WHERE / TO / DIVE
FIELD NOTES · 2026
#6 of 20 · Colombia

Malpelo

A demanding trip for schooling sharks.

Where to Dive editorial
Hammerheads darkening the sky; representative of diving Malpelo
Hammerheads darkening the skySource ↗
Overall rank
#6 of 20
Editor’s score
9.3 / 10
Best months
January — April
Go for
Hammerhead schools · Galápagos sharks
The short answer

Why dive here?

Malpelo is an isolated rock in the eastern Pacific. The draws are scalloped hammerheads, Galápagos sharks, silkies and large morays. Expect negative entries, deep dives and strong current. Check the operator’s experience requirements before booking.

Timing

When to go

The best time to dive here is January — April. Check the linked season guide and ask your operator about conditions for your dates.

Best diving in JanuaryBest diving in FebruaryBest diving in MarchBest diving in April
The diving

What to look for

These are the main draws. Sightings vary by site, season and luck.

  • Hammerhead schools
  • Galápagos sharks
  • Silkies
  • Giant morays
Practicalities

Conditions and trip planning

Advanced only. Exposed sites, strong currents and repeated deep dives over several days.

Trip format: Liveaboard expedition only.

Why it sits here

About the score

Malpelo scores 9.3/10 for diving at its best. The ranking favours sharks and other large animals, followed by reef health and variety across the trip. Price and travel time do not affect the score.

Photos

Open a photo for its source and credits.

Hammerheads darkening the sky; diving Malpelo
Hammerheads darkening the skySteven Trainoff, Ph.D.
Schooling silky sharks; diving Malpelo
Schooling silky sharksSteven Trainoff, Ph.D.
Diver beneath a schooling cloud; diving Malpelo
Diver beneath a schooling cloudSteven Trainoff, Ph.D.
Hammerhead at Malpelo Island; diving Malpelo
Hammerhead at Malpelo IslandSteven Trainoff, Ph.D.
Free-swimming morays over the reef; diving Malpelo
Free-swimming morays over the reefSteven Trainoff, Ph.D.
Vagamares Tunnel, Malpelo; diving Malpelo
Vagamares Tunnel, MalpeloCAUT
Recent trip footage

Dives on video

Watch for the conditions, marine life and pace of the dives. Each video shows one trip.