LIVEABOARD DIVING IN

Darwin and Wolf Islands

Darwin and Wolf Islands are two of the most sought-after diving destinations in the Galapagos Islands, renowned for their incredible biodiversity and underwater experiences

9

liveaboards

Price from

USD 3,495 per trip

Abundant hammerhead sharks
Underwater volcanic formations
Enormous manta rays and marine iguanas

Located in the northernmost part of the Galapagos archipelago, Darwin and Wolf Islands are part of the Galapagos Marine Reserve and are only accessible by liveaboard dive boats. These remote islands offer some of the most exceptional diving experiences in the world, with diverse marine life and unique geological formations. Diving at Darwin Island is an unforgettable experience, with sightings of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays, among others. The strong currents and challenging conditions require advanced diving skills, making it a must-visit for experienced divers seeking a thrilling adventure. Wolf Island, located south of Darwin, is another fantastic diving destination. The island is home to several endemic species, such as the Galapagos fur seal and the red-lipped batfish. Divers can also spot eagle rays, schooling hammerheads, and Galapagos sharks, among other species. The underwater landscape is equally impressive, with stunning volcanic formations and steep walls that drop into the abyss. Diving at both Darwin and Wolf Islands requires at least an advanced open water certification, and some dive operators may require additional experience due to the challenging conditions. Liveaboard diving is the best way to explore these remote islands and maximize diving time. Beyond diving, visitors can also explore the islands' incredible wildlife and natural wonders. Darwin Island is named after Charles Darwin, who visited the Galapagos in 1835 and conducted research that would later inspire his theory of evolution. The islands are also home to unique species such as the Galapagos penguin, marine iguana, and giant tortoise. In conclusion, Darwin and Wolf Islands are exceptional diving destinations in the Galapagos Islands, offering a unique and unforgettable underwater experience. With diverse marine life and challenging diving conditions, these remote islands are a must-visit for experienced divers seeking adventure and thrills

 

Must see dive sites of Darwin and Wolf Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a bucket-list destination for wildlife enthusiasts and divers alike. Located off the coast of Ecuador, the archipelago is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including many species that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Darwin and Wolf Islands are two of the most remote and isolated islands in the Galapagos, offering some of the best diving opportunities in the area. Wolf Island is known for its incredible shark sightings, including hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and silky sharks. Divers may also encounter eagle rays, sea turtles, and colorful schools of fish. Manta rays and whale sharks can also be spotted seasonally, making this dive site a must-visit for any diving enthusiast. Cousins Rock, located between Santiago and Bartolome Islands, offers an underwater landscape filled with caves, tunnels, and crevices. Divers can expect to see schools of barracuda, sea lions, and eagle rays, as well as white-tip reef sharks and Galapagos sharks. The site is also known for its variety of nudibranchs and other colorful invertebrates. Darwin Island is often considered one of the best dive sites in the world. The island's remote location and strong currents make it accessible only by liveaboard diving. However, the experience is well worth it, as divers can encounter schools of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and silky sharks, as well as massive schools of jacks and tuna. Punta Carrion, located on the northeast coast of Santa Cruz Island, is an excellent site for beginner divers. The site features a sandy bottom and gentle currents, making it an ideal location to spot sea turtles, rays, and schools of tropical fish. Gordon's Rock, located off the coast of Santa Cruz Island, is a popular site for experienced divers due to its strong currents. The site is home to schools of hammerhead sharks, as well as eagle rays, Galapagos sharks, and sea turtles. Gordon's Rock is also known for its colorful reef formations and variety of marine life, including nudibranchs and octopuses. In conclusion, the Galapagos Islands offer some of the best diving opportunities in the world, with Darwin and Wolf Islands offering some of the most exciting and unique experiences. From hammerhead sharks to colorful reef formations, the Galapagos is a must-visit destination for any diving enthusiast

 

When To Go Dive at Darwin and Wolf Islands

The best time to go diving at Darwin and Wolf Islands is from June to November during the dry season when the water is cooler and nutrient-rich currents attract large schools of sharks and other pelagic marine life. Water temperatures during this time typically range from 18 to 24°C (65 to 75°F). To increase the chances of encountering sharks and mantas, it's recommended to plan the dive during the early morning or late afternoon when these animals are more active. Hammerhead sharks can often be seen in large schools at Darwin Island, while wolf packs of Galapagos sharks and schools of silky sharks are common at Wolf Island. Manta rays can also be seen year-round at these islands, but the highest concentration is typically from December to May during the warm season when the water temperature ranges from 20 to 28°C (68 to 82°F). However, the currents during the warm season can be stronger and may require more experience to navigate. It's important to note that diving at Darwin and Wolf Islands requires advanced certification and experience due to the strong currents and sometimes challenging diving conditions. Divers should also follow all regulations and guidelines set forth by the Galapagos National Park and their dive operators to ensure the safety of both divers and the marine environment

 
Water temperature
°CF
26 C
 
Jan
27 C
 
Feb
27 C
 
Mar
27 C
 
Apr
26 C
 
May
26 C
 
Jun
25 C
 
Jul
24 C
 
Aug
25 C
 
Sep
25 C
 
Oct
25 C
 
Nov
25 C
 
Dec

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