Galapagos Holiday Season Wildlife: What You’ll See in December and January
The holiday season is one of the most extraordinary times of the year to experience wildlife in the Galapagos. From December through early January, the islands enter a period of warm weather, calm seas, and peak wildlife activity — making this window ideal for travelers seeking rare sightings, nesting behaviors, and unforgettable photography opportunities.
Below is an expert overview of what makes the holiday season so special and what you can expect to encounter during these two high-impact months.
Peak Marine Life Encounters
The arrival of warmer currents brings exceptional clarity and activity beneath the surface.
What to Expect in the Water:
Consistent sightings of reef sharks, rays, and sea turtles
Sea lions engaging in high-energy, playful behavior
Bright tropical fish visible in shallow and deep-water sites
Increased marine iguana feeding and underwater movement
With water temperatures often reaching 73–78°F (23–26°C), snorkelers and divers enjoy longer, more comfortable sessions — ideal for both beginners and experienced explorers.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins
December marks the beginning of nesting season for green sea turtles, one of the most iconic wildlife experiences in the Galapagos.
Key Moments You May Witness:
Females emerging onto sandy beaches under evening skies
The careful excavation of nests
The start of egg-laying season, lasting into March
This is a rare opportunity to observe one of the most ancient reproductive rituals on Earth.
Vibrant Marine Iguana Displays
Marine iguanas begin to display their brightest seasonal colors during the holiday months. These red, green, and black patterns are tied to their mating cycle and create striking visual contrasts along the volcanic shorelines.
Why This Matters:
Peak coloration for photography
Increased shoreline activity
More frequent feeding dives in shallow bays
For wildlife photographers, this is one of the best times of year to capture the species in its most dramatic state.
Land Birds Enter Courtship Season
The warmer months trigger courtship behaviors across multiple land bird species, offering close-range displays of mating rituals and territory defense.
Wildlife Behaviors You May See:
Darwin’s finches engaging in vocal courtship
Flycatchers performing aerial displays
Early nesting preparation across coastal and highland regions
These behaviors are often visible from both land-based trails and guided highland excursions.
Ideal Conditions for Exploring Multiple Islands
During the holiday season, the Galapagos experiences warm, sunny days with minimal cloud cover. Sea conditions are calmer compared to the dry season, allowing smoother travel between islands.
Seasonal Advantages:
More predictable navigation for day trips
Ideal weather for hikes, photography, and open-water excursions
Clear visibility for spotting wildlife along coastlines
These conditions enhance the overall travel experience, especially for families or first-time visitors.
Why December and January Are Exceptional for Wildlife Viewing
The holiday season combines the best attributes of both land and marine environments:
Warm water + clear seas
Active mating and nesting cycles
Peak reptile and marine life behavior
High visibility and vibrant landscapes
Exceptional opportunities for wildlife photography
This window offers some of the most dynamic and reliable wildlife encounters of the entire year.
Plan Your Holiday Season Trip with Blue Galapagos
December and January offer unparalleled access to iconic Galapagos wildlife — from nesting sea turtles to brilliantly colored marine iguanas. Blue Galapagos crafts tailored itineraries built around seasonal wildlife trends, ensuring you experience the most meaningful encounters during your trip.
Reach out to us to learn more and begin planning your holiday wildlife adventure with expert support.
Receive customized recommendations, seasonal insights, and curated trip options for an unforgettable Galapagos experience.