

Best for advanced divers, boat entry, strong current.
La Catedral is a cathedral-shaped cave system located on the remote oceanic wall of Malpelo Island. This site is accessible only by liveaboard and requires advanced certification due to its significant depths and the overhead environment. Divers must manage strong currents and surge, which are common in this area. Water temperatures typically range between 27 and 28°C, though thermoclines and cold water are present. Hazards include the deep nature of the site, potential for strong currents, and the presence of sea urchins on reef structures. Divers should monitor their depth closely to manage decompression requirements and remain vigilant for boat traffic during entries and exits.
4.01395, -81.60587
Current direction and strength at Malpelo can shift quickly, so follow your dive guide's briefing on abort signals and entry timing closely. Confirm all cave and deep-diving configuration with your liveaboard crew before departure, as there are no facilities or support on the island itself.
Malpelo is a remote sanctuary reached only by liveaboard. The zodiac pickup requires surface swimming away from the rocks due to the exposed position.
Recorded at this site
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-28°C
Current
Strong
Best Time
May, Jul, Sep
No, this site is intended for advanced divers only due to the overhead cave environment, significant depths, and strong currents.
Access is exclusively by boat via liveaboard, as the site is located far from shore and there are no facilities on Malpelo Island.
Divers encounter strong currents, surge, and significant depths. Water temperatures generally range from 27 to 28°C, with occasional thermoclines and cold water.
Key hazards include strong currents, deep water, the overhead cave environment, and sea urchins on the reef. Divers must also watch for boat traffic during ascent and descent.
Diving at La Catedral in Malpelo requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at La Catedral in Malpelo. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 28°C.
The best months to visit La Catedral in Malpelo are May, July, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.