Weather in San Cristobal

Find out what weather awaits you in the city of San Cristobal right now. In this section, we have compiled up-to-date forecasts and detailed meteorological charts to help you plan your journey with comfort.

The climate in San Cristobal can be described as mild tropical, significantly tempered by the influence of ocean currents. There is practically no extreme heat or cold here: air temperatures remain surprisingly comfortable and stable throughout the year, varying on average from +21°C to +26°C. This makes the island a wonderful travel destination regardless of the season.

The year is roughly divided into two periods. From January to May, warmer weather is observed with maximum temperatures reaching +26°C and a small number of rainy days. From June to December, a cooler and drier season sets in, when the thermometer drops to +21°C...+23°C. During this time, precipitation is virtually absent, which is ideal for long hikes and exploring the island.

A notable feature of the weather in San Cristobal is the extremely low level of rainfall, even during the "wet" months. According to statistics, rains here are episodic, and dry weather prevails for most of the year. Thanks to these conditions, tourists can enjoy the nature of Ecuador without fear that prolonged downpours will disrupt their plans.

The climate of San Cristobal is distinguished by enviable stability and mildness, making the island an attractive destination almost all year round. The warmest season here lasts from the beginning of the year until mid-spring. Between February and April, the average air temperature steadily holds at 25–26°C. The peak of warmth usually occurs in March, when daytime highs reach a comfortable 26.7°C. This time is ideal for those seeking classic tropical warmth, although it is during these months that the highest number of wet days is observed.

With the arrival of June, a cooler and drier period begins, which can be loosely termed the local "winter". Temperatures gradually decrease, and from July to November, average figures are around 21–22°C. The "coldest" month of the year is September, when the air warms up to an average of 21°C, and minimum values drop only to 20.3°C. Such weather feels very fresh and pleasant, sparing travellers from exhausting heat and creating excellent conditions for active walks.

A unique feature of the temperature regime in this part of Ecuador is the minimal difference between day and night readings. Diurnal temperature fluctuations here are almost imperceptible and often amount to less than two degrees. For example, even in the warmest or coolest months, the gap between the minimum and maximum remains negligibly small. This guarantees predictable weather throughout the day: you won't have to worry about a sharp drop in temperature after sunset.

Precipitation in San Cristobal falls unevenly throughout the year, clearly dividing the calendar into two periods. The "wettest" season, if it can be called that given the generally low level of rainfall, lasts from January to May. The rainiest month in terms of frequency is March: about 11 days with precipitation are recorded during this time, although the total volume remains insignificant — only about 2 mm.

Starting from June and continuing until the end of the year, a pronounced dry season sets in. From July to December, the probability of rain is minimized, and the amount of precipitation, according to statistics, tends toward zero. During these months, the sky is often clear or partly cloudy, but without significant rain, which is characteristic of the Galapagos Islands' climate at this time.

Overall, travellers need not fear prolonged downpours capable of ruining a holiday in this part of Ecuador. Even at the beginning of the year, rains are usually short-lived. If your goal is guaranteed dry weather for walks and excursions, the months from August to November would be the ideal choice for a trip.

The weather in San Cristobal allows for a comfortable holiday all year round, as air temperatures range within a pleasant +21°C to +26°C. The basis of your wardrobe should consist of light clothing made from natural breathable fabrics: T-shirts, shorts, and summer trousers. Since the sun at the equator is very active even on cloudy days, be sure to pack high-quality sunscreen with a high protection factor, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from overheating.

When packing, consider seasonal specifics: it is warmer from January to May, but rare short showers are possible, so a light raincoat wouldn't go amiss. From June to December, it becomes cooler and drier with practically no precipitation, but a fresh breeze often blows from the ocean. For this time of year, the layering principle is ideal: be sure to take a windbreaker, a fleece jacket, or a hoodie to feel cosy during evening walks or boat excursions.

Pay special attention to footwear, as you will be walking a lot. Sandals or flip-flops are suitable for relaxed recreation on the promenade and beaches, but for exploring natural attractions and rocky trails, comfortable closed sneakers or light trekking boots with non-slip soles are necessary. Also, don't forget swimwear, because despite changes in air temperature, the opportunity to swim is almost always there.