During September, the Galapagos Islands experience a transitional period between the gara (cool, dry season) and the warmer, wetter season. Air temperatures typically range from the low 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (low 20s to high 20s Celsius). Water temperatures are cooler, generally in the low to mid-70s Fahrenheit (low to mid-20s Celsius). This time of year is characterized by a mix of sunshine and overcast skies, with occasional drizzle. Ocean currents are also in transition, creating unique conditions for marine life.
This specific timeframe offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing. Cooler waters attract plankton blooms, which in turn draw a variety of marine species, including whales, dolphins, and seabirds. On land, the vegetation begins its transition from the dry, brown landscape to a greener, more vibrant state. Historically, this period marked a shift in the activities of the local inhabitants, who adjusted their fishing and agricultural practices according to the changing weather patterns.