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La Nevera

3.4 — based on 11 community signals
4.1 11 species 12 contributors

La Nevera is a remote dive site at Malpelo Island where schooling fish and pelagics gather in a protected marine reserve.

⭐ Best for advanced divers chasing chasing pelagics.

🐢 MPA · Malpelo updated 4 months ago
Difficulty
Advanced
BoatOnlyPelagic hotspotAdvancedOnlyBleachingRisk
+1 more
MPA

At a glance

Activity
dive
Difficulty
advanced
Marine life
Blacktip reef shark

Map

This spot Airport Nearby spots
La Nevera location map © Google · Map data © Google, contributors
Open in Google Maps

Conditions today

Conditions

Open-Meteo
Wind
11.8 kn
Wave
1.42 m
Water
29.3°C
N E S W
Wind direction (7d)
Primary: WSW (39%)
Now: W (260°)
Tide (7 days)
range: 2.02m

Next: Low at 02:00 (-0.12m)

+1.5 m0 m-0.5 m
▼ 02:00 · -0.12m ▲ 08:00 · +1.2m ▼ 15:00 · -0.19m ▲ 21:00 · +1.02m Now +0.5m
Fri 18Sat 19Sun 20Mon 21Tue 22Wed 23Thu 24
UV8.3 · very high Air PM2.56 · good 06:16 18:24
Day Wind Wave UV Rain
09-18 13.7 1.5 8 50mm
09-19 12 1.36 7 8mm
09-20 11.9 1.26 4 17mm
09-21 11.8 1.22 6 19mm
09-22 11.1 1.16 9 19mm
09-23 10.5 1.1 9 2mm
09-24 8.7 1 9 9mm
🚨 Coral bleaching: Alert Level 2 — mortality likely
DHW: 8.7°C-weeks · NOAA Coral Reef Watch

About this spot

La Nevera sits within the Malpelo marine protected area off Colombia's Pacific coast. This offshore pinnacle draws large schools of jacks, tuna, and other pelagic species. The site's exposed location means currents can run strong, attracting predators and creating dramatic underwater scenery. Visibility varies with season and weather, but the remote setting and biodiversity make La Nevera worth the effort to reach. The site is part of Colombia's commitment to ocean conservation, and access requires a boat from the mainland—typically a multi-day expedition. Divers should expect a wild, dynamic environment with plenty of action. The area supports diverse marine life adapted to cool, nutrient-rich Pacific waters. Coral bleaching alerts suggest ongoing stress to reef systems in the region, so responsible diving practices matter here.

📖 Guide: Diving in Colombia: 68 Sites from Shark Walls to Beginner Reefs

Marine life

Blacktip reef shark

Dive types

Pelagic / blue waterBoat

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
🌍 CO2 footprint LHR ↔ 9047km · ~2081kg · €37

From your departure country

United States
Origin score: 93/100
  • Visa: Visa-free · 90 days max
  • Flight: 12h · direct
  • Jet-lag: 0h

FAQ

When is the best time to dive La Nevera?

Year-round diving is possible at La Nevera, though specific seasonal conditions are not documented. The Pacific side of Colombia experiences variable weather and swells, so checking recent trip reports before booking is wise.

What depth and difficulty should I expect?

Exact depth and difficulty ratings are not available for La Nevera. As an offshore pinnacle site, expect variable conditions and strong currents typical of exposed Pacific reefs. Experience with drift diving and current awareness is recommended.

What marine life will I see?

La Nevera attracts schooling fish, jacks, tuna, and pelagic sharks. The site is known for predator action and dense fish schools. Species observations have been documented at the site, reflecting its rich biodiversity within the protected area.

How do I access La Nevera and what permits do I need?

La Nevera lies within the Malpelo marine protected area. Access is by boat from mainland Colombia and typically requires a multi-day expedition. Contact local dive operators or maritime authorities for current permit requirements and access procedures.

Recently spotted by divers

iNaturalist →

See this spot in action

YouTube videos — click to play.

La Nevera Dive Site - Sanctuary of Flora and Fauna of Malpelo Island

Interceptor121

Silky Sharks - La Nevera, Malpelo, Colombia - August 2016

Lisa Zevi

Silky Sharks - La Nevera, Malpelo, Colombia - August 2016

Lisa Zevi
Visibility (month-by-month)
Best: May (100/100) Worst: Apr (0/100) Now: Sep (50/100) NOAA MODIS Aqua · 5y mean

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