Is September a good time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
Galapagos Safari Camp in September
September is a good time to visit for those who are less tolerant of the heat. Although it is never too cold, it can get a little chilly in the evenings and you might need a warm jumper or fleece.
A quieter month: September marks a waning of the number of people who visit the islands. Children are back in school after the summer break and it is a good time to visit if you are seeking peace and tranquility.
Seasonal Maintenance: In September, we usually close the Camp for a couple of weeks to attend to any maintenance. The exact dates and length of closure varies each year, depending on the work required. Please contact us for further information.
Photos from September: All the photos in this article were taken during the month of September, either at Galapagos Safari Camp or on one of our Safaris.
Galapagos in September: At a glance
Ocean currents: Humboldt Current’s influence continues.
Weather: Mildly cool and dry, with temperatures between 68°F to 82°F.
Seas: Cooler waters, with occasional choppier conditions.
Wildlife: Sea birds are active; abundant marine life.
Galapagos Weather in September
A tortoise passes through Galapagos Safari Camp (photo taken in September)
September falls within the Galapagos’ Cool and Dry Season. Air temperatures are cooler (around 67-80°F / 19-27°C), with reduced humidity, as are sea temperatures (68-74°F / 20-23°C). Underwater visibility is reduced too to approximately 5-20m. The misty phenomenon, known as la garua, occasionally cloaks the islands and consequently, there is less sunshine. There is also less rain.
Ocean Currents: The marine environment of the Galápagos is largely determined by the interplay of its currents. In September, the following currents are of note:
- The Humboldt Current is still dominant in September. This chilly, nutrient-rich current sweeps up the coast of South America, before circling westwards to the Galapagos Islands.
- The Pacific Equatorial Undercurrent (or Cromwell Current) runs from west to east along the equator. When it reaches the Galapagos Islands, its cold waters are deflected to the surface, carrying nutrients from the ocean floor (a process called ‘upwelling’). These nutrients sustain the phytoplankton on the surface and the increase in plankton attracts an abundance of fish and seabirds.
- The warmer Panama Current is less strong at this time of year, with the Humboldt Current remaining the dominant force for now.
Due to the nutrient rich waters, this is an excellent time to visit the islands if you are an avid diver or birdwatcher.
Choppy Seas: It’s worth noting that the open seas can get quite choppy during this time. At Galapagos Safari Camp, we can arrange short boat trips to neighbouring islands, as well as numerous tours and activities on Santa Cruz Island itself.
Good for hiking and biking: The cooler temperatures make hikes and biking adventures easier. Water activities like snorkeling promise a kaleidoscope of marine life, albeit in cooler waters.
Galapagos Wildlife in September
September is a historically significant month for the Galapagos, marking the time when Charles Darwin first set foot on the islands in 1835 aboard the HMS Beagle. His observations of the unique and varied species on each island laid the foundation for his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection. Today, the magic of September remains, with the islands vibrant and alive, showcasing an abundance of creatures in transition.
Giant tortoises are often at Galapagos Safari Camp in September
Giant tortoises: On Santa Cruz Island, the iconic giant tortoises embark on their slow-paced journey from the coast back to the verdant highlands. Their migration, a short trek of less than 4 miles (6km), can take 2 to 3 weeks, moving at a snail’s pace uphill. These tortoises, which once amused Darwin with their unhurried demeanor, are often seen ambling through Galapagos Safari Camp. Our land-based Safaris also include a visit to a private reserve for giant tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz.
Galapagos Penguins: The waters surrounding Bartolome Island present their own magic. Galapagos Penguins, having migrated from Isabela Island after the wet season, dominate the aquatic scene. They grace the waters around Pinnacle Rock, diving off cliffs and darting between snorkelers and playful sea lions in search of food.
Sea Lions: North Seymour, Plazas, and Santa Fe Islands are abuzz with the sounds and sights of sea lions. Males aggressively guard their harems, ensuring safety for the newborn pups and their mothers. These young sea lion pups, curious by nature, are known to playfully engage with snorkelers. On land, these islands are a hub of avian activity. Sea birds, particularly blue-footed boobies and both the Great and Magnificent frigate birds, are in the midst of their parenting and mating rituals.
Our fruit orchards: September marks the time when our mandarins are ripe and ready for picking.
Summary: Galapagos in September
Visiting the Galapagos in September is ideal for those who enjoy cooler weather and the opportunity to explore the more abundant marine life during the Cool and Dry Season.
September Guest Reviews of Galapagos Safari Camp
Read reviews from guests who stayed with us in September.
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.