

Best for advanced divers, 18-40m, boat entry, strong current.
El Arco del Tropic is a demanding deep wall and drift dive located at Malpelo Island. The site features a reef and wall structure extending from 18 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 30 metres. Divers must navigate strong currents and variable visibility, which ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Thermoclines are common, with temperatures typically between 24 and 25C, though they can drop to 14C. Due to the depth, overhead environment, and significant water movement, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Boat access is required, and divers should be prepared for potential entanglement risks and rapid changes in conditions.
4.00182, -81.60398
Position yourself inside the arch's mouth facing west during the middle third of your dive for the best hammerhead viewing while remaining protected from the current.
Remote sanctuary reached only by liveaboard with strict caps on vessel and diver numbers.
Recorded at this site
Depth
18-40m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-25°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
No, this site is for advanced divers only due to the deep wall, strong currents, and overhead environment.
The reef and wall structure ranges from 18 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 30 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located 500 kilometres from shore.
No, this is a deep-water dive site with strong currents and is not suitable for snorkelling.
Hazards include deep depths, strong currents, low visibility, overhead environments, and cold thermoclines. Divers should also be aware of potential entanglement risks.
Diving at El Arco del Tropic in Buenaventura requires the following certifications: Advanced, Nitrox. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at El Arco del Tropic in Buenaventura. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 25°C.
The best months to visit El Arco del Tropic in Buenaventura are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
El Arco del Tropic in Buenaventura can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at El Arco del Tropic in Buenaventura typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.