Tayrona Dive Center Resort PADI

Tayrona Dive Center Resort is situated in Taganga, just 3.3 km from Santa Marta and a short drive from the Simón Bolívar International Airport. The centre has been operating for over 30 years, founded by José A. Peláez 'Muñeco', establishing a deep local knowledge of the Caribbean waters.

The centre is positioned to provide easy access to the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona. This protected area contains 12 distinct dive sites that are selected based on current weather conditions and other environmental factors to ensure the best possible diving experience.

As a PADI affiliated centre, the team provides professional instruction across a wide spectrum of certification levels. The staff is experienced in managing both entry-level divers and those pursuing professional career paths.

Training programmes range from the initial Discover Scuba Diving experience through to the Divemaster qualification. The centre also offers Emergency First Response training to ensure safety and preparedness for all divers.

The centre offers a comprehensive curriculum of PADI courses for all stages of a diver's development. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving and progress to the Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications.

For those looking to advance their skills or professional standing, the centre provides Rescue Diver training and the Divemaster course. Emergency First Response is also available on-site.

The centre provides a complete range of equipment for hire, covering all the essentials needed for a dive in these waters. This includes regulators, wetsuits, fins, and masks.

For those opting for the Fun Dive plan, the service includes your equipment, transport, and a bocadillo snack to eat during surface intervals.

The reefs are characterised by a rich variety of marine organisms, including various species of Soft coral (Alcyonacea) and Sponges (Porifera). You will find a diverse array of Angelfish (Pomacanthidae) and various species of corals providing structure to the seabed.

In the water column and around the reef, you can observe large fish, Jacks (Carangidae), and Barracuda (Sphyraena). Sergeant majors and Grunt (Haemulidae) are also common sights during your dives.

For those interested in macro life and smaller inhabitants, keep an eye out for the Octopus (Octopoda), Seahorse (Hippocampus), and Garden eel (Gorgasia). You may also encounter Pufferfish (Arothron hispidus), Lionfish (Pterois volitans), and Moray eel (Muraenidae) amongst the crevices.

Other notable residents include various species of Ray (Batoidea), Lobster (Homaridae), and turtles. Trumpetfish (Aulostomidae) and other marine organisms add to the complexity of the local ecosystem.

Dive sites within the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona are selected based on the prevailing weather and environmental factors on the day of the dive.