Is February a good time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
The view of the Galapagos National Park and Pacific Ocean from Galapagos Safari Camp (taken in February)
February in the Galapagos Islands marks a vibrant period where the Warm and Wet Season brings the archipelago to life. With flowers blossoming and numerous land species engaging in nesting and mating rituals, the islands become a hub of natural activity.
In this post we highlight what you can expect if visiting the Galapagos Islands in February, offering insights into the weather, wildlife, and Safari experiences at Galapagos Safari Camp.
Photos from February: All the photos in this article were taken during the month of February, either at Galapagos Safari Camp or on one of our Safaris.
The spectacular sesuvium carpet on South Plaza Island, taken on a Safari visit in February
Sea lions basking on Santa Fe Island
Galapagos in February: At a glance
- Warm & Wet Season
- Lush, green vegetation
- Mating season for many animals
- Air temperature: 22-31°C / 71-88°F
- Sea temperature: 74-76°C / 23-24°C
- Average rainfall: 2-5cm / 0.75-2in
- Clear skies: 4-7 hours
- Intermittent rain showers
- Wind force: 1-4
- Underwater visibility: approx 10-30m
What is the weather like in February
Good for sun-seekers: February’s climate is perfect for those chasing the sun, featuring warm days with temperatures between 22-31°C (71-88°F) and sea temperatures ideal for snorkeling at 23-24°C (74-76°F).
Short rain showers: Although brief rain showers are common, they give way to extended periods of clear skies.
Less wind: The calm seas, enhanced by the easing southern trade winds, make for smoother boat journeys and excellent underwater visibility for snorkeling and kayaking adventures.
Rising humidity: During this season, moisture in the air increases, especially along the shorelines.
Weather at Galapagos Safari Camp: Sat in the elevated terrains of Santa Cruz, Galapagos Safari Camp enjoys the advantage of cooler evenings and nights. This allows guests to dine in comfort outside and to sleep comfortably without the need for air conditioning. Sunsets are also impressive during this period. Indulge in your preferred drink and watch the sun dip below the horizon of the National Park and Pacific Ocean.
February sunsets at Galapagos Safari Camp
Sunny skies and soaring frigatebirds
A barn owl takes shelter from the rain in our main lodge
This season brings calmer seas and smoother boat navigations
What wildlife will I see in February
The Galapagos is teeming with wildlife year-round, and our land-based Safaris provide excellent opportunities to observe the iconic species no matter when you visit. Discover more in our guide to Galapagos Wildlife.
The images used in this article were all taken in February, but it’s worth noting that these species are commonly observed on our Safaris throughout the year. Additionally, many other species not mentioned in this article can also be seen.
Land iguanas can show territorial tendencies at this time of year
Sea lions basking on Santa Fe Island
February in the Galapagos offers opportunities to observe a range of wildlife behaviors. Highlights include:
- Green sea turtles beginning to lay their eggs
- Land birds engaging in nesting and courtship rituals
- Young Galapagos sea lions are usually curious of visitors and playful
- Marine iguanas and land iguanas starting their mating season.
- Frequent sightings of Galapagos giant tortoises around the Camp
Galapagos land iguana
Blue footed boobies
The Galapagos penguin
A giant tortoise pauses outside our main lodge
“Saint Peter” – the keeper of the keys at Galapagos Safari Camp!
Summary: Galapagos in February
The Warm & Wet Season (Dec/January to June/July) is well underway now, and February is an ideal month for sun seekers to visit the Galapagos Islands. Although daily rain showers are to be expected, they are usually short and followed by long periods of clear, blue, sunny skies.
For more information on the weather and wildlife in the Galapagos, please visit When to visit the Galapagos Islands.
Giant tortoises are often seen grazing under our Safari tents
A giant tortoise at the entrance to Galapagos Safari Camp
Harvesting mandarins for breakfast jams and juice at Galapagos Safari Camp
February Guest Reviews of Galapagos Safari Camp
The following are comments from guests who stayed at Galapagos Safari Camp in February, collected from feedback forms:
- “Excellent! Exceeded expectation. Not only was the staff very attentive and friendly but they fulfilled needs we didn’t know we had. The location and facilities are amazing, with excellent service. Food was outstanding. Brava to Daisy!! Would love to return with friends. Love it here, hard to leave”
- “We have truly had a trip of a lifetime. Thank you so much. A haven for relaxation. Loved every minute. Amazing team and service! [Name of guide] is the best guide we have ever had. We loved all the activities, especially the water related ones”
- “A very nice hospitable team with a superb kitchen!”
- “We felt pampered and made as comfortable as possible. Alejandro helped us in every possible way to maximise our enjoyment. It surpassed our expectations”
- “Food was exquisite and very delicious”
- “Magical experience. Thank you very much, especially in accommodating with children’s activities in the off season”
- “Amazing staff, great flexibility with scheduling, ease of airport procedures super helpful. [Name of guide] is so knowledgeable – one of the best guides anywhere. Also she is very sensitive to our needs, which is helpful with a child around”
- “The food was spectacular. Appreciated the attention to details and textures. Better than some of the finest restaurants we’ve eaten at. Our family enjoyed the meals immensely. The property is amazing, as was service. Really appreciate the ‘invisible’ housekeeping service where everything was done either while out or at dinner. [Name of guide and driver] were both amazing, very courteous and attentive.”
- “the menus were amazing! We loved everything about our stay! Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Gracias por todo!”
Read more reviews from guests who stayed with us in February.
When to Visit the Galapagos by Month:
For more information on the weather and wildlife in the Galapagos, visit When to visit the Galapagos Islands or one of our monthly guides:
January, February, March, April, May. June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Wildlife Observation Disclaimer
Please note that our wildlife observations and insights are gathered from the first-hand experiences of our staff, guests, and professional Naturalist Guides. Our goal is to provide an authentic and immersive wildlife experience. However, it is important to recognize that wildlife encounters are by nature unpredictable. We cannot guarantee the sighting of specific species or certain animal behaviors on our Safari tours. Each experience is unique, and we appreciate your understanding of the variability and spontaneity of wildlife interactions.