Galapagos Islands Information — When to go?

When is the best time to go?

The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, but there are two distinct seasons, each with their own unique characteristics.

Planning your trip around these seasons will help you get the most out of your Galapagos adventure.

Land Iguana


Galapagos Dry Season

From June to December, southern trade winds bring the cold Humboldt Current north to the Galapagos. The water is cooler, and the garua fog is more prevalent in the islands.

Higher elevations on the larger islands receive moisture via the pervasive mist, retaining their lush green scenery.  At sea level however, there is little precipitation. For this reason, June to December is generally considered the "dry season". There can still be the occasional shower, but generally blue skies prevail.

Species more prevalent in the dry season include giant tortoises, humpback whales, blue-footed boobies, cormorants, oyster catchers, lava lizards, Galapagos hawks, masked boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, sea lions, lava herons, brown noddies, and penguins.


Hood Mockingbird

Galapagos Warm Season

Between December and May, the Galapagos' climate is more tropical with daily rain and cloudier skies. The ocean temperature is warmer, which is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Species more prevalent in the warm season include marine iguanas, sea turtle, land iguanas, flamingos, white-cheeked pintails, masked boobies, marine iguanas, albatross, and blue-footed boobies. Snorkeling is will be far more enjoyable during these months.




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