Palomo - Santa Marta & Tayrona

Sabolan Besar is a nice, easy dive, usually paired with its smaller neighbour. It's a relaxed spot, maxing out at 16 metres, making it perfect for check-out dives or if you're getting back in the water after a break. We often see honeycomb stingrays cruising the sandy patches, and there's usually a good number of crocodile fish and cuttlefish blending into the bottom. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the glass shrimps and nudibranchs tucked away amongst the seagrass beds. Visibility averages about 15 metres, which is plenty to enjoy the slower pace.

Location
Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, South America
Coordinates
9.792100, -75.661900
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-15m

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

Nearby Dive Sites in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Nearest Dive Centres to Palomo

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 depth range for diving at Cabo Pulmo?
For the dive site Palomo in Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, the typical depth range for diving is 5-15m. While the maximum depth is around 10m, it's an ideal spot for beginners and serves as a training area in confined waters.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see when diving in Cabo Pulmo?
When diving at Palomo, you can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including a great variety of corals, sponges, and numerous reef fish. Keep an eye out for fascinating crustaceans, mollusks, and even rays exploring the sandy areas and reefs. For more details on specific species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult are the dive sites at Cabo Pulmo, and is it suitable for beginners?
The dive site Palomo is generally rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it accessible for a range of divers. Despite this, it's explicitly described as an ideal place for beginners and is frequently used as a training area for confined waters. This combination makes it suitable for both certified divers and those just starting their diving journey.
When is the best time of year to go diving in Cabo Pulmo for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
Information regarding the best time of year for optimal conditions and marine life sightings at Palomo is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on dive seasons, you might consult our When to Dive section, but specific details for Palomo are not present here.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended for diving in Cabo Pulmo?
For diving at Palomo, it is suitable for both certified divers and those undergoing training in confined waters. This suggests that a basic open water certification would be appropriate for independent diving, while beginners can participate under direct supervision. No specific advanced certifications are explicitly required or recommended for this site.
What are the usual currents and water conditions like at Cabo Pulmo dive sites?
Specific details regarding the usual currents and general water conditions at Palomo, beyond an average visibility of 9m, are not provided in the available data. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator before entering the water.