Excellent Scuba Diving Experience in the Galapagos
Exploring the Underwater Wonders of the Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands, located approximately 500 nautical miles off the coast of Ecuador, are a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Known for their big and rare marine life, these volcanic islands are one of the top destinations for seeing large marine life native to warm and cold water climates.
A typical Galapagos dive trip lasts for 8 days and 7 nights, offering 21 - 22 dives. With 4 dives a day, including a night dive, divers have ample opportunities to explore the underwater world.
The best times to scuba dive in the Galapagos Islands are based on marine life sightings and water temperature. The cool/wet or "Garúa" season, from June to November, offers cooler water temperatures due to the Humboldt Current, ranging roughly in the low 20s °C (about 70°F). This season is ideal for cooler water enthusiasts and abundant schooling pelagic species, such as hammerhead sharks.
On the other hand, the warm/dry season, from December to May, offers warmer water temperatures ranging from around 21°C (70°F) up to 28°C (82°F). This season offers sightings of whale sharks (November-December, May-June), humpback whales (February-March), and other marine megafauna. Seas tend to be calmer with better visibility, but the number of visitors increases during this period.
Scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands is for advanced divers due to cold water, strong currents, and choppy water conditions. However, the unique flora and fauna, including the marine iguana, manta rays, turtles, and many more, make the challenges worthwhile.
Most Galapagos liveaboards include several land excursions during the trip for non-dive activities like seeing land-based birds, penguins, and giant tortoises. For serious divers, it's recommended to book a liveaboard trip to Galapagos for the most variety in dive locations and access to Wolf and Darwin Islands.
Whether you're a seasoned diver or a beginner, the Galapagos Islands offer an unforgettable scuba diving experience. To make the most of your trip, it's recommended to plan flights so you arrive early to mitigate the risk of missing your Galapagos liveaboard departure.
For more information on travel tips for scuba diving Galapagos, check Bluewater Travel's list of Galapagos travel tips. Bluewater Travel offers guided trips and photo trips to the Galapagos every year, with daily photo workshops and carefully planned itineraries to hit the best diving spots during the best time of year.
Remember, the Galapagos Islands have a currency of US Dollar, the predominant and official language of Ecuador is Spanish, and the main airport code is GPS. Both Quito and Guayaquil have a wide range of hotel accommodations and tourist attractions.
So, pack your scuba gear and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in the enchanting Galapagos Islands!
- The Galapagos Islands, famous for their rich marine life, are a must-visit destination for scuba diving enthusiasts, offering 21 - 22 dives during an 8-day liveaboard trip.
- The cool/wet season in the Galapagos Islands, from June to November, attracts cooler water enthusiasts and offers sightings of hammerhead sharks due to the Humboldt Current.
- In the warm/dry season, from December to May, the water temperature ranges from 21°C to 28°C, and visitors can spot whale sharks, humpback whales, and other marine megafauna.
- Scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands is suitable for advanced divers due to cold water, strong currents, and choppy water conditions, but the unique marine life and flora make the challenges worthwhile.
- Non-dive activities during a Galapagos liveaboard trip may include seeing land-based birds, penguins, and giant tortoises, making it an appealing choice for all types of travelers.
- For a comprehensive diving experience in the Galapagos Islands, book a guided or photo trip with Bluewater Travel, which includes daily workshops and carefully planned itineraries to hit the best diving spots during the best time of year.
