About this spot
David is a dive site within Colombia's Malpelo marine protected area, one of the country's most significant underwater reserves. The site sits in a protected zone designed to preserve biodiversity and allow marine ecosystems to recover. Year-round diving is possible, making David accessible to divers planning trips at any time of year. The site hosts 11 documented species observations, indicating decent marine life presence for the region. Community-contributed videos show what to expect underwater, providing reference footage from other divers who've visited. This user-generated content helps you prepare for conditions and plan your dive profile. Corals at David are experiencing elevated stress (alert level 2), a condition found across many tropical dive sites globally. This reflects broader ocean warming trends but doesn't prevent diving—it's data to understand the reef's current state. The Malpelo reserve's protected status helps protect these corals from additional human pressure. Access is managed through the marine protected area's regulations. You'll need to arrange your dive through authorized operators familiar with Malpelo's rules. Local expertise matters here because conditions and access policies can shift.
📖 Guide: Diving in Colombia: 68 Sites from Shark Walls to Beginner Reefs
Best months
Marine life
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type A/B · 110V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa-free · 90 days max
- Flight: 12h · direct
- Jet-lag: 0h
FAQ
›Can I dive David year-round?
Yes. David is accessible year-round, though sea conditions, visibility, and water temperature vary seasonally in Colombian waters. Check with local operators about which months offer the best conditions for your skill level.
›What marine life will I see at David?
Eleven species have been documented at David. Exact species vary by season and depth. Community videos provide the best preview of typical encounters. Consult a local dive operator for a current species list.
›Is David inside a protected area?
Yes. David lies within Malpelo, a marine protected area. Diving here requires compliance with reserve regulations. Book through authorized operators who manage access and ensure you follow all local rules.
›What's the coral condition at David?
Corals show alert-level stress (level 2), indicating elevated heat and bleaching risk. This is observable but doesn't prevent diving. The protected status of Malpelo helps coral recovery over time.
