Explore Andes Region
If divers want to visit the mountainous Andes Region of Colombia, but still want the opportunity to dive, then divers can use the cities of Cali, Bogota or Medellin as gateways to some of the best diving around Colombia. These bustling cities are not located on the coast, but have numerous dive centres which offer dive courses at the centres themselves, and trips out to other diving locations for certified divers. If divers use Cali as a base, they will be able to visit both the best spots on the Pacific coast, including the Shark paradise of Malpelo and the reefs of Gorgona Island, as well as the famous spot of Providencia off of the Caribbean Coast. Diving from Medellin means the chance to visit the spectacular San Andres Island and Capurgana and diving from Bogota is a gateway to all regions. Diving in Colombia is possible all year round and water temperatures ranging between 15°C and 29°C and visibility ranging between 10 and 30 metres. Here, divers will have an exciting variety of dives, with highlights including thriving coral reefs, a plethora of marine life, exciting rocky topography and the chance to see some once in a lifetime things; including schools of over 300 Hammerhead and Silky Sharks. The waters here are just waiting to be explored by diving enthusiasts.
Top Andes Region Dive Sites
Providencia has been voted as one of the top diving locations in Colombia. It holds the third largest coral reef in the world and is an UNESCO protected area meaning the marine life here is flourishing. Alongside the stunning corals, there are also multiple species of Sharks here, shipwrecks, caves and even a Blue Hole.
Malpelo is a truly unique experience. This rock island can only be reached by day trip boats and liveaboards but it is absolutely worth it. This is the top diving location to dive with sharks including Whale Sharks and Hammerhead Sharks. It has been said divers have seen schools of over 500 sharks at a time.
Gorgona Island used to be a prison island but now it is a breeding site for Humpback Whales and many other exciting marine species. The dive sites here are thrilling including wrecks, cliffs and more.
San Andres is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and so holds pristine reefs and many exciting marine flora and fauna species for divers to admire.
The best Months to Dive in Andes Region
In the Andes Region of Colombia, freshwater diving conditions vary throughout the year. Water temperatures typically range from 16°C to 22°C, with cooler temperatures during the dry season from December to March. Visibility is generally good, ranging between 8 to 15 meters, but can decrease during heavy rainfalls in the wet season from April to November. Ice cover is not a concern in this region due to the mild climate.
The best months for diving are December to February when the weather is drier and visibility is at its peak. During the wet season, increased rainfall can cause silt and debris, reducing visibility and potentially limiting access to some dive sites. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions and check local forecasts for optimal experiences.