Costa Rica

Costa Rica Information

The scuba diving experience in Costa Rica frequently ranks as the top destination on every diver's wish list. Situated 10 degrees north of the equator, it lacks distinct seasons or temperate zones. With over 200km of the Caribbean coastline and over 1,000 kilometres of the North Pacific Ocean, it's a tropical paradise both on land and beneath the waves. Costa Rica boasts 26 national parks, contributing to its appeal.

For these reasons, trips to Costa Rica and Cocos Island are almost certain to deliver unforgettable moments filled with stunning encounters with a variety of flora and fauna, geological volcanic marvels, and some of the cleanest underwater ecosystems.

One notable destination is Cocos Island National Park, which draws scuba divers from around the globe eager to witness its spectacular underwater displays. The marine biodiversity found here is astonishing, with opportunities to see numerous species of sharks, rays, fish and rare coral species in extraordinary numbers.

The most sought-after scuba diving adventure in Costa Rica is a liveaboard expedition, with Costa Rican liveaboards from Undersea Hunter and Aggressor fleets venturing to the most secluded areas of Cocos Island Marine Park.

Resort & liveaboard diving

While the Gulf of Papagayo and Catalina Island are excellent destinations for budget-friendly scuba diving combined with a comfortable resort stay, the ultimate way to immerse yourself in an extraordinary scuba diving adventure is to embark on a liveaboard trip.

The experience of scuba diving in the Cocos Islands is particularly rewarding, though it is best suited for more experienced divers. Here, deep dives and drift dives in strong currents present daily fun, but the exhilarating underwater explorations among schooling pelagic species you encounter make for an unforgettable scuba diving holiday.

Which location should I visit?

For every scuba diving expedition to Cocos Island, the national park is the highlight of their scuba diving journey. Cocos Island is considered one of the best liveaboard destinations in the world, where divers can anticipate sightings of hammerhead, silky, silvertip, Galapagos, and whitetip sharks alongside eagle and manta rays.

Cocos Island National Park comprises a series of small volcanic islands, all inhabited, that rise 690 meters above sea level from the Pacific Ocean. These islands function as an oasis in the immense Pacific Ocean, providing a habitat for hundreds of bird species, plants, and freshwater fish. These species represent nearly 50% of the endemic species found in Costa Rica.

What can be seen at the premier wildlife location on Cocos Island is merely a fraction of what lies beneath the surface. Cocos National Park's deep walls and reefs are home to at least 14 types of sharks and a rich variety of other rays and fish species.

The sharks that can be spotted or are known to migrate through Cocos Islands include thresher shark, silvertip shark, silky shark, Galapagos shark, blacktip shark, tiger shark, Pacific sharpnose shark, whitetip reef shark, prickly shark, nurse shark, smooth sand tiger shark, whale shark, scalloped hammerhead shark, and great hammerhead shark.

It's so rich and diverse in marine life that UNESCO made it a World Heritage Site. But the main reason why Cocos Island is world-famous is the sheer number of species gathering here that awarded this place the name of "island of sharks".

Dive conditions

Water temperatures range from 22 to 28°C, with some cooler thermoclines present. A wetsuit of 3-5mm thickness is advisable. All diving takes place from 22ft tenders. 12ltr tanks are available, and a limited quantity of 15ltr tanks can be reserved in advance for an additional fee.

Tailor-made holidays

Costa Rica is a bucket-list destination for many scuba divers, especially with the amazing Cocos Island liveaboards. Since it's quite a journey to get there, our travel experts suggest making the most of your trip by extending your stay on the mainland. Why not turn it into a twin-centre holiday? You can combine some of the best diving spots in the world with exploring Costa Rica's incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes in one unforgettable trip.

Staying on land allows you to spot some truly unique and rare wildlife. Imagine seeing ocelots, jaguars, tapirs, titi monkeys, howler monkeys, white-faced monkeys, resplendent quetzals, jabiru storks, glass frogs, and so much more. It's a nature lover's dream!

Another way to level up your trip is to trek through Costa Rica's famous volcanoes and hot springs. Arenal Volcano and Poás Volcano National Park are must-visit spots where smoke rises dramatically from one of the country's most active volcanoes, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. It's the perfect adventure to add to your diving experience!