Weather in the Galapagos
What part of the year are you traveling?

Galapagos is a place that can be visited at any time. The weather in the Galapagos Islands is subtropical and it is regulated by the warm El Niño current and the cold Humboldt Current causing two seasons. The warmest season is between December to May with clear skies most of the time, and the sun shining strongly. Still, if you want to explore the amazing underwater world of the islands, anytime from June to November is the best time to visit. During this season the weather is a little fresh but it gives you the best chance to meet the inhabitants of the Galapagos' famous marine reserve.
Seasons
The weather and temperature vary during the year:
- January to May: from low 80°F (27°C) to low 90°F (32°C) (possible rain)
- June to September: low 60°F (15°C) to high 70°F (21°C) (possible rain)
- October to December: 70°F (21°C) to 80° (27°C) (dry season)
- From June to December the southern trade winds bring the colder Humboldt current north to the Galapagos. Thus in these months, the water is cooler and a layer of high atmosphere mist pervades the island skies. In effect, the highlands of the larger islands are kept green and lush, while the sea-level islands and shorelines have little precipitation During this season you may observe a big number of species around the islands or the sea such as: giant tortoises, Humpback whales, blue footed boobies, cormorants, oystercatchers, lava lizards, Galapagos hawks, masked boobies, swallow tailed gulls, sea lions, lava herons, brown noddies, penguins, etc. Due to the water temperature, it is the perfect time for diving, snorkeling and scuba diving.
- The period between December and May is considered the “warm season.” During this warmer season, the Galapagos climate is more tropical with daily rain and cloudier skies. Also, the ocean temperature is warmer for swimming. During this season tourist may observe a big number of species around the islands or the sea such as: marine iguanas, sea turtle, land iguanas, flamingos, white-cheeked pintails, masked boobies, marine iguanas, albatross, blue-footed boobies, etc.
Sea Currents
La corriente de Humboldt brings cold waters especially during the misty rainy season (cool weather) from July to December. The “El Niño” Current may bring warm waters to the Galapagos and will make the surface warmer but rainfall increases (January to June).
Water Temperatures
January to June: from 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C)
July to December: from 65°F (18°C) to 75°F (23°C)
Climate Around the Year
JANUARY
- Rainy warm season (until May)
- Water and air temperatures rise until June
- Best underwater visibility (until March)
FEBRUARY
- Water temperature reaches an average of 26ºC / 78ºF
- Intense Sun and hot climate
MARCH - APRIL
- Rainy season reaches its peak
- Sporadic tropical rains
- Intense Sun and hot climate
- Air temperatures reach up to 31ºC / 88ºF
MAY - JUNE
- Beginning of the Garúa season (cool dry season until December)
- Temperatures (water and air) are lower
JULY - AUGUST
- Windiest months (force 4 – 5)
- Sea tends to be more choppy
- Average temperature is around 22ºC / 71ºF
AUGUST
- Lowest sea water temperatures (21ºC / 71ºF)
- Lowest air temperature (19ºC / 66ºF)
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
- Humboldt Current is strongest – strong ocean currents
DECEMBER
- Start of the warm season
- Water and air temperatures rise