Visiting the Galapagos in November

Galapagos Weather Averages in November

• Avg Max Temperature: 79°F (26°C)
• Avg Min Temperature: 70°F (21°C)
• Avg Sea Temperature: 73°F (23°C)
• Avg Monthly Rainfall: 0.5 inches (1.3 centimetres)
• Avg time of clear sky: 3.5 hours

Weather Changes During El Niño Years

Below is a description of typical November weather patterns in Galapagos. But in 2015, due to an impending El Niño event, temperatures are expected to be higher than normal and rainfall more typical of December and January levels. In other words, the warm season is expected to come early. And with the change in water temperatures from El Niño, many animals that get their food from the ocean will feel extreme food pressure. In previous El Niño events have devistated the populations of penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions and other ocean-dependent species.

Typical November Weather

November in Galapagos will not necessarily warrant a raincoat, but there will be the occasional cold, windy mist that converts into a rainstorm as the rainy season approaches in December. With temperatures between 70-79°F (21-26°C), you will be able to enjoy the rays of the sun during the day sometimes through gaps within the clouds, but come night time, you may need to throw on some long pants and/or a light sweater.

If you have plans to jump in the water, which might I add, is a must-do, the water will be a little cooler than usual due to the Humboldt Current, which comes from the southern end of South America. However, this also means there is a surge of new water, rich in nutrients and plankton – which happen to be much-loved menu choices for the beautiful birds and fish living amongst the islands. Therefore a few goosebumps are worth the unforgettable sights of what’s living in deep blue. Most boats provide wetsuits for snorkelling – a must during this time of the year.