Gallinazo - Lima & Palomino Islands

Lagoa Azul is a good pick for an easy shore dive on São Tomé, especially if you're looking to stretch out your bottom time. The entry is simple, straight off the beach, and the maximum depth of 16m means you can really take your time exploring. We've often seen trumpetfish here, sometimes even a turtle or two cruising through. It’s a site that suits new divers getting comfortable, or anyone keen on a relaxed night dive. The rocks and sandy patches hold a surprising amount of smaller stuff if you look closely: cardinalfish huddle in crevices, and we’ve spotted various wrasse and even needlefish patrolling the open sand. Keep an eye out for larger schools of sardines too, depending on the season, which can make for some exciting flashes of silver.

Location
Lima & Palomino Islands, Peru, South America
Coordinates
-12.462700, -76.789600

Marine Protected Area: Sistema de Islas, Islotes y Puntas Guaneras

Best Time to Dive in Lima & Palomino Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Lima & Palomino Islands occur in January, averaging 22.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 22.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 22.5°C (air: 19.9°C)
  • February: 22.5°C (air: 20.7°C)
  • March: 22.5°C (air: 20.8°C)
  • April: 22.5°C (air: 19.6°C)
  • May: 22.5°C (air: 17.7°C)
  • June: 22.5°C (air: 16.8°C)
  • July: 22.5°C (air: 16.1°C)
  • August: 22.5°C (air: 15.7°C)
  • September: 22.5°C (air: 15.4°C)
  • October: 22.5°C (air: 15.6°C)
  • November: 22.5°C (air: 16.8°C)
  • December: 22.5°C (air: 18.0°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Lima & Palomino Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Gallinazo

Marine Life in Lima & Palomino Islands

Home to 40 recorded species including 28 reef fish, 3 whales & dolphins, 3 other, 3 sharks & rays, 1 clams & mussels, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Gallinazo

Based on average water temperature of 22.5°C.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 23°C water
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Gallinazo (Isla de las Gallinas) and what is the maximum depth for experienced divers?
At Gallinazo, the maximum diving depth for experienced divers is 13 meters. While a typical diving depth isn't specifically provided, divers can expect to explore within this range, given the site's characteristics.
What unique underwater attractions and marine life can divers expect to encounter at Gallinazo (Isla de las Gallinas)?
Divers at Gallinazo can explore an incredible kelp forest, which serves as a vibrant habitat. This underwater reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, including various species of fish, crabs, and anemones.
What is the difficulty level for scuba diving at Gallinazo (Isla de las Gallinas), especially considering the high altitude?
Diving at Gallinazo is specifically recommended for advanced divers due to challenging conditions. The area experiences direct sea impact, necessitating a quick entry and descent from the boat. There is no information suggesting high altitude is a factor for this dive site.
What is the best time of year to dive Gallinazo (Isla de las Gallinas) for optimal water conditions and visibility?
The data provided does not specify the best time of year to dive Gallinazo for optimal water conditions or visibility. However, divers can generally expect an average visibility of 4 meters at this site. For more general information on dive seasons, you can visit our When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific scuba diving certifications or experience levels recommended or required for diving at Gallinazo (Isla de las Gallinas)?
Yes, diving at Gallinazo is exclusively for advanced divers. This requirement is due to the challenging conditions, including direct sea impact that demands a quick entry and descent from the boat.
What are the typical water temperatures, visibility, and current conditions at Gallinazo (Isla de las Gallinas) in Lake Nahuel Huapi?
At Gallinazo, located in the Lima & Palomino Islands, Peru (not Lake Nahuel Huapi), the average visibility is 4 meters. Information regarding typical water temperatures and specific current conditions for this dive site is not provided in the available data.