Malpelo Island, Colombia

Malpelo Island is a UNESCO site and wildlife sanctuary about 32 hours offshore from Buenaventura, on the west coast of Colombia. The island is uninhabited with only a small military outpost located on the north side. It is only reached by liveaboard, with trips generally last for 7 nights. One unique thing for this location is that the Colombian government only allows one liveaboard to visit at a time.

Multiple species of sharks including hammerheads, silky, Galapagos, and whale sharks visit the island. Scientists and divers are finding that many schools are now migrating here from Galapagos and Cocos. Additionally, Malpelo is known for massive bait balls, tunas and other pelagics!

May-November is the warmer season with calmer seas. Surface temps are around 28* C with thermoclines dropping to 23-24*C. Silky sharks are spotted through August, and whale sharks until October. 

From December-April is the cold season with surface temps from 23-26* C and thermoclines as low as 13-14*C. Strong north winds can cause rougher diving conditions. This is a good time for hammerheads as well as the small tooth sandtiger shark.

You will need to fly into Cali (CLO), Colombia and arrange a transfer to the Buenaventura port.

It is recommended to have logged at least 40 dives and have your advanced certification before taking this journey, as the diving is typically at 25m depth and currents can be quite strong. Nitrox certification is also available onboard to use nitrox during the week. This is a necessity for maximizing your bottom time with the wildlife and to minimize DCS risks. Dive gear is available to rent.