Ecuador, South America
Galapagos Islands in April
Calm seas, lush green islands, sea turtle hatchlings, and the albatross returning to Espanola. A top month outside of Easter week.
The straight answer
April is one of the best months of the year to visit Galapagos Islands. Calm seas, lush green islands, sea turtle hatchlings, and the albatross returning to Espanola. A top month outside of Easter week.
- Weather
- Hot, highs near 85F (29C), water near 77F (25C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What April is like in Galapagos Islands
April is one of the best months to visit the Galapagos. Highs are near 85F (29C), the water is warm at around 77F (25C), seas are calm, and the islands are lush and green after the rains. Crowds are lighter and prices more moderate than in the peak seasons, except around Easter week.
April suits almost everyone: families, couples, photographers, and first-time visitors. Sea turtle hatchlings are emerging and the waved albatrosses return to Espanola. If Easter falls in April, book early or plan around that week.
Make the most of April
What is especially good about Galapagos Islands this month.
Albatrosses return to Espanola
Nearly the entire world population of waved albatrosses nests on Espanola, and they begin arriving in April.
Turtle hatchlings
Green sea turtle hatchlings scramble to the sea from beaches in the warm season.
Calm seas and warm water
Snorkeling at Bartolome and Kicker Rock is at its most comfortable.
What to pack for April
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- A rash guard or shorty wetsuit
- Binoculars for bird colonies
- Sturdy sandals for wet landings
Our timing tip
Pick a cruise or day tour that includes Espanola if you want to see the returning albatrosses, and book around Easter week.
Book Galapagos Islands for April.
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- Hotels for April
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Galapagos IslandsOpens a hotel search for Galapagos Islands in April, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Galapagos IslandsWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Galapagos IslandsTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Galapagos Islands for April. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in April
Waved albatross season on Espanola
Roughly April through December
Nearly the entire world population nests on Espanola. Courtship dances peak in the early months.
Green sea turtle nesting
Roughly December through June
Turtles come ashore to nest in the warm season, with hatchlings emerging from around March.
Things to do in Galapagos Islands
Charles Darwin Research Station
On Santa Cruz, the main place to learn about tortoise conservation and the islands' science.
Santa Cruz highlands tortoise reserves
See wild giant tortoises grazing in the misty highlands. Mornings are cooler and the tortoises more active.
Espanola Island
Waved albatross colonies from roughly April to December, plus blue-footed boobies and colorful marine iguanas. Reached by cruise or select day tours.
Bartolome and Pinnacle Rock
Climb to the classic viewpoint, then snorkel with penguins in the bay.
Isabela Island
The largest island, with the Sierra Negra volcano, flamingo lagoons, and penguins along the coast near Puerto Villamil.
North Seymour
Frigatebird and blue-footed booby colonies close to Santa Cruz. The easiest place to see the booby courtship dance.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid late June through August and Christmas to New Year, when cruises sell out and prices peak.
- April, May, and November give the best balance of wildlife, sea conditions, and availability.
- Book small expedition cruises 6 to 12 months ahead for high season; last-minute deals sometimes appear in Quito or Puerto Ayora in the shoulder months.
- On land-based trips, stay on Isabela or San Cristobal for a quieter base than Santa Cruz.
Know before you go
- Some cruise boats go into dry dock for maintenance around September and October, limiting options in those months.
- Visitor sites are strictly regulated: most require a licensed naturalist guide, and itineraries are set by the park, so not every boat visits every island.
- The park entry fee is paid in cash on arrival, and the transit control card is bought in Quito or Guayaquil before the flight.
- Rough seas in August and September can lead to changes in day tours and uncomfortable crossings between islands.
Galapagos Islands in April, quick answers
Is April a good time to visit Galapagos Islands?
April is one of the best months of the year to visit Galapagos Islands. Calm seas, lush green islands, sea turtle hatchlings, and the albatross returning to Espanola. A top month outside of Easter week.
What is the weather like in Galapagos Islands in April?
Hot, highs near 85F (29C), water near 77F (25C).
Is Galapagos Islands crowded in April?
April is one of the quieter months in Galapagos Islands; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Galapagos Islands in April?
Waved albatross season on Espanola (roughly april through december); Green sea turtle nesting (roughly december through june).
Keep planning Galapagos Islands.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in April
Before you book.
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