Is February a good time to visit the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands in February: The view of the National Park and Pacific Ocean from Galapagos Safari Camp

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.

 

South Plaza Island, Galapagos in February

The spectacular sesuvium carpet on South Plaza Island, taken on a Safari visit in February

This post dives into why February is an exceptional time to visit, offering insights into the weather, wildlife, and Safari experiences at Galapagos Safari Camp.

Note: all the photos shown in this article were taken in the Galapagos Islands during February. 

 

Galapagos in February: At a glance

Sea lions basking on Santa Fe Island (Galapagos in February)

Sea lions basking on Santa Fe Island

  • 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

Galapagos in February: blue skies and frigatebirds

Sunny skies and soaring frigatebirds

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.

A barn owl takes shelter from the rain in our main lodge

A barn owl takes shelter from the rain in our main lodge

 

The calm seas, enhanced by the easing southern trade winds, make for smoother boat journeys and excellent underwater visibility for snorkeling and kayaking adventures.

 

Galapagos boat trips are smoother in the month of February

This season brings calmer seas and smoother boat navigations

 

What wildlife will I see in February

Land Iguana (Galapagos wildlife in February)

Land iguanas can show territorial tendencies at this time of year

 

The warm & wet season is a celebration of new beginnings for the creatures of the Galapagos Islands. Many species of birds, iguanas, turtles, and giant tortoises are starting to breed. This flurry of mating activity makes for some extraordinary wildlife encounters.

  • Green sea turtles start laying their eggs
  • Land birds begin nesting and courtship rituals
  • Galapagos sea lions come out to play!
Sea lions on Santa Fe Island in February

Sea lions basking on Santa Fe Island

  • Marine iguanas and land iguanas start their mating season.
Galapagos land iguana, Santa Fe Island

Galapagos land iguana

  • Galapagos giant tortoises are frequently seen at camp
A giant tortoise outside the main lodge of Galapagos Safari Camp

A giant tortoise pauses outside our main lodge

 

Giant tortoises are often seen grazing under the Safari tents at Galapagos Safari Camp

Giant tortoises are often seen grazing under our Safari tents

Other species:

Species frequently spotted on our Safaris during February include:

  • Blue-footed booby
  • Brown pelican
  • Frigatebird
  • Galapagos Dove
  • Galapagos Finch
  • Galapagos Mockingbird
  • Galapagos Penguin

 

Galapagos Safari Camp in February

"Saint Peter" -  a Galapagos barn owl and the keeper of the keys at Galapagos Safari Camp!

“Saint Peter” – the keeper of the keys at Galapagos Safari Camp!

 

During this season, moisture in the air increases, especially along the shorelines. Nestled 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.

 

Harvesting mandarins in February for breakfast jams and juice at Galapagos Safari Camp

Harvesting mandarins for breakfast jams and juice at Galapagos Safari Camp

 

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 the remote islands, marking a serene close to your day.

 

Sunset at Galapagos Safari Camp in February

February sunsets at Galapagos Safari Camp

Summary

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.

 

A giant tortoise approaches Galapagos Safari Camp