Explore The Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit

Planning a Galápagos trip? Here’s what to expect price-wise throughout the year—from high-cost wildlife seasons to budget-friendly off-peak months.

The Galápagos Islands are a once-in-a-lifetime destination—but timing your trip can dramatically impact what you’ll pay.

From luxury expedition cruises and remote eco-lodges, knowing when to go can make or break your budget. In this guide, we’ll break down the cheapest and most expensive times to visit the Galápagos based on tourism trends, wildlife seasons, and holiday peaks—so you can experience these iconic islands on your own terms.

Quick Take On Seasonal Cost

Time Period	Price Level	Why It Matters
June – Aug	💲💲💲 Highest	Peak wildlife viewing, strong demand
Dec – Jan	💲💲💲 Very High	Holiday season, full bookings
Late March – April	💲💲💲 High	Easter travel, ideal wildlife activity
Sept – Early Nov	💲 Lowest	Low season, fewer tourists
Mid-Jan – Feb	💲 Low	Post-holiday lull, better availability
May	💲 Low	Pre-summer shoulder season

Galápagos Islands’ Expensive Times To Visit

The most expensive time to visit the Galápagos Islands is during its peak travel seasons, when both domestic and international tourism spikes. These high-demand periods drive up costs on everything across the archipelago.

High Wildlife Season (June to August)
This is one of the busiest and most expensive times to visit the Galápagos Islands. Many visitors arrive for prime wildlife viewing, cooler temperatures, and calm seas—ideal for snorkeling and hiking.

Expedition cruises raise their rates significantly during these months.
Flights from mainland Ecuador to Baltra and San Cristóbal fill quickly.

Holiday Peak (December to January)
The year-end holidays attract families, groups, and travelers escaping winter.

Expect the highest prices of the year for cruises, hotels, and flights.
Many itineraries sell out months in advance.

Spring Break & Easter (Late March to April)
Holiday travel and excellent wildlife activity create another peak period.

Cruises become more expensive and reach full capacity.
Popular snorkeling and day tours book up rapidly during Easter week.

Galápagos Islands’ Cheapest Times To Visit

The cheapest time to visit the Galápagos Islands is during its off-peak seasons, when tourism slows and travel prices drop. These periods fall outside major holidays and peak wildlife months.

Low Season (September to Early November)
This is the quietest and most affordable period. Cooler seas and cloudier skies reduce demand, but wildlife remains active year-round.