Cartagena

Diving in Cartagena, Colombia offers a unique blend of vibrant Caribbean reefs and rich cultural history. The primary dive area is the Rosario and San Bernardo Islands National Park, a protected archipelago about an hour's boat ride from the city. This area boasts shallow coral gardens, small walls, and a few interesting wrecks, including a small sunken plane. It's an ideal destination for novice divers and those looking to complete certifications in a warm, inviting environment, with most sites being relatively shallow and calm.

Conditions are generally favorable year-round, with warm water temperatures and gentle currents. While not known for large pelagic encounters, the reefs are teeming with colorful fish, moray eels, and crustaceans. Divers should visit Cartagena not just for the underwater world, but for the complete experience. You can spend your mornings exploring the coral gardens and your afternoons wandering the historic, walled old city, making it a perfect destination for those who want to combine their passion for diving with cultural immersion.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Cartagena, Colombia?
The most popular dive area near Cartagena, Colombia is the Rosario and San Bernardo Islands National Park. Within the park, a favorite site is the "avioneta," a small sunken passenger plane. It sits in shallow water, making it accessible to all certification levels. Its popularity comes from the unique photo opportunities and the marine life, like corals and sponges, that has colonized the structure.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Cartagena, Colombia?
Well-known sites in Cartagena, Colombia are in the Rosario Islands, including the plane wreck and coral gardens like "Montañita." For a less-crowded experience, ask your dive operator about trips to the more distant San Bernardo Islands. These sites are visited less frequently by day-trippers and may offer more pristine reefs and a greater sense of exploration away from the main tourist trail.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Cartagena, Colombia?
The water temperature when diving in Cartagena, Colombia is warm and tropical all year. You can expect temperatures to consistently range between 26°C and 29°C (79°F to 84°F). There is very little seasonal variation, making it a comfortable destination for diving in any month.
When is the best time to visit Cartagena, Colombia?
The best time for diving in Cartagena, Colombia is during the dry season, from December to April. This period typically offers the calmest seas and best underwater visibility. While diving is possible year-round, the rainy season from May to November can bring stronger winds and occasional rain, which may reduce visibility due to runoff.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Cartagena, Colombia?
Underwater visibility in Cartagena, Colombia is typically fair, ranging from 10 to 20 meters (30 to 65 feet). It is not known for the crystal-clear conditions of some other Caribbean destinations. Visibility is generally best during the dry season (December-April) and can be lower during the rainy season (May-November) due to increased sediment and windier conditions.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Cartagena, Colombia?
Cartagena, Colombia is not known for seasonal migrations of large marine life like whale sharks or manta rays. The diving here focuses on the consistent, year-round population of reef species. Encounters are centered on exploring the coral gardens and their inhabitants rather than seeking out large pelagic events.
What marine life can I expect to see in Cartagena, Colombia?
While diving in Cartagena, Colombia, you can expect to see a variety of Caribbean reef life. Look for colorful angelfish, parrotfish, damselfish, and sergeant majors. The reefs are also home to moray eels, lobsters, arrow crabs, and schools of snapper and grunts. On the sandy bottoms, you might spot southern stingrays or peacock flounders.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Cartagena, Colombia?
For the warm waters of Cartagena, Colombia, a 3mm shorty wetsuit is sufficient for most divers. Many people are comfortable in just a rash guard and swim shorts. If you tend to get cold or are planning multiple dives in one day, a 3mm full wetsuit is a good choice to ensure you stay warm and comfortable throughout your dives.
How do I get to Cartagena, Colombia?
To reach Cartagena, Colombia, you will fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), which receives both international and domestic flights. Dive excursions are typically arranged as day trips from the city. Local dive centers provide boat transportation to the dive sites in the Rosario Islands, a journey that usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Cartagena, Colombia?
Diving in Cartagena, Colombia is exclusively a shore-based activity. The dive sites in the Rosario and San Bernardo Islands are close enough to be easily accessed by daily boat trips from the city or from hotels on the islands. There are no liveaboards operating in this region; they are primarily used for remote Pacific destinations like Malpelo Island.
All Dive Sites in Cartagena (2)
Bajos De Salmedina Y BurbujasSebastian Of Belarcazar Ship