October in the Galapagos offers an incredible landscape, with some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets we’ve ever seen. This month’s shift from cooler to warmer seas brings a spectacular display of wildlife that makes it one of the best times to visit. When we traveled in October, our only minor complaint was the slightly chilly water in deeper snorkeling spots, so we highly recommend renting wetsuits for the tours—at just $5, it’s well worth it.
October is a calm, inviting month in the Galapagos. With moderate weather, fewer crowds, and often reduced prices, you can enjoy sightings of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, penguins, playful sea lions, and even adorable sea fur pups, all without the summer rush.
Galapagos in October: A Quick Glance
- Air temperature: 19-25°C / 66-77°F
- Sea temperature: 20-23°C / 70-73°F
- Average rainfall: 0.6cm / 0.25in
Galapagos in October: Wildlife
In October, keep an eye out for Blue-footed boobies—this is when their fledglings are out and about, making it an especially lively time to see these famous birds. We loved watching the fluffy baby boobies, who are not only adorable but also make for stunning photographs against the rugged Galapagos landscape.
Their clumsy steps and curious looks add so much charm to the experience, and capturing a moment with these young birds is something we’ll always treasure. For bird enthusiasts and photographers alike, October is a dream month to catch the Blue-footed boobies in action.
Flamingo nesting is another fantastic highlight in October. We were thrilled to spot these elegant birds at Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island and Punta Cormorant on Floreana Island. Watching them nest in their natural habitat, with their vibrant pink feathers standing out against the landscape, was a truly mesmerizing experience.
When my wife and I visited Bartolome Island in October, we kept an eye out for Galapagos penguins during their courtship season. From May to December, these unique birds pair up and build their nests together, and witnessing this behavior was a special experience for us. We also had the chance to spot penguins at Concha Perla and Los Tuneles near Isabela Island, adding even more memorable moments to our trip.
In October, we saw plenty of sea lions with their young both on the beaches and in the water. Snorkeling alongside the playful pups was an unforgettable experience, as they loved darting around us in the shallows. We were careful to keep our distance from the watchful sea lion parents, who kept a close eye on their curious little ones.
October is also mating season for Galapagos fur sea lions, so we were mindful of the larger males. They become quite territorial and protective of their females, and it’s best to give them plenty of space to avoid any confrontations.
Galapagos in October: Tourist Crowds
October, being the low season in the Galapagos, brings a more peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists than in the busier summer and winter months. For couples, it’s one of the best times to visit, as there’s a wide range of activities perfect for a romantic getaway. My wife and I especially loved the beaches—one of our favorite memories was spending the entire day at Puerto Chino beach on San Cristobal Island, where we had the place completely to ourselves. It felt like our own private paradise.
Planning trip to Galapagos Islands?
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In October, we felt like we had the entire island almost to ourselves, making for a wonderfully peaceful holiday. It’s the perfect month to find budget-friendly travel options, with affordable flights, accommodations, and plenty of choices for both land and water activities. This quieter season allowed us to explore at our own pace and enjoy a more personal experience of the Galapagos.
Galapagos in October: Weather
October sees a gradual warming in the Galapagos, though temperatures remain cooler than in other months. We noticed that the western islands occasionally had a bit of mist, while higher summits enjoyed bright skies. This time of year is perfect for catching breathtaking sunrises and soaking in the beautiful scenery. For snorkeling at Pinzon Island or Kicker Rock, we found wetsuits essential for staying comfortable in the water.
The Humboldt Current is at its peak in October, bringing an abundance of marine life and creating excellent snorkeling and diving conditions. The waves can get a bit choppy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, be prepared. We brought travel pills, which helped a lot—and even ended up sharing them with a few other travelers who were grateful for the extra support.
Galapagos in October: Activities
Many consider October to be one of the best months for photography in the Galapagos. With the increasing mist, sunrises from the western islands create breathtaking scenes that are perfect for capturing on camera. My wife and I noticed that the lighting throughout the day was also softer, making it ideal for photos without the harsh brightness you get in other seasons.
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Snorkeling in October is especially exciting, as the Humboldt Current is at its strongest, drawing in a variety of marine life. We found it easier to spot green sea turtles, which added a special touch to our underwater adventures. The colder water, however, can make things a bit chilly, so we’d definitely recommend a wetsuit for a comfortable experience.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a mild and dry time to visit the Galapagos, October is a fantastic choice. My wife and I found that October’s quieter atmosphere allowed us to enjoy unforgettable wildlife moments, especially with marine animals, without the usual crowds.
Photographers often say October is ideal for landscape shots because of the soft lighting and stunning sunsets. We couldn’t agree more—the natural lighting gave our photos a beautiful, almost dreamlike quality. A trip in October has so much to offer, but it’s always worth comparing each month’s highlights to find the best fit for your adventure.
Planning trip to Ecuador?
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