safe.

• Hat and sunglasses (polarized, ideally): The equatorial sun is strong year-round.

• Swimsuit and quick-dry towel: For snorkeling, swimming, and beach lounging.

• Daypack with water-resistant cover: Perfect for carrying essentials on excursions.

• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in the island heat.

• Binoculars: For an even closer experience of the wildlife.

• Camera with underwater capabilities: Snorkeling encounters make for incredible memories!

• Insect repellent: Especially useful in the highlands and during wetter months.

Additional Items for the Warm & Wet Season (December to May)

• Light rain jacket: Short but intense showers are common.

• Extra swimwear: Warmer waters make snorkeling and swimming even more appealing.

• Snorkeling gear (optional): Most Galapagos tours provide this equipment free of charge, but bringing your own might help ensure a more comfortable fit!

• Light long-sleeved shirts & pants: For protection against the sun and insects.

Additional Items for the Cool & Dry Season (June to November)

• Wetsuit (shorty): Ocean temperatures drop, making this a must for snorkeling. Note that some expedition vessels and hotels provide these, usually free of charge. 

• Windproof layers: Breezy conditions and cooler nights call for extra warmth.

• Seasickness medication: Rougher seas during this season can make boat travel challenging. If you’re looking to keep this elevated motion in the ocean out of your travel plans, then the best time to visit Galapagos might be the warm and wet season instead.

So, when is the best time to visit the Galapagos?

The best time to visit Galapagos depends on what you hope to see and experience. However, many consider the best months to visit Galapagos to be anytime through December through May. But, remember: The best time to travel to Ecuador and the Galapagos truly is any time.

Whether you’re drawn to nesting sea turtles, playful sea lions, or the mesmerizing sight of blue-footed boobies performing their courtship dance, the Enchanted Isles offers all of these sights (and plenty more!) throughout the whole year. Each season may offer its own unique highlights or surge in certain wildlife activity, but that’s the only real thing you’ll have to consider when looking at the best time to visit the Galapagos—it will ultimately depend on your personal interests and travel preferences. We hope this blog has helped you align those things with the best months of the year to check out Galapagos.

So, plan wisely, pack accordingly, and get ready to explore one of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet!

Galapagos Cruises

Galapagos Tours

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

Start planning your trip

Get in touch for more

Contact us