You should know...
Being prepared is always the best, for this reason we share with you important information that you should take into account when visiting the Galapagos Islands
Weather
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​Subtropical
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Climate
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- Warm season (December - May): 80°F to 90°F, chance of rain. Good time to visit for sunshine, warmer, calm seas.
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- Cool season (June - September): 60°F to 70°F, mornings are often foggy. Good time to visit for increased underwater animal activity.
- Dry season (October - December): 70°F to 80°F. Good time to visit for mild weather, a mix of land and underwater activities.
Sea temperature (average)
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January – June: 70°F – 80°F (20°C-26°C)
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July – December: 65°F – 75°F (18°C- 23°C)
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If you’re snorkeling, we have 5mm or 7mm wetsuits so no one is shivering instead of enjoying themselves. In the colder seasons, we also have accessories like hoods for you to use if you wish. If you’re not used to cold seas or if you feel the cold more than others, feel free to bring an extra base layer (although we do keep some spares on hand).
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If you plan on snorkeling, we recommend wearing a 3mm wetsuit in the colder times of the year. You can rent these locally.
Currents and sea conditions
January to June: The southeast trade winds weaken and water from the Panama Basin brings warmer, calmer seas. Sailing to any island is easier.
July to December: The Humboldt Current typically brings choppy seas and heavy swells, making sailing times longer; seasickness medication is recommended. The movement and cooler water also bring nutrients and larger animals to the islands.
Every 3 to 7 years: El Niño typically brings warmer sea surface temperatures, a depletion of nutrients in the water, more rain, higher sea level, and more wave action.
Visibility
​On average, visibility in the Galapagos is about 8-10 m (25-35 ft) and increases to 18 m (60 ft) on good (calm and sunny) days. If you are used to 20, 30 or 50 m visibility, don't worry! A unique aspect of the Galapagos is that wildlife is abundant and sometimes even curious or playful. You will dive close enough to sea lions, sharks and other animals; often, the difficulty is choosing where to look!
Regulations of the Galapagos National Park
The rules of the Galapagos National Park are very strict. Unfortunately, human interaction and introduced species are two of the biggest threats to the islands, so we ask that you help us keep their impact to a minimum.
One of the rules of the National Park is that you must be accompanied by a naturalist. He or she will inform you of what is and is not allowed during your visit to the islands.
Follow his or her instructions. The most important rules are as follows:
Always follow the marked trail or that of your guide
Do not touch the animals
Do not take souvenirs (stones/shells, etc.) from the islands or the seas
Do not get too close (2 meters) to the animals (especially babies and young ones)
Do not litter
Do not smoke in the National Park
Do not bring food onto the islands (especially organic)
Clean the soles of your shoes before disembarking on the islands. You may have brought some endemic seeds from one island and do not want to introduce them to another.
Always stay with your group.
Although it may seem excessive, keep in mind that these rules are the only way for this unique archipelago to survive for many years to come.
