In the eastern Pacific, Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary rises from the abyss as a UNESCO-listed hammerhead highway where schools of two hundred or more scalloped hammerheads materialize in the blue above steep volcanic walls. Liveaboard access only, with strict Colombian park regulations governing dive schedules and depths. December through April delivers the legendary winter aggregation pulse before summer thins the schools.
In the eastern Pacific, Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary rises from the abyss as a UNESCO-listed hammerhead highway where schools of two hundred or more scalloped hammerheads materialize in the blue above steep volcanic walls. Liveaboard access only, with strict Colombian park regulations governing dive schedules and depths. December through April delivers the legendary winter aggregation pulse before summer thins the schools.
Up to 92% sighting chance in Malpelo Island (Colombia). Best months: December, February, March.
December through April is the classic peak, with schools often largest in January and February before summer thins the aggregations.
No. Only liveaboard expeditions from Colombia or Panama reach Malpelo, typically 5 to 7 day trips costing 2,800 to 4,200 US dollars (2026 prices).
Schools of two hundred or more scalloped hammerheads are regularly reported above the volcanic walls in peak season.
Primarily scalloped hammerheads in large schools, with occasional silky and Galapagos sharks sharing the blue water.
Yes. Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary enforces strict dive schedules, depth limits, and liveaboard-only access under Colombian park rules.
