Best Time To Travel To The Galápagos Islands On An Expedition Cruise

The world is full of amazing places, no doubt. But there are maybe three destinations that simply defy belief. Three destinations, that no matter how many times you see them on TV, will change your life once you see them in person. They are The Galápagos, Antarctica, and the African Savannah. 

I’ll let you debate the exclusions amongst yourselves, but there’s no doubt that each of these destinations offers something you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, this volcanic archipelago is teeming with endemic wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and rare ecosystems that have remained largely untouched by mass tourism. A voyage that once took days, weeks even, can now be completed in just two and a half hours on a quick flight from Quito. 

But when is the best time to go? The good news is there’s no truly bad time to visit the Galápagos. The islands are a year-round destination. However, depending on the time of year, your experience will differ in terms of weather, wildlife activity, and sea conditions. Here's what you need to know.

Two Distinct Seasons — Wet and Dry

The closer a place is to the equator, the more nuanced seasonality becomes. Instead of four distinct seasons, the temperature only changes slightly, and there is a rainy period and a dry period. 

Warm & Wet Season: December to May

Weather: Sunny, humid, with daytime highs between 26–30°C. Occasional short showers, typically in the afternoon.

Sea conditions: Warmer, calmer seas — ideal for snorkelling and swimming. 

Wildlife highlights:

• Green sea turtles nest on beaches (Jan–Mar)
• Marine iguanas start their mating displays
• Land birds begin nesting
• Sea lions give birth
  

  

  Who it suits: This is an excellent time for families or first-time snorkellers, thanks to the warm water and gentler conditions. Underwater visibility is excellent.

Cool & Dry Season: June to November

Weather: Cooler, cloudier, with temperatures around 21–26°C. Low rainfall, but frequent mist and overcast mornings.

Sea conditions: Rougher seas with cooler water (20–23°C / 68–73°F), especially in August and September.

Wildlife highlights:

• Blue-footed booby mating rituals (Jun–Aug)
• Giant tortoises migrate from highlands to lowlands
• Whale and dolphin sightings increase
• Galápagos penguins are more active
• Seabirds nest in large numbers

Who it suits: Best for wildlife lovers and photographers, though seasickness-prone guests may prefer earlier in the season.
 

What Type of Cruises Go to the Galápagos?

If you’re travelling around the Galápagos, then you’re either in a private yacht or an expedition ship. Let’s assume you’re in the latter. Most expedition ships are small vessels carrying 16 to 100 guests, with naturalist guides onboard and daily shore landings.

There are two main cruise types:

• Naturalist cruises: Focused on wildlife, geology, and interpretation. You’ll explore different islands by Zodiac, hike across lava fields, and snorkel with sea lions or rays.

• Diving cruises: Specialised itineraries for certified divers, often heading to more remote dive spots like Darwin and Wolf Islands, known for hammerhead sharks and whale sharks. Best from June to November.

Most luxury and eco‑focused cruise lines operate naturalist itineraries.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

• January – March: Great for warmer seas, clear snorkelling, and baby sea lions. Perfect for first-timers and families.

• April – May: One of the most balanced times of year — the transition from warm to cool brings calm waters and a wildlife boom.

• June – August: Peak birdlife, mating rituals, and marine activity. Cooler temps but rich rewards. Expect choppier seas.

• September: The quietest month in terms of visitor numbers — ideal if you want fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler conditions.

• October – November: Excellent for penguins, sea lions, and dolphins. Comfortable temperatures and fewer families.

• December: Holiday demand spikes, but warm water and calmer seas return. Green sea turtles begin nesting.
   

When Is the Most Popular Time to Visit?

This is an important question, and it often depends on your own expectations and availability. The most popular months for Galápagos expedition cruising are June through August and December to January. These coincide with school holidays and optimal conditions for either wildlife (in summer) or sunshine and smooth sailing (in winter).

If you're hoping to cruise during one of these peak periods, book at least 9–12 months in advance, especially if you're after a family suite.

When Should You Go?

It’s not the answer that you’re looking for, but it depends! The positive is that it gives you the freedom and flexibility to go when you can. 

Whichever month you pick, an expedition cruise in the Galápagos is truly once-in-a-lifetime. With small-group access, expert guidance, and intimate encounters with wildlife, it’s a trip that rewires how you think about the world and your place in it.

Head over to our website to view all Galapagos sailings and book your next cruising adventure today.