Malpelo Island Dive Trip: Conservation & Adventure Liveaboard

The Location

Located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 500 km west of Colombia, Malpelo Island is a remote and secluded island that offers a truly unique diving experience. The island is part of a protected marine reserve and is only accessible by liveaboard dive boats, making it a perfect destination for experienced divers looking for a unique adventure.

Conservation efforts in Malpelo Island: Only 1 Boat is Allowed on the Island

Divers should be aware that the Malpelo Fauna and Flora Marine Sanctuary is a marine protected area, a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the largest no-fishing zone in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Ocean. Certain regulations must be followed as part of the conservation efforts. Diving is only allowed with a licensed operator, and visitors must obtain a permit in advance. The waters can be challenging, with strong currents and diving at greater depths, so the location is recommended for more experienced divers and in good physical condition. Only one boat is allowed to dive at Malpelo Island at a time. This is to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure sustainable tourism practices. This remote, untouched location has yet to be studied extensively by scientists due to its isolated location and challenging access. Divers have the unique chance to support the island’s conservation efforts by participating in conservation initiatives.

What to Expect When Diving in Malpelo Island?

Malpelo Island’s remote location and limited access have helped to preserve its pristine waters and thriving marine life. Malpelo Island is a top destination for diving enthusiasts because of its crystal-clear waters and unique underwater topography. But what it is the most famous for is the thriving marine life: over 14 species of sharks, 300 species of fish, and 17 species of coral. Some of the species divers can expect to see vary from schools of hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, Galapagos sharks, whale sharks, to eagle rays, among other marine species. The island’s underwater topography is also unique, with underwater cliffs, volcanic rock formations, and deep canyons. The island’s diving sites offer a range of depths and diving experiences, from shallow reef dives to deep wall dives.

Malpelo Island is also a destination for experienced divers due to its challenging diving conditions. However, for those who are up for the challenge, Malpelo Island offers an unforgettable diving experience.

The Shark Diving Capital of the World

Malpelo Island boasts an abundance of large schools of hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, making it a dream destination for shark enthusiasts. You’ll also encounter Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, and many other species of sharks. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Malpelo Monster Shark, too. The island’s remote location and protected status have helped to preserve one of the largest shark populations in the world.

Schools of Eagle Rays

Malpelo Island is home to some of the biggest populations of Eagle rays in the world, due to the strong currents that bring in an abundance of plankton, which is their main food source. The island’s unique underwater topography also provides a perfect habitat for these majestic creatures.

The best time to visit Malpelo Island for diving

The best time to visit Malpelo Island for diving is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. The water temperature ranges from 22 to 28°C, making it comfortable for divers to explore the island’s underwater world, the visibility is also at its best. From June to November, the seas can be rough, and visibility can be limited due to the rainfall. However, during this time, divers can see more sharks, as they are more active in these conditions. Some diving sites may be closed during the rainy season due to the rough seas.

Top 5 Dive Sites in Malpelo Island

1. La Nevera: This site is located on the northeast side of the island and is known for its deep canyons and underwater caves. Divers can see schools of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and silky sharks, as well as tuna, wahoo, and barracuda.
2. El Bajo del Monstruo: Located on the southeast side of the island, it is named after the large schools of hammerhead sharks that can be seen here. Divers can also see Galapagos sharks, silky sharks, whale sharks, and eagle rays.
3. Los Túneles: This site is located on the west side of the island and is known for its underwater tunnels and caves. Divers can see schools of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and silky sharks, as well as eagle rays, turtles, and octopuses.
4. The Wall: Located on the north side of the island and is known for its underwater cliffs and deep walls. Schools of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, silky sharks, and whale sharks, can be seen there, as well as tuna, barracuda, and snapper.
5. La Piedra: This site is located on the southeast side of the island and is known for its underwater rock formations and canyons. Divers can see schools of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and silky sharks, as well as eagle rays, turtles, and barracuda.

All these sites are recommended for advanced divers due to the strong currents and the depth of the dives.

Accommodations and travel logistics for Malpelo Island

Malpelo Island is a remote island with limited access, it can only be reached by boat, and there are no accommodations on the island itself. That’s why accessing it on a liveaboard with food, supplies, etc provided is the best way to make the best of your dive trip to Malpelo.

Malpelo Island Diving Expedition – 11-20 March 2024 Liveaboard- the Details

Uncover the remote and protected marine reserve that is Malpelo Island. Learn why this unspoiled paradise is a haven for marine life that can’t be found anywhere else. Participate in a conservation project to help preserve one of the best dive spots in the world. Immerse yourself in the world of sharks: hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, silk sharks, and more. Encounter giant manta rays, eagle rays, and numerous species of fish and turtles.

Join our environmental scientist Andrea, and expert tech diver Chucho on a trip to Colombia’s most remote dive location: Malpelo Island for the scuba diving adventure of a lifetime 👇🏼:

Here’s the breakdown of what you get once aboard:

📍Point of departure: Bueanventura
🤿10 days in a comfortable liveaboard
🤿7 days of diving – 3 dives per day
🤿Meals and between dive snacks
🤿National beer and wine after the dives
🤿After dinner workshops and presentations
🤿Conservation Project data collection with the guidance of our Environmental scientist: Andrea
🤿Great company and specialist еnvironmental knowledge about local wildlife and habitats
🤿Necessary materials for all research activities
🤿Tanks & weights
🤿Park fees
🤿Round transportation Cali-Buenaventura
🤿Tips

Not included:

Dive equipment rental – $25USD per day – (Bringing your own gear is highly encouraged)
Accommodation in Cali – we can recommend some places to you
The transfer from the airport to the hotel of your choice – Nearest airport: Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Cali Airport (CLO)

For any questions: Feel free to contact Andrea our environmental scientist: 👇🏼

Malpelo Island Scuba Diving Expedition – Conservation & Adventure

All Inclusive Liveaboard Expedition