Best Times to Visit Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands, a remote Ecuadorian archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, are a unique paradise of dramatic landscapes, fearless wildlife, and unforgettable marine adventures. From snorkeling with sea lions to spotting blue-footed boobies or watching giant tortoises roam the highlands, the islands offer rare encounters that feel straight out of a nature documentary.

So, when is the best time to visit? That depends on what you hope to experience. Unlike typical destinations where timing revolves around holidays or weather, the Galápagos follows nature’s lead. Each season brings different wildlife activity and conditions—knowing what to expect can help you make the most of your trip.

December to May: The Warm & Wet Season

If you’re seeking turquoise waters, balmy temperatures, and a landscape bursting with life, the warm season from December to May is your dream window. With air temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) and sea temperatures a comfortable 74°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C), this is the best time for water activities. The ocean is calm, visibility is superb for snorkeling and diving, and afternoon showers keep the islands lush and vibrant.

Wildlife Highlights:

• December – January: Giant tortoise hatchlings emerge, and marine iguanas begin their vibrant breeding colors.
• February – March: Green sea turtles nest on beaches, and the first baby sea lions are born.
• April – May: The legendary waved albatrosses return to Española Island to nest, while blue-footed boobies begin their amusing mating dance.

For those enchanted by the underwater world, this is prime time for snorkeling and diving. The warm, crystal-clear waters invite you to swim alongside sea lions, reef sharks, eagle rays, and colorful fish. If you’ve ever wanted to experience a true underwater paradise, this is it.

June to November: The Cool & Dry Season

As the Humboldt Current sweeps through the Galápagos from June to November, it brings colder, nutrient-rich waters that attract a dazzling array of marine life. Though the air temperature drops to 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) and the sea cools to 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), the cooler conditions ignite a feeding frenzy that makes this the best time for big wildlife encounters.

Wildlife Highlights:

• June – July: Humpback whales pass through, and blue-footed boobies dive-bomb into the sea to fish.
• August – September: The peak of sea lion pupping season—adorable, playful pups fill the beaches.
• October – November: Whale sharks roam the waters of Darwin and Wolf Islands, thrilling adventurous divers.

The cool season is legendary among divers and marine enthusiasts. The nutrient-rich waters attract whale sharks, hammerheads, manta rays, and orcas. While the sea can be rougher and visibility lower than in the warm season, the sheer abundance of marine life makes this an unbeatable time for diving.

For land explorers, the cooler air makes hiking more comfortable. The landscapes may be drier and more rugged, but the wildlife is just as captivating. You’ll see lava lizards skittering across the rocks, flightless cormorants preening their stubby wings, and penguins darting through the waves—a rare sight so close to the equator.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

• Warm season in full swing, with sunny days and occasional rain showers
• Green sea turtles begin nesting on sandy beaches
• Land birds begin their courtship rituals, making for fascinating displays
• Marine iguanas take on bright, colorful hues to attract mates
• Excellent snorkeling and swimming conditions due to calm, warm waters

February

• Water temperature peaks, reaching its warmest levels
• Baby giant tortoises start emerging from their nests
• Flamingos begin their nesting season in coastal lagoons
• More green sea turtles lay eggs, creating great opportunities for nighttime observations
• Great conditions for underwater photography as visibility remains high

March

• Warmest month, with air temperatures often reaching 86°F (30°C)
• Highest chance of rain, but showers are short-lived
• Marine iguanas continue their vibrant mating displays
• Frigatebirds, with their striking red throat pouches, begin courtship displays
• Snorkeling remains incredible, with active reef fish and playful sea lions

April

• Rainy season begins to subside, leaving behind vibrant green islands
• Perfect month for photography, with stunning landscapes and clear waters
• Hatching season for green sea turtles and giant tortoises begins
• Waved albatrosses return to Española Island to start their elaborate courtship dance
• Water clarity is still excellent, ideal for spotting sea turtles and rays

May

• The warm season transitions into the cool season
• Waved albatrosses continue their beautiful courtship rituals
• Blue-footed boobies begin their charming mating dance
• Galápagos penguins become more active, especially in cooler waters near Isabela Island
• Snorkeling remains fantastic, but the water temperature starts to drop

June

• The Humboldt Current strengthens, cooling down air and water temperatures
• First sightings of migrating humpback whales
• Large schools of fish attract predators like sharks and sea lions
• The iconic courtship dance of blue-footed boobies is in full display
• Start of the giant tortoise migration on Santa Cruz Island

July

• Stronger currents bring nutrient-rich waters, fueling marine activity
• Excellent month for spotting dolphins and whales
• Galápagos penguins become more visible as they hunt in cooler waters
• Nazca boobies begin nesting season on Española Island
• Sea lion pupping season begins, offering heartwarming interactions with newborns

August

• Sea lion pups become more playful, interacting with snorkelers
• Migratory birds such as shorebirds start arriving
• Humpback whale sightings peak
• Stronger currents make snorkeling more thrilling, with increased shark activity
• The weather remains cooler, with occasional mist covering the islands

September

• Least crowded month, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter experience
• Strong currents and cool waters create one of the best months for diving
• Increased shark activity, including hammerheads and whale sharks
• Sea lion pups grow bolder, often approaching swimmers and divers
• Nazca booby chicks start hatching

October

• Some of the best diving conditions, with large schools of hammerhead sharks
• Sea lion pups are very active and love to interact with humans
• The islands remain lush due to residual moisture
• Great visibility underwater, making it ideal for spotting manta rays and turtles
• Breeding season continues for blue-footed boobies

November

• Water temperatures start to rise, attracting more tropical fish
• Mating season for sea lions peaks, leading to playful fights between males
• Increased chance of seeing whale sharks at Wolf and Darwin Islands
• Green sea turtles return for another nesting season
• Sunrises and sunsets become particularly stunning

December

• Rain showers return, rejuvenating the landscape
• Giant tortoise hatchlings start emerging from nests
• Waved albatross chicks fledge from Española Island
• Peak time for holiday travelers; early booking is essential
• Warm waters make snorkeling and swimming enjoyable

Best Time to Visit Based on Your Interests

For snorkeling and swimming, visit from December to May when the waters are warm, clear, and offer the best visibility. If diving is your goal, June to November is ideal, with cooler waters and a chance to see marine giants like whale sharks and hammerheads.

Wildlife watching is rewarding year-round, with unique events each month—like sea lion pups in August or albatross courtship in April. For comfortable hiking, aim for June to November when temperatures are cooler, and to avoid crowds, consider the quieter shoulder months of September and October.

Final Tips for Planning Your Galápagos Adventure

Plan ahead—cruises and accommodations can book up quickly, especially between December and May. Pack light but smart: bring breathable clothing, waterproof gear, and a wetsuit if you’re visiting from June to November. Choose your cruise or island stay based on the wildlife you want to see, as different islands offer unique experiences.

Respect the rules—this is a protected ecosystem, and conservation is key. And most importantly, be ready for adventure! From diving with hammerheads to hiking alongside giant tortoises, every moment in the Galápagos promises something unforgettable.

The Best Time for You

The Galápagos Islands are a year-round paradise, with something unique to offer each month. If you prefer warm weather and calm waters for snorkeling, visit between December and May. If you’re an avid diver or wish to witness incredible marine activity, plan your trip between June and November.

No matter when you choose to visit, the Galápagos Islands will captivate you with their breathtaking landscapes, unparalleled wildlife encounters, and the sense of stepping into a world untouched by time. Every season brings its own magic, ensuring that no two trips are ever the same.