Galapagos Islands Weather

Galapagos Dry Season
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.

Galapagos Warm Season
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.

Galapagos Weather for Divers
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)