The Galapagos Islands are situated off the coast of Equador and show immense ecological diversity. A closer inspection of the Galapagos Islands weather report can help you plan a dream vacation here. To make the most out of your Galapagos Islands travel, you need to do proper research about the climatic conditions in the region to ensure that you are not victimized by the forces of natures. The Galapagos Islands are situated very close to the equator, which is why this archipelago of volcanic islands are blessed with sub-tropical climate.
This is the reason why the weather in Galapagos is moderately cool throughout the year. The weather in Galapagos is also influenced largely by ocean currents. It is generally under the effect of the Humboldt Current that is a carrier of cold water from the Antarctic to the North, and crosses the Galapagos, thereby keeping the water around the Galapagos cool all year round. The days are warm with very less humidity and the nights are very cool. Ecuador tours that take you to these islands can show you certain interesting and unique aspects of nature that you will not be able to experience in any other part of the world.
A closer inspection of Galapagos Island weather
The winds and other prevalent factors hugely determine the climate of the Galapagos. The winds push the South Equatorial current, resulting in three primary climatic conditions; a dry tropical climate, a fall in the water temperature, and an increase in the amount of wind. Here is a detailed review about the Galapagos Islands weather:
June- December
The climate in the Galapagos remains very dry during the months of June to December. Be prepared to experience frequent showers, low temperature and very little sunshine in the month of September. Most people feel that July-September are the worst months to visit the Galapagos as the water also becomes very rough, making the visibility very low, which in return is not favorable for sports like snorkeling and scuba diving. There is a layer of mist surrounding the island and hence this season is also termed as ‘Garua’.
January- May
A rainy season dominates these months in the Galapagos. However, it should be noted that the rainy season in Galapagos does not imply incessant rains. Only short-lived showers and thunderstorms are seen in this area. The best time to visit the Galapagos is during the months of March and April as the weather is cool, windy with moderate sunshine, and the sea is calm and quiet. Many migratory birds flock to this area during these months and you will get the opportunity to catch a glimpse of such uncommon species of birds, plants, fishes and animals.
El-Nino
This is a weather phenomenon, which occurs on these islands every seven years. The surrounding temperature becomes very hot and the sea water is subjected to excessive evaporation. Thus, the rainfall in this region drastically increases, resulting in lush green vegetation all over the island. However, this affects the marine life adversely, as the change in water temperature keeps migratory fishes away from the area.
The Galapagos Islands weather report
- The water temperature is hardly ever above 22°C or 72°F. Some locations of the Galapagos Islands experience temperatures of 18°C or 69°F.It is strongly recommended that you get a wet suit for snorkeling and a light fleece or similar clothing for the evenings.
- Usually, the Galapagos experiences very dry and windy climate. It would be more comfortable to walk late in the evenings with a light winter garment on.
- Mosquito and other insect repellents are not mandatory as this area is free from biting insects. You can carry a small bottle of insect repellants though, which should be enough for you and your family.
- Due to the effect of the inversion layer, there is a thin layer of clouds that cover the Islands, during the morning and the evening. However, during mid-noon, the sun shines bright in most areas of the Islands.
- Garua is a weather condition prevalent here. Unpredictable rain every now and then can really make you irritated if you are not equipped well enough to confront such a weather condition. It is advisable that you carry raincoats and other waterproof products with you.
- Ships and boats have to face rolling waves as the sea is swelling almost all the time.
Impact of climate change
Like many other parts of the world, the Galapagos Islands too are facing the impacts of climate change. Experts predict that the islands’ ecosystems – land and plants, sea, animals and people, all will face the consequences of such an impact.
Some impacts, as foretold by these environmental experts, include:
Rise in temperature of the area’s ocean surface
This is predicted to reduce the upwelling of nutrients and cold water essential to sea birds , nd mammals as they support the food chain and fish productivity.
Hard conditions for the existing species’ survival
A rise in temperature and increased precipitation will speed up coral bleaching (which is already increasingly evident), thus causing serious implications for entire fisheries. Experts believe that it could also cause a spurt in newly introduced, invasive species, which might out-compete indigenous Galapagos species and even trigger the spread of diseases.
Rise in sea level
As the Sea level rises, nesting beaches for threatened species like Green turtles and Galapagos penguins would become endangered, and may get eventually damaged, owing to flooding and coastal erosion.
Extreme weather events
Extreme weather patterns such as El-Nino and La Nina are likely to become more intense, thus adversely affecting eco-tourism, agriculture, and certain species of the islands.
By Samantha Sanchez
