Scuba Diving in Laguna de Apoyo
Laguna de Apoyo. Image: Oded Gal
Heated by natural springs and thermal vents, Laguna de Apoyo is one of the most unique swimming and diving sites in the world. This freshwater lake was created around 23,000 years ago when a massive volcano erupted, launching the top of the volcano hundreds of miles away. Over time, the crater-like depression filled with water, and today the iconic Laguna de Apoyo is renowned for its clear, calm water and stunning biodiversity.
At Pacaya Lodge & Spa, we offer unparalleled opportunities to dive along volcanic slopes, glide over thermal vents, swim with endemic fish species, and splash around in the always warm, crystal-clear crater lake. Average visibility is between 15 and 24ft and the lake reaches depths of 175 meters (574 ft). Whether you are a beginner diver or already hold a certification, there are plenty of exciting opportunities for you explore the world beneath the waves.
Half Day
Wondering what it feels like to breath underwater or swim alongside a school of fish? Our three-hour introductory course is perfect for those who want to want to give Scuba a whirl. Begin with a short classroom session and then progress to the pool. Once you’ve mastered underwater breathing and equipment basics, our expert guide will take you for a dive out on the crystal-blue Laguna de Apoyo.
Open Water Certification
Pacaya Lodge & Spa offers the once-in-a-lifetime chance to obtain your PADI Open Water SCUBA certification in Laguna de Apoyo. Our expert local dive coach, Shaun, brings nearly twenty years of experience to the table. He is an expert in all things Scuba and knows how to bring energy and fun to every dive.
The Open Water PADI certification course is perfect for beginner divers and those looking to earn their first diving certification. Students will receive classroom training and test out their skills with a series of introductory pool dives prior to diving in Laguna de Apoyo. Once comfortable with the equipment, students will complete a series of 4 open water dives in the crater lake. Divers will have the opportunity to see large fish and even freshwater turtles while they glide through the clear water.
Image: Daniel Lobo
Advanced PADI Certification
Our lodge also offers the opportunity to obtain your Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Advanced SCUBA certification in a volcanic crater lake. This certification is for divers who already have their basic PADI certification and are seeking the advanced level.
The advanced PADI coursework involves five classroom knowledge review sessions and five open-water dives out on Laguna de Apoyo. All advanced divers are required to complete the deep and underwater navigation adventure courses but may select from a long list of adventure dives for the remaining three dives. The deep water adventure dive prepares you for the physiological effects and challenges of deeper scuba diving. The navigation course trains students to better navigate using visual cues, time, and kick-cycles. Other coursework options include fish identification, photography, and night diving.
Deep Water Certification
How does a 40m dive into the heart of a volcano sound? Dive deep and explore the exotic and mysterious underwater volcano slopes of Laguna de Apoyo through our advanced deep water adventure certification program.
This course prepares students for the physiological effects of deep sea diving and trains students to use deep-sea dive equipment and manage gas supply and pressure logistics. It is open to those who are at least 15 years old and who have earned a PADI Adventure Diver rating or higher.
Pacaya Lodge & Spa is proud to work with Volcano Divers for this exclusive 2-day experience. Start out in the classroom for a review of diving basics and then progress to diving deep with confidence. This package includes four deep-sea open-water dives in the warm waters of Laguna de Apoyo. Contact us to book your package today!
