Galapagos Weather
Predictably Unpredictable
You may experience vastly different climates during your visit. While we are located on the equator, often it is not as hot as you might expect it to be. Sometimes the temperatures are unpredictable. In the higher altitudes on the mainland, particularly Quito, it may be 50º F. At the same time, it may be 100º F in the Galapagos Islands. Plan for both extremes. It is coldest with the heaviest seas in the summer months of June, July and August. It is warmest with the calmest seas in January, February and March. This is all due to the currents that run throughout the Pacific Ocean.
The climate changes here because of the ocean currents. So, though you are on the Equator, often it is not as hot as you might expect it to be. Sometimes the temperatures are unpredictable, even cool. That’s why endemic Galapagos penguins can live here. Were it constantly hot with no respite, penguins could not survive so far from frigid temperatures. But, because of the cold water currents here, they are able to swim into the Pacific Ocean and cool down. On the other end of the spectrum, our endemic Galapagos marine iguanas, found no where else in the world, are able to survive from their dips in the frigid ocean by basking in the sun at the end of the day soaking up the heat and renewing their energy.
There’s a big contrast in weather between here and the mainland as well. In the higher altitudes on the mainland, particularly Quito, it may be 50º F (10 C). At the same time, it may be 100º F (38.7 C) in the Galapagos Islands. Plan for both extremes. It is coldest with the heaviest seas in the summer months of June, July and August. It is warmest with the calmest seas in January, February and March. This is all due to the currents that run throughout the Pacific Ocean.
Here in the Galapagos we have basically two seasons. It is dry and cool (never cold) from June through November, with a constant mist called “garua.” It is more warm and humid from December through May. During the cooler season, the Pacific Ocean is cooler as well, but the Galapagos Marine Reserve is bustling with activity. Both are excellent seasons to visit because the plant, animal and marine life all change with the seasons. Many visitors travel to Galapagos more than once so that they can experience the seasonal changes themselves.
Temperature Variations Chart
In June through November, the Galapagos Islands experience cooler temperatures and mistier weather. In this period, the average outdoor temperature ranges from 70–75 degrees, with July tending to be the warmest month. The average water temperature in this period ranges from 70 to 73.
In December though May, the Islands experience warmer temperatures and drier weather. In these months, the average outdoor temperature ranges from 74 in December to 83 degrees in March and April. The average water temperature in these months ranges from 74 to 77 degrees.
When it rains, the rain lasts for a few moments and is not ever a real downpour. When it’s cold at night, it’s rarely below 60 F, only cool enough for a sweater. When the water is cold, it’s still above 70 F. Honestly, there is no bad time to come to Galapagos.
Harry Jiménez, Owner and General Manager
Galapagos Eco Friendly
Av. 12 de Febrero y Av. J Roldo
San Cristobal Island
Galapagos, Ecuador SCY
Reservations: 593 052 520 124
Email: info@galapagosecolodge.net
