The weather rarely ruins a trip to the Galapagos Islands, as even in the depths of winter (June to October) the mercury doesn’t dip below 20°C during the day. The main considerations when planning a journey to the Galapagos Islands is what you want to do and see, and how many other tourists you want to share the experience with.

There are two peak tourist seasons in the Galapagos Islands. From June through early September and again from mid-December to the end of January is when most tourists plan their trips. The government controls the number of visitors at any time on the Galapagos Islands, so even peak periods are no more crowded than the off-season. But during the peaks, you can count on every spot on the Galapagos Islands being booked.

The winter (June to November) is the coolest time of year in the Galapagos Islands, when temperatures range from 20°C to 24°C during the day and cool off nicely at night. Occasional misty rains called garua appear during the winter along with more frequent, chilly winds. But it rarely rains during the winter months in the Galapagos Islands, making winter an ideal season to spend time enjoying the outdoors without sweating. You’ll certainly need a sweater at this time of year, especially in the early morning and at nights.

Summer (December to May) warms up the water and the air in the Galapagos Islands, but it also brings rain. Expect an hour or two of rain nearly every day balanced out by sparkling sunshine once the clouds have finished their daily purge. Temperatures average between 26°C and 30°C in summer in the Galapagos Islands, and the humidity can get a bit sticky. Because the seas are warm, this is an ideal time for swimming and other water sports.

Best Time to Visit the Galapagos

Summer is the flamboyant mating season for the birds and the nesting season for the tortoises of the Galapagos Islands. Sea lions also engage in their entertaining mating rituals during the rainy season, but if it’s fish you’re into, you will need to visit the Galapagos Islands during the dry winter months. Many scuba divers feel winter is the prime time for diving even though the waters are quite chilly.