November
End of the cool season.
BEST TIME · DECEMBER
Galapagos in December.
What the islands, the sea and the wildlife are like in December, and how to plan a cruise around it.
Galapagos in December — Reference image only.
01 / CONDITIONS
Weather and sea in December
| Typical | |
|---|---|
| Season | Start of the warm season |
| Air temperature | High 70s to low 80s °f (about 25–28 °c) |
| Water temperature | About 72–75 °f (22–24 °c) |
| Seas | Calming |
| Rain | First warm-season rains, islands start to green |
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 December
- Giant tortoise eggs begin hatching
- Green sea turtles mating
- Waved albatross fledglings leave Española
- Marine iguanas on Española take on breeding colors
- Holiday peak on board
Check species by island in the wildlife finder.
03 / PLANNING
Cruising the Galapagos in December
Christmas and New Year sell out first; for those dates book 12 months ahead or consider a private charter.
Pack: Rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, light rain shell. 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.
04 / OTHER MONTHS
Compare with nearby months
January
Warm season.
All months
The full year at a glance.
05 / FAQ
Galapagos in December: questions
Is December a good time to visit the Galapagos?
Yes. December brings the start of the warm season; christmas and new year sell out first; for those dates book 12 months ahead or consider a private charter.
What is the water temperature in Galapagos in December?
Typically about 72–75 °F (22–24 °C), cooler in the west.
Are the seas rough in December?
They are calming. Midship, lower-deck cabins move least.
Do I need a wetsuit in December?
Rash guard is our usual suggestion.
Can you suggest boats for December?
Yes. Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises with your dates and group size.
BEST TIME
Traveling in December?
Tell us your dates; we suggest boats and routes that make the most of December.
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.