The Ultimate Dive Guide to Colombia

Colombia boasts some incredible diving sites that are a must-visit for any diving enthusiast. The country’s diverse marine ecosystems offer a range of experiences, from vibrant coral reefs to encounters with magnificent marine life.

From making some unforgettable dives with sharks in Malpelo, to enjoying the colourful coral reefs of the Colombian coast off Cartagena at the Rosario islands or a bit further away on the San Andrés islands, Colombia has some great underwater life to explore.

The Best Season to Dive

In Colombia, the diving experiences between Malpelo Island in the Pacific and the Caribbean coast offer distinct advantages, each with its unique seasons and marine life.

Malpelo
Malpelo Island, situated in the Pacific, presents an exceptional diving opportunity, especially from July to November during the dry and cooler season. This period holds a higher probability of encountering whale sharks, a beloved species among divers. However, the water temperatures during this time can drop significantly (as low as 15 degrees Celsius). The seas might be rougher, affecting visibility to approximately 10 meters due to increased plankton.

The Caribbean Coast
Conversely, the Caribbean coast experiences a wet and warmer season from December to June. This period is favored for its generally improved visibility, calmer and warmer seas, with water temperatures rising up to 24 degrees Celsius. Divers can enjoy better surface conditions for easier entries. Moreover, from December to April, sightings of manta rays and eagle rays are common, enhancing the overall diving experience.

Divers have the opportunity to choose between these two distinct seasons and regions in Colombia. Whether seeking the thrill of encountering whale sharks during the cooler months around Malpelo or exploring the warm and vibrant Caribbean coast with its diverse marine life, Colombia offers a range of diving experiences throughout the year.

Diving Colombia’s Top Sites

Malpelo

One of the top diving spots in Colombia is Malpelo Island. Located in the Pacific Ocean, this remote and isolated island is renowned for its thrilling diving experiences. It’s often accessed via liveaboards due to its distance from the mainland. Diving at Malpelo offers the chance to witness large schools of hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, Galapagos sharks, and occasionally even encounters with whale sharks. The waters around Malpelo are teeming with marine biodiversity, making each dive an unforgettable adventure.

Rosario Islands

Another fantastic diving destination is the Rosario Islands, close to Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. These islands are ideal for day trips from the city and offer excellent diving opportunities. Explore colorful coral reefs teeming with an array of fish species, including angelfish, parrotfish, and moray eels. The crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands make it an excellent spot for snorkeling as well.

San Andrés Islands

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a visit to Providencia and San Andrés islands is highly recommended. These Caribbean islands boast breathtaking underwater landscapes with vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life. Expect to encounter turtles, rays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish while diving in these warm and inviting waters.

Diving Difficulty and Equipment Recommendations

Diving in Colombia offers contrasting yet equally captivating experiences. Malpelo Island, situated in the Pacific, demands advanced skills due to its strong currents, requiring a minimum of 50 logged dives and an Advanced Open Water Certification for optimal safety. It boasts extraordinary marine biodiversity but demands cautious preparation and quality gear due to temperatures dropping to 15 degrees Celsius. Divers often opt for thicker wetsuits, typically a 7mm or even a dry suit accompanied by hoods and gloves for added warmth and protection.

Colombia’s Caribbean coast offers more accessible dives around areas like the Rosario Islands, with milder currents and warmer waters, making it suitable for a broader range of divers. While some experience is recommended, stringent minimum dive requirements might not apply here, allowing for vibrant coral reef exploration and encounters with diverse marine life without the challenges of strong currents. Water temperatures along the Caribbean coast tend to be warmer compared to the Pacific, usually ranging from around 26 to 30 degrees Celsius. Divers often opt for thinner wetsuits or even rash guards due to the warmer waters, providing comfort without compromising safety.

Prioritizing safety with essential equipment and adhering to guidance from dive instructors remains crucial across both regions for a rewarding diving experience in Colombia.