Best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

Are you planning a trip to the stunning Galapagos Islands but unsure about the best time to visit? You want to experience this natural paradise without the weather or other factors hindering your adventure. Below, we delve into when is the best time to travel to Galapagos, considering various essential factors.

When deciding the optimal time to visit the Galapagos Islands, two main aspects come into play: the ambient climate and the water conditions. Just as rain or sunshine can impact your experience, so can the currents of the ocean, as marine life thrives in cooler waters.

Understanding the Ocean Around Galapagos

The Galapagos archipelago is shaped by two significant ocean currents throughout the year, creating two distinct seasons.

• From December to May: This period is dominated by the Pacific current. The waters are calmer and warmer, typically exceeding 28°C (82°F), making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling without the need for a wetsuit. However, the trade-off is a lower abundance of marine life.
• From June to November: Influenced by the South American currents, the sea can be rougher, and temperatures drop to around 22°C (72°F). A wetsuit is advisable during this time, but the benefit is an increase in underwater biodiversity, making it a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts.

Key Considerations for Your Trip

Months like July and August feature particularly rough seas, which can lead to the cancellation of some tours, especially around Isabela Island. For example, we had to suspend part of our tour to the Tunnels in mid-June due to rough conditions.

Be aware that inter-island transfers can also be affected, and if the waves are high, seasickness medication becomes essential. These transfers can take longer, particularly between Isabela and Santa Cruz islands.

The Climate of Galapagos

The ambient climate in the Galapagos is classified as tropical, maintaining pleasant temperatures year-round. However, two well-defined seasons influence the weather patterns:

• From December to April: This is the rainy season, characterized by sporadic downpours, while the rest of the time remains mostly clear skies. It experiences the warmest temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F).
• From May to November: This period is considered the dry season, where the likelihood of storms decreases, though overcast days and light rain (known as garúa) can still occur. The temperatures are cooler, typically between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F), and nights can be refreshingly cool.

During our visit in mid-June, we encountered a mix of cloudy days and rough seas, yet we wouldn't hesitate to return. We were fortunate enough to observe a variety of wildlife, from penguins to hammerhead sharks, including the Galapagos shark, although we spotted it only from the boat.

Peak Travel Seasons

The summer months of July and August, along with the Christmas holidays, see the highest tourist influx. Consequently, accommodation prices can increase, and finding deals becomes challenging, although tour prices typically remain stable.

So, When Should You Visit Galapagos?

Considering all these factors, we believe that the best time to visit Galapagos is in early June, a transitional period between the two currents. The water temperatures are moderate, and marine activity begins to pick up. Additionally, November and December are also excellent choices, although water temperatures may be slightly cooler.

Summary Table of Climate and Ocean Conditions

Here’s a summary table of the climate and ocean conditions throughout the year, providing a clearer picture of the best months to visit Galapagos:

Now that you have a clearer understanding of when is the best time to visit Galapagos, have you been there? When did you go, or when do you plan to visit? We would love to hear your experience!

Before you go, check out this video that provides great insights into the best months to travel to Galapagos:

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