July
Cool season.
BEST TIME · AUGUST
Galapagos in August.
What the islands, the sea and the wildlife are like in August, and how to plan a cruise around it.
Galapagos in August — Reference image only.
01 / CONDITIONS
Weather and sea in August
| Typical | |
|---|---|
| Season | Cool season |
| Air temperature | Low 70s °f (about 21–24 °c) |
| Water temperature | About 66–72 °f (19–22 °c) |
| Seas | Choppy at times |
| Rain | Dry with garúa |
Typical ranges; El Niño and La Niña years can shift them. Temperatures vary by island, with the west usually coolest.
02 / WILDLIFE
Wildlife highlights in August
- Galapagos hawks courting on Española and Santiago
- Sea lion pupping beginning on many islands
- Nazca boobies nesting on Española and Genovesa
- Penguins very active in the west
- Waved albatross raising chicks
Check species by island in the wildlife finder.
03 / PLANNING
Cruising the Galapagos in August
One of the busiest family months; book 9 to 12 months ahead. Choose a midship cabin if seas worry you.
Pack: A 5 mm wetsuit, warm layer for evening panga rides. Full list: what to pack for a Galapagos cruise.
Plan travel days with the trip date planner; motion-sensitive? Read seasickness tips. Groups can also consider Galapagos charters.
US families: summer vacation planning.
04 / OTHER MONTHS
Compare with nearby months
September
Cool season.
All months
The full year at a glance.
05 / FAQ
Galapagos in August: questions
Is August a good time to visit the Galapagos?
Yes. August brings the cool season; one of the busiest family months; book 9 to 12 months ahead.
What is the water temperature in Galapagos in August?
Typically about 66–72 °F (19–22 °C), cooler in the west.
Are the seas rough in August?
They are choppy at times. Midship, lower-deck cabins move least.
Do I need a wetsuit in August?
A 5 mm wetsuit is our usual suggestion.
Can you suggest boats for August?
Yes. Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises with your dates and group size.
BEST TIME
Traveling in August?
Tell us your dates; we suggest boats and routes that make the most of August.
Galapagos is unlike anywhere else on Earth: wildlife that does not run from you, islands still shaped by volcanoes, and a park that limits every visit. Tell us how you like to travel and we will match you with the right boat.