Diving in Ecuador
Including Galapagos Islands and Isla de la Plata. On the map.
The vibe
Diving here is a serious, high-energy pursuit characterized by strong currents and an abundance of large pelagic life that you rarely see in shallower, warmer waters. The experience is best during the cooler months when the nutrient-rich waters draw in the big schools, making for a challenging but rewarding trip. It is a specialized, expedition-style environment where you rely on experienced local operators to navigate the technical conditions.
park entry fee
Galapagos Islands
Galápagos
Andrew Turner from Washington, DC, United States / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Renowned for world-class pelagic encounters, the Galapagos offers iconic sites like Darwin and Wolf Islands where divers see schools of hammerheads, whale sharks, and Galapagos sharks. The diving is characterized by strong currents and dramatic volcanic underwater topography, making it a bucket-list destination for experienced divers.
Access. Access is primarily via liveaboard vessels departing from Puerto Ayora or San Cristobal, though day-trip dive operators are available from these main ports for local sites.
Notes. Strong currents, cold thermoclines, and advanced certification recommended. Marine park fees apply.
Isla de la Plata
Manabí
Arabsalam / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Often called the 'Poor Man's Galapagos', this island offers excellent reef diving with frequent sightings of manta rays, sea turtles, and reef sharks. The underwater environment is a mix of rocky reefs and vibrant coral patches, providing a rich biodiversity experience accessible from the mainland coast.
Access. Dive shops in Puerto Lopez organize daily boat trips to the island, which is part of the Machalilla National Park.
Notes. Seasonal visibility varies; best diving is generally between June and September.