When to Go to the Galápagos

By Karey Fuhs

Although the archipelago nestles the equator, distinct rainy and dry seasons—and distinct high- and low-tourist seasons—create better times than others to visit the Galápagos Islands.

Rainy Season

The months of June to December tend to be characterized by cool garúa (mist) and temperatures averaging 72 F. This time of year the sea is at its roughest (but not overwhelming); water temperatures are lowest (so bring or rent a wetsuit); and island landscapes are most barren (but still beautiful). Fortunately, the rain brings relief from the occasional bouts of human discomfort. It also brings wet richness to the highlands, making them velvety green and flowery.

Dry Season

From January to May, the climate is more typically tropical: hot air temperatures, wide stretches of blue sky, and occasional—but brief—downpours. Because many of the islands are covered in black (bare) lava rock, you may feel yourself baking (and burning) in the actual heat like the quintessential egg frying on the pavement of a parking lot.

In the transition months, you will most likely experience climatic characteristics from the two extremes: from November to January, air temperature will start to rise while water temperatures remain cool, and from April to June, fresh breezes and cooling water temperatures will offset the heat.

Interestingly enough, the low tourist season coincides with these comfortable transition months. According to TAME, the major Ecuadorian airline servicing Galápagos, the low tourist season is from May 1 to June 14 and from September 15 to October 31. During these times, boat availability is higher; airline fares are lower; and tour prices are most economical. In addition, tourists on a budget (with the freedom of extra time) have the greatest possibility of finding a deal: travel agencies and/or yacht representatives in Quito, Guayaquil, or the main island port of Puerto Ayora are more likely to offer last-minute, discounted packages so that they can fill their boats to capacity. Also, visitors to the Galápagos during these times have more freedom to schedule non-cruise activities—like day trips to highland sites, scuba excursions, or local beach visits—because they will not have to fight with other tourists for spaces.

During the high season months, however, this strategy is bound to lead to frustration. From June 15 to September 14 and November 1 to April 30, demand for cruises is so high that attempting to book at the last minute will most likely result in waiting time (sometimes up to a month in June or July) and the emptying of your pocketbook (tours are generally more expensive in the high season). Flights will cost more, and hotel and restaurant owners might raise their prices as well. Because so many cruise yachts are running during these months, you may also have to share the island trails with as many as five other tour groups (despite the geographic isolation of the archipelago and the exclusivity of this type of trip, you will not be alone: in fact, you will probably be surprised by how many other tourists are there when you are). These things being said, all tourist services and facilities are up and running during the high season, so you have the maximum number of options at these times.

Finally, if you are a novice naturalist, keep in mind that migration of bird and sea mammals coincides with the changing seasons. If you are desperate to see the albatross or humpback whales, for example, plan to visit while these animals make their stops in the Galápagos (April-December for the albatross, June-September for the whales).