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San Cristobal Island, Galapagos Archipelago

Best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

A month by month guide of when to visit the Galapagos Islands

A month-by-month guide of when to visit the Galapagos Islands.

When planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, choosing the best time to visit is crucial for a memorable and rewarding experience.

Weather conditions should also be taken into account when deciding the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands. The dry season, from June to November, brings cooler temperatures and occasional drizzles, but it also offers calmer seas and clearer skies. These conditions are ideal for those prone to motion sickness and for photographers seeking crisp landscapes and vibrant wildlife shots.

Conversely, the warm and wet season, from December to May, brings higher temperatures and occasional rain showers. Although this season offers more lush vegetation and greater marine activity, it's important to note that sea conditions can be rougher during this time.

Wildlife enthusiasts who want to prioritize animal encounters and are flexible with weather conditions should consider visiting during the warm season. However, those seeking calmer seas and more temperate weather might prefer the dry season.

Wildlife is at the heart of any Galapagos journey, and the islands offer year-round opportunities to witness captivating species. However, the timing of your visit can affect the diversity and abundance of the wildlife you may encounter.

For those eager to observe the famous Galapagos tortoises nesting, the warm and wet season between December and June is ideal. This period also coincides with the mating season of sea lions and the arrival of numerous migratory bird species.

To witness avian courtship rituals, such as the famous blue-footed boobies' elaborate dance, plan your visit between May and July. Additionally, marine life, such as sea turtles and hammerhead sharks, is more active during the warm season, providing incredible snorkelling and diving experiences.

If you're interested in observing the waved albatrosses, plan your trip between April and December, with peak activity occurring in July. This is when these magnificent birds return to Española Island for nesting and breeding, which is a remarkable spectacle.

Ultimately, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands depends on your preferences and interests. Consider the specific wildlife you wish to observe, your tolerance for varying weather conditions, and the activities you hope to engage in, such as snorkelling, hiking, or photography.

No matter when you choose to visit, the Galapagos Islands promise a captivating and unforgettable experience. Their unique ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and extraordinary landscapes ensure that every moment spent exploring this remarkable archipelago will be truly extraordinary.

Galapagos First Class Day 9

January

January is part of the warm and wet season in the Galapagos Islands. The ocean waters are at their warmest, making it an excellent time for snorkelling and diving. Sea turtle mating season begins, and green sea turtles can be seen nesting on beaches. Land bird species, such as finches and warblers, are actively courting and nesting.

Galapagos Islands White cheeked pintail duck

February

February brings peak rainfall and high humidity to the islands. It is an important breeding season for pintail ducks, and you may see flamingos and Galapagos doves nesting. Green sea turtles continue nesting, and the arrival of waved albatrosses on Española Island marks the start of their mating rituals.

Male frigate bird

March

March still sees occasional rainfall, but temperatures begin to gradually decrease. Land bird breeding activities are in full swing, with lively displays from frigatebirds as the males inflate their red throat sacs. Marine life is abundant, with sea lion pups playing in the water, and snorkellers can encounter playful sea lion colonies.

Blue Footed Booby Galapagos Islands Bird Sula Animals

April

April marks the end of the warm season, and temperatures start to cool down. The waved albatrosses on Española Island perform their intricate courtship dances, a highlight for bird enthusiasts. Similarly, you can witness the fascinating courtship displays of blue-footed boobies, and frigatebird mating season continues. This is a great time for hikers, as the landscapes are lush and green.

Galapagos albatross on rock

May

May is an excellent month to visit for birdwatching enthusiasts. The waved albatrosses on Española Island continue their courtship rituals, while other bird species, such as Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants, are more active. Marine life thrives, and snorkelling or diving may allow encounters with sea lions and various fish species.

Galapagos Islands tortoise grass

June

June marks the beginning of the dry season in the Galapagos Islands. The weather becomes cooler, and the sea is calmer, providing optimal conditions for cruising and water activities. Giant tortoises start to migrate to lower elevations for nesting, and bird colonies are bustling with activity.

Galapagos iguana

July

July is a peak month for wildlife sightings in the Galapagos Islands. The iconic giant tortoises can be spotted in the wild as they continue nesting and searching for food. Marine life thrives, with snorkelers and divers encountering sea turtles, sharks, rays, and colourful reef fish. It's also a great time to witness the hatching of blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds.

Galapagos Islands volcanic island

August

August brings cooler temperatures and offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the islands' unique landscapes. The giant tortoises are still nesting, and you can witness their fascinating behaviour. Marine life is abundant, and snorkellers may come across sea lions, Galapagos penguins, and marine iguanas.

Galapagos Island nesting birds

September

September marks the beginning of the garúa season, characterized by cool temperatures, overcast skies, and occasional light drizzles. Most sea birds are nesting, so a great time to come and watch them. Sea lion pups are usually seen in larger number around this time, but they are still too small to swim on their own.

Galapagos Island sally light foot crab

October

October is still part of the garúa season, with cooler temperatures and occasional drizzles. The islands are lush and green, offering stunning landscapes. Land bird species continue breeding, and young chicks, in particular blue-footed booby chicks, can be spotted. Diving conditions are excellent, with clear waters and abundant marine life.

Galapagos sea lion pup 2

November

November marks the transition from the garúa season to the warm season. The weather starts to warm up, and occasional showers are common. Sea lion pups are playful and curious, offering delightful encounters. Green sea turtles continue nesting, and snorkelling unveils a vibrant underwater world. This is perhaps the best time to try and snorkel with sea lion pups.

Galapagos First Class Day 10

December

December ushers in the warm and wet season in the Galapagos Islands. The islands receive more rainfall, and the temperatures are higher. This is your chance to try and spot the waved albatross chicks as they learn to fly and leave the islands until March. This is the beginning of green sea turtle nesting season, so female turtles will be on the shoreline, and the end of sea lion mating season, so there is still a chance to see sea lion pups swimming in the oceans.

Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. We stayed in four locations, firstly at the wonderful El Karama Lodge, Laikipia Wildlife Conservancy, where we even had a visit from Ruth from Far and Wild! Then, for a return visit, to Saruni Samburu, which is absolutely stunning and still one of our favourite places in the world. Next came Basecamp Mara Camp, where we saw our first Cheetah, the only animal we didn’t see on our first visit. After that, onto the wonderful Leopards Hill in the Naiboisho Conservancy, what a way to spend the last four days of this trip. Here we finally spent many hours with a beautiful leopard. Throughout our time in Kenya, we saw many lions, giraffes, elephants, ostriches, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards, to name just a few. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. Since our return again Ben phoned to see how it went in addition to emails. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait.

16 Aug 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

17 Sept 2025
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

31 Jul 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

3 Jul 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

28 Jun 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

5 Jun 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

5 Jun 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

5 Jun 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

5 Jun 2024

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