Paul Schicke
Written by Paul Schicke Senior Expedition Designer

Updated: April 20, 2026
Published: June 19, 2019

  • Twitter
A close-up of a Giant Tortoise inhabiting the Galapagos Islands

While every time of year in the Galapagos is wonderful, thanks to its tropical climate and wide range of annual natural events, December brings its own unique advantages and experiences that our guests have been enjoying for decades.

December represents the beginning of the warm season in the Galapagos, where you’ll enjoy crystal-clear waters, gorgeous blue skies and some of the most dazzling natural occurrences that take place in these gorgeous Islands.

If you’re wondering whether December is the right time for you to travel to the Galapagos, here are 6 reasons why it could be perfect.

Temperatures for Galapagos Islands in December:

Average Low: Average High: Water Temperature: Average Rainfall:
72°F / 22°C 81°F / 27°C 73°F / 22.5°C 0.50 inches / 1.30 cm

Key Takeaways

  • December marks the start of the warm season in the Galapagos - air and water temperatures rise, bringing calmer seas and more comfortable conditions for exploring.
  • Wildlife remains rich and diverse - from active marine life to seasonal behaviors on land, offering a well-rounded mix of encounters across the islands.
  • Snorkeling becomes more accessible and enjoyable - warmer waters and improving conditions make it ideal for longer, more relaxed time in the ocean.
  • A festive yet popular time to visit - holiday travel in December brings more visitors, but with the right planning, you can still enjoy intimate, meaningful experiences.

1. Giant Galapagos Tortoise Eggs Begin to Hatch

Famous for their role in the development of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Giant Tortoises of the Galapagos have been the stuff of myth and legend for generations. But here on the islands, they’re quite real—and even more magnificent than you can imagine.

One of the greatest draws of visiting the Islands in December is the opportunity to see these incredible creatures hatching for the first time of the season. This is the time when enormous creatures that can live for over a century begin their journeys as tiny hatchlings, and it’s a truly beautiful sight to behold.

A creep of baby Galapagos Giant Tortoises being observed at the Charles Darwin Research Center to ensure conservation

2. Active Green Sea Turtles During Mating Season

Speaking of shelled reptiles, December is also significant when it comes to some of the Tortoises’ aquatic cousins. December marks the beginning of Green Sea Turtle mating season, when these magnificent sea creatures are at their most active and likely to be seen. Romance is in the air as the Green Sea Turtles swim together and glide through the crystal clear waters just off the Islands. Snorkel with these wonderful Galapagos residents as they begin their mating season in the warm December waters.

A pair of Green Sea Turtle resting underweather during the mating season in the month of December, Galapagos Islands

3. Warm Weather and Warm Water

Speaking of warm water, you’ll find plenty of it when you visit the Galapagos in December. Because the Islands are located in the southern hemisphere, December marks their warm season. That means the water is a glorious 73°F (22.5°C) on average, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying everything the coastal waters of the Galapagos have to offer.

Meanwhile, the air temperature is equally divine, ranging between 72°F to 81°F (22°C-27°C) throughout the month— always warm enough to enjoy the natural beauty of the Islands, and never so hot that you’ll become uncomfortable while exploring the beauty of the landscape and marine environment.

Snorkeler above the surface of the warm ocean water in the Galapagos Islands taking photos of a Brown Pelican

4. The Green Galapagos Arrives

While we’re on the subject of the landscape, December is one of the most sublime times of year to enjoy it. As the Islands enter the beginning of their wet season, plants and flowers begin to bloom and unveil the “Green Galapagos.” The hills, mountains, and valleys come to life with vibrant and rich green hues that will leave your photos looking like you took a vacation to paradise... which you really did!

Landscape scenery changes to very lush green, December in the Galapagos

5. Still-Clear Skies in Galapagos

December marks a wonderful sweet spot when it comes to weather on the Islands. The wet season has just begun, which means that the land has become green and flowers are beginning to bud. Yet the sky is still mostly clear during the day, allowing you to take in the gorgeous sunshine and warm sun while you explore and enjoy the beauty of the Galapagos.

A day excursion for a small group of explorers to the lava field in the Galapagos Islands

6. The Fledge of the Young Waved Albatross

The Waved Albatross is one of the world’s most magnificent birds, boasting the widest wingspan of any bird on the planet. But in December on the Galapagos, you’ll see these personality-rich birds at a rarely witness stage of their life. In December, recently-hatched albatross babies begin to fledge, a period when they develop their feathers and learn to fly. This fascinating process is on full display as you explore the Islands.

A Waved Albatross protecting its new chick in the habitation of the Galapagos Islands

If you think December offers everything you’re looking for in a Galapagos experience, you won’t be the only one. Hundreds of our Guests have experienced the magic of the islands at this beautiful time of year.

Just ask ENRIQUE:

“I went aboard the Quasar Grace yacht and highly recommend it. The level of service was excellent, the accommodations and food were very good. To experience the Galapagos Islands in December with a group of just 15 people makes it even more precious. The guide Rafael was outstanding not only for his knowledge but also his enthusiasm about the islands. The island excursions and snorkeling where fantastic. Overall the experience exceed my expectations and highly recommend traveling with Quasar Expeditions.”

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
  • Nawaan
    • December 5, 2013 at 3:54 am

    The Galapagos were created from volcanoes erupting strongly out of the sea. Plant and animal species traversed 1000km of sea to colonize the islands, making species separated and leaving individually on different islands.

    0 0 • Reply