October brings impressive scenery of the Galápagos Islands, and it's the prime time to catch beautiful sunrises and dramatic sunsets. The transition from colder to warmer waters offers the opportunity to see some of the year's best wildlife. You can still spot dolphins and whales, swim with sea turtles and penguins, and watch for cute sea lions and sea fur pups. It's a quiet month with lower prices, mild weather, and fewer crowds. Keep reading to find out why October is a fantastic month to visit.

Weather

The weather on the Galápagos Islands in October starts to warm up again as the warm, wet season approaches (December-May). Expect daily temperatures around 75°F (24°C) with water temperatures hovering at 73°F (23°C). October is part of the dry season and is one of the driest months of the year. You might see some mist when visiting the western islands, while higher peaks have clear weather. It's the month of beautiful sunrises and picturesque scenery.

Bring some warmer clothing, especially if you plan to take a boat tour, as it can get windy and slightly colder on the water. A wetsuit is also a good idea to buy or borrow. The Humboldt current is at its strongest this month, but it brings plenty of marine life and excellent diving/snorkeling conditions. The seas can get fairly rough, so bear that in mind, especially if you tend to get seasick. 

Crowds & Costs

October continues the Galápagos Islands' low season, with fewer visitors than during the summer and winter months. It's one of the best months to visit, with activities in full swing that are ideally suited to a romantic getaway. You'll enjoy a relaxing vacation with plenty of island space almost to yourself. October is a great time to find cheaper flights and good hotel deals, as well as water-based and land-based tours. 

Where to Go

Visit Isla Española and Punta Vicente Roca, as well as Isla Isabela, to see the blue-footed booby colony, where you can spot the adult birds as well as their chicks. On Isla Isabela, visit Alcedo Volcano, which hosts the most diverse and abundant population of tortoises. October's cool, dry weather is perfect for hiking, which makes this an ideal time to visit the volcano area.

Isla Española, on the other hand, will treat you to the albatross's second ritual of the year—the courtship ritual. You can only find these unique species here, and you can watch them in October, as they make sure that their other half doesn't leave them after they separate in January. It's the way for them to "mark" their relationship since albatrosses mate for life. 

On Wolf and Darwin islands, you can see whale sharks, and in the Santa Cruz highlands, you can visit Los Gemelos (The Twins)—two giant volcanic craters formed from collapsed magma chambers. It's another place perfect for hiking and enjoying lush nature in October, surrounded by the Scalesia forest. Sea lions and fur seals remain visible across the islands, as they continue their mating. Remember to keep your distance, since they tend to be more aggressive during this time. 

Plan your trip to Galapagos Islands
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Get Started

What to Do

October is the month to take beautiful photos, with overcast skies providing excellent natural lighting. The sunrises are some of the best on the Galápagos Islands, as the morning mist starts to fade on the highland peaks. You can expect great photos of the sun rising and casting its light over the many volcanoes, as well as dramatic sunsets. It's primetime for snorkeling and kayaking, with the water becoming crystal-clear once again and slightly warmer. 

You'll enjoy snorkeling and swimming with marine iguanas, golden rays, and sea lions. Due to the Humboldt Current, the waters remain rich in nutrients during this month, which results in greater animal activity. This month, there are all kinds of breeding and nesting activity, with rare Galápagos wildlife events taking place in October (like giant tortoises laying their eggs).

Hike through lava caves to see nesting seabirds and penguins, and look for adorable seal pups. Now is the time to enjoy bird-watching since seabirds are quite active in October, particularly blue-and red-footed boobies, penguins, greater flamingoes, frigate birds, and flightless cormorants. 

Events in October 

Independencia de Guayaquil, Nationwide (October 9). Independence of Guayaquil is a national public (nonworking) holiday celebrated across Ecuador and the Galápagos, honoring the 1820 brief and almost bloodless revolt that earned the city of Guayaquil its independence from Spain. Expect locals to take advantage of the holiday to travel to the islands.

Día de la Raza, Nationwide (October 12). A popular holiday in all of Ecuador and Latin America, commemorating the landing of Christopher Columbus on American soil, and celebrating the nation's diverse Indigenous and Hispanic heritage. You may find a more festive atmosphere in town areas like Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Traveling to the Galápagos Islands in October? Check out these great itineraries

Galápagos Cruise: Wildlife Watching, Snorkeling & Hiking - 11 Days. This 11-day cruise is a perfect excursion for those wanting to maximize their time on the Galápagos Islands. You'll experience around a dozen islands, although some of these are quite small, such as Chinese Hat and Bartolome. It also includes some lesser-known sights and activities, such as the unusual Rábida Island, which has a Mars-like rocky surface. 

Highlights of the Galápagos: Isla San Cristóbal & Isla Santa Cruz - 9 Days. Experience the natural wonders of the Galápagos, beginning on Isla San Cristóbal, where you'll hike on Tijeretas Hill, snorkel at Kicker Rock, and explore Isla Española. You'll also see giant tortoises and get in some additional snorkeling on Isla Santa Cruz.

More Helpful Information

Galápagos Islands in September
Galápagos Islands in November
Best Time of the Year to Visit the Galápagos Islands
How Many Days to Spend in the Galápagos Islands