Raziščite Santiago
Čudoviti otok Santiago v ekvadorskem otočju Galapagos je eden najpogosteje obiskanih nenaseljenih otokov. Zaradi tokov lave je nastala osupljiva pokrajina, ki je očarala številne obiskovalce.
Potapljanje na otoku je omejeno na enodnevne izlete z naseljenih otokov in plovila liveaboards - potapljaških centrov tu ni. Večina potapljaških lokacij je mirnih in primernih za potapljače začetnike in potapljače na srednji stopnji ter za tečaje potapljanja.
Santiago ima 7 potapljaških lokacij na izbiro (vključno z znamenitimi Cousins Rocks) in divjimi živalmi, kot so tjulnji, morski psi, želve in morske legvane, zagotovo ne bo pustil razočaranih.
Najboljši meseci za potapljanje v Santiagu
Potapljanje na otoku Santiago je mogoče vse leto. Od januarja do junija je mokra sezona. Čeprav se količina padavin nekoliko poveča, je morje najtoplejše (26 °C) in najbolj mirno. To je najboljši letni čas za opazovanje mant in velikih jat kladivarjev.
Od junija do decembra Humboldtov tok teče s severa in s seboj prinaša hladnejšo vodo in hranilne snovi. Temperatura vode se zniža na približno 21 °C, vendar se poveča možnost, da boste videli kitovske morske pse. V tem letnem času se pazite na razburkano morje - morda boste želeli razmisliti o tabletah proti morski bolezni!
Top Santiago Dive Sites
1. Cousins Rock
This site features a triangular rock with staggered steps descending to 40 meters. Divers can spot seahorses hiding in black coral and turtles swimming above. Out in the blue, expect to see mantas, hammerheads, and Galapagos sharks. The adventure level is advanced, suitable for scuba diving, with inquisitive sea lions adding to the thrill.
2. Albany Islet
A sloping wall with varying currents, Albany Islet offers crevices hiding nudibranch and red-lipped batfish. Divers might also encounter Galapagos sharks and eagle rays. It is an advanced scuba diving site, featuring exciting explorations of the underwater landscape.
3. Chinaman’s Hat
This islet, soaring 52 meters out of the water, is ideal for observing geological formations like lava tubes. It provides an adventurous dive for scuba divers, with unique underwater topography to explore. The site is protected, emphasizing its ecological importance.
4. Bainbridge Rocks
Known for its biodiversity, Bainbridge Rocks is a site where divers can see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and reef fish. The adventure level is moderate, accommodating both scuba and freediving. The site is part of a marine park, highlighting its ecological significance.
5. Puerto Egas
Offering both scuba and freediving opportunities, Puerto Egas is rich in marine life, such as sea lions and schools of fish. The site is considered easy to moderate in terms of adventure level, making it accessible for divers of varying experience. Its stunning underwater rock formations are a special feature.