Paul Schicke
Written by Paul Schicke Senior Expedition Designer

Updated: April 21, 2026
Published: August 21, 2019

  • Twitter
Galapagos Penguin swimming

There’s never a bad time to visit the Galapagos, but there are specific times where you’re more likely to experience the unique adventures and events that interest you most. That’s why we created a Galapagos monthly guide to the seasonal events that take place throughout the Islands, so that our Guests can stay informed on what they’ll experience at any given time of year.

In August, the weather is gorgeous and the animal life is on full display in the water, on land, and in the skies. Here are 6 reasons to visit the Galapagos in August.

Temperatures for Galapagos Islands in August:

Average Low: Average High: Water Temperature: Average Rainfall:
64°F / 18°C 74°F / 23°C 66°F / 19°C 0.25 inches / 0.635 cm

Key Takeaways

  • August is firmly within the cool season in the Galapagos - with cooler temperatures, overcast skies, and nutrient-rich waters shaping the experience.
  • Wildlife remains exceptionally active - marine life thrives in these conditions, offering frequent, up-close encounters with sea lions, seabirds, and other species.
  • Snorkeling is outstanding for wildlife viewing - while the water is cooler, the abundance of marine life makes each outing especially rewarding.
  • A popular time for summer travel with a lively atmosphere - yet experiences remain immersive, with a strong focus on exploration and discovery.

1. Blue Footed Boobies Dance for Their Mates

The blue footed booby, in addition to its decidedly silly name, also happens to have one of the most distinctive mating rituals in the world of birds. In order to attract a female mate, blue footed boobies do a sort of ceremonial dance. This dance is designed to show their fitness for mating, and in August the male boobies are putting on their best displays for the females. If you want to see some unique bird behavior unlike any you’ve ever seen, August is an excellent time to do it.

Blue-footed Booby doing its mating dance

2. Humboldt Current Brings Active Marine Creatures

The Humboldt current is a deep-sea current that rolls into the Galapagos island waters at this time of year. It brings a great wealth of nutrients and microscopic organisms, but what will really catch your eye is what follows—tons of marine life that comes to enjoy the nutrients and hunt in the coastal waters of the Galapagos. In August, the Humboldt current is particularly strong. That means you’re more likely to see a wide range of sea life at every stage of the food chain. If the best snorkeling and fish-spotting is your favorite activity, then August is an excellent month to join Quasar on an expedition.

Marine Iguana diving and eating algae during the Humboldt Current in the Galapagos

3. Whale and Dolphin Spotting Continues to Grow

Fish aren’t the only sea creatures you’ll see in August, and they’re certainly not the largest. Whale and dolphin spotting in August is nearly at its peak, as these magnificent creatures come to the coastal waters surrounding the Galapagos to feed and frolic in the sea. You can catch sight of a wide range of dolphin and whale species, so be sure to keep those binoculars handy—you never know what massive gentle giant you’ll see off the port-side of your Quasar expedition yacht.

Orca whale being curious in the Galapagos

4. California Sea Lions and Fur Sea Lions Breed and Frolic in the Water

Speaking of sea mammals, California sea lions and fur sea lions are also quite present on and around the Islands in August. These fun-loving creatures are a sight to behold and full of personality, making them favorites of many of our Quasar Guests. You can snap incredible photos and get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures, and even swim among them as they frolic and flip in the surf! Talk about an incredible story to take home after your Galapagos vacation.

A Galapagos Sea Lion pup drying off

5. Tortoises Lay Eggs on Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island is home to a large population of the Galapagos’ famed tortoises. In August, these magnificent shelled reptiles settle in on the island and lay their eggs, watching over their prized offspring until it’s time for them to hatch and make their own way. It’s truly incredible to see the beginning of the life cycle for these fascinating creatures, many of whom will go on to live for over 150 years.

Baby Giant Tortoise and egg

6. Birds & Birds & Birds...OH MY!

Love bird watching? Then August in the Galapagos is the time to visit. You’ll catch everything from the waved albatross to the dancing blue footed boobies, plus magnificent and great frigate birds, flightless cormorants, penguins, and even hot-pink flamingos stepping daintily through the shallow waters of the Islands. Meanwhile, Island weather makes for clear air and great bird watching opportunities—whether you want to snap some photos or simply take it all in for yourself.

Magnificent Frigatebird


If you think August seems like your best time of year to visit the Galapagos, you aren’t alone. Hundreds of our past guests have visited the Galapagos in August and shared their incredible experiences, like Cheryl Murphy:

Past Guest Cheryl Murphy:

“I would recommend Quasar Expeditions to any one planning a trip to the locations served by Quasar. The quality of service and knowledge of the personnel was beyond expectation. In fact the entire trip far exceeded expectations by 100%. The boat crew and hospitality staff go to great lengths to make sure each guest is having the best experience. This includes each activity planned for the day, from kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking to learning about the ecology, wildlife, and conservation. It also includes fabulous meals, snacks, and libations. Quasar Expeditions runs a 1st class operation.”

Click here for more information on Galapagos Islands Weather
See Yourself Exploring Galapagos?
YES! SHOW ME SOME OPTIONS
Paul Schicke
By Paul Schicke
Senior Expedition Designer

Hello! My name is Paul. I am photographer, traveler, teacher and writer. I have extensive experience in travel to Galapagos, Peru, Patagonia and the western seaboard of South America specializing in ways travelers can experience these once-in-a-life destinations like locals on the road. Lover of wine, chocolate, travel, coffee, and helping others plan vacations of a lifetime!

Schedule a Call with Me

COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS ON THIS POST?
One comment
  • Michael Fried
    • December 7, 2019 at 4:11 pm

    Paul, we are definitely planning a trip to the Galapagos either 2020 or 21.  Most interested in seeing the blue booby mating dance.  We were originally thinking about May but after reading your August description it looks like that month is viable also.  Please advise. 

    1 0 • Reply