Why the Galapagos Islands will forever enchant you and when to visit them

By Brett Peters, Owner, Uniquely Galapagos CIA Ltda.

The Galapagos Islands, are one of the most unique and amazing places to visit, a world unto themselves. Nestled around 620 miles off Ecuador's coast in the vast Pacific Ocean, this archipelago of 13 main islands, 7 smaller ones, and over 200 islets and rocks is a true wonder of nature. While Fray Tomas de Berlanga might be credited for the first "official" visit in 1535, it's Charles Darwin's five-week stay in 1835 that forever etched these islands into the annals of scientific discovery.

But even today, what truly makes the Galapagos so special? Let's dive in and find out!

1. Wildlife Like Nowhere Else on Earth

Imagine unique wildlife encounters with species that are endemic and only exist in the Galapagos Islands. From the emblematic Galapagos Tortoises to prehistoric Land and Marine Iguanas, Galapagos Penguins, Flightless Cormorants, and Waved Albatrosses, visiting the islands are a nature lover’s dream. What's even more incredible is these species often show no fear of humans. With few natural predators, they allow for unbelievably close and unique encounters, undeniably an experience of a lifetime.

2. A Tapestry of Volcanic Landscapes

Forged by fiery volcanic activity, the Galapagos boast a dramatic and diverse landscape. Visualise Galapagos’ diverse landscapes from pristine white sand beaches to lava trails, cactus forests, lush highlands, cloud forests and volcanoes. It's a geological wonderland waiting to be explored.

3. A Living Laboratory of Evolution

The Galapagos are more than just beautiful; they're scientifically profound. Charles Darwin's observations here, particularly of the finches, mockingbirds, and giant tortoises, famously inspired his ground breaking book Theory of Evolution. Published in "On the Origin of Species" in 1859, his work fundamentally changed our understanding of life on Earth. Today, the islands remain a living laboratory and have been protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 – a testament to their irreplaceable value.

4. An Underwater Paradise

Beyond the land, the Galapagos Marine Reserve is a spectacle in itself. Established in 1998 and expanded by a massive 60,000 square kilometres in 2022, it's one of the largest and most biologically diverse marine protected areas globally. It's a diver's and snorkeler's dream, teeming with Sea Lions, Marine Turtles, White and Black Tip Reef Sharks, Rays, and even adorable Galapagos Penguins darting through the water.

5. A Beacon of Conservation

The Galapagos Islands stand as a shining example of successful conservation and ecotourism. Strict regulations, like the meticulous biosecurity luggage checks before you even fly in, are in place to protect these fragile ecosystems. Visitors have the unique opportunity to learn first-hand about these vital conservation efforts from dedicated local tour operators like Uniquely Galapagos, and incredible NGOs such as the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos Conservation Trust, and Frente Insular RMG. Your visit directly supports these crucial initiatives.

The Galapagos is Waiting For You: Choosing Your Perfect Time to Visit

The beauty of the Galapagos is that they're fantastic to visit year-round and most of the species are non-migratory so they can be seen throughout the year, with the Waved Albatross being one of the exceptions.

Despite being right on the equator, its unique sub-tropical climate, influenced by cold ocean currents like the Humboldt, keeps temperatures moderate. Expect warm days and surprisingly cool nights. Average air temperatures range from 21−29∘C (70−84∘F) and average water temperatures fluctuate between 18−27∘C (65−80∘F).

The Galapagos Islands has two defined seasons:

• The Warm, Wet Season (December to May): Air temperatures can climb to 31∘C (87.8∘F) or higher, with most of the rain falling from late January to early April.

• The Cool, Dry Season (June to November): Known as the "garua season," this period is characterized by misty, foggy conditions and cooler temperatures, thanks to the cold Humboldt Current. This is often when marine life is most active due to the nutrient-rich waters!

To help you, as a nature lover, find your ideal trip, let's look at some monthly highlights and the typical climate each month:

January

• Wildlife: Marine Turtles are nesting. Giant Tortoises lay eggs in the wild. On Española Island male Marine Iguanas display their vibrant breeding colours!
• Climate: Warm and humid with occasional rain later in the month. Warmer water temperatures are excellent for snorkelling.

February

• Wildlife: Perennial breeding and nesting of Flightless Cormorants, Galapagos Penguins and Greater Flamingos.
• Climate: Warm temperatures continue, with more frequent rain. Excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving.

March

• Wildlife: Marine Turtle hatchlings are more visible, making their dash for the ocean. Great Frigatebirds breeding and nesting on Genovesa Island.
• Climate: Warm and humid with frequent rain. Perfect conditions for marine exploration.

April

• Wildlife: Breeding season is in full swing for many birds. Waved Albatrosses arrive on Española Island to breed and nest.                                                         You may even witness giant tortoises in their fascinating mating rituals. Land iguanas hatch.
• Climate: Warm and slightly rainy until mid-month, with superb snorkelling conditions.

May

• Wildlife: Blue-footed booby males perform their famed mating dance displaying their vibrant blue feet to attract females.
• Climate: The end of the hot season is normally dry with continued great snorkelling conditions.

June

• Wildlife: This is one of the best months to explore marine life! Giant Tortoises start their mating season. Many seabirds are nesting now.
• Climate: The start of the cooler, ‘Garua season’ brings clear waters, perfect for snorkelling and diving.

July

• Wildlife: Whale and Dolphin sightings more common in northern part of the archipelago.
• Climate: Cooler temperatures and low humidity make for comfortable exploration and crystal-clear waters.

August

• Wildlife: Fur Seals begin breeding.
• Climate: Cool and dry, with clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving.

September

• Wildlife: Perennial breeding and nesting of Great and Magnificent Frigate Birds. Sea Lions in breeding season.
• Climate: Cool, dry, and clear waters – perfect for all marine wildlife viewing.

October

• Wildlife: Waved albatrosses still nesting on Espanola Island
• Climate: Cooler and dry with good underwater visibility.

November

• Wildlife: The end of the breeding season for many birds. Marine Turtles start mating season.
• Climate: Temperatures begin to rise, and occasional rain starts to increase, with still good visibility for snorkelling.

December

• Wildlife: Perennial breeding and nesting of Ref-Footed and Nazca Boobies,
• Climate: Temperatures continue to rise, bringing more sunny, clear days, but also the beginning of the wet season towards the end of the month.

Your Best Time to Visit: A Recommendation

While every month in the Galapagos offers something incredibly special, June to September are often considered prime months for marine wildlife viewing, especially for Whale Sharks and for exceptional water visibility. December to May are the best months for birdwatching and observing their fascinating nesting behaviour. Ultimately, your perfect time depends on the specific species you want to see and the activities you most want to experience!

If we had to pick our favourite period to visit the Galapagos, we often recommend mid-April to mid-May. This period falls towards the end of the hot and wet season, meaning temperatures are still wonderfully warm, but the rains have largely abated.

If this blog has inspired you as a nature lover to explore our 'Enchanted Islands' then Contact Us at Uniquely Galapagos. We would love to help you plan an amazing land or cruise adventure, which will be 'an experience as unique as you!