Discover the best scuba diving destinations in the world: Raja Ampat, Red Sea, Galapagos, Maldives, Philippines and the Caribbean. Complete guide to planning your next international diving trip.
Choosing a destination for an international dive trip is one of the most exciting decisions a diver can make. The underwater world offers such varied landscapes that it is impossible to settle on just one: coral reefs that look like gardens from another planet, encounters with large pelagic species, and waters with extraordinary visibility.
Raja Ampat, in the heart of the Coral Triangle in Indonesia, is considered the most biodiverse destination in the world. Its waters are home to more than 1,500 fish species and nearly 600 coral species. Walls covered in giant sponges, schools of fish that block out the sun, manta rays, and reef sharks. The best season is between October and April.
The Red Sea is another of the great classics. Temperatures between 24 and 27 degrees, exceptional visibility that can exceed 30 meters. Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada, or the Brothers Islands offer colorful reefs and historic wrecks. Access from Spain is straightforward with direct flights to Egypt.
The Galápagos represents big-animal diving in its purest form: hammerhead sharks in schools of hundreds, turtles, marine iguanas, and sea lions. Open year-round although currents can be intense, recommended for experienced divers. Water temperature between 18 and 26 degrees.
The Maldives is the reference for luxury diving. Fuvahmulah has become the most reliable place in the world to spot tiger sharks. Whale sharks at certain times of year. Water temperature 28–29 degrees and average visibility above 20 meters.
Indonesia beyond Raja Ampat: Bali and Nusa Lembongan with giant mantas at Manta Point, mola mola between July and October, and extraordinary macro life on the volcanic sand flats of northern Bali. Competitive prices and excellent tourist infrastructure.
The Philippines is unmissable: Malapascua is the only place in the world with regular sightings of thresher sharks. Moalboal with its enormous school of sardines numbering millions of individuals. Excellent wreck diving and warm local hospitality.
The Caribbean is the ideal option for accessible diving and warm water. Mexico with unique cenotes and Cozumel, the Dominican Republic, and Belize with competitive prices. The most economically accessible international destination for Spanish divers seeking their first tropical adventure.