Skip to content 
The Galapagos Islands offer an escape that truly can’t compare to anywhere else in the world, perfect for a couple looking to spend some time on their own.
Have you considered traveling to Galapagos with your companion? It might not have crossed your mind yet how good it might feel to get away from the cold weather and soak in a little more sun before winter brings its own set of beautiful scenery. Or perhaps it has!
Traveling with your companion is the perfect way to get to know more about the world and one another. However, all the complications associated with traveling are usually multiplied when you have to make plans for two: from organizing schedules to choosing the perfect destination, it’s not easy to know exactly where and how to travel. The charm of the Galapagos consists of how far away it is from the noise and the demands of everyday life and how relatively easy it is to explore the islands with your partner.
In this blog you will learn all about:
- The ideal time to go to the Galapagos as a couple
- Land and sea-based activities available
- What Galapagos cruise ships offer you and your companion
- And a few tips for what you to expect
Autumn is the ideal season for a trip for couples to the Galapagos
Autumn is different along the equatorial line, where both hemispheres meet. The climate is subject to changes in marine currents rather than the transition from one season to another, this is why the Galapagos is the best couple vacations you can think of. However, life in the Enchanted Isles moves at its own pace and you and your other half should decide on exactly what you want to experience together to get the most out of what the Galapagos offer. The truth is, independent of what you may want to experience, the Northern Hemisphere’s autumn season coincides with what’s known as the Dry Season in the Galapagos (which lasts from July to December). This unique time of year offers certain advantages, in addition to escaping from escaping the brisk autumn weather common in many other parts of the world during this time of year.
During the Dry Season in the Galapagos, the Humboldt Current strengthens and the climate is a little breezier and more pleasant (temperatures consistently range from 68°-79 °F or 20°-26 °C). Moreover, the arrival of these currents signals the arrival of nutrient-rich waters and an increase in marine activity. It is the perfect season for engaging in a variety of activities offered at each island; however, it is also the ideal time to peacefully relax on the beach next to your significant other and enjoy the weather, given this time especially is when the crowds have dissipated.
It’s a great time to explore the islands, whether on land or by sea (via an expedition cruise)
Land-based and cruise-based vacation options each have something unique to offer. However, something to keep in mind is that each option involves a different experience of the archipelago. Cruises in the Galapagos offer exclusive access to the unpopulated islands and the most iconic places in the Galapagos National Park, while land-based exploration offers an itinerary with a little bit more privacy and flexibility.
Please note: The vast majority of the islands are protected by the Galapagos National Park and access is subject to park rules. Make sure that you work with a tour agency that can provide you with direct access to the Galapagos National Park (such as Metrojourneys!).
Here’s a look at some of the land-based activities that are available if you opt for an expedition cruise or hotel in the Galapagos:
- Hiking: There is much to explore in the islands. Walking along the coast or through the more mountainous areas of the populated islands (or the National Park, if you take an expedition cruise) will provide you and your partner with limitless and unique experiences. September and October are considered off-season months when it comes to visitors, so there are notably fewer folks traveling about. Also, conditions are favorable for hiking thanks to the refreshing and cooler weather.
- Biking: This mode of transportation is a favorite for many Galapagos residents and nothing is quite as freeing as riding a bike! The Galapagos Islands are one of the safest places in the world and you and your other half can explore a good part of the populated islands simply by renting a bike.
- Giant Tortoise Breeding Centers: Unfortunately, you can’t rent a giant tortoise to ride, but that doesn’t change the fact that seeing them is truly fascinating. The oldest land animals have much to teach us!
The crystalline waters are perfect for aquatic activities
The Galapagos Islands are renowned throughout the world for being one of the best destinations for scuba diving. However, this is not the only activity that you can do in these waters. During September and October, the arrival of the Humboldt Current provides the waters of the Galapagos with more translucency, optimizing conditions for even more activities both above and below the surface.
Aquatic Activities:
- Kayaking: Exploring the Galapagos coastline in a kayak is a truly incredible way to see the islands. So why not rent a kayak for two? Or simply hop aboard an expedition cruise where kayaks are already included in your tour, free of charge!
- Snorkeling: Crystalline waters, ideal temperatures, and all the marvelous ocean creatures make snorkeling one of the best activities. Is there another place in the world where you and your companion can swim with penguins?
- Paddleboarding: Similar in some ways to kayaking, you and your significant other can race or see who has better balance while examining the unique landscapes and curious wildlife.
You should keep in mind that only select cruises and hotels in the Galapagos offer all the equipment you need to take part in these activities and make the best use of your time in the ocean. Make sure that your cruise or hotel offers everything you and your companion need for all the activities you want to do. And if you’re wondering about the best time to visit Galapagos, it’s worth researching the available options and amenities provided by different accommodations and cruises.
Please note: If you choose to stay at a hotel, inquire about which activities are offered and how much access to the Galapagos National Park is guaranteed.
Other reasons to visit the Galapagos during autumn, particularly aboard an expedition cruise:
Fewer visitors, more privacy
The summer months are when the Galapagos see the most visitors. Families take advantage of summer vacation in order to travel together and this is the time when the greatest amount of children visit the islands. After August, the majority of tourists say goodbye to the Galapagos, creating the perfect opportunity to enjoy the archipelago with more privacy.
Are you ready to explore the Galapagos with that special someone? Seize our Galapagos Cruise Deal!
Show me my Galapagos package!
Cruise ships circulate throughout the islands all year-round, but this is the season when they tend to offer the best deals and the most attractive prices, given that peak season comes to an end. If the idea of sharing a cabin with your companion sounds fun and novel, this the season with some of the best conditions for sailing aboard an expedition cruise.
You’ll have the chance to meet interesting people
The Galapagos Islands are a truly unique destination. This isolated natural setting has lent itself to the creation of ecosystems not seen in any other part of the world. On the other hand, the Galapagos are a protected area, where the number of visitors is limited. This makes for a destination that is both attractive and exclusive that calls to the most adventurous spirits.
Scientists, travelers, writers – people from all walks of life – visit the archipelago and the social areas aboard cruise ships can offer you and your partner the opportunity to meet fascinating people. Who knew! The Galapagos can truly connect you to nature and the rest of the world! Perhaps you and your significant other will meet a celebrity? Wouldn’t that make for an interesting tale to tell upon returning home?
Sea lions give birth more frequently during this time of year
September is the season when we see lots of sea lion pups scurrying about everywhere, learning to swim, and being fascinated with practically everything.
Stay alert and perhaps you’ll spot some of them curiously inching a little closer, and wanting to know what you are exactly. If you want to snap the photo of an inquisitive pup checking out your other half, this is the season for it. Just remember to mind your distance! Galapagos is their home and we’re simply visiting.
You’ll get to truly enjoy each other’s company
Well, sure, if what you and your loved one are searching for is an ideal spot to escape to for your honeymoon or simply to spend some quality time together, then the Galapagos Islands are considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Secluded beaches, natural pools (Las Grietas on Santa Cruz Island) and a very pleasant climate provide you with the opportunity to get away from the mundanities of everyday life, putting lots of distance between yourselves and the rest of the planet!
