Galapagos
Explore in the footsteps of Darwin and experience incredible wildlife, flora & fauna you won’t find anywhere else
When is the best time to visit Gapalagos?
The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, so the best time to visit depends on the wildlife and weather you want to experience. For most travellers, April and May are often considered the ideal months. They combine warm weather, calm seas, vibrant landscapes, and outstanding wildlife viewing, making them excellent for both cruises and land-based visits.
December to May (Warm & Calm Season) ⭐ Best for most Kiwi travellers
Warm temperatures (25–30°C) & Calmer seas with excellent conditions for cruising. Clear water for snorkelling and diving, plus Lush, green landscapes after seasonal rains. Sea turtles nest (December–February), Giant tortoise hatchlings emerge (January–April).
June to November (Cool & Wildlife Season)
Cooler temperatures (20–26°C) Rougher seas but exceptional marine wildlife
Cooler, nutrient-rich waters attract abundant sea life. Excellent for diving with hammerhead sharks, whale sharks (June–November), manta rays, and sea lions. Waved albatross are present on Española Island from April to December Penguins and flightless cormorants are especially active. Blue-footed boobies begin courtship displays (June - August)
Best time to visit Galapagos based on your favourite interest
Wildlife viewing: June to November
Snorkelling: December to May (Warmer Water) or June to November (more marine life)
Scuba Diving: June to November
Calm Seas: December to May
Photography: April & May, when the islands are lush and skies are often clearer
Popular Cruises lines for Galapagos
We offer a choice of expedition experiences & ships in Galapagos, from the great value HX Expeditions, Santa Cruz II, through to the ultra luxury All-Inclusive Silversea, Silver Origin. Talk to our cruise specialists to help you plan your trip
Important Note re Expeditions in Galapagos
Indicative prices shown are for cruise only and do not include the mandatory domestic flights from Quito or Guayaquil and pre cruise hotels on some cruise lines. Please submit a request for your preferred date and our team will check the best available current pricing for you for the full package roundtrip from Ecuador. Our most popular Expedition trip also includes a pre-cruise package to Machu Picchu