Is October a good time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
The iconic view from Bartolome Island, one of the islands we visit
October in the Galapagos offers cooler temperatures, making land-based activities like trekking particularly enjoyable. Trails such as those on the Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela Island are more comfortable to explore, while cyclists can take advantage of the tranquil landscapes of Santa Cruz Island.
At sea, stronger winds can lead to slightly choppier waters, which may affect those prone to motion sickness. For visitors preferring a land-based option, our Safaris provide an excellent alternative to traditional cruises, combining comfort with all the wildlife encounters you would expect on a cruise.
Photos from October: All the photos in this article were taken during the month of October, either at Galapagos Safari Camp or on one of our Safaris.
Galapagos in October: At a glance
- Air temperature: 18-26°C / 65-78°F
- Sea temperature: 19-23°C / 66-73°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
- Wildlife: October brings fascinating wildlife activity, from sea turtles starting their nesting on beaches to the mating displays of blue-footed boobies. The waters are alive with sea lions and manta rays, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Galapagos Weather in October
A rainbow frames our view at Camp
October falls in the middle of the Cool and Dry Season in the Galapagos. Daytime temperatures typically hover between 65°F and 78°F (18°C to 26°C). The surrounding waters, averaging 66°F to 73°F (19°C to 23°C), are refreshing for swimmers and divers alike. Rain remains a rare sight, but the soft la garua mist occasionally sweeps the landscape.
Ocean Currents: Galapagos’s marine climate remains under the sway of intricate ocean currents. As the year progresses, these currents play a pivotal role in the life that thrives around the islands:
- The Humboldt Current: Continuing its dominance from the prior months, this cold current, flowing from the chilly waters off South America, delivers nutrient-dense waters, playing a major role in the teeming marine life around the Galápagos.
- The Cromwell (or Equatorial Undercurrent) Current: Running from west to east along the equator, this undercurrent retains its influence, particularly around the western islands like Fernandina and Isabela, bringing up cold, nutrient-rich waters, a process known as upwelling
- The Panama Current: Its influence continues to wane as the Humboldt Current takes center stage.
The nutrient surge from these currents, especially the Humboldt, culminates in a marine feast, where plankton blooms, in turn, drawing a myriad of marine species from colorful schools of fish to schools of sharks. While the waters may be colder, October offers great scuba-diving and snorkeling experiences.
La garua (mist) occasionally descends on the islands – normally in the late afternoon, clearing around 8-9am in the morning.
Galapagos Wildlife in October
American Flamingo
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 October, 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.
Green turtle spotted near the surface from port
A land iguana seen from the car
Marine iguanas basking in October sunshine
A Galapagos mockingbird singing from the high branches of a tree
A well camouflaged octopus spotted on the seabed
Galapagos penguins
Marine iguanas with a sea lion at Tortuga Bay
Marine iguanas at Tortuga Bay
Sea lions and marine iguanas at Puerto Ayora
White tipped reef sharks sleeping on sea bed
Giant tortoises are frequently seen in and around Camp
Our camp is also home to barn owls, including this juvenile
Galapagos Barn Owls: Galapagos Safari Camp in October is, as with any month of the year, full of wildlife surprises. This month this juvenile barn owl has been sighted a number of times in the outdoor bar area of the main lodge, casually perched on the tap of the kitchen sink.
In October 2024, while replacing the outer canvas of our tents, we noticed this curious barn owl peering in from above, reminding us that in the Galapagos, the wonder runs both ways.
The barn owl at the Main Lodge
Giant Tortoises are frequently seen at Camp all year round. The picture below, taken in October from the Main Lodge captures a giant tortoise grazing in the gardens below. Can you spot it?
A giant tortoise grazing outside the Main Lodge
A giant tortoise grazing outside the Main Lodge
A seasonal welcome drink! This month, our creative barman, Jorge, crafted this refreshing welcome drink for our guests. Using a syrup made with the mandarins collected from the Camp in September, and a butterfly pea tea sourced from the mainland, it is a wonderful cooling treat that travelers won’t find anywhere else. (We think it would go nicely with a spot of gin as a sundowner, too!).
A refreshing welcome drink using seasonal mandarins
Toak Chocolate Tasting
Chocolate tasting at Camp
Our chocolate tasting experience is available year-round, offering guests the chance to savor some of the world’s finest and rarest chocolate while exploring the rich history of Ecuadorian cacao. Learn more: Galapagos Chocolate Experience
Summary: Galapagos in October
Visiting the Galapagos in October is ideal for those who enjoy cooler weather and the opportunity to observe active wildlife, both on land and in the water, during the Cool and Dry Season.
October Guest Reviews of Galapagos Safari Camp
Read reviews from guests who stayed with us in October.
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.