Thinking about visiting the Galapagos Islands in November? You’re in for a treat! The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, but November stands out for its unique weather and wildlife experiences. Here’s why November is an excellent time to explore these incredible islands with Responsible Travel.
November Weather in the Galapagos Islands
One of the most common questions we get asked is: when is the best month to travel to the Galapagos? The answer is that every month offers something special, and November is no exception. In November, the islands are nearing the end of the cool and dry season. This means you can expect overcast skies, cool temperatures, and minimal rainfall. The average temperature hovers around 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit), providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Know the weather of Galapagos here.
Despite the cloudy skies, it’s essential to use sunscreen. The equatorial sun is intense and can cause burns even on overcast days. The low rainfall in November—only about 0.5 inches—makes it an excellent month for trekking and exploring without the inconvenience of heavy showers.
Wildlife Highlights in November
The cool and dry season in November brings nutrient-rich waters to the Galapagos, attracting a variety of marine life. This makes it an ideal month for wildlife enthusiasts. Marine species such as sea lions, sea turtles, and seabirds thrive during this period, enjoying the plentiful food and nutrients in the water.
Land species are also easily spotted despite the drier conditions in the highlands. The sparse greenery doesn’t hinder the visibility of iconic animals like the giant tortoises and land iguanas. Wildlife behavior varies subtly each month, offering unique experiences for visitors. In November, you can witness:
- Sea Lion Pups: November is a great time to see sea lion pups learning to swim and play in the shallow waters. These adorable and curious pups provide fantastic photo opportunities.
- Sea Turtles: The mating season for Galapagos sea turtles begins in November. Observing their courtship rituals in the ocean is a fascinating experience.
- Bird Watching: Boobies (blue-footed, red-footed, and Nazca) are nesting with their chicks. Brown noddy terns and storm petrels are also beginning their breeding season. For Nazca booby chicks, November is a time of intense sibling rivalry, known as siblicide, where the stronger chick often outcompetes the weaker one for survival.
Fewer Crowds and Better Deals
November is considered a low-demand month for Galapagos cruises and land tours, which means fewer crowds and the possibility of finding last-minute deals. This makes it an ideal time to travel, avoiding the high season rush of Christmas and New Year. However, the first days of November include a 4-day public holiday in Ecuador, during which flights might be fully booked and prices may rise due to local travelers.
Marine Activities
The water temperature in November is around 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit), slightly warmer than the preceding months. While a wetsuit is recommended for extended periods in the water, the marine conditions are excellent for snorkeling and diving. November offers the chance to see playful sea lion pups and active marine animals, making underwater activities particularly rewarding.
Unique Wildlife Events
Each month in the Galapagos brings distinct wildlife events. In November, you can expect:
- Sea Lion Nurseries: Watch sea lion pups play and learn to swim under the watchful eyes of their protective mothers.
- Sea Turtle Mating: Witness the beginning of the sea turtle mating season, with couples often seen together in the water.
- Bird Nesting: Various species of boobies are nesting with their chicks, providing a unique opportunity to observe their parenting behaviors. Nazca boobies display siblicide, a survival strategy where the stronger chick outcompetes its sibling.
Responsible Travel Practices
Choosing Responsible Travel ensures your visit to the Galapagos Islands minimizes environmental impact while providing enriching experiences. They collaborate with local communities and conservation organizations to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Galapagos. Their commitment to sustainability and excellence has earned them special recognition from TripAdvisor for eight consecutive years.
Planning Your Trip
For a complete understanding of the Galapagos climate and wildlife highlights throughout the year, Responsible Travel offers detailed guides and expert advice. Whether you’re planning to visit in November or any other month, they can help you create a memorable and eco-friendly adventure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, November is an exceptional month to visit the Galapagos Islands. The weather is cool and dry, perfect for exploring, and the wildlife activity is abundant and diverse. Sea lion pups, nesting boobies, and mating sea turtles are just a few of the highlights. With fewer crowds and potential travel deals, November offers a serene and affordable way to experience the unique beauty of the Galapagos Islands. Trust Responsible Travel to provide a sustainable and unforgettable journey in this pristine natural paradise.
