Diving means crossing an invisible boundary to discover a world where the rules change: silence, weightlessness, and unexpected encounters with marine life. For enthusiasts, some sites become almost pilgrimages. And Latin America, with its pristine reefs, submerged volcanoes, and iconic species, stands out as one of the must-see underwater territories.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
For divers around the world, the Galápagos are more than a destination—they’re a true grail. The Marine Reserve, protecting over 133,000 km² of ocean, holds a biodiversity found nowhere else. Gordon Rocks, Guy Fawkes, Wolf, and Daphne Minor offer dives where you share the water with manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, and sea lions, surrounded by spectacular volcanic landscapes.
The warm season (December to May) offers calmer waters and good visibility, while the cold season (June to November) brings stronger currents, temperatures between 17°C and 20°C, and a higher concentration of marine life, including humpback whales and whale sharks.
Our article: 10 must-see sites in the Galapagos Islands
Riviera Maya, Mexico
This destination combines reefs and cenotes, suitable for various skill levels. In Playa del Carmen, dives offer the chance to observe bull sharks in season. Near Isla Mujeres, whale sharks gather from May to September, while Cozumel stands out for its coral system and excellent visibility. The Gran Cenote, a natural freshwater cavity, offers over 30 meters of visibility and impressive stalactite formations and tunnels. Cave exploration requires special certification and a professional guide.
Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Argentina’s national diving capital, Puerto Madryn is best known for diving experiences among wild sea lions in the Punta Loma reserve, during spring and summer when waters are warmer. From June to December, southern right whales can be spotted from the coast or on excursions. Another popular activity is wreck diving, especially on the Albatros and Miralles ships, now transformed into artificial reefs teeming with marine life.
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
This volcanic archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes 21 islands and ranks among Brazil’s top diving destinations. Its warm waters allow divers to skip thick wetsuits and enjoy excellent visibility, especially between September and October. In addition to sites like Baía do Sancho and Baía dos Porcos, there’s the “Buraco do Inferno,” where several wrecks serve as artificial reefs and rocky channels rich in biodiversity. Divers may encounter octopuses, sea turtles, rays, lobsters, hammerhead sharks, and especially many silky sharks.
Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile
Beyond its famous monumental moai statues, the island also captivates with its underwater landscapes. The waters offer up to 60 meters of visibility and temperatures between 18°C and 26°C year-round, ideal for exploring volcanic formations, caves, arches, and lava platforms. Biodiversity is remarkable, with over 700 recorded species, including more than a hundred endemic ones like the Marau Hiva squirrelfish (Sargocentron wilhelmi).
From coral reefs to crystal-clear waters and unique wildlife encounters, each spot reveals a different facet of the region. These sites are just the first stop—Latin America holds many more underwater treasures we’ll unveil in Part 2 of this journey.
Photos: Sernatur | Ministerio de Turismo Ecuador | Gobierno del Chubut | NOMADASAURUS
