

Best for beginner divers, boat entry, mild current.
Cayo Herradura, also known as The Horseshoe, is a reef site located at La Tortuga, Venezuela. The site features a shallow lagoon protected by a natural sandbar, with a reef fringe situated on the southern side. Access to this location is by boat only. Conditions are generally mild, with water temperatures ranging between 26C and 29C throughout the year. Due to the presence of boat traffic, snorkelers should remain aware of their surroundings. This site is suitable for beginners and is highly rated for snorkeling activities.
10.98250, -65.38520
Early morning visits provide softer light and fewer boats.
Accessible only by boat from mainland Venezuela or from La Tortuga Island main beaches. Visitors typically arrive via organized day tours or private boat charters, anchoring nearby and wading through shallow water to reach the sandbar.
Recorded at this site
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-29°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Dec
Yes, this site is suitable for beginners.
Access to this site is by boat only.
Yes, this site is rated 5/5 for snorkeling.
Water temperatures range from 26C to 29C depending on the month.
The primary hazard at this site is boat traffic.
Diving at Cayo Herradura (The Horseshoe) in Isla La Tortuga requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Cayo Herradura (The Horseshoe) in Isla La Tortuga. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Cayo Herradura (The Horseshoe) in Isla La Tortuga are January, February, March, April, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.