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.
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
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
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.
Galapagos in November: Activities
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.