El Marrajo

About this dive site

This dive site, El Marrajo, is a small, circular shoal located near the islet of Lobos, off the coast of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands. Navigation is straightforward due to the shallow and relatively flat bottom, making it ideal for beginners. The site is characterized by its white sandy bottom interspersed with rocks, creating a diverse and interesting underwater landscape. There's no particular history or story attached to the site itself, rather its value lies in the rich marine life it supports.

The abundant marine life is one of El Marrajo's greatest assets. Divers can expect to encounter several species of fish, including schools of bream, dreamfish, and steenbras, along with larger fish such as yellowfin and amberjacks. The seabed is also home to a variety of invertebrates like crabs, lizardfish, octopus, rays, and scorpionfish. The overall biodiversity makes this site excellent for both macro and wide-angle photography.

The best time to visit El Marrajo is during the warmer months, from spring to autumn (April to October), when water visibility is typically at its best. The calm conditions and shallow depth make it suitable for both scuba diving and freediving. Divers and freedivers should however be mindful of the potential presence of scorpionfish, and exercise caution when exploring the rock formations. While currents are generally mild, they can be slightly more pronounced on days with stronger winds.