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.
