Caño Island: Snorkeling, Scuba Diving and Discovery Diving

Arrange a tour to the picturesque Isla del Caño, an unimaginably-lush Costa Rican island only 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the coast of Corcovado National Park in the Pacific Ocean. Corcovado might get most of the attention, but the crystal-clear waters of Cano Island Biological Reserve shouldn’t be overlooked. The 3 square kilometers (1.9 square mile) island has been declared a protected reserve part of the Osa Conservation Area in 1978 after the Costa Rican government decided to preserve its valuable history and its rich natural biodiversity.

The Island: History, Nature & Ecotourism

Truly playground for archaeologists, discoveries are impressive. Pottery pieces, stone artifacts and the intriguing perfectly rounded stone spheres of the indigenous cultures have been excavated in Cano Island. In the pre-Columbian time, the island used to be an Indian cemetery and according to searches and studies it might have been an important trading site. In this absolute remote rainforest thrives very high trees, more than a hundred and fifty species of plants and different species of migratory birds and seabirds. However, the diversity of terrestrial fauna of the island remains very limited compared to Corcovado. Some of the most common mammals, reptiles and amphibians inhabiting Cano Island National Park are opossum, paca (agouti), boa constrictor, transparent tree frog, rats, bats and lizards.

The lesser known destination remains a mystery for more than one travelers as Isla del Caño is highly popular for its water activities, but it is prohibited to hike in its evergreen forest. Charter boats will make a stop to the popular tourist destination. Visitors will register in the ranger station and be able to roam along the pristine sandy beaches overlooking the immensity of trees and the clear water of the Pacific Ocean. You might observe some wildlife through the density of the vegetation, most especially birds. The cattle egret, common black hawk, osprey, brown booby and Northern phalarope reside on Cano Island.

Water Activities: Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

The heritage reserve counts with a sea area that covers approximately 5.8 km² (2.2 square miles). Considered as a top ecotourism destination, Cano Island offers world class snorkeling and scuba diving in the South Pacific of Costa Rica. The year-round water temperature ranges in the mid 80ºs providing the perfect habitat for tropical marine creatures and the ideal conditions to slip into the water for several hours.

Discover the underwater treasures between healthy coral gardens in one of the best snorkeling adventures in Costa Rica. The island’s emerald waters evoke a sense of wonder by swimming alongside schooling pelagic fish just over the ocean floor. Visibility is near-perfect during the months of January, February, March and April. The sunlit tropical waters are abundant with large living creatures including manta rays, sea turtles, moray eels, bottlenose dolphins and sharks. Explore a myriad of coral reefs teeming with a collection of tropical fish in shallow depths. In addition to a multitude of fish, various species of the ocean’s most fascinating and friendly creatures are unfortunately in danger of extinction, including the lobster and the giant conch among others.

Called the Amazon of the ocean, Cano Island is a prime location for sea life providing a totally laid-back vibe for passionate snorkelers and divers. Only by thriving beneath the sea, you can realize the abundance of sea life that inhabits the waters of this large reef system. Observing underwater life nestled between the coastlines of the island and the Pacific Ocean is a delight for anyone on the lookout for the most elegant, unusual or colorful fish.

Certified scuba divers will take a charter to deeper-water sites increasing chances to see a richer variety of marine fauna. Get closer to deeper ocean species allowing you to see the most hidden part of Caño Island.

Scuba Diving Baptism

A Baptism, also known as a Discovery Dive, is an introductory experience designed for individuals who have never scuba dived before or do not have a diving certification. It allows beginners to explore the underwater world under the close supervision of a certified dive instructor. Here’s what it typically involves:

1. Briefing: Before the dive, participants receive a short briefing on basic scuba diving principles, safety procedures, and equipment usage. This includes learning how to breathe through a regulator, equalize pressure, and communicate underwater using hand signals.
2. Shallow Water Training: The experience starts in the most shallow and calm water of the Island. Here, participants practice basic skills, like clearing their mask, breathing underwater, and using the regulator.
3. Open Water Dive: After gaining confidence in shallow water, participants are taken on a guided dive in open water. The depth is limited to around 12 meters (40 feet) or less to ensure safety and comfort. The instructor stays close by, ensuring you can enjoy the experience while feeling secure.
4. Exploration: During the dive, you get to explore the underwater environment, observing marine life and experiencing the sensation of weightlessness. It offers a glimpse into the world of scuba diving and can spark a lifelong interest in the activity.
5. Certification: A Scuba Diving Baptism or Discovery Dive does not result in certification. It is a one-time experience meant to introduce individuals to the sport. However, it can be a stepping stone toward obtaining an Open Water Diver certification if you decide to pursue further training.

Overall, the Scuba Diving Baptism is a safe and exciting way for beginners to experience scuba diving and the wonders of the underwater world without committing to a full certification course.

Discover the paradise of divers and snorkelers at Caño Island!