Useful information

WHEATHER
Located on the equator, the Galapagos Islands have a surprisingly cool, sub-tropical climate. The larger islands with volcanic peaks have a variety of climatic zones. The coastal areas are arid and covered with plants adapted to desert conditions. The highland areas receive moisture almost all year round, which support lush vegetation. Temperatures are determined almost entirely by ocean currents, which are influenced by the trade winds. There are two seasons, both of which have some precipitation. The Galapagos get an average of ten inches of rain per year, so it is never considered "rainy". During the months of December to May, the cooling currents subside, temperatures rise and the climate is warm and sunny with occasional showers. In June, the trend begins toward cooler temperatures with moderate breezes, which continue through November. This period is often referred to as the "garua" (pronounced gah-ru-ah) season, which means mist in Spanish.


Temperatures		JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
	max air temp.	84	86	88	86	82	78	76	74	76	77	78	80
	min air temp.	70	74	74	72	72	68	66	64	62	64	66	68
	avg. sea temp	74	76	76	76	74	74	72	66	68	70	72	74
	avg. rainfall(inches)	1	1	2	1.5	.75	.25	.50	.25	.50	.25	.50	.50