By Galapagos Travel Center
July is known for bird courtship and nesting, with blue-footed, masked, and red-footed boobies beginning their breeding season. It’s also the start of the California sea lion breeding period, with dominant males competing for territory. Cooler waters bring whales, dolphins, and great snorkeling and diving.
July is known for bird courtship and nesting, with blue-footed, masked, and red-footed boobies beginning their breeding season. It’s also the start of the California sea lion breeding period, with dominant males competing for territory. Cooler waters bring whales, dolphins, and great snorkeling and diving.
Sea Lion Breeding Season
A highlight of this month is the start of the California sea lion breeding season. In which large males seek to dominate to secure females and territory. This can sometimes lead to fights between males
Booby Breeding Season Begins
On the other hand, it is the time for many species of boobies to begin their breeding and nesting period during this month. Blue-footed boobies begin nesting, as do masked and red-footed boobies.
A bit of a dry spell, but hey, that’s a good thing!
Temperatures in the Galapagos Islands in July are pleasantly warm during the day, with an average maximum of 25 °C (77 °F) and a minimum of around 20 °C (68 °F). There are generally about six hours of sunshine a day, although skies may be somewhat cloudy
70-79°F
(21-26°C)
73°F
(23°C)
0.15 inches
(5 cm)
Tortoises Trek to Nesting Grounds
During this time, the giant tortoises from the highlands of Santa Cruz Island begin their journey down to the lowlands in search of the perfect nesting spots
Marine Iguanas Show Their Colors
Meanwhile, marine iguanas start preparing for mating season, and the adult males begin to display vibrant colors think red, green, and turquoise! A true natural rainbow under the equatorial sun.
The fresher time of the year! The maximum temperatures you are likely to experience will be around 26 °C (79 °F), while the average is around 21 °C (70 °F). Visitors typically enjoy about 6 hours of sunshine per day in June. This is the time of year with lower temperatures compared to the rest of the year.
70-79°F
(21-26°C)
73°F
(23°C)
0.15 inches (5 cm)
During this month we will have a truly special and magical moment, which could be to observe the elaborate courtship of the flightless cormorant, as this is its mating season.
To see them, make sure your trip to Galapagos includes Isabela or Fernandina Island, as this species cannot be seen elsewhere.
Both parents participate in the task of incubating the eggs, but once the chicks are more independent, the female leaves to find another mate, leaving the male to do the rest of the chick care.
Their diet and behavior reflect coastal ecosystem health. It’s vital to raise awareness among visitors and tour operators to avoid disturbing nesting and to protect their habitat through proper waste management.
This species has strong legs and webbed feet for diving. It hunts eels, fish, and octopus in shallow waters near its nest.
Experience cooler, more refreshing weather in July, with increased marine activity and ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving—especially with a wetsuit. Wildlife is active with birds nesting and sea lions breeding. Expect occasional misty mornings and bring layers for boat rides. Sun protection and a hat remain must-haves under the equatorial sun!
