Diving in Piura

An unusual phenomenon occurs just off the coast of northern Peru in the Piura region, creating a unique mix of ocean waters that promotes one of the most extraordinary marine ecosystems on earth. The cold, northward flowing Humboldt Current collides with the warm Northern Equatorial Current right off Piura’s coast, creating one of the world’s largest upwelling systems. This phenomenon brings nutrient-rich waters from the ocean’s depths up to the surface, where it promotes incredible biodiversity. Scientists call this are the Tropical Pacific Sea of Peru, and it is the most magical place to go scuba diving in Peru.

From mega-fauna like migrating whales, manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, and penguins to micro-fauna like nudibranchs and thousands of invertebrates, every dive site thrives with life.

There are two distinct dive seasons in this region, summer (November through March) and winter (April/May through October). Water temperatures in the summer are warm, and you can dive with tropical fish species and sea turtles. Although the winter season brings cold water, the visibility is much better, and this is the time to see whales and hear their songs while diving. Diving in the Tropical Pacific Sea of Peru should be on every avid diver’s bucket list!

The descriptions provided here are intended as general information and personal experiences related to specific dive sites and locations and should not be construed as definitive advice or recommendations. Before diving, please confirm that diving is permitted at your chosen location, and comply with all relevant local laws, regulations, and posted signage. The responsibility for verifying the legality of the dive and assessing any associated risks rests entirely with you.