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Galapagos | ||||||||||||
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When to goThe unique mixing of warm and cold currents makes Galapagos so unusual, and partly explains why the wildlife is so special. There is something to see all year round. Hot Season (warm-rainy) Average air temperatures range 25 to 33°C on land and 23-26°C in the water, ideal for snorkelling and diving. It may rain occasionally in the afternoons (especially during a rare "El Niño" year) for an hour or so. The ocean is generally calm due to the absence of the south east trade winds. Land-based species (like finches, mockingbirds, lizards, land iguanas, tortoises) will reproduce at this time of the year since there are plenty of food sources available: plants for insects, seeds for finches, flowers for iguanas, etc. Perhaps one of the few exceptions to this rule are the Great Frigatebirds on Tower Island which being seabirds do not normally reproduce during the hot season. In between the hot and cooler seasons is a good time to visit, e.g. April - May (for Albatross especially) or November - December. The Cool Season (windy-dry) The cooler or ‘garúa’ season (named after the mist) sees a drop in temperatures 18-27°C on land and 18-23°C in the sea. This is due to the effect of the Humbolt or Peru current. Rainfall is low, the driest and coldest month being September. Though there is hardly any rain, the islands may seem somewhat moist as an early mist called "garúa" covers the sky. Usually this fine drizzle burns off by mid morning. The seas are moderately strong; surge, choppy waters and some waves should be expected. This is all due to the active presence of the south east trade winds. Species which depend upon the ocean's productivity will reproduce during this season. This includes blue-footed boobies, waved albatrosses, sea lions. During this time a ‘shortie’ wet suit makes snorkeling more pleasant. Only a few boats actually provide these. Temperature range Galapagos: 22-32°C See also: |
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