When is the Best Time to Visit the Galapagos Islands? A Year-Round Paradise Explained!
by admin
The Galapagos Islands, a volcanic archipelago teeming with unique wildlife, offer incredible experiences year-round; so much so that we always tell our clients to use timing that works best with their schedules and calendars as the primary criteria for choosing when to travel. However, depending on your priorities (and how flexible your travel dates are), certain months might be more appealing than others. Let's break down the Galapagos seasons and see some of the main differences in what they offer.
Understanding the Two Main Seasons:
The Galapagos experiences two primary seasons:
Warm/Wet Season (December to May):
Warmer air and water temperatures.
More frequent but short rain showers, often in the afternoons.
Calmer seas, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Peak time for land bird nesting.
Cool/Dry Season (June to November):
Cooler air and water temperatures.
Less rainfall, but often overcast skies.
Nutrient-rich waters, attracting marine life.
Peak time for whale and shark sightings.
Origin, Theory & Evolve Yachts
Galapagos Islands
Origin, Theory & Evolve
Origin, Theory & Evolve are identical 20-passenger luxury yachts that represent some of the finest options in Galapagos small ship cruising. Blending tasteful design, luxurious amenities (the vessels are Relais and Chateaux designated) and sustainability, "OTE" offer the future of Galapagos cruising today. A 20 guest maximum means two private guides (for a ratio of no more than 10 guests to a guide) and the vessels also feature additional perks uncommon to Galapagos cruises like triple occupancy cabins, an onboard concierge, open bar, a glass-bottom zodiac, and more!
Horizon Trimaran
Galapagos Islands
Horizon Trimaran
A modern luxury Trimaran, Horizon is one of the top small luxury vessels in the Galapagos Islands. Guests are treated to top-level on board services, guiding and cuisine and spacious cabin sizes. Each cabin also has a private balcony. The ship also offers a lovely sundeck, al-fresco dining, teak decking and an array of other on board amenities.
Regardless of when you visit, you'll encounter incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes
Specific Highlights Throughout the Year:
January-March: Ideal for land bird nesting and observing baby marine iguanas.
April-May: Seas are calmest, perfect for underwater activities.
June-August: Whale sharks are frequently spotted, and sea bird mating season is in full swing.
September-November: Galapagos penguins are very active, and sea lion pups are born.
December: Giant tortoise eggs begin to hatch.
Galapagos Sample Itineraries
Quito and Eight Day Evolution Galapagos Cruise
Quito and a top luxury expedition yacht
Quito and Five Day Infinity Galapagos Cruise
Quito and 4 nights/5 days on a luxury, 16-passenger yacht in the Galapagos
Quito and Five Day La Pinta Galapagos Cruise
Quito and a gorgeous 50-passenger expedition vessel
Colombia and the Galapagos Islands
Cultural and Natural Exploration
Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands
The best of Peru combined with the iconic Galapagos
Quito and Four Day Cormorant II Galapagos Cruise
Ecuador's capital and a 3 night/4 day luxury cruise
Colombia and the Galapagos Islands
Cultural and Natural Exploration
Quito and Five Day Infinity Galapagos Cruise
Quito and 4 nights/5 days on a luxury, 16-passenger yacht in the Galapagos
Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands
The best of Peru combined with the iconic Galapagos
Quito and Four Day Cormorant II Galapagos Cruise
Ecuador's capital and a 3 night/4 day luxury cruise
Quito and Eight Day Grace Galapagos Cruise
Historic ship cruising in the Galapagos and Ecuador's capital city
Quito and Eight Day Grace Galapagos Cruise
Historic ship cruising in the Galapagos and Ecuador's capital city
Ultimately, the "best" time to visit depends on your interests:
For Snorkeling and Diving: December to May offers warmer water and calmer seas.
For Marine Wildlife Viewing: June to November provides nutrient-rich waters that attract a wider variety of marine life.
For Birdwatching: The entire year offers incredible birding opportunities, but specific nesting seasons offer unique sightings.
For Landscape Photography: The lush green landscapes of the warm season are very beautiful.
Galapagos Islands
Isabela II Expedition Yacht
A spacious yet intimate, 40-passenger expedition yacht, Isabela II offers the amenities and comfort of a large vessel but maintains a very personalized and friendly feel. Sustainable sailing is a big component of Isabela’s operations, too, and the vessel takes several measures to help safeguard the ecosystem. This ship has 19 cabins as well as indoor and outdoor dining, exercise facilities, a hot tub, library and computer station, a bar/lounge area, and more common areas as well to allow you to stretch out and enjoy your time in the islands.
Galapagos Islands
Galaxy Sirius Catamaran
Galaxy Sirius, a modern luxury catamaran, was designed with comfort and bold styling in mind. Immerse yourself in the opulence of this ultra high-end vessel, masterfully crafted to deliver unparalleled comfort and serenity. Adorned with sophisticated decor and boasting state-of-the-art amenities, this exceptional ship promises an extraordinary sailing experience as you traverse the enchanting Galapagos Islands
Important Considerations:
The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, and each season offers unique experiences.
Regardless of when you visit, you'll encounter incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Booking your trip well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Pack for a variety of weather conditions, as the Galapagos weather can be unpredictable.
No matter when you choose to visit, the Galapagos Islands will leave you with unforgettable memories.
