When To Go · Destination Guide
Malpelo
Expedition-only shark diving around a remote Pacific oceanic sanctuary
When To Go · Destination Guide
Expedition-only shark diving around a remote Pacific oceanic sanctuary
When to go
There is no honest single "perfect" Malpelo month.
Best overall window
No month is a guaranteed easy crossing or guaranteed wildlife encounter.
Outside that window
Currents remain the main skill and comfort constraint year-round.
Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.
The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.
| Scope | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | Overall - Jan: Tradeoffs | Overall - Feb: Tradeoffs | Overall - Mar: Tradeoffs | Overall - Apr: Tradeoffs | Overall - May: Good | Overall - Jun: Tradeoffs | Overall - Jul: Tradeoffs | Overall - Aug: Tradeoffs | Overall - Sep: Tradeoffs | Overall - Oct: Tradeoffs | Overall - Nov: Tradeoffs | Overall - Dec: Tradeoffs |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Scalloped hammerhead aggregations
Best for Scuba
Jan to May
Cold-water early-year periods are often discussed for larger schools and cleaning-station activity, especially at La Nevera.
Silky shark schools
Best for Scuba
May to Jul
Operator and PADI descriptions emphasize the early wetter period for silky sharks.
Whale shark possibility
Best for Scuba
Jul to Sep
PADI describes sightings in part of the wetter season.
Nazca boobies and seabirds
Best for Topside
Year-round
The park identifies major seabird colonies visible from authorized expedition boats.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.