March

March in the Galapagos Islands

March is one of the warmest, greenest and most wildlife-rich months in the Galapagos Islands. Sitting at the heart of the warm season, it offers calm seas, excellent snorkelling conditions and vibrant landscapes following the seasonal rains.

For travellers researching the best time to visit the Galapagos, March consistently ranks as one of the most comfortable and rewarding months.

The rainy season is reaching its peak in the highlands of the larger islands, leaving them at their most lush and verdant. Conditions in the coastal areas can vary greatly from island to island, and from year to year, sometimes they are green and lush, other times they remain arid, covered with plants that have adapted to desert like conditions.

Galapagos Wildlife highlights in March

Wildlife activity is outstanding year-round in the Galapagos, and March is particularly dynamic.

Marine Life

• Green sea turtles continue nesting, and hatchlings may still be seen on some beaches
• Snorkelling encounters commonly include reef fish, rays, sharks and sea lions
• Warm water improves comfort for extended snorkelling sessions

Birdlife

• Great Frigate birds continue displaying with inflated red throat pouches
• Many land birds are active, feeding chicks during the green season
• Waved Albatross begin returning to Española Island towards the end of March

Land Wildlife

• Land iguanas and marine iguanas remain active
• Marine Iguanas will also typically begin to nest on Fernandina
• The greener landscape makes herbivorous species more visible in the highlands

Because Galapagos wildlife does not migrate seasonally (with a few exceptions like the albatross), close-up encounters remain exceptional.

Snorkelling and diving in March

March is widely regarded as one of the best months for snorkelling in the Galapagos Islands.

• Warmest sea temperatures of the year
• Excellent underwater visibility
• Calm conditions suitable for families and first-time snorkelers

For divers, March offers warmer water and generally gentler surface conditions compared to the cooler season.

Is March busy in the Galapagos?

Tourist numbers are tightly regulated in the Galapagos Islands but yacht availability varies according to holidays, so it depends when Easter falls.

• Earlier in the month is quieter than peak holiday periods (December, early January, Easter)
• Fewer families outside school holidays
• Good availability on many yachts, though the most popular vessels still book early

This makes March attractive for travellers seeking a balance between ideal conditions and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Is March a good month to visit the Galapagos?

Yes — March is an excellent time to visit the Galapagos Islands. It offers:

• Warm tropical weather
• The warmest sea temperatures of the year
• Calm cruising conditions
• Lush, green landscapes
• Exceptional snorkelling and wildlife activity

For travellers prioritising water-based activities, comfort in the sea and vibrant scenery, March is one of the standout months.