December is the transition into the Galápagos warm season. Water is generally warmer, seas are often calmer and short showers become more likely, although conditions vary with the year. Green sea turtle nesting season is beginning, but seeing a nesting female is not a standard or guaranteed visitor experience. Holiday weeks are busy, so book flights, hotels and limited-capacity tours early. Below: the December weather in the Galapagos, the December wildlife you can count on, and what to pack for December in the Galapagos.
A Galapagos in December trip combines warmer snorkeling conditions with year-end demand. It is a transition month rather than a switch that happens on a fixed date: early December can still feel like the cool season, while later weeks may bring warmer water, more sunshine and occasional rain.
December can be an excellent month for families, couples and first-time snorkelers, but Christmas and New Year travel requires realistic planning. The right itinerary matters more than a long wildlife checklist because each island and visitor site offers a different experience.
December Weather in the Galapagos
Galápagos Conservancy describes the broader December-to-May warm season with average water temperatures around 76°F (24°C) and an air-temperature range of approximately 72–86°F (22–30°C). December itself may sit below or above those broad averages depending on the island and on ocean patterns such as El Niño or La Niña.
Coastal towns such as Puerto Ayora, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and Puerto Villamil usually feel warmer than the highlands. Santa Cruz’s upper elevations can still be cloudy or cool while the coast is sunny.
Does It Rain in December?
Short showers become more likely as the warm season begins, but December is not automatically a washout. Rainfall is uneven across the archipelago and from year to year. You may have a sunny day, a brief shower and a clear evening without changing islands.
Pack a light rain shell rather than heavy rain gear. The same shell is useful for boat spray and wind. Weather forecasts for mainland Ecuador do not describe the islands well, so check a local forecast close to departure and keep expectations flexible.
Ocean Temperature and Snorkeling
Warmer water and generally calmer seas make December attractive for snorkeling, especially for travelers who get cold easily. Conditions remain site-specific: currents, tide, wind and plankton can change visibility and comfort on the same day.
Many operators provide wetsuits. Even when the water feels warm at first, a short suit or thin full suit can help during a long session. Confirm sizes and inclusions before the trip rather than assuming you will not need one.
December Wildlife in the Galapagos
Wildlife viewing is strong throughout the year. December adds seasonal possibilities, but no responsible operator should guarantee a mating, nesting or feeding event. Build the route around habitats and visitor sites, not a promise that an animal will appear on schedule.
Green Sea Turtle Nesting Season
The Galápagos green sea turtle is Chelonia mydas. Research supported by the Charles Darwin Foundation reports nesting throughout the year, with most activity from roughly December to May. Important nesting beaches include protected sites on Isabela, Santiago, Santa Cruz and Seymour.
That does not mean visitors can walk onto a beach at night to watch turtles lay eggs. Access is controlled to protect nesting females and hatchlings. On an authorized daytime visit, you may see tracks, marked nesting areas or turtles in the water, but an active nesting event is never guaranteed. Follow your naturalist guide and stay on the authorized trail.
Waved Albatross on Española
Waved albatrosses normally use Española during their breeding season from about April to December. Early-December visitors on the right route may still see birds, but many adults depart toward the end of the season. Do not choose a late-December trip solely for an albatross sighting.
Sea Lions, Boobies and Other Wildlife
- Galápagos sea lions: pups may be present around populated-island beaches. Mothers and territorial males need space, so maintain the Park’s minimum wildlife distance.
- Blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds: these can be seen year-round at the appropriate colonies; courtship timing varies by location.
- Marine iguanas: common at many coastal sites. Color and breeding behavior differ among islands and populations.
- Giant tortoises: possible in the Santa Cruz or San Cristóbal highlands and at breeding centers, subject to the chosen itinerary.
- Penguins and flightless cormorants: western Isabela and Fernandina are core areas. Their presence is not tied to December alone.
The Galápagos National Park requires visitors to remain at least two meters from wildlife, stay on marked trails and use authorized operators in protected areas. Those rules protect the animals and improve the experience for everyone.
December Crowds, Prices and Availability
Mid-December through mid-January is one of the busiest periods in the islands. Flights from mainland Ecuador, family rooms, small vessels and popular day tours can sell out. Holiday prices may also be higher or have stricter cancellation conditions.
If you must travel over Christmas or New Year, secure the Galápagos flights and the core itinerary before booking nonrefundable mainland plans. Arriving in Quito or Guayaquil at least one night before the island flight gives you time for delays, the Transit Control Card and the mandatory biosecurity process.
What to Pack for December in the Galapagos
Remarkable 5-Day Galapagos Land Tour: Santa Cruz Essentials
From $790 p.p.
- Sleep in island hotels, not a cruise cabin
- Local naturalist guides
- Highland tortoises, lava tunnels and Tortuga Bay
- Lightweight, quick-drying shirts, shorts and trousers
- Light rain shell for showers, wind and boat spray
- UPF rash guard and a secure sun hat
- High-SPF sun protection and sunglasses
- Closed walking shoes and water-friendly footwear
- Reusable water bottle and small dry bag
- Personal seasickness medication if advised by your clinician
- A light warm layer for air-conditioned spaces, early starts and windy crossings
December sun can be intense even when clouds are present. Our complete Galapagos packing list covers arrival cash, baggage limits and biosecurity considerations.
December vs June in the Galapagos
| Factor | December | June |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Transition into the warm season | Start of the cool season |
| Water | Generally warmer | Generally cooler; wetsuit comfort matters more |
| Sea conditions | Often calmer, but variable | Wind and chop become more likely |
| Rain | Short showers become more likely | Garúa mist is more typical, especially in highlands |
| Crowds | Very busy around Christmas and New Year | Busy from mid-June as U.S. summer travel begins |
| Seasonal wildlife | Green turtle nesting season begins; albatross season is ending | Albatross season is active; productive cool-season seas develop |
Neither month is universally better. December favors travelers who value warmer snorkeling and holiday dates. June favors those comfortable with cooler, more productive water. See our Galapagos in June guide and weather-by-month comparison before deciding.
A Practical 7-Day December Itinerary
- Day 1: arrive at Baltra or San Cristóbal and keep the afternoon easy.
- Days 2–3: explore the arrival island and complete one full-day wildlife or snorkeling excursion.
- Day 4: transfer to a second inhabited island if island hopping is part of the plan.
- Days 5–6: combine a water-focused day with a highland or volcanic-landscape visit.
- Day 7: return to the mainland without relying on a tight international connection.
A December itinerary should include confirmed reservations and reasonable transfer time, especially during holiday weeks. Compare our land-based Galapagos tours, or send us your dates so our local team can recommend the right islands and available activities.
FAQ: Galapagos in December
Is December a good time to visit the Galapagos?
Yes. December offers warmer-season conditions and excellent year-round wildlife. The trade-off is high demand around Christmas and New Year, so availability and cancellation terms need extra attention.
What is the temperature in the Galapagos in December?
The broader warm season averages about 76°F (24°C) in the water, with air temperatures roughly 72–86°F (22–30°C). December is transitional, and actual conditions vary by island, elevation and ocean pattern.
Can I see sea turtles nesting in December?
December falls within the main green sea turtle nesting period, but an active nesting event is not guaranteed and sensitive beaches have controlled access. You may see turtles in the water, tracks or protected nesting areas on an authorized visit.
Do I need a wetsuit in December?
Some travelers are comfortable without one, while others prefer a short or thin suit for longer sessions. Confirm what your operator provides and decide based on your cold tolerance and the planned site.
How early should I book a December trip?
For Christmas and New Year, book as early as your dates allow—particularly flights, small hotels and limited-capacity tours. Earlier December can be more flexible, but it is still wise to reserve core activities in advance.
December in the Galapagos: The Decision
Choose December for warmer water, a festive travel period and the start of warm-season wildlife cycles. Be prepared for variable transition weather and holiday demand. The strongest trip is one with confirmed logistics, realistic wildlife expectations and enough time to enjoy two islands without rushing.
Sources checked: Charles Darwin Foundation climate and travel guidance; Galápagos Conservancy information on green turtles and Española; Galápagos National Park rules and visitor guidance. Wildlife and weather vary naturally, so confirm the exact route and inclusions before booking.
