Is May a good time to visit the Galapagos?
A giant tortoise ambles down our driveway
Off-Peak Season: May in the Galapagos Islands is part of the transition period between the hot and rainy season and the cooler, drier season. The islands are not as crowded as during the peak months of December/January and March/April (the school holiday periods during the Warm & Wet season) providing a more serene experience. However, it’s worth remembering that the Galapagos Islands are an all-year destination and can really be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Photos from May: All the photos in this article were taken during the month of May, either at Galapagos Safari Camp or on one of our Safaris.
Galapagos in May: 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
Galapagos Weather in May
Clear sunny skies above Cerro Dragon, Santa Cruz Island
May in the Galapagos brings sunny days with the occasional rain shower, keeping the islands green and vibrant. Warm air and cool currents create comfortable weather, day and night.
- Ocean Currents: With the return of the southern trade winds and cold waters from Antarctica, the cooler ocean currents start to bring nutrient-rich waters closer to the surface, enhancing marine life visibility.
- Rainfall: The rain of the previous months starts to ease off and a pleasant breeze cools the heat of the afternoon sun.
- Humidity: Humidity levels begin to decrease in May
Weather at Galapagos Safari Camp: The weather at Camp, while warm, remains a few degrees cooler than the coast, making it more comfortable for dining outside and sleeping at night.
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.
Clear night skies at Camp, taken in May
Sundowners on our Viewpoint
Galapagos Wildlife in May
Frigatebird
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 May, 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.
The Camp is at its lushest during the month of May and there is also plenty of wildlife activity to enjoy on our grounds too.
Top: Galapagos mockingbird, a praying mantis Bottom: Small ground finch, a young Galapagos mockingbird
Contrary to popular belief, it was the mockingbird – not the finch – that sparked the lightbulb moment for Darwin. This relatively plain-looking bird inspired Darwin to develop one of the world’s most important scientific discoveries – the evolution of species through natural selection. His mockingbird observations, noted in 1837, hinted at the idea that species might not be fixed but could change over time. This insight laid the foundation for his theory which would ultimately question our entire understanding of life on Earth.
One of the best places to observe the Galapagos mockingbird is in our Camp, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Here, you will likely hear them before you see them, singing their little hearts out.
Galapagos giant tortoise under a Safari Tent
Some (but not all) giant tortoises migrate to the arid lowlands in April and May and are frequently seen passing through Camp.
Our resident barn owl sometimes joins guests at dinner time.
Breakfast awaits as a new day begins
Welcome drinks
After a day of adventure, guests are welcomed back to camp with a refreshing drink and cold hand towel. Pictured is our Ginger and Lemongrass Lemonade, topped with a ginger caramel crisp, and lovingly prepared by our barman, Jorge.
Cocktail of the Month
Cocktail of the Month!
Safari Camp Punch: Introducing our newest creation, the Safari Camp Punch—a vibrant blend of cacao and passion fruit, freshly harvested from the trees on our property. Still a work in progress, Jorge, our creative barman, is perfecting the recipe, considering a hint of spice to elevate its rich, tropical flavors. Bold, refreshing, and uniquely Galapagos, it’s a sip of the camp’s essence in every glass.
Summary: Galapagos in May
Visiting the Galapagos in May is an excellent choice for those who enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and active wildlife. The islands offer a blend of the end of the wet season’s lushness and the beginning of the dry season’s calm, making it a perfect time for both land explorations and marine adventures.
May Guest Reviews of Galapagos Safari Camp
The following are comments from guests who stayed at Galapagos Safari Camp in May, collected from feedback forms:
- “Best food we have had so far and have been to several lodges on the mainland. [Name of guide] is a very good guide, excellent communicator and good fun company.”
- “You made it truly special. Jorge, thanks for the music! Great tours, great staff, you are very lucky to have Jorge, he made our stay!!”
- “Amazing stay. Had the best time!”
- “Our stay with you and all the related elements of our trip were truly awesome and amazing… every aspect!”
- “Thank you for such an incredible experience! Everything and everyone was amazing! :)”
- “Jose went above and beyond to make each day magical and we are so grateful!”
- “The ‘low key’ elegance and lack of pretention was perfect and so appreciated. I felt relaxed and cared for every moment. Learned so much from all the guides. Perfect sampling of Santa Cruz based activities (land) and water.”
- “The food and beverage selection and service were excellent! Thankful for the care taken to supply us so well for each different expedition. Water and towels for Garrapatero, ginger tea and snorkel/wetsuits for snorkelling! The rhythm of each day was perfect, the choices of activities and schedule flexibility was essential!”
Tripadvisor & Google Reviews of Galapagos Safari Camp submitted in May
“we couldn’t have been more satisfied.”
Read more reviews from guests who stayed with us in May.
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.