Escuba
Protected Area
Sanctuaire de faune et de flore de Malpelo
Why dive here
With 71+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda and pufferfish - Escuba offers some of Malpelo Island's richest diving. Water ranges 28-30°C, warmest September, October, November.
Escuba is where Malpelo truly flexes its muscles, and it's easily one of our favourite spots on the entire island. Forget the species count for a second; what makes Escuba special is the sheer density. We’ve seen shoals of Pacific sardines so thick here, they practically form a living wall, with pompano and mulet slicing through them in a frantic, shimmering chase. It’s a sensory overload, the sound of thousands of tiny fish moving in unison is surprisingly audible, a low hum beneath the surface. Keep an eye out for the smaller details too; we often spot argus and freckled morays peeking from the corrugated coral, and the cardinal fish darting amongst the crevices. Southern lanternsharks are a rare but thrilling find here, particularly if you’re doing a deeper drift. Escuba isn't for the faint of heart; currents can be strong, so you need to be comfortable with active diving. But for those who embrace the drift, who want to witness the wild, untamed energy of Malpelo, this site delivers an unparalleled punch. It’s a dynamic, high-energy dive that perfectly encapsulates the raw power of this remote Pacific outpost.
Reviews for Escuba
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Escuba
Escuba Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Escuba, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (12.4, -81.47) (108km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
30°C
86°F · Range: 29.3–31.3°C
Current Speed
13.42 cm/s
Direction: NE (63.4°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.094 mg/m³
Very clear (oligotrophic)
Salinity
34.38 PSU
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)
Plan & book
Ways to dive Malpelo Island, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Malpelo IslandPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Malpelo Island.
Search stays in Malpelo IslandDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near Escuba
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
