June marks the start of winter in the Galapagos, bringing cooler temperatures, clearer waters, and an exciting increase in marine activity. My wife and I loved spotting endemic bird species, like the vibrant greater flamingo and frigatebird, and we had unforgettable moments swimming with sharks and snorkeling alongside energetic marine life.
For those who enjoy an active vacation, June is ideal. It’s perfect for whale watching, diving, kayaking, and even mountain biking. Since June is part of the high season, we found that booking several months in advance ensured we got the best spots and experiences.
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Galapagos in June: A Quick Glance
- Air temperature: 21-26°C / 70-78°F
- Sea temperature: 23-24°C / 74-76°F
- Average rainfall: 1.5cm / 0.6in
- Rain: Low chances of rain. During the day, there may be some drizzles.
- Clear skies: The Garua season officially begins in June. This is a time of year when the skies might be cloudy and the water can be murky.
- Galapagos in June: Wildlife
June is an action-packed month in the Galapagos, as migratory birds, various whale species, and even massive whale sharks make their way to Darwin and Wolf islands. They’re drawn by the cooler, nutrient-rich waters that provide an abundant food supply.
This month marks the beginning of the whale-watching season, and the Bolivar Channel between Isabela and Fernandina islands is one of the best spots to catch a glimpse. We found that while some luck is involved, the thrill of spotting these majestic creatures makes it worth the wait.
Birds are also active and some of the most common bird species you’ll find in the Galapagos in June are:
- Boobies
- Albatross
- Flightless cormorants
- Frigate birds
In June, the greater flamingo begins its mating season, and watching these stunning birds create their nests is an absolute treat. We were captivated by the sight of the bright pink flamingos gathering and preparing for nesting—it was like watching a carefully choreographed dance.
Another colorful highlight is the male frigatebird, which often starts displaying his vibrant red pouch in June. This fascinating behavior is common on North Seymour Island, near Santa Cruz. Seeing these striking birds in action added a memorable splash of color and energy to our trip.
Galapagos in June: Tourist Crowds
June is peak season in the Galapagos, bringing a lively crowd of travelers, with many families taking advantage of summer vacations. It’s a great time to visit with family and enjoy the chance to meet others from around the world.
Due to the high demand, prices are typically higher in June, so planning your trip a few months in advance is a smart move. While booking boat trips in advance isn’t always necessary, we found it helpful to secure our spots early, allowing us to enjoy more excursions and adventures without the worry of last-minute availability.
Galapagos in June: Weather
June is a great time to visit the Galapagos if you prefer moderate weather. The water is warm enough for swimming and exploring marine life, and rain is minimal since it’s part of the islands’ dry season.
June also marks the start of the Garúa season, bringing slightly reduced water clarity and a cloudier sky with the occasional afternoon drizzle. Since it’s just the beginning of the Garúa season, the conditions are still excellent for both land and sea adventures. My wife and I found the mild weather perfect for exploring, with just enough cloud cover to keep things comfortable.
Galapagos in June: Activities
June offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities in the Galapagos, as many species are actively mating and nesting. We noticed Galapagos penguins nesting in caves during cloudy spells, while larger groups of flamingos gathered together—a sight that made our trip even more memorable.
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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While water clarity is slightly reduced due to the Garúa season, this actually works in favor of snorkeling and diving. The cooler temperatures bring plankton and nutrients up from the Antarctic, creating a feast for marine life. As a result, snorkeling and diving become even more exciting, with abundant sea creatures to observe.
June is also prime time for spotting humpback whales, whale sharks, and dolphins. Renting a boat for snorkeling and diving allowed us to explore at our own pace and made for an unforgettable adventure in the rich, lively waters.
Bottom Line
June is truly a captivating time to visit the Galapagos Islands. The cooler, pleasant, and dry weather offers a refreshing break from the tropical heat of the earlier months.
Even with the cooler seas, June is ideal for snorkeling, with an abundance of marine life all around. Seabirds are also in full swing, busily building nests and pairing up, adding even more activity to the islands. For diving enthusiasts, Darwin and Wolf islands in the far northwest of the archipelago are a must-visit in June. My wife and I found the dives there to be some of the best we’ve ever experienced—an absolute highlight for any diver.
Planning trip to Ecuador?
My wife and I rented a car for 15 days and traveled from the northern part of Ecuador to the south, visiting amazing cities like Quito, Otavalo, Baños, Cuenca, and Guayaquil. Along the way, we explored iconic places such as Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Lake, and many more breathtaking destinations.
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