Tayrona National Park
Diving in Tayrona National Park offers a unique fusion of lush jungle landscapes and vibrant Caribbean reefs. The park’s protected status nurtures a healthy underwater ecosystem across its 12 designated dive sites, which are characterized by impressive rocky formations, vibrant coral gardens, and small caverns. This topography creates a diverse habitat for a wide array of marine species, making every dive an exploration. The dramatic scenery, both above and below the water, sets Tayrona apart from other Caribbean destinations.
Conditions are generally favorable, though they vary seasonally. A key feature is the annual upwelling from December to April, which brings cooler, nutrient-rich waters and exceptional visibility. While this requires a thicker wetsuit, it also makes the marine life more active. Divers should visit Tayrona to experience this unique ecological event and for the incredible opportunity to combine world-class diving with trekking through one of South America's most stunning national parks.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
Aguja Island (Isla Aguja) is the most popular dive site in Tayrona National Park, Colombia. Its accessibility and variety make it a favorite. It features healthy coral gardens, small caves, a sunken sailboat, and impressive rock formations. Suitable for all certification levels, it provides a perfect snapshot of the park's biodiversity, with frequent sightings of moray eels, lobsters, and large schools of reef fish.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
Well-known sites include Aguja Island and Granate, which are great for all levels. For a less-crowded experience, ask your dive operator about Punta Venado or Morro Grande. These deeper, more challenging sites are less frequented and offer a more pristine environment. They provide opportunities to see larger marine life and explore unique underwater landscapes away from the main diving traffic.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
Water temperatures in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, are seasonal. From May to November, the water is warm, typically 26-29°C (79-84°F). From December to April, strong trade winds cause an upwelling phenomenon, dropping temperatures to a cooler 21-24°C (70-75°F). This cooler water is nutrient-rich, attracting more marine life.
When is the best time to visit Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
The primary diving season in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, is from December to April. During this dry season, seasonal upwelling results in the best underwater visibility, often exceeding 20 meters. Although the water is cooler, the marine life is more abundant and active. The period from May to November offers warmer water and calmer seas but with reduced visibility.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
Visibility when diving in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, varies significantly by season. During the main dive season from December to April, visibility is excellent, often reaching 20-30 meters (65-100 feet) due to clear, upwelling waters. In the rainier months from May to November, river runoff can reduce visibility to a range of 10-15 meters (33-50 feet).
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
While large-scale migrations are not a feature, the main seasonal event in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, is the upwelling from December to April. This influx of cool, nutrient-rich water stimulates the entire food chain, leading to a significant increase in the abundance and activity of local marine life. It is the best time to see the reefs at their most vibrant.
What marine life can I expect to see in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
In Tayrona National Park, Colombia, you'll encounter a rich diversity of Caribbean marine life. Expect to see large schools of snappers and grunts, moray eels, lobsters, pufferfish, angelfish, lionfish, and barracudas. The rocky reefs and corals are home to smaller critters like arrow crabs and shrimp. Lucky divers may also spot sea turtles and southern stingrays.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
For diving in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, a 3mm wetsuit is generally sufficient from May to November when waters are warm. However, during the cooler upwelling season from December to April, when temperatures can drop to 21°C (70°F), a 5mm wetsuit is strongly recommended to ensure you stay warm and comfortable throughout your dives.
How do I get to Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
To get to Tayrona National Park, Colombia, fly into Simón Bolívar International Airport (SMR) in Santa Marta. Most dive centers are based in the nearby village of Taganga, which is a short taxi or bus ride from Santa Marta. Dive trips are run by boat, departing daily from Taganga Bay directly to the dive sites within the national park.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Tayrona National Park, Colombia?
All diving in Tayrona National Park, Colombia, is shore-based, as there are no liveaboard options available for this region. You will stay on land, typically in the nearby village of Taganga or the city of Santa Marta. Local dive operators run daily boat trips to the various dive sites located within the protected waters of the park.