Log This Dive

Gallinazo

Gallinazo is rough around the edges, a site that demands respect but gives back in spades. It’s about a 25-minute boat ride from Santa Maria, and you'll want to be ready to drop fast – the sea hits hard here. We’re talking a maximum depth of 13 metres, but don’t let that fool you. This is strictly for advanced divers who are comfortable with quick entries and often challenging conditions. What we love about Gallinazo is the sheer density of the kelp forest. It’s a proper underwater jungle, a sensory overload as the fronds sway, creating these shifting patterns of light and shadow. Visibility averages around 4 metres, which sounds low, but it actually adds to the drama, making every discovery feel more intimate. We've spent hours here just watching Pacific cornetfish ghost through the kelp, their long snouts probing for smaller prey. Look closely on the rocky bottom and you’ll spot Pacific speckled crabs scuttling, while barred pipefish play hide and seek amongst the stalks. It’s a cool, moody dive, completely different from your typical tropical reef, and our pick for something truly unique in Peru.