Weather
December is the transition month on the Galápagos Islands between the dry season and the warmer wet season. The air starts to warm to 80°F (27°C), and the water is warm at around 73°F (23°C). It's a great month to visit the islands, as the guarúa season has ended and the nights are getting warmer. You can expect barely any rain, little to no heat, and low humidity.
You might experience a wide range of weather, which is great for water-based activities one day and land-based ones the next. The skies become clearer, which is great for sunbathing on the boat deck and enjoying quality beach time.
Crowds & Costs
December marks the second peak season on the Galápagos Islands and tends to get busy across the archipelago. With the Christmas holidays taking place, you can expect a lot more tourism than in the previous months. That means it gets quite a bit more expensive, so make sure to book your flight and hotel several months in advance. You should also book any tours, especially water-based tours and cruises, in advance, since demand is much higher during the month. Overall, spending the Christmastime on the islands, among active December wildlife and nature, is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Where to Go
One of the December highlights on the Galápagos Islands is the hatching of giant tortoise eggs, and you have a good chance of seeing baby tortoises on Isla Isabela. Alternatively, head to Isla Española to see young waved albatross chicks gaining their wing feathers and preparing for takeoff. It's the last month of the year to see the waved albatrosses before they fly off.
Get ready to see a lot of Galápagos green sea turtles in December, as they're highly active during the month. It's now that they begin mating, and you can spot many of them while snorkeling and diving in the waters. Some of the best places to see them are around Isabela and Isla Fernandina.
Take a trip to Tortuga Bay, named for the black turtles that nest throughout the white sand beach. it's known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the Galápagos Islands, with calm turquoise waters protected by a coral reef. you'll find marine iguanas here, and during December's mating season, they start showing bright colors to attract mates.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
In December, you can enjoy swimming with sea lions, watching an abundance of Galápagos tortoise eggs and hatchlings, and snorkeling among sea turtles in clear waters. Seeing the Galápagos green sea turtles and the giant tortoise hatchlings is one of the most exciting things to do in December.
it's also a great time to take a cruise and visit several islands, where you can enjoy relaxing beach time, sunbathing, hiking, and scuba diving. As the wet season begins, the Galápagos transform into green land as plants and flowers start to bloom, and hills and mountains come to life with vibrant green hues. it's one of the best months for photography, with abundant wildlife, green nature, sandy beaches, and crystal clear blue waters.
Hiking is especially great this time of year. Visit La Lobería on Isla San Cristóbal—a coral and sand beach teeming with Galápagos sea lions. The national park protects the vast sea lion community residing on La Lobería, and you can usually spot a dominant male and about 30 females, along with adorable sea lion pups that create the harem.
Events in December
Christmas Eve, Nationwide (December 24). Christmas is celebrated throughout Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, and is one of the most celebrated holidays. Cities are decorated with traditional lights and Christmas trees, creating a busy time on the islands.
New Year's Eve, Nationwide (December 31). Features the "Año Viejo" tradition, where locals burn effigies in the streets to signify leaving behind the old year.
Traveling to the Galápagos Islands in December? Check out these great itineraries
Wildlife Encounters & Outdoor Adventures in the Galápagos - 7 Days. This weeklong itinerary in the Galápagos is filled with wildlife and outdoor activities from hiking among blue-footed boobies to swimming with sea lions. You'll explore Isla Santa Cruz and Isla San Cristóbal, as well as a pair of uninhabited islands, enjoying boat tours, a snorkeling excursion, and guided nature hikes along the way.
Galápagos Island-Hopping Wildlife Adventure - 11 Days. Visit the top islands in the archipelago, from Santa Cruz and Pinzón to San Cristóbal and Española. Highlights include kayaking among bird-filled mangroves in Tortuga Bay, snorkeling with exotic marine life, and visiting a giant tortoise breeding center.
More Helpful Information
Galápagos Islands in November
Galápagos Islands in January
Best Time of Year to Visit the Galápagos Islands
How Many Days to Spend in the Galápagos Islands