When to visit Galapagos Islands: weather and wildlife

When is the best time to visit Galapagos?

There is no real ‘best’ time to visit Galapagos on holiday as there is always wonderful wildlife and weather to enjoy.

Most animals – tortoises, sharks, sea lions and boobies – are found all year round and many of the species here are non-migratory.

The Galapagos Islands are located right on the equator so air and water temperatures do not vary by much.

Having said that, there are two recognised seasons, and each months brings natural marvels for the visitor to enjoy.

Below is our quick guide to the weather and wildlife you can find on the Galapagos Islands.

 General weather information

The warm season (Jan-Jun)

• Calm, clear warm waters, great for snorkelling, often without a wet suit.
• Great weather, with February and March being the hottest and sunniest months with blue skies and sunshine.
• Occasional heavy bursts of rain in the afternoons.

Sea temperatures:  22-25°C / 72-77°F

Land temperatures:  21-32°C / 72-90°F

Fun in Kayaks

The dry ‘garua’ season (Jun-Dec)

• It’s a great time for marine life in the cooler seas. Snorkellers may want a wetsuit.
• August and September the coolest when you may need a jacket in the evenings and the sea can be choppy.
• There can be mist on the islands in the mornings (garua) which usually burns off by midday leaving overcast skies or a sunny afternoon.

Sea temperatures:  15-22°C / 60-72°F

Land temperatures:  18-24°C / 65-75°F

Bartholomew view point

Galapagos wildlife – some highlights

Baby sea lions: Mainly born in August. If you want to snorkel with these adorable animals, then November onwards is when the pups first start swimming and playing in the waves.

Albatross courtship: The mass landings of these seabirds start in April, and their mating courtship starts immediately and lasts until early December

Whales: The humpback migrates past Galapagos from June-September, and some whale sharks may be spotted at this time, too.

Green turtles: Mating is from Dec-Feb, and eggs are laid on beaches Jan-March. They hatch two months later.

Giant tortoises: These big hulks never leave their various islands! You can see their babies hatching Dec-March.

Blue-footed boobies: Courtships start in May, as they hop from foot to foot to attract a mate.

Blue-footed Boobies