In Colombia, diving has gained great popularity due to its stunning coastlines in the Caribbean and Pacific, as well as islands such as San Andrés and Providencia that are famous for their coral reefs . For those who wish to venture into this sport safely and professionally , the country has a wide range of schools and certification programs that meet international standards . Colombia offers an impressive variety of diving schools that allow beginners and advanced divers to explore some of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. With options in the Caribbean and the Pacific, from the islands of San Andrés and Providencia to the remote landscapes of La Guajira, each destination offers a unique experience for both those looking to learn and those who wish to hone their skills.
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Diving schools in Colombia
1. Diving Planet – Cartagena
Location: Cartagena de Indias, Bolivar.
Minimum age: 10 years.
Certifications: PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors).
Diving Planet is one of the most renowned schools in Cartagena. It offers PADI certifications that are internationally recognized. From beginner programs such as Open Water Diver, to advanced certifications such as Rescue Diver and Divemaster, the center has qualified instructors and high-quality equipment. The school also has a strong ecological awareness, making it an ideal choice for those looking to learn diving with a sustainable orientation. In addition, diving is allowed from 10 years of age under strict supervision.
2. Coralina Island Dive Center – Rosario Islands
Location: Isla Grande, Rosario Islands, Bolivar.
Minimum age: 12 years.
Certifications: PADI.
This diving center is located in one of the most beautiful places in the Colombian Caribbean, the Rosario Islands. Coralina Island Dive Center offers a unique experience thanks to its crystal-clear waters and well-preserved reefs. Courses range from Discover Scuba Diving (for beginners) to advanced certifications. It is ideal for those looking for a combination of professional training and an immersion in the marine biodiversity of the Caribbean. The minimum age to be certified is 12 years old, and recreational diving is also offered for older adults with no age limit.
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3. San Andres Divers – San Andres
Location: San Andrés, Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina.
Minimum age: 10 years.
Certifications: PADI and NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors).
San Andrés is a paradise for divers, and San Andrés Divers is one of the most prestigious schools on the island. They offer both PADI and NAUI courses, two of the most recognized certifications worldwide. The school has multilingual instructors and offers courses for all ages, with the possibility of starting as young as 10 with the Junior Open Water Diver program. They also have special packages for family groups and diving tours on nearby reefs.
4. Poseidon Dive Center – Taganga
Location: Taganga, Santa Marta.
Minimum age: 10 years.
Certifications: PADI.
Located in Taganga Bay, near the Tayrona National Natural Park, the Poseidon Dive Center is another highly recommended school. Thanks to its proximity to the park, students have the opportunity to dive in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Colombia. They offer certifications from Open Water to Divemaster and specialization courses in night diving and underwater photography. Like other PADI schools, they allow children as young as 10 to begin their training under strict supervision.
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5. Deep Blue – Providence
Location: Providencia, Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina.
Minimum age: 12 years.
Certifications: PADI.
Deep Blue is known for its pristine waters and virtually untouched reefs in Providencia, making it a dream destination for divers from around the world. In addition to basic courses, Deep Blue offers specialized certifications such as wreck diving, which is very popular due to the sunken ships around the island. Courses are open to ages 12 and up, with instructors guiding students through each level of the certification process.
6. Cabo de la Vela Dive School – La Guajira
Location: Cape of the Sail, La Guajira.
Minimum age: 10 years.
Certifications: SSI (Scuba Schools International).
Located in the remote and fascinating landscape of Cabo de la Vela, this diving school offers a different experience than those located in the traditional Caribbean. The area is less touristy and more adventurous, making it a special place for diving lovers looking for tranquility and connection with nature. The certifications offered follow the SSI standard and cover from beginners to advanced levels. The school also organizes diving trips to explore marine fauna and nearby reefs.
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7. Ocean Scuba Dive – Santa Marta
Location: Santa Marta, Magdalena.
Minimum age: 10 years.
Certifications: PADI.
Located in one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Colombia, Ocean Scuba Dive is a highly recommended school for those who want to learn in a safe and comfortable environment. They offer PADI courses ranging from Open Water to Divemaster, with special programs for minors. Santa Marta is known for its easy access to various diving areas, such as Tayrona Park, giving students the opportunity to explore the marine wealth of the region while earning their certifications.
8. Makarios Dive Center – Fuerte Island
Location: Fuerte Island, Bolivar.
Minimum age: 12 years.
Certifications: PADI.
Makarios Dive Center offers a diving experience on a remote and relatively unexplored island, adding a special touch for those seeking a unique adventure. The school offers courses for beginners and advanced, with a focus on the conservation of the local ecosystem. Fuerte Island is known for its clear waters and marine biodiversity, making it an ideal place to obtain diving certifications.
Recommendations 
For those interested in taking a diving course and getting their certification in Colombia, it is important to consider several factors before making a decision. Firstly, it is essential to choose a school that has certified instructors and offers internationally recognized programs such as PADI, NAUI or SSI . Depending on the destination, some schools are located in areas with great marine biodiversity , such as San Andrés, Providencia or the Rosario Islands, which provides the opportunity to practice in crystal-clear waters and explore unique reefs . It is advisable to research the conditions of the place , as some destinations may have a more developed infrastructure for tourism , while others, such as Cabo de la Vela or Isla Fuerte, offer a more remote and adventurous experience . In addition, it is essential to take into account the minimum age and health requirements to ensure that the necessary conditions are met before starting the course. For those looking for a complete experience, combining certification with marine conservation activities can be an excellent way to learn while also contributing to the protection of the ecosystem.
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