The Best Time to Cruise the Galápagos
Two seasons on the equator, and what each one brings.
Compare Galápagos DeparturesTwo Seasons on the Equator
The Galápagos have no winter, but they do have two distinct seasons shaped by ocean currents. Neither is a bad time to go. Each brings its own weather, water temperature and wildlife highlights.
The cool, nutrient-rich Humboldt Current flows up from the south for much of the year. When it weakens, warmer water reaches the islands. The swing between the two drives the season you will experience.
Warm Season and Garúa Season
| Warm season (about December to May) | Cool garúa season (about June to November) | |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Hot and sunny with short tropical showers | Cooler and often overcast, with a fine mist called garúa in the highlands |
| Water | Warmer and generally clearer for snorkeling | Cooler; a wetsuit is a good idea |
| Sea conditions | Generally calmer | Choppier, especially later in the season |
| Wildlife | Land birds nesting, green sea turtles nesting, lush vegetation | Rich marine life fed by upwelling; seabird courtship and the albatross season on Española |
Season boundaries vary from year to year, and climate patterns such as El Niño can shift them noticeably.
Month by Month Highlights
December to February: the warm season begins, the islands green up, and land birds start nesting. Holiday weeks are the busiest of the year.
March to May: the warmest water and calmest seas of the year make this a favorite for snorkelers. Waved albatrosses begin arriving on Española.
June to August: cooler water brings plankton and, with it, active marine life. Northern summer holidays keep demand high.
September to November: often the quietest months for bookings, with sea lion pups and active seabird colonies. Expect a rougher crossing or two.
Planning Around the Seasons
If you are prone to seasickness, the warm season is the gentler choice, and an expedition ship will ride the swell better than a small yacht. If you love snorkeling with sea lions and seeing the seabird colonies at their busiest, the cooler months are hard to beat. Either way, book early for holiday weeks. Our sister site Cruising Checklist has packing lists that cover both sun and cool, damp days.
Season Questions
Is there a bad time to visit the Galápagos?
No. Wildlife is present all year and cruises sail year-round. The seasons change the weather, sea conditions and some animal behavior rather than whether a trip is worthwhile.
When is the sea calmest?
The warm season, roughly December to May, generally brings calmer water. Seas tend to be choppier in the cooler months, especially around August to October.
When should I book holiday departures?
Christmas, New Year and northern summer holidays are the busiest weeks. Small ships can sell out a year or more ahead for those dates.
Choose Your Galápagos Month
Tell us whether calm seas, snorkeling or particular wildlife matters most. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will suggest the best months and send free quotes.
Compare Galápagos Departures