December on the Galapagos Islands is truly magical, combining two remarkable events: Christmas celebrations and the arrival of sea turtles. Baby Galapagos giant tortoises make their first appearance this month, and Galapagos green sea turtles become frequent companions during snorkeling adventures, adding an extra thrill to each dive.
For my wife and me, December felt like the ideal time to visit. The weather is mild, wildlife is abundant, and the landscapes burst into vibrant life after the rains. However, it’s worth noting that December is also one of the busiest times here. Still, if you’re able to stay for Christmas or New Year’s, you’ll be in for a unique holiday experience that’s unlike anything we’ve celebrated before.
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Galapagos in December: A Quick Glance
- Air temperature: 21-27°C / 70-81°F
- Sea temperature: 20-23°C / 70-73°F
- Average rainfall: 0.5cm / 1.3in
December weather in the Galapagos marks a transition from the cooler, drier season to the warmer, rainy one, giving visitors a taste of both climates. My wife and I experienced a bit of everything, from sunny skies to light showers, which kept things interesting.
Rainfall is generally low, especially in November, with the highlands averaging only about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm). In December, you might catch the occasional sprinkle, but nothing too heavy—just enough to bring out the lushness of the islands without dampening the adventure. We found it added a refreshing touch to our days exploring the islands.
Galapagos in December: Wildlife
December in the Galapagos is full of fascinating wildlife events. One of the highlights of our visit was witnessing the hatching of giant tortoise eggs on Isabela Island. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of these tiny, new tortoises making their first steps—a truly unforgettable sight. Meanwhile, Galapagos green turtles are busy too, as December marks the start of their mating season.
Marine and terrestrial iguanas are also in full swing this month. We were amazed by how vibrant the marine iguanas looked, lighting up in striking colors to attract mates. But be aware—they’re quite territorial and defensive during breeding season!
Bird lovers have a treat in December as well. It’s the last chance of the year to see the Waved Albatross before they leave the islands, though a January sighting is rare. We even spotted newborn chicks testing their wing feathers as they prepared to take flight.
With the arrival of the first rains, land birds like Darwin’s finches, short-eared owls, and flycatchers become very active, busily building nests for the breeding season. Watching the islands come alive with these nesting birds was one of the most memorable parts of our December visit, giving us a glimpse of nature’s incredible rhythms in action.
Galapagos in December: Tourist Crowds
December marks the start of the second peak season on the Galapagos Islands, so expect a lively and bustling atmosphere across all the islands. With Christmas approaching, tourism picks up significantly, and costs can rise. My wife and I made sure to book our flights and accommodations well in advance, which helped us secure good spots without breaking the bank.
It’s also a smart move to plan any tours, especially for water activities and cruises, ahead of time. Demand is high, and these excursions fill up quickly in December. Spending Christmas in the Galapagos, surrounded by vibrant wildlife and stunning scenery, was an unforgettable experience for us—something truly unique that made the holiday feel extra special.
Galapagos in December: Weather
December marks the transition from the dry season to the warmer, wet season in the Galapagos, bringing with it milder evenings and warmer air and water. We loved exploring the islands during this time—the Guarúa season had just ended, so the weather felt perfectly balanced with only light rain and comfortable humidity levels. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to add the Pinzon Island tour and Bartolome to your list; they’re fantastic spots that really capture the beauty of the Galapagos.
This mild weather makes December ideal for a variety of activities. My wife and I found it perfect for alternating between snorkeling, diving, and other water adventures one day, and hiking or exploring the land the next. Clear skies meant we could relax on the boat deck or enjoy some quiet beach time, soaking in the Galapagos’ charm. It’s a month that truly offers the best of both worlds for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Planning trip to Galapagos Islands?
My wife and I spent two weeks on these magnificent islands, visited nearly every possible tour, and explored as much as we could. I shared all the important details in my comprehensive Galapagos Islands Travel Guide, where I cover everything you need to know about planning a trip to the Galapagos.
Galapagos Islands travel might surprise you with extra fees to enter the islands, the complicated logistics between islands, booking tours, and knowing which spots are free to explore and which ones are not. I’ve covered it all in this Galapagos Travel Guide.
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Galapagos in December: Activities
December is truly an exceptional time for snorkeling and diving in the Galapagos. The water becomes clearer, offering better visibility, and the seas warm up and calm down, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration. We did find the water a bit chilly at times, so packing a wetsuit is a good idea if you plan to spend extended time in the ocean.
One of the highlights for us was encountering playful sea lion pups in the shallows. These curious little creatures would dart right up to our faces, then zip away just as quickly—it felt like a personal show, and it made the experience unforgettable.
As for activities, December keeps all the classic Galapagos experiences open and accessible. You can explore trails, capture incredible wildlife photos, and enjoy beach time and sunbathing on the boat’s deck as the weather warms up. It’s a month that combines the best of land and sea, making every day feel like a new adventure.
Bottom Line
December is a unique transition month, offering dry, pleasant weather that’s perfect for outdoor activities. Wildlife is especially captivating now, and if you have the chance, a visit to Española Island to witness the departure of the waved albatross colony is something you won’t want to miss.
If you’re considering a trip between Christmas and New Year’s, our biggest tip is to book early. We learned that popular dates can fill up as much as six months in advance! There’s just so much to see and experience in the Galapagos during December, making it well worth the advance planning to catch the best of this incredible destination.
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