While diving may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Peru, it is nonetheless a perfect country to practice this sport peacefully in virtually untouched diving spots! There are numerous diving schools throughout Peru, and the simplest approach when arriving in Lima during your Peru trip is to visit the Peruvian diving federation to gather the best local insights!

Diving in Peru: A Sport Still Finding Its Way

Peru has everything needed to be a paradise for surfers and divers alike: the Pacific Ocean, fine sandy beaches, waves, coral reefs, waters teeming with aquatic life, numerous shipwrecks, few tourists—all ingredients for unforgettable experiences. This underwater sport is completely overlooked by tourists, who typically include a little diving excursion whenever they visit coastal destinations. Yet Peru offers so much in terms of destinations and tourist activities that diving is entirely bypassed!

But consider this: over 1,000 fish species have been documented in Peru, plus more than 1,400 types of mollusks and 300 crustacean species… Doesn't that tempt you?

Diving in the Lima Region

Among the regions most conducive to underwater diving, exploring the seafloor and observing fish species in Peruvian waters, the Lima region stands out. A particularly appreciated diving spot is located near Pucusana, some 70 km south of Lima. The regions of Arequipa, Ica, Pisco, and Tumbes are also excellent diving destinations.

The Paracas Diving Spot (Ica Region)

Many whales, penguins, dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, and seals are regularly observed here, as the Pacific Ocean waters are extraordinarily rich in fish. The renowned Paracas zone and the Ballestas Islands near Ica are prime examples.

Diving at El Nuro (Piura Region)

Another must-try diving spot during a Peru stay is in the country's north, with its warm waters full of multicolored fish. The regions of Ancash, Tumbes, and Piura offer beautiful beaches, and the villages of El Nuro and Caleta el Nuro are genuinely wonderful places for beginners, as you'll regularly spot stunning sea turtles.

Diving at Los Organos (Piura Region)

For more experienced divers, the Los Organos beach is highly recommended. Though normally known to surfers, it's also a lovely diving spot. Indeed, about 20 minutes out to sea lies an abandoned oil platform—though not completely abandoned! It has been colonized by countless mollusks, corals, fish, and sea lions, attracting a fascinating array of marine life to the area. The platform's pillars descend to depths of 70 meters.

The Punta Sal Diving Spot (Tumbes Region)

The Punta Sal diving spot in the Tumbes region is truly fabulous, as you can explore reefs rich in fish, octopuses, sea turtles, and more at depths of approximately 12–20 meters.