Manto de Ela - Santa Marta & Tayrona

Pelicanos, also known as Elephant Rock, is one of our favourite spots off Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, and not just for the goofy name. We’ve found the diving here consistently interesting, a real contrast to some of the more hit-or-miss sites. It’s essentially a large rock formation, dropping to around 19 meters, with plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. What we really love is how the current, usually mild here, pushes the schools of fish around. You'll often find yourself swimming through shimmering clouds of longfin silversides, or huge aggregations of grunts that part for you then reform as you pass. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the yellow blennies peering out of their holes, or the Speckled-tail flounder doing its best impression of the seabed. We’ve also had some great encounters with mottled soapfish here, their patterns really standing out against the coral. Visibility averages around 10 meters, so it’s not always gin-clear, but it’s more than enough to appreciate the density of life. This site is great for divers who enjoy hovering and observing, perfect for open water certification and above.

Location
Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, South America
Coordinates
9.814800, -75.741000
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Los Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo

Nearby Dive Sites in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Nearest Dive Centres to Manto de Ela

Marine Life in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Home to 533 recorded species including 416 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 17 sharks & rays, 13 other, 9 crabs & lobsters, 7 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Manto de Ela, especially for encountering manta rays?
At Manto de Ela, the highest part of the reef is found at 18 meters, with a maximum recommended depth of 20 meters. While there are drop-offs and walls extending to 30 meters, the typical diving depth focuses on the shallower reef. Our current data does not indicate that manta rays are commonly encountered at this dive site.
Besides manta rays, what other marine life can divers expect to see at Manto de Ela?
Divers visiting Manto de Ela can expect to see small reef fish, angelfish, moray eels, and various crustaceans. While the site is not known for a high quantity of fish, its primary attraction is the beautiful coral landscape. Manta rays are not listed among the marine life typically observed here. For more general information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging is diving at Manto de Ela, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Manto de Ela is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it may not be ideal for absolute beginner divers without prior experience or additional guidance. Divers should possess the skills and comfort level appropriate for intermediate conditions, potentially including deeper sections and varied topography.
What is the best time of year to dive Manto de Ela for optimal conditions and manta ray sightings?
Our current data for Manto de Ela does not specify a best time of year for optimal conditions or any information regarding manta ray sightings. The site's primary attraction is its unique landscape rather than specific seasonal wildlife. For general guidance on dive seasons, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Manto de Ela?
Given that Manto de Ela is rated as an intermediate dive site, an Open Water Diver certification is likely a minimum requirement. However, an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent would be highly recommended. This would ensure divers are adequately prepared for the site's maximum depth of 20 meters and its varied reef topography, including potential drop-offs.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Manto de Ela?
At Manto de Ela, divers can generally expect an average visibility of 15 meters, offering good views of the coral formations. Our current data does not provide specific information regarding typical current conditions at this dive site. It's always advisable to check with local dive operators for real-time conditions.