June on the Galápagos Islands is the start of the winter season, meaning cooler weather, clear water, and an uptick in marine wildlife activity. You'll see endemic bird species (like the colorful greater flamingo and frigatebird), go swimming with sharks, and snorkel with particularly active marine life. If you like being active on your vacation, June is an excellent time to visit for whale watching, diving, kayaking, and mountain biking. Since it's high season, you'll want to book a few months ahead.

Weather

If you prefer to be active when the weather isn't too hot, head to the Galápagos Islands in June. You can expect daily average temperatures around 70-76 °F with water temperatures around 76 °F—pleasant enough to swim and enjoy the marine life. Since June is part of the dry season, you can expect very little rainfall. 

June also marks the beginning of the Garúa season, which means less water clarity and cloudier skies, with some drizzle during the day. However, since it is only the start of the Garúa season, it is still a great month to travel and enjoy a lot of adventure and exploration, both on land and water. 

Crowds & Costs

June is the high season and one of the busiest months on the Galápagos Islands. Summer breaks take place in schools worldwide, as well as work holidays, attracting many tourists to the islands. It makes it the ideal time to travel with family and enjoy socializing with other travelers.

Prices are higher in June, and it is wise to book your trip a few months ahead of time. Typically, you don't have to book boat tours in advance, but now is a good time to do so. This way, you can make sure to enjoy more tours and adventures of your choice. 

Where to Go

In June, Galápagos giant tortoises begin to migrate to Santa Cruz Island in search of nesting sites, and short-eared owls start to mate on Genovesa Island. Make sure to head to Seymor Island as well to see male frigatebirds display their red throat pouches.

Throughout the northwest islands, such as Fernandina and Isabela Island, you can spot whale sharks swimming off the coasts. June is one of the best months to see whales and dolphins, as pods of whales begin to migrate to the Equator. There are more than 24 different species of dolphins on the Galápagos Islands, which gives you the chance to spot several species during the month. The best place for whale- and dolphin watching is around Isabela and Fernandina Island, where you can see the flightless cormorants nesting as well. 

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What to Do

The birdwatching opportunities on the Galápagos Islands are better than usual in June, with many species breeding and nesting in the archipelago during this time. Galápagos penguins tend to nest in caves, in the absence of sunlight, and greater flamingos congregate in large numbers. 

Go on a boat tour and enjoy whale- and dolphin watching, as well as snorkeling and diving—both are included on many water-based tours. You can, of course, do this on your own by renting a boat and heading out to explore. June is also the best time to see humpback whales and dive with whale sharks.

As the water becomes colder and underwater currents push nutrients to the surface, marine species gather to feast on the food, resulting in more underwater wildlife viewing than usual. Other great activities include paddleboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking—giving you the chance to cover a lot of coastline and ground. 

Events in January

Inti Raymi (June 17-21). The Inti Raymi (celebration of the Sun) is one of the most important indigenous holidays of Ecuador—including the Galápagos Islands. It dates back to the Incan and Cañari cultures and is a celebration of the June solstice, which for the Incas marked the beginning of winter in the southern hemisphere. It is a show of gratitude for the fertility of the soil and good harvest. 

Traveling to the Galpágos Islands in June? Check out these great itineraries. 

Galápagos Cruises: Suggested Itineraries. From snorkeling with sea turtles and hiking up a dormant volcano to spotting giant tortoises and penguins, you will enjoy incredible sights and activities aboard a cruise. Choose a 5-day, 7-day, or 11-day tour. 

Galápagos Multisport Adventure - 10 Days. Discover a nature lover's heaven through a wildlife tour that will uncover the most extraordinary sights of the Galápagos Islands. Over a week and a half, you'll discover the local flora and fauna through outdoor activities like kayaking, mountain biking, trekking, and snorkeling.

More Helpful Information

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