Diving in Chile

* Easter Island – Also known as Rapa Nui, this magical ancient island lies almost 4000 kilometres/2500 miles off the shore of Chile. It also hosts some spectacular evidence of ancient civilizations above and below the water alongside beautiful sea life and underwater landscapes. More than 100 species of tropical fish inhabit the waters around the island and, due to its mid-ocean location, the area’s visibility is some of the best in the world (sometimes exceeding 70 metres/210 feet). Accessed by air from Santiago, this island should be on every diver’s bucket list. Don’t miss sites such as The Trail of the Maoi, a submerged Easter Island head (aka Maoi) and Mana Vai, a dive through rock tunnels lined with coral walls and frequented by green turtles and thousands of tropical fish. * The Cauldron of Death – Not for the faint of heart (and demanding advanced dive training) this site is one of magnificent beauty and has adrenaline-fueled entry. Lying deep in the waters just north of Antofagasta, strong surge sweeps the mouth of the cauldron, guarding the spectacular wall dive beyond. For those with the knowledge and skills to meet the challenge, drop-offs and caverns filled with beautiful sponges, corals and starfish await on the other side. * Juan Fernandez Archipelago - Offshore near Santiago, the Juan Fernandez Archipelago hosts a plethora of world class dive sites with stunning visibility and warmer waters to enjoy. This archipelago houses the famous Robinson Crusoe Island, offering the chance to see a piece of history while diving with moray and cod fish. * Valparaiso – The largest sea port in Chile and located close to the capital of Santiago, this area is used frequently by dive shops in the city and can be a great introduction to diving in Chile. Waters around this part of the country are filled with soft corals, massive sea sponges, and many multicolored starfish. Add two great easy access wreck dives, El Falucho and the Caupolican, and Valparaiso becomes a must if traveling to Chile to dive for your first time. * Punta Arenas – Located way down in Southern Chile, Punta Arenas seems to be almost at the end of the world. Due to its location and the proximity of melting glaciers, the water temperatures can be frigid and demand a dry suit to thoroughly enjoy. The tradeoff is crystal clear water and a chance to dive among large sea lion colonies and beautiful gorgonians and nudibranchs. This part of Chile has also seen its fair share of naval exploration and in turn is home to many wrecks waiting to be explored.