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Galapagos Weather and Climate

The time zone for the Galapagos Islands is GMT -6, which is one hour behind from Ecuador's mainland which is GMT -5. The current time at the Galapagos Islands is:

Climate - The climate at the Galapagos Islands is subtropical and it is regulated by the warm El Nino Current and the cold Humboldt Current. The current weather at the Galapagos Islands is:

The weather temperature varies 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)

June to December - From June to December the southern trade winds bring the colder Humbolt current north to the Galapagos. This means that 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.
Thus, June to December is generally called the "dry season "known for its blue skies and mid-day showers.

During this season tourist may observe a big amount 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.

Average Rainfall and Average Daily Temperature Month by Month

December to May - The time 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 and snorkeling.

During this season tourist may observe a big amount 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. Due to the water conditions snorkeling is the recommended activity during these months.

Average Rainfall and Average Daily Temperature Month by Month

Marine Currents- The Humboldt Current's influence brings cold waters especially during the mist rainy season (cool weather) from July to December. "El Niño" current may bring warm waters to the Galapagos and will make the surface warmer and rainfall increase (January to June).

The water temperature varies during the year:

• 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)

When is the best time to visit Galapagos? Galapagos is a place that can be visited at any time.  There are two season and the warmest is between December to May and it is the time when the sky is always clear and the sun shines strongly. If you love to dive in amazing places, the best time to visit Galapagos is from June to November. During this season the weather is a little cold but it gives you the chance to enjoy the best from Galapago's famous marine reserve.

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