April
Warm season.
BEST TIME · MAY
Galapagos in May.
What the islands, the sea and the wildlife are like in May, and how to plan a cruise around it.
Galapagos in May — Reference image only.
01 / CONDITIONS
Weather and sea in May
| Typical | |
|---|---|
| Season | Transition between seasons |
| Air temperature | Low 80s °f (about 26–28 °c) |
| Water temperature | About 73–77 °f (23–25 °c) |
| Seas | Mostly calm, starting to change |
| Rain | Drier; the garúa mist may begin late in the month |
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 May
- Blue-footed booby courtship on North Seymour and Española
- Waved albatross laying eggs on Española
- Turtle hatchlings on beaches
- Band-rumped storm petrels nesting
- Marine iguana hatchlings on Santa Cruz
Check species by island in the wildlife finder.
03 / PLANNING
Cruising the Galapagos in May
Often called one of the best all-round months: mild weather, calm seas and lots of courtship behavior.
Pack: A 3 mm wetsuit for longer snorkels, light jacket. 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
June
Start of the cool garúa season.
All months
The full year at a glance.
05 / FAQ
Galapagos in May: questions
Is May a good time to visit the Galapagos?
Yes. May brings the transition between seasons; often called one of the best all-round months: mild weather, calm seas and lots of courtship behavior.
What is the water temperature in Galapagos in May?
Typically about 73–77 °F (23–25 °C), cooler in the west.
Are the seas rough in May?
They are mostly calm, starting to change. Midship, lower-deck cabins move least.
Do I need a wetsuit in May?
A 3 mm wetsuit for longer snorkels is our usual suggestion.
Can you suggest boats for May?
Yes. Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises with your dates and group size.
BEST TIME
Traveling in May?
Tell us your dates; we suggest boats and routes that make the most of May.
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.