When should I go to the Galapagos?

The Galapagos islands are an all year round destinations, so the best time to visit the Galápagos depends on your preferences. So when should you go?

The warm season (December to May) offers active marine life and warmer waters, the dry season (June to November) provides ideal conditions for hiking and birdwatching, and the shoulder seasons (April and November) combine moderate weather with fewer tourists for a more serene experience.

Each season offers its own unique opportunities, and we will help you choose the one that best aligns with your interests! Get in touch with our specialists and start planning…

Warm Season (December to May)

The warm season offers the warmest weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 31°C. This is the time when the islands experience their wet season, although rainfall is typically light and short-lived, mostly in the form of afternoon showers. The waters around the islands are warmer, ranging from 21°C to 24°C, making it the perfect time for snorkelling and diving. Expect to see vibrant marine life such as sea turtles, rays, and a variety of fish species, as these warm waters attract more underwater activity.

The warm season is also a great time for birdwatching, as many species begin their breeding season. You might witness the iconic blue-footed boobies performing their mating dances, or the magnificent frigate birds puffing out their red throat pouches. Overall, this season offers the opportunity to enjoy the best of both land and sea experiences.

It is the season our Galapagos specialist, Val, travelled. She absolutely loved it and can tell you all about it! (and you have guessed right, that is her in the picture)

Wildlife spotlight:

Sea turtle nesting (December-March)
Marine iguana breeding (January-March)
Bird mating displays (especially February-April)

Dry Season (June to November)

The dry season runs from June to November and offers cooler, more temperate weather with average daytime temperatures between 19°C to 25°C. The dry season sees less rain, with most of the islands remaining arid and windswept. The cooler waters, around 18°C to 21°C, are perfect for those who prefer to avoid the warmer conditions of the wet season, though you may want to wear a wetsuit for comfort during snorkelling or diving.

This season is great for wildlife enthusiasts, as many species are more active during the cooler months. It’s also the ideal time for hiking, as the trails are less slippery and more comfortable. The Galápagos’ famous giant tortoises tend to be more visible, and you’ll often see them basking in the cooler temperatures. Birdwatching is at its peak, as migratory birds flock to the islands, and native species like the Darwin’s finches are abundant. While the dry season tends to attract more tourists, it’s perfect for those looking for clearer skies, stable weather, and exceptional wildlife sightings.

Wildlife spotlight:

Choppier seas but rich marine life due to Humboldt Current
Best time for whale sharks (especially Sept/Oct)
Peak season for watching Galapagos penguins and albatross

Shoulder Seasons (April/May and Sept to November)

If you want to experience the Galápagos Islands with fewer tourists while still enjoying great weather, April and November are considered the best months to visit. These shoulder seasons offer the benefits of both the dry and wet seasons, with moderate temperatures and the best of both worlds in terms of wildlife activity. April, at the tail end of the warm season, still offers warm waters, perfect for marine activities, while November is the start of the dry season, with clear skies and cooler temperatures.

These months provide excellent opportunities for unique experiences such as watching the dramatic courtship rituals of blue-footed boobies or spotting marine iguanas basking in the sun. With fewer crowds, you’ll have more opportunities for peaceful exploration and better chances to connect with nature in this pristine environment.

Final thoughts

There isn’t really a bad time to go the Galapagos, it is one a year-round destination par excellence.

But if you are flexible, below are some final considerations you might want to take into account:

High season coincides with North American/European holidays (mid-December to January, June to August)
For fewer crowds, consider April-May or September-October
Bird enthusiasts should prioritise April when many species are nesting
Divers often prefer July-November for abundant marine life

We travelled in May and as many say, it is the sweet spot for the Galapagos. Rain decreases, plenty of wildlife, comfortable temperatures. Whenever you decide to go, it will be one of the best trips you will ever take!

Browse some ideas below and get in touch to start planning.

This guide was created by Val, specialist in tailor-made Ecuador and Galapagos adventures.

Quito

Capital of the country and one of the continent's most beautifully preserved colonial cities.

Cotopaxi volcano

One of the world's most photogenic volcanoes! Visit the beautiful and eponymous park.

Otavalo

Charming town, full of indigenous culture and a famous market.

Mindo cloud forest

A birdwatcher paradise!

Coca

The gateway to the an immersive experience into Ecuador's pristine Amazon rainforest.

Banos

Charming town with a lovely square, wonderful nature around and capital of adrenaline sports (if you are so inclined).

Riobamba

A lovely town on the Avenue of volcanoes. Enjoy a 'hornado' (pig roast) al mercado La Merced.
The town is also the getaway for tours to Chimborazo volcano.

Cuenca

Beautiful Cuenca deserves a special mentions as it is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the continent. The lovely square is gorgeous and the whole city is welcoming and friendly. Go and visit the outdoor flower market for an injection of colour!

Guayaquil

Often overlooked, Guayaquil is mainly an arrival or departure point. However, the malecon is worth having a walk on, and La Penas is the oldest and most pleasant part of the city.

The Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands are famed for their unique wildlife and role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. They are located about 1,000 km (620 miles) off Ecuador’s coast, they feature volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Iconic species include giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galápagos penguins. The islands offer a rare glimpse of nature’s adaptability in an isolated paradise and should be on everyone's bucket list.