Full day Scuba Diving from Santa Cruz Island

The Galapagos Marine Reserve is the second largest marine reserve in the world, and scuba diving is a year-round activity in the islands.

Aside from the slightly challenging conditions, scuba diving in Galapagos is incredible, thanks to the abundance of marine life and the fact that it shows no fear of humans. You will typically have close encounters with very large rays, green turtles and sea lions, as well as schools of sharks such as hammerhead, black tip and white tip. During the warmer months (December to May), the chances of seeing whale sharks around the northern islands are very high, and they can also be spotted around the central islands. During the colder months (June to November), the chances of seeing whale sharks are reduced, but there is a higher density of rays, since it is mating season.

Diving in the archipelago is only for intermediate and experienced divers, since there are strong currents, surges and eddies underwater, and waves on the surface.

A 5 to 7mm wetsuit is recommended, along with a hood and gloves. Visibility is between 6 and 25 metres, with an average visibility of 12 to 18 metres.