

Best for advanced divers, 30-40m, boat entry, strong current.
El Arrecife at Malpelo Island is a demanding site featuring a complex topography of walls, pinnacles, canyons, and caves. Divers encounter strong, unpredictable currents and significant thermoclines that can reduce visibility from 30 metres to 10 metres. With an average depth of 35 metres, this site is strictly for advanced divers. Boat entry is required to access the area. Divers must maintain precise buoyancy control and gas management while navigating the overhead sections and drop-offs. Nitrox certification is a mandatory requirement for all divers at this location. Facilities including showers, rinse stations, and gear storage are provided on the dive vessel.
4.00471, -81.60411
Thermoclines can drop the temperature and compress visibility suddenly as you move deeper through the water column, so watch your depth and keep your buddy close when conditions shift. Nitrox certification is a hard requirement before you get in the water, so confirm your paperwork is in order before departing.
Access is via liveaboard only, departing from Buenaventura.
Recorded at this site
Depth
30-40m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-25°C
Current
Strong
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
No, this site is intended for advanced divers only due to the depth, strong currents, and complex topography.
The site ranges from 30 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 35 metres.
Boat entry is required to access El Arrecife.
Nitrox certification is a hard requirement for all divers at this site.
Divers must manage risks associated with deep water, strong currents, surge, overhead environments, and sudden visibility changes caused by thermoclines.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at El Arrecife in Malpelo. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 25°C.
The best months to visit El Arrecife in Malpelo are March, April, May, June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
El Arrecife in Malpelo can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at El Arrecife in Malpelo typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.