Despite active seabirds and sea lions, September is the quietest month of the Galapagos calendar, with some ships going into dry dock.

NEXT STEPS

• Browse our Galapagos Island holidays
• Download our free Galapagos travel guide
• Contact our Destination Specialist for advice

Overview

• Although the Galapagos never experiences wild swings in temperature, it is worth bearing in mind that September is the coolest month here – this is not the time for sunbathing.
• However, rainfall will also be at its lowest, which is great if you’re interested in a spot of hiking.
• Full-body wetsuits are recommended for divers and snorkellers due to the at times chilly water temperatures.
• The cooler, drier temperatures of months like September are preferred by some visitors over the warmer, wetter, more humid months experienced earlier on in the year.
• As ships will have been put into dry dock in preparation for busier months, September affords visitors the opportunity to experience a less crowded Galapagos.

Where to Go and What to See

• Galapagos penguins are at their most active in September, with most of the birds found in the waters off Bartholomew, Isabela and Fernandina Islands.
• As sea lions will be engaging in courtship displays and mating rituals throughout September, it is important not to get too close to these marine mammals at this time!
• The sea lion’s smaller cousin, the Galapagos fur seal, will also be in the midst of its mating season – look out for protective bulls defending their territory.
• If you’re lucky, you may get to see both sea lion and fur seal pups on the same trip!
• Keep an eye out for migratory humpbacks off the coast, who will begin to depart from Galapagos waters after the end of September.
• Both blue-footed boobies and waved albatrosses can often be seen either nesting or fishing.
• Many of the bird species found throughout the Galapagos will be active at this time, including brown pelicans.