The Galapagos
The Galapagos Islands, a historical archipelago off the coast of Ecuador, are renowned for their unique biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Key highlights include up-close encounters with endemic species like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring volcanic terrains. The best time to visit Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands for wildlife viewing is during the wet season, from January to May when the seas are warmer and calmer. However, the islands offer year-round adventures due to their equatorial location, ensuring a constant influx of visitors captivated by their untouched beauty and the rare chance to observe species not found anywhere else on Earth.
If you want to see certain animals, you might be dictated by their seasonal habits. For example, the waved albatross relies on the wind to fly and so are only found on Española between April and December, before they fly away again. Many birds will nest their eggs between February and April, making the months on either side a good time to see mating calls (between June and August for the blue-footed booby) or new babies. Sea lions, marine iguanas, and penguins tend to gather in groups for their mating and breeding season between June and December. You’ll see giant tortoises all year round, but their eggs begin to hatch in December and babies can be seen emerging until April. To find out the best time of year to visit the Galapagos for you, speak to our travel experts.