Why December–March Is the BEST Window for Wildlife
Choosing the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands can dramatically shape your experience — from the wildlife you encounter to how calm the seas feel during inter-island travel. While the Galapagos is a year-round destination, each season offers distinct advantages depending on your priorities.
Below is a concise, expert-driven breakdown to help you decide when to go and what each part of the year offers.
Warm Season (December–May)
Best for: snorkeling, calm seas, warmer weather, lush scenery
Conditions:
Air: 80–88°F (27–31°C)
Sea: 73–78°F (23–26°C)
Expect mostly sunny days, brief showers, and gentle water movement.
What You’ll Experience:
Peak visibility for snorkeling and diving
Green sea turtles nesting
Marine iguanas in vibrant mating colors
Waved albatross returning to Española (late March–April)
This season is ideal for travelers who value smooth inter-island navigation, warm water, and a vivid landscape.
Dry/Garúa Season (June–November)
Best for: wildlife behavior, birdwatching, cooler hiking conditions
Conditions:
Air: 70–80°F (21–27°C)
Sea: 66–73°F (19–23°C)
Expect cooler mornings, overcast skies, and nutrient-rich waters.
What You’ll Experience:
Blue-footed booby mating rituals
Giant tortoise migrations
Peak penguin activity
Humpback whale sightings (July–September)
This season is well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers looking for dramatic behavior, active marine life, and comfortable trekking weather.
Month-by-Month Snapshot
December–January: Sunny skies, peak sea turtle nesting, high holiday demand
February–March: Warmest ocean temps, excellent visibility, iguana mating colors
April–May: Lush landscapes, calmer tourism flow, albatross courtship
June–July: Booby mating season, cooler air, early whale migration
August–September: Penguin peak, nutrient-rich waters, high marine activity
October–November: Transition to warmer conditions, balanced land/sea wildlife
How to Choose the Right Time for You
Choose December–May for warm weather, bright landscapes, and ideal underwater conditions.
Choose June–November for wildlife intensity, penguins, whales, and cooler hikes.
There is no wrong time to visit — only the best time for your travel style.
Start Planning with Blue Galapagos
Your Galapagos journey should be designed around your interests, your schedule, and the experiences you want most. Blue Galapagos creates elevated, custom itineraries built around seasonal conditions, wildlife patterns, and local expertise.
Begin planning your trip with expert insights, tailored recommendations, and access to curated island experiences.