Explore Pinzón
Pinzón Island is found at the very heart of the Ecuadorian Galapagos Islands - nestled between Santa Cruz, Isabela and Santiago Islands. Though small, it is one of the most beautiful islands with clear blue waters and stretches of sandy beaches.
Strangely, even though it is easily accessible to day trip cruises, Pinzón is rarely visited, having been historically separate from the other islands due to the very deep water surrounding the island. The diving and snorkelling are known to be very good on Pinzón, though there are minimal sites available. It is mostly visited by diving liveaboards but day trips have been known to visit too. One highlights is the chance to dive with the cute Galapagos penguins.
Top Pinzón Dive Sites
1. No Name Rock
No Name Rock is an ideal site for both snorkeling and beginner scuba diving on its sheltered side. The site is rich with marine life, including turtles, marine iguanas, and various fish species like parrotfish and red-lipped batfish. The adventure level ranges from easy within the bay to advanced on the outer edges with strong currents. Both scuba diving and freediving are possible here. It is part of a protected area, offering a chance to see dolphins, mantas, sea lions, and occasionally hammerheads and Galapagos sharks.
2. Cousins Rock
Cousins Rock is known for its unique underwater formations, including arches and overhangs, making it a favorite for advanced scuba divers. The site is rich with vibrant corals and sponges. Divers can encounter sea lions, turtles, white-tip reef sharks, and large schools of fish. The diving here is primarily technical due to the strong currents and depth.
3. Gordon Rocks
Gordon Rocks is renowned for its exciting drift dives and encounters with hammerhead sharks, making it suitable for advanced divers. The site features large volcanic boulders and pinnacles. The marine life is diverse, with eagle rays, barracudas, and sea turtles. The strong currents here demand technical diving skills, enhancing the adventure level.
4. Daphne Minor
Daphne Minor offers both scuba and freediving opportunities, with an adventure level that caters to intermediate divers. It's known for its underwater caves and caverns. Marine life includes seahorses, garden eels, and white-tip sharks. The site is in a protected area, providing a rich ecosystem for divers to explore.
5. Kicker Rock (León Dormido)
Kicker Rock, or León Dormido, is an iconic dive site featuring towering rock formations. It's suitable for both scuba and freediving, attracting experienced divers with its deep waters and strong currents. Common sightings include Galapagos sharks, eagle rays, and turtles. This site is part of the Galapagos Marine Reserve, preserving its ecological importance.
The best Months to Dive in Pinzón
Diving on Pinzón is possible year round. From January to June is the warm season when seas are at their calmest and warmest (around 26°C). This is the best time of year to try and see manta rays and hammerhead sharks.
From June to January, the cold Humboldt Current flows down from the north, bringing a sea temperature drop to around 21°C as well as abundant nutrients. This nutrients means that this season is the most diverse in terms of wildlife, bringing even more abundant fish, including the enormous whale shark. Beware though as the sea can be rough at this time, consider seasickness medication for the crossing!