Did you know that the oceans cover over 70% of Earth? How about to start discovering its best-kept secrets through a unique scuba diving experience? Continue reading to learn more about one of our top diving sites in South America.
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador’s best diving destination
For those experienced divers eager to explore underwater life. It represents a must-visit destination in their diving careers. The astounding biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands is one of the key factors contributing to its popularity as a scuba diving destination, home of incredible endemic species and marine life such as turtles, sea lions, rays, dolphins, over 20 shark species, four hundred types of fish and countless others.
The best way to diving in the Galapagos Islands
It is usual to include this activity as a complement during your travel to the islands, however, there are diving day excursions to visit remote islands with specialized guides and safety standards. Also, you can join liveaboard Galapagos cruises for your next expedition with 8 days/ 7 nights itineraries for all budgets, such as onboard the Tiburon Explorer, Galapagos Agressor III, Galapagos Master, Galaxy Diver, Humbolt Explorer, and Calipso.
Best diving sites in the Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands offer a wide range of diving sites across its territory—every place with something incredible to offer depending on your comfort and level of experience. There exist eight spots for diving on Santa Cruz Island, seven diving sites starting from San Cristobal Island, and one from Isabela Island. The liveaboard experiences take place in the Isabela Island upper region.
The most popular site is Gordon Rocks which a tour from Santa Cruz Island can reach. Other recommended locations for diving are Darwin’s Arch, Shark Point, Camaño Islet, Punta Vicente Roca, and North Seymour Ocean Side.
What to spot during your diving in the Galapagos Islands?
Prepare for a face-to-face encounter with graceful sea turtles, majestic manta rays, playful sea lions, hammerhead sharks, white-tipped sharks, marine iguanas, eels, barracudas, giant sea horses, parrot fish, yellowtail grunts, king angel fish, multicolored fishes, among other unique species.
Best time for diving in the Galapagos Islands
While the Galapagos Islands offer incredible diving opportunities year-round, it depends on your level of diving experience, your tolerance to water temperature, and the kind of wildlife you expect to spot. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to November when sea temperatures decrease and swell increase, it’s the ideal time for diving experts to spot the iconic whale shark.
Recommendations before diving in the Galapagos Islands
- Before you book a scuba diving trip, be sure you have enough previous experience in open waters due to strong ocean currents, which are very common in the Galapagos Islands.
- Carry lightweight luggage
- Pack essentials such as sunglasses, light clothing, a swimsuit, sturdy sandals, a cap, high-SPF sunscreen, a lightweight jacket, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
- It is required to travel with a certified naturalist guide all the time.
- You can explore only the available areas for visitors in the Galapagos National Park.
Explore pristine environments and new aquatic paradises beneath the water in the Galapagos Islands. There are the perfect locations for those seasoned divers’ next stop. Looking for a trusted local tour operator? Contact Pure! Ecuador today! Our expert team will craft itineraries that exceed your wildest expectations.
Published in March 2024
