Galápagos Warm Season Wonders: What to Expect from December to May

Sunny skies, warm waters, and lush green landscapes, the Galápagos warm season is a favorite for many travelers. If you’re planning to visit the Galápagos Islands from December to May, get ready for a season filled with vibrant life, warm waters, and a sense of tropical abundance. It’s the perfect moment to experience the islands at their most lush, colorful, and full of wildlife, and with calm seas and inviting temperatures, it’s the perfect time to dive in, literally and figuratively!

So, what makes the warm season such a special time to visit? And what are some important tips for travelers in this season? Let’s take a deeper dive into the season’s unique offerings and why so many travelers consider it one of the best times to experience the Galápagos.

🌞 Warm Ocean Temperatures: What to Expect?

The Galápagos warm season is shaped by the Panama Current, which brings both warmer waters and humid air. The result? Expect sunny days, with rain typically coming in short, intense bursts, bringing landscapes to life as they transform into lush, green havens. (If you prefer cooler conditions, you might want to look into the June–November cool season instead).

For ocean lovers, this is paradise. The water is warm and inviting, perfect for long swims, snorkeling adventures, and diving into vibrant marine life. Whether you’re gliding beside a playful sea lion or watching schools of fish shimmer below, the warm waters make encounters calmer and slower.

Here’s what to expect:

• Warm, welcoming seas: Snorkeling and swimming feel effortless in these tropical waters.
• Better visibility: Calmer seas bring sharper views of the marine world.
• Thriving marine life: Rays, sea turtles, and curious sea lions are especially active in this season.

This is one of the best times of year to experience the underwater magic of the Galápagos, nature at its most colorful and alive.

Climate and Conditions

During the warm season, the Panama Current delivers both heat and humidity, creating sunny skies with refreshing tropical showers. Don’t worry, these short rains won’t disrupt your adventure. Instead, they transform the islands, turning once-dry, rocky landscapes into lush green landscapes with vibrant greenery.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Air temperatures: 25–31°C (77–88°F), ideal for outdoor exploration while still comfortable with the ocean breeze.
• Water temperatures: 24–28°C (75–82°F). The ocean feels inviting and warm, making long snorkeling or diving sessions relaxing and enjoyable.
• Humidity: Higher than in the cool season, though often softened by steady coastal breezes.
• Sea conditions: Generally calmer, which means smoother boat rides and easier time in the water, great news if you’re prone to seasickness.

This is the season when the islands feel alive and welcoming, both above and below the surface.

Wildlife Activity Highlights: December to May

With the arrival of seasonal rains, the Galápagos bursts into life. Lush greenery covers the islands, and wildlife activity reaches its peak both on land and under the sea. This is the time when nature feels its most vibrant, offering travelers unforgettable encounters.

Here’s what you can expect during the warm season:

• Birdlife in action: Darwin’s finches, Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, and blue-footed boobies are busy with courtship displays, nest-building, and raising their young. From the puffed red throat pouches of the frigatebirds to the dances of blue-footed boobies, these behaviors can be a highlight for visitors.
  
• New generations: Baby sea lions tumble along sandy shores, while you might be able to see marine iguana hatchlings emerge and scurry across the lava rocks.
  
• Giant tortoises on the move: In the lush highlands, giant tortoises roam more visibly thanks to the thriving vegetation.
  
• Underwater encounters: Snorkeling is extraordinary this time of year. Warm, clear waters provide close views of reef sharks, graceful rays, sea turtles, and vibrant schools of fish gliding through the calm seas.

💡 Good to know: While the cool season is famous for nutrient-rich currents and migratory species visiting the islands. The warm season shines a bit more above the surface, nesting, hatching, and breeding displays, making it a spectacular time to see the “circle of life” in full motion.

Travel Tips for the Warm Season

Planning a Galápagos tour during the warm season? A little preparation goes a long way to make your adventure comfortable and enjoyable. For a full list of essentials for your marine adventures, check out our Must-Pack List. In the meantime, here are key tips:

• Pack light but prepared: Breathable, quick-dry clothing is ideal for hot, sunny days. Bring a lightweight rain jacket for sudden tropical showers, and consider layers for cooler mornings or boat trips.
  
• Sun protection is essential: The equatorial sun is strong year-round. Don’t forget sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to keep safe while exploring.
  
• Stay hydrated: Warm weather and active days can dehydrate you quickly. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill whenever possible.

Why Travel from December to May?

If you want to experience the Galápagos at its most colorful and lively, the warm season is the perfect time. You’ll enjoy calm seas, sunny days, lush island scenery, and watching fascinating wildlife courtship and nesting rituals. Whether hiking through green highlands, warm season might be just for you. Here’s what makes this time of year uniquely rewarding:

Livelier travel season: This time of year tends to be more popular with visitors.

Fantastic season for island flora: Flowers bloom, cacti fruit, and the highlands are at their most colorful, adding depth to your wildlife and nature encounters.

Warm, Calm Waters: Snorkeling, diving, and swimming are especially enjoyable thanks to warmer temperatures, clearer visibility, and calmer seas.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, close-up wildlife encounters, or peaceful island landscapes, December to May offers the perfect blend.

Experience the Galápagos warm season with Galakiwi, our land-based tours let you explore the islands sustainably, connect with local communities, and witness this extraordinary season up close.

Discover our tours here, or let’s chat about creating a custom tour that’s just right for you.