Is July a good month to visit the Galapagos Islands?
Galapagos in July: A giant tortoise strolls past our Family Suite at camp.
July continues the transition into the Cool and Dry Season in the Galapagos, as cooler temperatures and nutrient-rich waters gradually settle in, supporting a thriving abundance of marine life.
Peak Season: While July is part of the peak tourist season due to the school holidays, it remains popular for all visitors due to its comfortable climate and excellent wildlife viewing.
Photos from July: All the photos in this article were taken during the month of July, either at Galapagos Safari Camp or on one of our Safaris.
Galapagos in July: At a glance
- Air temperature: 18-26°C / 65-78°F
- Sea temperature: 19-22°C / 66-72°C
- Average rainfall: 0.6 – 1.3cm / 0.25-0.5in
- Clear skies: 2-4 hours
- Intermittent rain showers
- Wind force: 4-7
- Underwater visibility: approx 5-20m
- Lush, green vegetation
Galapagos Weather in July
Dramatic sunsets at Camp
July is characterized by the islands’ cool and dry season. Daytime temperatures hover between 65°F (18°C) and 78°F (26°C), ideal for land excursions. Sea temperatures start dropping to around 66°F to 72°F (19°C to 22°C), offering refreshing swims. Precipitation is minimal, though the characteristic garua (mist) might occasionally shroud the skies. As prevailing winds pick up, expect seas that are a little bit more choppy, especially in open waters.
Ocean Currents: Oceanic currents around the Galapagos Islands have a profound impact on its climate and ecosystems. In July, the defining currents include:
- The Humboldt Current: This cold current, originating from the southern waters off the coast of Chile, begins its strengthening phase during July. As it flows northwards, it infuses the Galapagos waters with nutrients, enriching the marine life.
- The Cromwell Current (or Equatorial Undercurrent): This subsurface current remains active, especially around the western islands like Fernandina and Isabela, promoting upwelling, which supports a robust marine food chain.
- The Panama Current: Less dominant in July, but its warm influence can still be felt.
The blending of these currents sets the stage for a marine ecosystem teeming with life. July, with its more moderate climate, is also ideal for hiking, especially in regions like Sierra Negra on Isabela Island. For those keen on biking, Santa Cruz offers quiet country lanes leading to lesser-known beaches.
Night skies at Galapagos Safari Camp in July
Clear night skies: Our low light pollution and equatorial setting offer breathtaking views of the stars, making our Camp an ideal destination for stargazing, astrophotography and connecting with the cosmos.
Spectacular sunsets at Galapagos Safari Camp
Galapagos Wildlife in July
Frigatebirds
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 July, 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.
American flamingos, blue-footed booby with chick, spotted eagle ray, seahorse
Whale sighting in July
Galapagos sea lions
Sharks (mostly white tipped) are frequently seen, often sleeping on bottom of caves
Green turtles seen on snorkeling trips
Wildlife at Galapagos Safari Camp
Giant tortoise, caterpillar, Sphinx moth, Galapagos dove (all pictured at Camp, in July)
Galapagos giant tortoises pictured at Galapagos Safari Camp in July
Our resident barn owl is frequently seen watching at the Main Lodge
Top: Giant tortoises at Camp Bottom: cacao grown at Camp
The vegetation at Camp is very lush and green at the end of the wet season
A popular path for migrating giant tortoises sits behind our Family Suite at Galapagos Safari Camp
Summary: Galapagos in July
Visiting the Galapagos in July is ideal for families and wildlife enthusiasts, with comfortable weather and abundant wildlife
July Guest Reviews of Galapagos Safari Camp
The following are reviews posted by guests who stayed at Galapagos Safari Camp in July.
An Amazing Stay at the Galapagos Safari Camp on Santa Cruz Island!Our Galapagos Safari Camp (GSC) experience started with Diego and Nathaly who went over and above in planning and setting up our trip.
Our family of 11 stayed at the GSC for 4 nights and everyone had a spectacular time. It all started when we were greeted at the Baltra airport by a GSC naturalist (Carolina) who quickly shuffled us into the VIP waiting room while our luggage was unloaded. From there we immediately started some site seeing, and where else, to an area with many giant tortoises which was amazing. We also had lunch there and an opportunity to relax for a little while before heading off to the next site seeing location before arriving at the GSC.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by Belen and George for the first 2 days and then spoiled by Juan and Stephanie, who each went over the top during our stay. The luxury tent accommodations were likewise amazing. We all spent some time in the pool on day 1 and then our first GSC dinner. We can’t say enough good things about the 5 star meals at the GSC, well maybe Perfect describes them best. BTW – all meals are included. The remainder of our stay included additional excursions with Carolina, including a stop at a local moonshine operation, bicycling, hiking, a trip to the beach, and finally a visit to Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Center. Everyone at the GSC made us feel special, which included all of those staff working either out front or behind the scenes to keeps things running smoothly. (Tripadvisor)
A secret Galapagos hideawayI recently returned from a stay at the camp with my wife, 3 kids (4, 7, and 8 years old), and parents (70+), and everyone absolutely loved the experience. This was my kids’ favorite lodging and all the little details, such as the daily handmade stuffies of Galapagos animals and educational and inspirational notes, were such a nice touch. Additionally, the camp’s staff noticed my daughter’s birthday was very recent, and planned a surprise celebration for her all on their own. This is a great place for kids and equally great place for adults. The food was on par with the best food in Los Angeles (where we’re from), and all the people working there are absolutely wonderful. Even my parents, who have traveled the world several times over, were thoroughly impressed! We made such great memories on the Galapagos islands, and the Safari Camp certainly played a large part in that. We felt very well taken care of as our days were organized and tailored for each person in the group. Every detail, from the kid-sized snorkel gear and snacks and towels at the beach to the ginger tea that stayed hot all day for the potentially rocky boat ride were executed with such compassion and care. It is a located in a secluded area of the island with a small number of tents. The grounds boast sprawling trails right in the heart of the wildlife of the Galapagos. A kind of hidden paradise that only the guests have access to. My wife and I were comfortable with letting our children roam the grounds on their own, which is an opportunity that is rare in the urban tumult of L.A. You could tell the people that work here are happy to do so and want to provide the best experience for their guests. (Tripadvisor)
Amazing Family Summer VacationI can’t begin to explain in words the amazing experience we had. A family of 4 with an 11 yr old and a 9yr old. The kids LOVED the cookies, the handmade stuffed animals and the cards/sayings. The tents are AMAZING and we had tortoises every night. The staff are super helpful and friendly and we definitely can’t wait to come back. (Tripadvisor)
This was a great experience. We were able to ‘sleep with the tortoises’ as well as see other wildlife. The sunsets from the observation desk were just unbelievable. The food was very good and the staff were very accommodating. The staff also made virgin Shirley Temples, and Cosmopolitans for the kids. (Google Reviews)
Read more reviews from guests who stayed with us in July.
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.