Valparaíso
Diving in Valparaíso, Chile offers a unique and adventurous experience, starkly different from tropical reef diving. Shaped by the cold, nutrient-rich Humboldt Current, the underwater world here is characterized by lush kelp forests, rocky volcanic seascapes, and a number of historical shipwrecks that dot the coastline. This destination is not about vibrant corals but about exploring a rugged and thriving cold-water ecosystem. Marine life is abundant, with large colonies of sea lions, various crustaceans, and fish species specially adapted to these temperate waters, making it a special destination for underwater photographers and marine biology enthusiasts.
Conditions in Valparaíso are for the prepared diver, with water temperatures requiring a drysuit or a thick semi-dry wetsuit year-round. Visibility can be variable, typically ranging from 5 to 15 meters, with the best conditions found during the calmer summer months. Divers should visit Valparaíso not just for the handful of intriguing dive sites but for the chance to combine their passion with the vibrant, bohemian culture of this UNESCO World Heritage city. It's an opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Chile's Pacific coast both above and below the surface.
