Written by Paul Schicke Senior Expedition Designer
Updated: April 29, 2026 Published: August 16, 2019
School is out. Summertime has arrived. It’s time to head out on summer holiday, and there’s no better or more memorable destination than the Galapagos. But many of our Guests wonder what exactly the summer months have in store on the Islands.
While we have learned that every month of the year brings plenty to see and enjoy in the Galapagos, July offers plenty of unique charms all its own. From playful Sea Lions to the arrival of Dolphins and Whales in the area, you won’t run out of dazzling wildlife and stunning sights to take in when visiting in July. Here are 5 of the best features & reasons of the Galapagos you’ll enjoy in July.
Temperatures for Galapagos Islands in July:
Average Low:
Average High:
Water Temperature:
Average Rainfall:
66°F / 19°C
76°F / 24°C
72°F / 22°C
0.50 inches / 1.27 cm
Key Takeaways
July is firmly within the cool season in the Galapagos - with cooler temperatures, overcast skies, and stronger ocean currents shaping the experience.
Wildlife activity is at its most dynamic - nutrient-rich waters attract abundant marine life, creating exceptional opportunities for close encounters.
A popular time for active travelers seeking deeper exploration - summer travel brings more visitors, but the focus remains on immersive, wildlife-rich experiences.
Snorkeling is highly rewarding for wildlife viewing - while the water is cooler and seas more active, marine life is incredibly abundant.
1. California Sea Lions & Their Pups Arrive
July often marks the return of the Islands population of California Sea Lions. These magnificent and playful animals come to the Islands with their pups at this time of year, so you’re likely to have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming and frolicking in the water alongside baby Sea Lions and their mothers. It’s an experience that truly can’t be put into words, and July is the time of year when you’re most likely to have a chance to enjoy it yourself.
2. The Humboldt Current Brings Active Marine Life
Sea Lions aren’t the only marine creatures that arrive in July. As the Humboldt current carries nutrient-rich waters into coastal area of the Galapagos Islands, it’s followed by a wide range of Galapagos marine life that comes to enjoy the nutrients and the smaller creatures that feed on them. You’ll have a front-row seat to a dazzling display of marine life, and the crystal-clear waters of the Galapagos mean that you’ll be able to take it all in while doing some of the best snorkeling from the beach or your Quasar yacht. If you love snorkeling and spotting exotic marine life, July is one of the best times of year to do it in the Galapagos.
3. Whales & Dolphins Become More Common
As smaller creatures arrive with the nutrient-rich water, they attract the largest creatures in the sea. Dolphins and Whales often begin appearing in the waters surrounding the Islands in July, where guests can spot them from the beach, deck of their yacht, or even while snorkeling in the water. Imagine returning home from your vacation having swam with Dolphins in the clear-blue waters of the Galapagos Islands?
4. Red Footed Boobies Begin Nesting
From the sea to the sky, the Islands are full of surprises to hold your attention in July. During this time of year, you’ll see the distinctive and personality-rich Red Footed Boobies. They begin nesting in July throughout the Islands, settling in and presenting a magnificent display for bird-loving visitors who arrive via Quasar yacht expeditions.
When to Visit Galapagos
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5. Gorgeously Mild Weather
When it comes to the Islands weather, July is an excellent time to visit the Galapagos. The average air temperatures hover between 68°—79° F (20° —26°C), a mild and comfortable range that’s perfect for hiking, adventuring throughout the Islands, or simply lying out in the sunshine. Meanwhile, the water is a warm and comfortable 72°F (22° C)—perfect for swimming and snorkeling throughout the day. If you want that mild tropical weather you’ve been dreaming about, July is a wonderful time to enjoy it in the Islands.
Every year we hear from guests about how wonderful their July visit to the Galapagos was for themselves and for their families. For example, July visitor Stephen, had this to say about his experience:
Past Guest STEPHEN (Jul 29th):
“Best Trip with Naturalists Ever. I've been to 45 countries and 50 states. I've been on 2 cruises, one river cruise and whitewater rafted the Grand Canyon. This was the best trip ever. The naturalists were all outstanding. It's my first time snorkeling where I had instruction and was taught about what I was seeing. The crew was always very friendly and helpful. The food was good. The boat was comfortable, clean and well-appointed. The cabins were larger than any boat I've been on.”
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!
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