Why travel to the Galapagos Islands in November?
November is one of the most rewarding months to visit the Galapagos Islands and a popular one with our guests. As the trade winds ease, the seas become calm and the air and water start to warm after the cooler “garúa” season. These mild, comfortable conditions are perfect for exploring both above and below the water — with excellent visibility for snorkelling and gentle cruising conditions around the islands. Fewer visitors also make November an ideal time for a peaceful, uncrowded experience of the archipelago’s spectacular wildlife and landscapes.
Wildlife activity is in full swing. Sea lion pups, now a few months old, are playful and confident in the water, often delighting snorkellers with their curious antics. Giant tortoises can be found grazing in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, while on Española Island, waved albatross chicks prepare for their first flight as their parents continue their courtship dances.
Combined with rich marine life and tranquil seas, November offers an exceptional blend of wildlife encounters, comfort, and natural beauty — one of the very best times of year to experience the Galapagos.
Q: What’s the weather like in November?
A: November brings mild, comfortable temperatures — around 24°C (75°F) on land — and calmer seas as the cool, dry “garúa” season ends. Mornings can start cloudy before clearing to sunshine, perfect for exploring both on land and in the water.
Q: Is the wildlife still active in November?
A: Absolutely. November is one of the best months for marine life. You’ll see sea lion pups playing along the beaches, green sea turtles beginning their mating season, and blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds still nesting. Cooler waters are rich with nutrients, attracting penguins, rays, and colourful schools of fish.
Q: Is November a busy time to visit?
A: Visitor numbers drop slightly after the peak months, so you’ll enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience at popular visitor sites — without missing out on incredible wildlife encounters.
Q: What’s the water like for snorkelling and diving?
A: The water is cooler but exceptionally clear, with fantastic visibility and abundant life. A light wetsuit makes for comfortable snorkelling and diving among some of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the world.
Q: Why choose November overall?
A: November offers a wonderful balance — calmer conditions, rich wildlife activity, and fewer tourists. It’s an ideal time for those who want to experience the Galapagos’ natural wonders in a peaceful setting.
Galapagos In November – Listen to the expert
To describe what Galapagos is like in November, we enlisted the help of local guide Carlos Mosquera. Aged 26, Carlos has been guiding for 5 years and comes from the island of San Cristobal in the east of Galapagos. He has guided alongside our founder Santiago as the local naturalist in our group trips for the last four years. We filmed him on the island of Fernandina during our Tortoise Special Trip telling us why he loves this time of year.
