The Galapagos is by definition an equatorial destination. The equator cuts across the north end of Isabela and darts in between Santiago and Genovesa. So there is no “seasonal” variation in the traditional sense. But there are distinct seasons, for certain. These seasons, and their effects on the potential traveler, can be directly attributed to the three major currents that meet at the Galapagos. More specifically, whichever current is “winning” at a given time of year will directly affect the air temperature, the water temperatures and even the amount of moisture in a given time of year.
The Humboldt Current is a cold current that flows north out of the Southern Ocean, along the coast of Chile. It brings colder waters, colder air temperatures, stronger winds and generally rougher seas to the Galapagos, usually from July until October. But with these cold waters come superb amounts of nutrients, which supports the aquatic life in the area.
The Cromwell Current comes along the equator from west to east. One might expect this to mean it’s a warm current, but oddly enough, it too is a cold water current, as it is heaving up from the deepest parts of the Pacific, bringing lots of nutrients with it. The Cromwell Current very rarely overpowers the other two currents, but does generally keep the waters on the west side of Isabela several degrees colder, and therefore significantly clearer - a nice bonus for travelers hoping to enjoy some good snorkeling.
The Panama Current is a warm water current that flows south and west from Central America. This current tends to be strongest from January to May. Along with the warm water comes warmer air, filled with much more moisture. When the Panama Current is strong, the Galapagos is receiving more rain, and the ecosystem is “greening up”. Several species of both birds and reptiles take advantage of the warmer waters and the wetter conditions to do their breeding, birthing and child-rearing.
So, as you can see, there are different seasons, caused by the different currents. So which season is best for a visit? They are all good! Sure, July thru October has colder water temps (wetsuits are a good idea at this time), chillier air temps, and rougher waters. But the waters are a bit clearer because of that temperature, so the snorkeling is particularly good. Yes, January thru May has warmer air temps, warmer water temps, and calmer winds, not to mention the more active mating and rearing cycles of many animals, but there is a better chance of significant rain (at least on land, that is). Its enough of a toss-up that the real factors are much more societal. Most folks visit the Galapagos when it matches their vacation time (Christmas, Spring Breaks, Summer Vacations) or when it matches the best time to visit another destination nearby, such as Machu Picchu or the Amazon.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
1 day ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.