
Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
1. Utria National Natural Park
Experience diverse marine life in this untouched coral reef, with a chance to swim with sea turtles and sharks.
- Unique Marine Life: The park boasts a unique variety of marine species, making it a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts.
- Remote Location: The remote location ensures minimal human interference, creating an untouched diving experience.
- Advanced Divers Only: Due to strong currents and depth, this site is recommended for experienced divers.
2. Islas Malpelo
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with hammerhead sharks and manta rays.
- Shark & Ray Population: Islas Malpelo offers one of the highest concentrations of hammerhead sharks and manta rays in the world.
- Pristine Coral Reefs: The pristine coral reefs are home to a plethora of colorful fish species and other marine life.
- Remote Location: The remote location requires a multi-day boat trip, making it an adventure for experienced divers.
3. Choco Coral Island
Discover the only coral reef in the Pacific coast of Colombia with a variety of colorful fish and sea turtles.
- Rare Coral Reef: Choco Coral Island hosts the unique Pacific coral reef, providing a distinctive diving experience.
- Sea Turtle Sanctuary: The island is a sea turtle sanctuary, offering close encounters with these gentle giants.
- Beginner-Friendly: With calm waters and shallow reefs, Choco Coral Island is ideal for beginners and snorkelers.
4. Santa Catalina Island
Swim with whale sharks in the warm waters around this island during the annual migration.
- Whale Shark Encounters: Santa Catalina Island is famous for its whale shark encounters, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Marine Biodiversity: The rich marine biodiversity makes Santa Catalina an underwater explorer's paradise.
- Seasonal Migration: Plan your trip during the whale shark migration season (March to May) for optimal sightings.
5. Cozumel Island
Dive in crystal-clear waters with abundant marine life at this Caribbean island near Cali.
- Clear Waters: The clear, warm waters offer excellent visibility, making it easy to spot marine life.
- Rich Marine Life: Cozumel Island is home to a diverse range of marine species, from sea turtles to colorful fish and sharks.
- Scuba Diving Schools: Numerous scuba diving schools make Cozumel an ideal destination for beginners and experienced divers alike.
6. San Bernardo Islands
Explore the archipelago's diverse ecosystems, from vibrant coral reefs to lush mangroves.
- Coral Reef Diving: The San Bernardo Islands offer stunning coral reef dives, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors.
- Mangrove Snorkeling: Snorkel through the mangroves to discover hidden marine life and bird species.
- Turtle Nesting Sites: Visit the turtle nesting sites during the season to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
7. Gorgona National Natural Park
Dive among shipwrecks and explore a protected ecosystem teeming with marine life.
- Shipwreck Diving: Gorgona offers the unique opportunity to dive among several historic shipwrecks.
- Protected Ecosystem: The park's protected status ensures a thriving ecosystem, perfect for underwater exploration.
- Advanced Divers Only: Due to strong currents and depth, this site is recommended for experienced divers.
8. Punta Brava
Snorkel with playful sea lions at this unique dive spot.
- Sea Lion Interaction: Punta Brava offers a rare opportunity to interact with friendly, curious sea lions.
- Rocky Landscape: The rocky landscape provides an interesting backdrop for underwater exploration.
- Beginner-Friendly: Shallow waters and calm currents make Punta Brava ideal for beginner snorkelers.
9. Island of Providencia
Discover a unique underwater world with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Coral Reef Diving: The island's coral reefs are among the healthiest in Colombia, offering a breathtaking diving experience.
- Unique Culture: Experience the unique Creole culture and traditions of Providencia Island.
- Remote Location: The remote location requires a multi-day boat trip, making it an adventure for travelers.
10. Island of San Andres
Dive with sea turtles and explore shipwrecks in this Caribbean paradise.
- Sea Turtle Encounters: San Andres is home to a large population of green sea turtles, providing ample opportunities for encounters.
- Shipwreck Diving: The island has several historic shipwrecks that serve as underwater attractions.
- Beautiful Beaches: Relax on the beautiful beaches of San Andres when you're not diving or snorkeling.
11. Isla Mucura
Swim with dolphins and explore colorful coral reefs in this idyllic Caribbean island.
- Dolphin Encounters: Isla Mucura offers the chance to swim with friendly dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Coral Reef Diving: The island's vibrant coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making for an unforgettable dive.
- Remote Location: Isla Mucura is a remote location requiring a boat trip, adding to its appeal as a tropical getaway.
12. Punta Gallinas
Explore the northernmost point of South America, where you can dive with sharks and swim in crystal-clear waters.
- Shark Diving: Punta Gallinas offers opportunities to dive with various shark species.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
- Remote Location: Punta Gallinas is a remote location requiring a multi-day journey, adding to its sense of adventure.
13. Roca Partida
Dive with massive schools of fish and large marine life at this remote island.
- Schools of Fish: Roca Partida is famous for its massive schools of fish, creating a mesmerizing underwater spectacle.
- Remote Location: The remote location requires a multi-day boat trip, making it an adventure for travelers.
- Advanced Divers Only: Due to strong currents and depth, this site is recommended for experienced divers.
14. Isla de la Plata
Visit the 'Little Galapagos' to swim with sea lions and see the famous blue-footed boobies.
- Sea Lion Interaction: Isla de la Plata offers close encounters with playful sea lions.
- Blue-Footed Boobies: The island is home to the famous blue-footed boobies, a unique bird species found in the Galapagos Islands.
- Remote Location: The remote location requires a boat trip from Puerto Lopez or Santa Elena, adding to its appeal as an adventure destination.
15. Isla de Corales
Discover a hidden treasure trove of colorful coral reefs and marine life in this secluded island.
- Coral Reef Diving: Isla de Corales boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.
- Secluded Location: The secluded location ensures minimal human interference, creating an untouched diving experience.
- Advanced Divers Only: Due to strong currents and depth, this site is recommended for experienced divers.