November in the Galapagos is a fantastic time for unique water activities and sightseeing, thanks to the mild temperatures and fewer crowds. This combination of calm weather and quiet spots made our visit feel even more special, with plenty of things to explore.
One of our favorite experiences was snorkeling through the volcanic tunnels at Los Tuneles. Here, we swam alongside playful sea lion pups as they ventured into the ocean for the first time. It was amazing to watch their excitement as they darted around us. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a seahorse or two—a rare treat that added a magical touch to our adventure.
November is a wonderful time to visit Fernandina Island, where you can swim with the unique Galapagos penguins and marine iguanas—a surreal experience that feels like diving into another world. We also explored the sweeping pahoehoe lava flows at Sullivan Bay, marveling at the dramatic volcanic landscapes that define the islands. For bird enthusiasts, November offers the chance to spot various breeding bird species in action, adding even more depth to the experience.
To help you make the most of your November trip, we’ve gathered all the essential information you’ll need to plan your adventure in the Galapagos during this special month.
Looking back, visiting in November offered the perfect combination – from fewer crowds to ideal temperatures and playful sea lion pups. Skip the uncertainty I faced and get a FREE personalized Galapagos trip quote from my trusted local experts who know exactly how to take advantage of this quieter season. Your booking helps support both this blog and local Galapagos communities.
Galapagos in November: A Quick Glance
- Air temperature: 21-26°C / 70-79°F
- Sea temperature: 23-24°C / 23-24°F
- Average rainfall: 0.5cm / 1.3in
- Rain: Intermittent rain showers
In November, the skies in the Galapagos are a mix of bright sunshine and occasional clouds, creating a pleasant balance. If you appreciate dry, comfortable weather that’s warm but not overly hot, November is an ideal month to visit. We found the temperatures perfect for outdoor activities without feeling overheated.
One tip from our experience: bring a thick fleece or light jacket for the boat rides. It can get a bit chilly on deck, especially when sailing during the day, but a cozy layer makes it easy to stay comfortable while enjoying the views.
Galapagos in November: Wildlife
November is a wonderful month to observe sea lions, especially with the adorable pups in the nurseries learning to swim in the shallow waters. Watching these lively little creatures was a highlight for us, though it’s important to keep a respectful distance to avoid startling their protective mothers.
Birdwatchers will find plenty of excitement too. November marks the beginning of the mating season for Brown Noddy Terns and Storm Petrels, while all three species of boobies—blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca—are nesting with tiny chicks.
A unique, if slightly somber, behavior to watch for is siblicide among Nazca booby chicks. This “survival of the fittest” practice involves siblings competing for resources, offering a rare glimpse into the natural challenges of island life.
Galapagos in November: Tourist Crowds
November is typically a peaceful time on the Galapagos Islands, especially in the middle of the month. Considered the low season, there’s a noticeable dip in visitor numbers, making it a great time for those who prefer a quieter experience.
However, it’s good to keep in mind that the first week of November can get busy due to All Souls Day events, drawing crowds from across South America. Later in the month, Thanksgiving brings visitors from the U.S. and Canada, creating a bit more activity on the islands.
For those looking for deals, mid-November is ideal. Travel, lodging, and tour prices are often lower, so it’s an excellent opportunity to find bargains. If you’re planning to travel around these busier holiday times, be sure to book your accommodations, flights, and cruises in advance to secure the best options. Overall, November offers a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the unique beauty of the Galapagos.
Galapagos in November: Weather
November brings delightful weather to the Galapagos, with average highs around 79°F (26°C). For those who enjoy a mild climate without intense heat or humidity, this month is ideal. It’s still part of the dry season, and sunny skies are the norm.
With the Humboldt Current easing off and the winds significantly calmer, swimming conditions are near perfect. We found the waters inviting, making November an excellent time to dive into the islands’ underwater beauty.
One tip we picked up is to keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially for signs of an El Niño event. This warm ocean current can impact the islands, bringing higher temperatures and more rain. During strong El Niño events, some activities might be postponed, and exploring the islands can be a bit more challenging, so it’s worth planning accordingly.
Trust me, while water visibility might be slightly reduced, November’s rich marine life makes it worth it! Want an expertly planned itinerary that balances snorkeling and diving with wildlife encounters during this peaceful month? Get a FREE quote from my recommended local agency. Your booking supports this blog and local Galapagos businesses.
Galapagos in November: Activities
In November, you can enjoy the same activities as any other time of year in the Galapagos, but it’s an especially fantastic month for water-based adventures. Thanks to the Humboldt Current, the waters around the islands are teeming with nutrients, which attracts a wide variety of marine life. This influx of wildlife makes snorkeling and diving particularly exciting, as marine animals draw other creatures and birds to the area, creating a lively underwater scene.
One trade-off, however, is slightly reduced water clarity. While visibility isn’t as pristine, we still found it perfectly enjoyable for snorkeling and diving. The water can be cooler than at other times, so if you plan to spend extended time in the ocean, a wetsuit will help keep you comfortable as you explore this thriving marine environment.
Plan perfect trip to Ecuador & Galapagos
I spent countless hours researching everything about traveling to Ecuador, and I created this blog for fellow travel enthusiasts who want the best, most reliable information. But if you want to save time, we’ve partnered with the top local agency to plan your dream trip.
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.
Also, if you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos, make sure to use my link for discounted hotel prices via Booking.com. It really helps support my blog!
Bottom Line
November truly showcases the beauty of the Galapagos Islands, with pleasant dry weather, low humidity, and comfortable temperatures. For us, it felt like the perfect balance—ideal for exploring without the intense heat. The wildlife activity is also captivating, with playful sea lion pups stealing the show. Watching them frolic along the shores was a highlight of our trip.
November marks the end of the calm season, with the islands set to shift around December or January as the rains arrive, bringing a whole new look to the landscape. This is the last month to experience the Galapagos in its tranquil, dry-season form before the lush transformation that follows.
