The Galapagos Islands are abundant in natural landscapes and wildlife. It has a lot of species that are not found anywhere else in the world, and that is one of the island's main attractions, aside from its wildlife and natural landscapes. Thus, if you are a sucker for wildlife explorations or want to enjoy the blissful nature of the Galapagos, we've compiled a monthly list of the best times to visit the island based on its different weather patterns and activities to engage in while visiting. Hence, no matter what type of traveler you are, you will find the perfect month on the list to make your trip to the Galapagos.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN GALAPAGOS?
WHAT IS THE WARMEST MONTH IN GALAPAGOS?
WHAT IS THE RAINY SEASON IN GALAPAGOS?
IS AUGUST A GOOD TIME TO GO TO GALAPAGOS? IS GALAPAGOS EXPENSIVE TO VISIT?
How many days do you need in Galapagos?
If you can't spend a week, we recommend at least 5 days in Galapagos, but if you can, we recommend 7 days to fully appreciate the islands' diversity and otherworldly scenery.
What is the warmest month in the Galapagos?
From December to May, the Galapagos is at its warmest. This is the time of year when the sun shines brightly and the sky is consistently clear. This is unquestionably one of the best times to visit the Galapagos Islands.
What is the rainy season in the Galapagos?
The months of December through May are referred to as the "wet (warm) season." During this warmer season, the Galapagos' climate becomes more tropical, with daily rain and cloudier skies. Aside from that, the water temperature is warmer, making swimming and snorkeling more enjoyable.
Is August a good time to go to Galapagos?
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round travel destination, with pleasant weather and excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year. So, yes, August is a great month to visit the Galapagos.
Is Galapagos expensive to visit?
The Galapagos Islands are not cheap, but there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing the amazing experience. All of this is due to its remote location in the Pacific Ocean, similar to Hawaii. Another factor that makes the Galapagos expensive has less to do with remoteness and more to do with keeping the islands in pristine condition. Only 3% of the total land area is suitable for urbanization.
Is Galapagos Islands worth it?
The Galápagos Islands are well worth visiting. It's one of the most unique landscapes on the planet, with incredible endemic species like the Giant Tortoise, Darwin Finch, and Galápagos Fur Seal found nowhere else on the planet. It is also one of the most protected environments a traveler can visit.
Galapagos in January
January is one of the best months to visit the Galapagos Islands. The weather is pleasant, and there are excellent bird-watching opportunities. The average high temperature during this time is between 84 and 86 °F, with an average low temperature of 70 °F. Despite the fact that the sea temperatures are warmer at this time of year, the water temperature is 74 degrees Fahrenheit on average, which may feel a little chilly. It's also a great month for hiking and underwater activities like snorkeling and diving if you’re into that.
Galapagos in February
In February, temperatures in the Galapagos Islands range from 70 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit [21 to 30 degrees Celsius]. In February, the average water temperature in the Galapagos Islands is 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius). The enviable weather (a lot of sun with only the occasional shower or drizzle) is ideal for tanning. Water sports are also popular this month due to the warm seas and lush vegetation that sustain the Highlands.
Galapagos in March
The rainy season in the Galapagos peaks in March, but this does not mean it rains every day or all of the time; there is still intense sun. Nonetheless, March is one of the warmest months in the Galapagos, both above and below the water. And with northern and southern swells dominating the warm waters, it's one of the best months for surfing. Lastly, the islands' natural beauty is on full display this month, and there is plenty to see and do throughout the archipelago.
Galapagos in April
The weather in April is almost as warm as it was in March. This means that you can expect maximum average temperatures of 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.5 degrees Celsius) and minimum average temperatures of 73 degrees Fahrenheit (22.8 degrees Celsius). The warm weather is even more enjoyable this month because the average rainfall is only 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters). However, some consider April to be the best month to visit the Galapagos Islands because of its warm and sunny days.
Galapagos in May
Expect mild temperatures and little rain in May. It is generally colder, and as the Galápagos Islands approach the dry season, it is the ideal time to visit if you want to avoid the rain and heat of winter. There is also less humidity than the rest of the year, with daily temperatures ranging from 72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. With sea temperatures around 72 °F, the waters become more refreshing as well. With fewer visitors than earlier in the year, May is considered the "shoulder month" between the low and high seasons. The first two weeks of the month are the best time to avoid crowds and higher prices. As schools begin their summer vacations, the Galápagos Islands tend to attract more visitors toward the end of the month. It also tends to be busier around May 24, when Ecuador commemorates the Battle of Pichincha with a public holiday. If the celebration falls on a weekend, the entire weekend will be more crowded. To get the best deals on hotels and flights, plan your trip at the beginning of the month and be flexible with your dates.
Galapagos in June
June is an ideal time of year to take a Galapagos Islands cruise or enjoy a Galapagos land-based option. The weather is pleasant, and while it can be cloudy sometimes, temperatures are more comfortable than at other times of the year. As a result, if you prefer to be active when the weather isn't too hot, head to the Galápagos Islands in June. Additionally, expect daily average temperatures of 70–76 degrees Fahrenheit with water temperatures of 76 degrees Fahrenheit, which is warm enough to swim and enjoy the marine life. Finally, there might still be a little rain regardless of whether it is dry season, so be prepared.
Galapagos in July
In terms of weather, July is an excellent month to visit the Galapagos. The average air temperature ranges from 68° to 79° F (20° to 26° C), a mild and comfortable range ideal for hiking, exploring the islands, or simply relaxing in the sun. It is an excellent time to visit with family, go hiking, dive with sharks and whales, and snorkel among crustaceans and mollusks. Also, around the islands, you'll see lazy sea lions and their pups, as well as blue-footed boobies going about their business. If you love wildlife, you definitely don’t want to miss out on such an experience.
Galapagos in August
August is the coldest month in the Galápagos Islands, with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature is the coldest of the year, ranging between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, August is peak season in the Galapagos Islands. During this period, you get to experience abundant marine life, the weather is pleasant, and the Northern Hemisphere families are on vacation. Lastly, this month is ideal for both families and thrill seekers.
Galapagos in September
September is the cool and dry season in the Galapagos. Air temperatures are cooler, with less humidity, as are sea temperatures, with less visibility underwater. The skies are misty, and while there is less sunlight, there is also less rain. This is a good time for those who are sensitive to heat. Nonetheless, when visiting the Galapagos in September, expect little rain and the coolest temperatures of the year, though the weather will still be pleasant. The active marine animals in Galapagos this month are; Whales, dolphins, sea lions, and Galapagos fur seals. It is also the best month to see Galapagos penguins.
Galapagos in October
In October, the average maximum temperature in the Galapagos Islands is around 77 degrees Fahrenheit or 25 degrees Celsius, and the average minimum temperature is around 66 degrees Fahrenheit or 19 degrees Celsius. Overall, the low season on the Galápagos Islands continues in October, with fewer visitors than in the summer and winter. It's one of the best months for couples to visit, with activities that are ideal for a romantic getaway in full swing.
Galapagos in November
The average high temperature is 79 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius), and the average low temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius) (21 degrees Celsius). The sea temperature will most likely be around 73 degrees Fahrenheit (23 degrees Celsius). Visiting the Galapagos in November can provide the best of both worlds, as currents begin to shift from cool to warm. Temperatures in the air and water are rising, and animals are becoming more active. The month of November is not particularly busy for tourists visiting the Galapagos Islands. The period around the 2nd and 3rd of November is an exception to this, as there are two Ecuadorian public holidays at this time, which does result in more travel. Another exception is the week before Thanksgiving in the United States (the last week of November), when there may be a large number of US tourists. Because of the generally lower level of demand for Galapagos cruises throughout the rest of this month, you may be able to get a great deal on your Galapagos trip in November.
Galapagos in December
The Galapagos weather in December is starting to heat up, with an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius. while the coldest is around 21 degrees Celsius. This means that it gets nice and warm during the day, and the night isn’t too chilly. December is a fantastic month for snorkeling and diving in the Galapagos Islands for a variety of reasons. One reason for this is that the water clears and visibility improves. This occurs because the Humboldt Current begins to subside around this time. As a result, with a perfect combination of warm weather, cultural activities, and abundant wildlife, December is one of the best months to visit the Galapagos. Visitors during this month will see the landscapes come to life after the rains, and if you stay for Christmas or New Year's Eve, you'll have a unique holiday experience
Conclusion
That concludes the best time to visit Galapagos' picturesque and well-known city. Based on your weather preferences and trip objectives, we hope you were able to select the best month to visit Galapagos. Do you have any additional information? Or have we overlooked something? Please leave your thoughts in the section below!