Before choosing a vacation destination, I always check the weather first. A Galapagos vacation can be ruined if you’re sweating through your clothes. September is an excellent time to visit Galapagos Islands because the islands are neither too hot nor too cold.
Since the weather is a lot more pleasant during this time of year, you can enjoy a load of water activities including snorkeling. Furthermore, September is the low season for things like Galapagos cruises and it’s easier to find cheap accommodation. Plus, there’s the added benefit that I didn’t see many visitors on my trip and was able to soak in the natural beauty of the island. Without the usual summer crowds, I was able to spot dolphins and whales as they made their way to nesting sites. Similarly, most species of Galapagos wildlife come out for the nesting season during this time.
A Quick Introduction to the Galapagos
There are thirteen major and seven smaller islands in the Galapagos. These islands are scattered across Ecuador in South America and are home to a wide variety of wildlife and sea birds. The islands are divided into western and central islands with the largest and most popular being Isabela Island. Santa Cruz Island is another popular tourist destination. The landscapes are breathtaking and Galapagos waters are a treat for anyone visiting South America. I was able to spot a waved albatross and giant tortoises on my first day! There are also some uninhabited islands teeming with untapped natural beauty.
The Galapagos wildlife took my breath away. I was able to spot sea lions, the Galapagos penguins, and humpback whale calves with their mothers. I loved what the Galapagos islands offered in September. In this article, I will highlight what you can expect from the Galapagos Islands if you plan to visit in September.
How Is the Weather in Galapagos in September?
Unlike the US, Galapagos is fairly cool during September making it one of the best times of the year to visit. However, the Galapagos weather may get warm at times with the average temperature ranging from 18-24 degrees Celsius or 64-75 degrees Fahrenheit. The Galapagos Islands have an average rainfall of 1.3 centimeters or 0.5 inches in September.
Although the average rainfall in the Galapagos Islands isn’t too high, I did experience some drizzle from time to time. Nonetheless, September is one of the driest months of the year on the islands. The sky alternates between sunny and overcast, but the temperature remains pleasant. It must be like-mindedness, but most of the tourists I met preferred these cooler temperatures to more humid months. Summers and the rainy season are usually more humid and hot.
I found that the sea was colder than the rest of the island. Sea temperatures reach a maximum of 22 degrees Celsius or 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Hence, it’s best to carry that extra jacket to stay warm when you’re on deck.
Galapagos Wildlife in September
The highlight of my visit to the Galapagos in September was the wildlife of these Islands. You can come across sea turtles and sea lion pups by just walking around the beach. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see humpback whales before they migrate to cooler climates. You can spot whales migrating around this time of the year.
You should be able to spot some Galapagos penguins which are very active during this time of year. If you want to see some penguins swimming about, I suggest you go snorkeling. On my trip, I had a couple of penguins race me underwater. The conditions for swimming are also near perfect in September.
Other Things to Expect
September is also the nesting season and a perfect time to find blue-footed boobies. Blue-footed boobies are adorable birds you can only find on the Galapagos Islands. They have unique mating rituals involving the male showing off his striking blue-colored feet. The bluer the feet, the more attractive the male is, both for the female. I had the best time staring at these exotic and silly birds flaunting their feet.
However, blue-footed boobies aren’t the only creatures that are active during this season. September is also the mating season for a lot of marine life, especially sea lions. Their mating rituals involve two males fighting each other for the female’s attention presenting a good showdown. Furthermore, the mating season for Galapagos fur seals also starts sometime in September. Fur seals also have similar showdowns with sea lions. Although, the highlight of the mating season is seeing the pups bobbing around with their parents.
Although the wildlife on the Galapagos in September may not compare to some other months, it is anything but boring. If wildlife exploration is a major part of your vacation, like it was for me, then a lot of entertainment awaits you.
Costs of Visiting in Galapagos During September
If the wildlife and weather aren’t enough, visiting the Galapagos Islands in September is far cheaper than in peak season. September is the lull after the busy summer and family vacations. If you’re not big on crowds, this is the ideal time to visit. In addition, fewer people in the Galapagos archipelago attract more wildlife. This is compounded by the fact that Ecuador doesn’t have any public holidays in September, further reducing any chances of local tourists making their way to the islands.
September is an excellent month to visit if you’re looking to connect with the environment. Not only do you get better deals on stays on the island, but you can also get cheaper cruises or a more natural view of the environment.
Conclusion
Galapagos islands are an excellent place to visit no matter what time of the year. Each month has its perks, but my favorite has always been September. No crowds, excellent views and brilliant wildlife makes me want to visit the Galapagos Islands every September. I might even make it a yearly routine for me and my family.
Furthermore, it is cheaper to get to the Galapagos in September as tickets are cheap due to the off-season. You can have the opportunity of meeting some of the rarest and most interesting birds and marine life in September. Sea lions, fur seals, and humpback whales are an excellent proposition for anyone who loves nature.
If the inviting Galapagos climate, cheap stays, beautiful views, and teeming wildlife aren’t enough to convince you, I don’t know what is. Pack your bags this September for an ideal visit to this natural wonder!
