Best Time to Visit Galapagos Islands 2023

Galapagos Islands are best known for their rich wildlife and scenic natural views. Hence, people visit here to see the same. When it comes to the best time to visit Galapagos, it majorly depends on your plans to see the wildlife. For instance, if you want to capture albatross, then they can only be seen from April to November. In case this beautiful place is on your list, keep on reading this post to find out more.

The biggest reason is its wildlife. It is beautiful, colorful, and capable of making your trip even more exciting. However, you should know the right time for your visit. It is extremely important to make your normal trip full of fun and joy. In simplest terms, if you are a wildlife lover, then Galapagos should be your next spot.

A Month-By-Month Guide for Visiting Galapagos Islands

The best time to visit Galapagos Islands may vary, depending on various factors i.e. budget, your preferences, etc. The climate also plays a crucial role. When it comes to main seasons, they are roughly split into two only – dry and cool (between June and November) and wet and warm (between December and May). 

The coolest months with the choppiest conditions are August and September. However, some cruises still offer their services. In case you are not able to decide, just check out the following to decide better:

Visiting Galapagos in December

The weather starts becoming a bit intense in December. But this island is greener and the wildlife looks richer this month. Since the holiday season in South America takes place in December, it is good to book everything in advance. This will help you avoid excessively expensive flight tickets and accommodations.

Visiting Galapagos Islands in January and February

The temperature of the land as well as the sea is a bit warmer. Despite this, people love visiting Galapagos in January and February. If you think that only sunny days will be there, then you are wrong. The rain may occur after a certain period to change everything. These are the months when you can witness sea turtles’ nests, colorful marine iguanas, and a lot of land birds.

Visiting Galapagos between March and May

If you are someone who wants to see nature at its best, then visit between these months. These months are considered one of the best times of year to visit the Galapagos for so many good reasons. For instance, you can see land iguanas and sea turtles hatching. In addition to this, you can spot baby sea lions on the beaches too. Lastly, colorful landscapes and mesmerizing views are all about these months.

Visiting Galapagos in June

This month is marked as the commencement of the ‘seasonal change’. The climate started becoming a bit cool and heavy rain almost disappeared. But as soon as this season progresses, you will notice cooler waters, more waves, more wind, and cloudier skies. But one thing remains prolific – the wildlife. Here, you can see playful penguins, lots of seabirds, and colorful fishes.

Visiting Galapagos Islands in July

This is the greatest month to capture the captivating mating rituals of the “blue-footed” booby. The activities of the seabirds will still be there that you can witness. This is the season when flightless cormorants will perform rituals of mating and nesting. 

Visiting Galapagos in August

The winds will start becoming stronger in August. But the holidays in North America and Europe bring more visitors to this island. In this month, giant tortoises return to the highlands later than the migration in June. It is also the season when sea lions’ puppies show their playful nature. If you want to capture them, then it is the best time to visit the Galapagos.

Visiting Galapagos Islands in September

This is the quietest time to visit and explore the gorgeous Galapagos. However, some operators of the cruise may charge a bit high because of the low crowd. But you will have a memorable time here in September. It is because you can see active sea lions along with various nesting sites of seabirds.

Visiting Galapagos in October and November

At the beginning of these months, the winds started calming down. The chicks of blue-footed boobies will look a bit grown up. This is also the best time to witness the pups of sea lions playing in the blue water.

What are the Top Destinations to Visit in Galapagos?

After knowing the answer to when is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands, you should also know one more thing – the top spots. By having the details of the top yet unique destinations, you can have the best experience. The following spots are quite popular these days:

• Los Gemelos
• Tortuga Bay
• Wall of Tears
• El Chato Tortoise Reserve
• Charles Darwin Research Station
• Los Tuneles
• Punta Cormorant
• Rancho Primicias Galapagos Tortoise Ranch
• La Loberia
• Tagus Cave
• Interpretation Center
• Pinnacle Rock
• Lava Tunnels
• Albemarle Point
• Maprae Museum
• Punta Espinoza

Please note that this is just an indicative list. The number of top destinations in the Galapagos Islands is endless. You just need to do some online research to make a list of your choices.

How Many Days Must you Spend in the Galapagos Islands?

If you know the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands, then you should also plan well to enjoy it to the fullest. When it comes to the days you should spend here, one week is ideally the best. This will provide you with sufficient time to visit the top attractions. In addition to this, you will be able to capture the beautiful wildlife of the Galapagos.

Lastly, irrespective of the time or month you decide for your visit, you should check the climate. These details will help you know what to pack in your bags and what not.

Useful Tips to Plan Your Trip

Knowing the best time to visit the Galapagos is not enough to enjoy more. Hence, we have listed a few tips below. Take a look:

• Always check the weather conditions of the Galapagos Islands before visiting.
• You must pack some warm clothes and rain gear if you are visiting at the time of the wet season.
• Booking flight tickets and accommodations in advance are important to avoid last-minute hassles, particularly in peak season.
• Always keep a list ready of places to visit. This will help you plan your trip as well as budget well.

Ways to Keep Seasickness Away when Visiting Galapagos

People who are more likely to get seasick can do several things to keep it under control. First and foremost, always have a light breakfast before the tour. You are advised to avoid greasy, spicy, or heavy meals before the tour as they can trigger nausea.

Secondly, keep yourself hydrated. Take plenty of fluids i.e. water, juices, etc. Lastly, lie down as soon as possible when you start feeling seasick. But make sure you do it in a cool, quiet, and dark place. After this, try to focus on your breath. These are a few simple tips that can help you prevent seasickness.

What is the Best Time to Visit Galapagos Islands for Snorkeling or Diving?

In Galapagos, wildlife is not the only thing that you can enjoy. For snorkeling or diving, it is an ideal place too. However, you should pick the right time for it. As per the travel experts, between June and September, Galapagos is the best for diving. It is because of the higher visibility and warmness of the water. During these months, you can experience the best marine life.

Apart from these ideal months, Galapagos can be cold and wet. Hence, diving will become quite a difficult task for visitors. So, it is good to do some research from your end before deciding the best time to visit for diving.

Is Scuba Diving Possible in Galapagos?

Not only for the rich wildlife but Galapagos is also a popular scuba diving site. The warm and clear water provides visitors with great visibility. In addition to this, it is home to some of the most unique marine life. Scuba divers can also see penguins, turtles, sting rays, sharks, and so on.

What is the Cheapest Time to Explore Galapagos?

The budget is the main deciding factor. Hence, you definitely want to know the time when the prices of everything are low. This includes the time between June and September. Since it is a low season, you will find affordable accommodation and pocket-friendly airfares. But you must remember that the climate will be dry and warm. Therefore, check everything beforehand. 

Final Takeaways

To explore to the fullest, the best time to visit the Galapagos is when the dry season starts. The climatic conditions will be pleasant and some rainfall will be there too. Besides, the prices will be reasonable. Simply put, you should do research and read everything about the Galapagos. Based on the same, you should decide the time for your trip.