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Peru

Plan your dives in Peru

✅ 5 dive sites • 📸 0 photos • 🗓 Best months: December to March, due to calmer waters and better visibility.

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About Diving in Peru
Scuba diving in Peru offers a unique blend of adventure and discovery, with its rich marine biodiversity and mysterious underwater landscapes. Divers can explore the Humboldt Current's vibrant ecosystem, teeming with fascinating marine life. The atmosphere is both tranquil and exhilarating, providing a sense of exploration and connection with nature. Highlights include diving among massive kelp forests, exploring sunken wrecks, and encountering playful sea lions. The Peruvian coast offers diverse diving experiences, from the cold waters of the Pacific to the warmer northern regions. With its varied dive sites, Peru caters to both beginners and seasoned divers. The best time to dive is from December to March, when the waters are calmer and the visibility is at its peak. An interesting fact about diving in Peru is the chance to explore archaeological underwater sites, including ancient fishing traps and historical shipwrecks.
Diving Overview
Diving in Peru is characterized by diverse marine ecosystems influenced by the Humboldt Current. The country offers a mix of temperate and tropical diving experiences, with opportunities to explore kelp forests, rocky reefs, and historical underwater sites.
Diving Conditions
  • Water Temperatures: 16-24°C (61-75°F), depending on the season and location.
  • Visibility: Ranges from 10-30 meters, generally better during the summer months.
  • Currents: Moderate to strong, influenced by the Humboldt Current.
  • Skill Level: Suitable for all levels; northern sites are more beginner-friendly while southern sites may require advanced skills due to currents.
Top Dive Sites
  1. Paracas National Reserve (Southern coast of Peru)
    Diverse marine life and spectacular underwater rock formations.
  2. Punta Sal (Northern Peru)
    Warm waters with excellent visibility, ideal for spotting tropical fish and coral reefs.
  3. Islas Ballestas (Near Paracas)
    Known as the 'Poor Man's Galapagos', famous for its sea lions and penguins.
Marine Life
Peru's waters are home to a variety of marine species, including sea lions, Humboldt penguins, giant manta rays, and an array of colorful fish. Divers may also encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and occasionally whales.
Reef Type
Fringing and rocky reefs.
Reef Condition
Generally healthy but facing threats from climate change and overfishing in some areas.
Conservation
Peru has several marine protected areas, including the Paracas National Reserve and the Islas Ballestas. Divers are encouraged to follow local regulations and guidelines to protect these delicate ecosystems. Conservation efforts focus on sustainable fishing and habitat preservation.
Best Time to Dive
December to March, due to calmer waters and better visibility.
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