Cooler temperatures, dramatic landscapes, and incredible marine wildlife mark the beginning of the dry season in the Galapagos Islands. This seasonal shift brings a completely different energy to the archipelago, combining comfortable excursions on land with some of the year’s most exciting wildlife encounters at sea.
For many travelers, the dry season is one of the best times to experience the wild side of the Galapagos.
Comfortable Temperatures
The dry season brings cooler, refreshing days, with temperatures ranging from around 16°C (low 60s°F) to 21°C (mid-70s°F). The milder weather creates ideal conditions for hiking, wildlife walks, and exploring the islands comfortably.
The Garúa Effect
A soft seasonal mist known as garúa settles over the highlands, transforming them into lush green landscapes, while the coastal lowlands keep their dry, volcanic appearance. The contrast between the two ecosystems makes the islands feel even more unique and otherworldly.
Front-Row Wildlife Encounters
The dry season brings some of the year’s most exciting wildlife encounters. Waved albatross chicks gather along the coast, while green sea turtle hatchlings make their first journey to the ocean. Visitors can also witness the iconic courtship dances of blue-footed boobies and the synchronized displays of flightless cormorants. Playful sea lion pups fill the beaches with energy and colder currents attract penguins, dolphins, rays, sharks, and even migratory whales, making every marine excursion unforgettable.
Travel Tips for the Dry Season
- Don’t Skip the Sunscreen: Even with cooler temperatures and cloudy skies, the equatorial sun in the Galapagos is incredibly strong. Good sunscreen is essential during every excursion.
- Bring or Reserve a Wetsuit: The cooler ocean temperatures can make a wetsuit very helpful for snorkeling. Most Galapagos vessels provide wetsuits, sometimes included in the fare, but make sure your travel advisor has your size information in advance.
- Pack a Light Sweater or Fleece: Early morning hikes, breezy navigation times, and evenings on deck can feel quite cool during the dry season, so having an extra layer will make your trip much more comfortable.
foto pax haciendo snorkeling con wetsuit
Ready to plan your Galapagos journey? Speak with one of our trip advisors and let us help you craft a personalized adventure.