November’s cool weather and off-season quiet make it an excellent month to enjoy unique water activities and sightseeing. Swim with playful seal and sea lion pups as they enter the waters for the first time and enjoy snorkeling through volcanic tunnels at Los Tuneles. Visit Fernandina Island and share underwater space with penguins and marine iguanas, walk through swathes of pahoehoe lava flows in Sullivan Bay, and look for several different breeding bird species. Read on for more travel tips and advice for visiting the Galapagos in December.
## Discovering the Enchanting Galapágos Islands in November: A Comprehensive Guide
November presents a unique window of opportunity to explore the captivating beauty and unparalleled biodiversity of the **Galapágos Islands**. As the archipelago transitions into its milder season, travelers can anticipate comfortable temperatures, calmer seas, and a plethora of wildlife encounters. This in-depth guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your unforgettable November adventure to this extraordinary destination.
**Weather Considerations**
The month of November graces the **Galapágos Islands** with truly pleasant weather conditions, averaging around 79 °F, making it an ideal time for exploration. As the islands shrug off the harsher conditions of previous months, the sea temperature also rises to a comfortable 73 °F, beckoning visitors to immerse themselves in its inviting waters. November falls within the dry season, promising predominantly sunny skies and a welcome respite from excessive heat and humidity.
While the days are generally bright and warm, packing some warmer clothing is advisable, especially for evening excursions or boat tours venturing between the islands. The possibility of occasional mist or drizzle exists, though such occurrences remain relatively infrequent. The prevailing weather patterns create an ideal environment for a variety of activities, including snorkeling, swimming, and hiking, all of which offer unique perspectives on the islands’ diverse landscapes and wildlife.
It’s also important to note the influence of the Humboldt Current. As November progresses, the Humboldt Current begins to recede from the immediate vicinity of the islands. As a consequence, wind speeds diminish significantly, contributing to calmer seas that are perfect for swimming and other water-based pursuits. For those planning on extended snorkeling or diving adventures, bringing a wetsuit can enhance your comfort and allow you to fully appreciate the underwater wonders.
Before finalizing your travel plans, it is always a good idea to consult a reliable weather forecast and research the potential for an El Niño event. This warm ocean current can occasionally impact the islands, bringing increased rainfall and elevated temperatures. Traveling during an El Niño event is generally not recommended, as it can lead to the cancellation of activities and make it more challenging to navigate the islands. Furthermore, the influx of warmer, nutrient-poor waters associated with El Niño can negatively affect the local wildlife, disrupting their feeding patterns and overall ecosystem balance.
**Navigating Crowds and Costs**
For travelers seeking a tranquil escape, November offers a welcome reprieve from the peak season crowds. The middle of the month, in particular, sees a decrease in tourist activity, making it an ideal time to explore the **Galapágos Islands** at a more relaxed pace. This period is considered the low season, offering a more intimate and less congested experience.
However, it’s worth noting that tourism levels tend to increase slightly at the beginning and end of November. This is primarily due to the All Soul’s Day celebrations at the start of the month, which attract visitors from neighboring **South America**, and the Thanksgiving holiday at the end of the month, which draws vacationers from the **United States** and **Canada**.
If you’re planning your trip during the quieter mid-November period, you can expect to find more favorable prices on flights, accommodations, and tours. This is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of special deals and discounts. Conversely, if your travel dates coincide with the holidays, it’s essential to book your accommodations, plane tickets, and cruises well in advance to secure your spot, as these tend to fill up quickly. Ultimately, regardless of when you choose to visit in November, you can anticipate a peaceful and rejuvenating vacation experience on the **Galapágos Islands**.
**Island Exploration: A Guide to Key Locations**
November provides exceptional conditions for exploring the **Galapágos Islands**, both on land and at sea. The favorable weather and active marine life make it an ideal time for snorkeling and swimming, allowing you to witness the incredible underwater ecosystems up close. The receding Humboldt Current further enhances the experience, creating clearer waters and calmer conditions.
A visit to **Fernandina Island** is a must for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can swim alongside playful penguins and fascinating marine iguanas, and even spot dolphins frolicking in the waves. The island’s unique volcanic landscape and abundant marine life offer an unforgettable experience.
Venture to the eastern coast of **Santiago Island** to discover **Sullivan Bay**. This remarkable site, named after Charles Darwin’s lieutenant, Bartholomew James Sulivan, presents a surreal landscape of pahoehoe lava flows that have solidified over a century. Wander through the petrified, undulating terrain, marveling at the hollowed pockets of gas, hornitos, and the remnants of a landscape forever transformed by volcanic heat.
Just off the coast of **Isabela Island**, you’ll find **Los Túneles** (The Tunnels), a geological formation that ranks among the best snorkeling sites in the **Galapágos Islands**. These natural lava bridges, created by ancient volcanic activity, form a labyrinth of tunnels and hideaways, providing shelter for a diverse array of marine life and seabirds.
On **Santa Cruz Island**, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the underground lava tunnels located southeast of **Santa Rosa**. These expansive tubes resemble whitewashed subway tunnels, offering a unique subterranean adventure. The tunnels are illuminated, allowing you to admire the impressive stalactites that adorn the ceilings and glimpse the bright eyes of the resident barn owls.
Another captivating attraction is the **Devil’s Crown**, a volcanic crater that is almost entirely submerged in the ocean. Located off the northern coast of **Floreana Island**, this site offers some of the most exceptional snorkeling experiences in the **Galapágos Islands**. The coral reef nestled within the crater teems with marine life, attracting hammerhead sharks along the edges, while dolphins and schools of vibrant tropical fish seek refuge within the sheltered waters.
**Witnessing Wildlife Encounters**
November marks a particularly exciting time for wildlife observation, offering unique opportunities to witness animal behavior. It’s the ideal month for snorkeling, birdwatching, and swimming, allowing you to connect with the islands’ diverse inhabitants in their natural habitat.
One of the most endearing sights during this month is the emergence of seal and sea lion pups into the waters for the first time. As you swim and snorkel in the Galapágos’ sea, you’re highly likely to encounter these playful creatures. Their curiosity and enthusiasm often lead them to interact with snorkelers, creating unforgettable moments of connection. This is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, particularly on the western islands. On the eastern side, many sea lions are often still engaged in breeding, sharing their space with the adorable pups.
November also coincides with the breeding and nesting season for various bird species, including the iconic blue-footed boobies, waved albatrosses, brown noddy terns, and red-footed boobies. You may also spot flamingos and frigate birds building their nests during this period. In addition, the Galapágos green sea turtles become particularly active, and you can observe them while snorkeling offshore, or even occasionally on the beaches.
**November Events: All Soul’s Day**
One notable event that takes place in November is **All Soul’s Day** (November 2nd), also known as “Day of the Dead.” This holiday is celebrated locally as Día de Los Difuntos or Día de Muertos, and it is a time for families to honor and remember their deceased loved ones.
**Suggested Itineraries**
Consider these itineraries for an unforgettable Galapágos experience:
* **Galapágos Islands Land-Based Adventure Tour – 6 Days**: This island-hopping tour provides a chance to explore a variety of sites in the Galapagos. Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano, visit **Tintoreras** on Isabela, and much more.
* **Galapagos Cruise: Wildlife Watching, Snorkeling & Hiking – 11 Days**: Maximize your time on the Galapagos Islands with this 11-day cruise. Experience approximately a dozen islands, some of which are quite small, like **Chinese Hat** and Bartolome. It also includes lesser-known sights and activities, such as the unique **Rábida Island**, with its Mars-like rocky surface.
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