Malpelo Island, Colombia
The perfect 5 days itinerary
Malpelo Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the Pacific Ocean, about 500 km west of the Colombian mainland. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique marine biodiversity. The island is a popular destination for divers, with its surrounding waters home to a variety of shark species, including the rare smalltooth sand tiger. The island itself is rugged and rocky, with a few high peaks providing stunning views of the ocean.
What to do in Malpelo Island?
This 5 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Malpelo Island. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Arrival and Briefing
Arrive at the port city of Buenaventura, where you'll meet your dive guides and fellow divers. You'll have a briefing about the upcoming dive expedition, including safety procedures and what to expect. Spend the night in Buenaventura preparing for the journey to Malpelo Island.
Day 2: Journey to Malpelo Island
Set sail early in the morning for Malpelo Island. The journey by boat takes around 36 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to relax, enjoy the ocean views, and prepare for the upcoming dives. Overnight on the boat.
Day 3: First Dives
Arrive at Malpelo Island and prepare for your first dives. The waters around the island are teeming with marine life, including various species of sharks, giant schools of fish, and vibrant coral reefs. After a full day of diving, return to the boat for dinner and rest.
Day 4: Exploring the Depths
Spend another day exploring the underwater world of Malpelo Island. Each dive site offers something different, from underwater caves to steep walls covered in soft corals. Keep an eye out for the rare smalltooth sand tiger shark, a highlight of diving in Malpelo. Overnight on the boat.
Day 5: Final Dives and Departure
Enjoy a few final dives in the morning before setting sail back to Buenaventura. As you leave Malpelo Island behind, take some time to reflect on the incredible marine life you've encountered. Arrive in Buenaventura the following day.