Whale Shark Season in Bahía Solano
Every April and May, the wild Colombian Pacific transforms. Leave the crowds behind and experience the raw thrill of scuba diving and freediving alongside the ocean's most magnificent and gentle giants.
Where Adventure Runs on Fins
Bring your camera, bring your respect for the ocean, and let the wild Pacific write your story.
Diving with Giants (Scuba)
- Drop into our spectacular rocky reefs and shipwrecks. As you glide through the water, a curious whale shark might just swim right over you. We dive in small, expert-led groups to give you the ultimate freedom to explore.
Surface Encounters (Freediving & Snorkeling)
You don't need a tank to witness the magic. We frequently spot them hunting near the surface. Slip into the water with your mask, fins, lifejacket, and surface buoy, keep pace, and share a quiet, profound moment with these beautiful creatures. Safety and visibility are our top priorities.
Respecting the Wild Pacific
The ocean is wild, and nature sets the schedule. While our local SSI-certified guides know the ocean's rhythms, every dive is a unique expedition. To protect this incredible ecosystem, Ankla Azul strictly enforces our three golden rules of the ocean:
- Do not touch.
- Do not feed.
- Do not harass or annoy any animal.
New to the Pacific? We’ve got your back. We handle the navigation and currents so you can relax, drift at your own pace, and focus entirely on the magic around you.
Price & booking
Choose your adventure. Whether you book a course or a fun dive, we take you straight to the dive sites where whale sharks roam—at no extra cost. Just remember, it is Mother Nature: open your heart and she will gift you, but nothing is guaranteed.
Next Season:
Stress & Rescue
You are now a competent, advanced diver. The next step is to become a safe diver for others. The SSI Stress & Rescue course is widely considered the most rewarding course in diving—it teaches you how to save lives.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as PADI Advanced Open Water?
Yes! It is the exact equivalent. The standards (5 dives, Deep + Nav mandatory) are identical. Your SSI Advanced Adventurer card is respected by every dive shop in the world.
Is there a final exam?
No! There are just knowledge reviews. This course is about diving, not testing.
Can I combine this with the Cabo Marzo trip?
Yes! We can often arrange for some of your training dives (like Drift or Boat diving) to happen during the Cabo Marzo expedition. Ask us about a custom package.
What gear is provided?
We provide high-end rental gear, including XDEEP backplates, dive computers, and compasses necessary for the navigation dive.
Can I fly after the course?
You must wait 18–24 hours after your last dive before flying. Please plan your return flight accordingly!
Need Help Starting Your Journey?
It’s normal to have questions before your trip. Here’s what we can help with:
Scheduling: Want to combine this course with fun dives?
Electives: Not sure which 3 specialty dives to pick?
Groups: Coming with friends who are also getting certified?
Send us a message, and we'll help you plan the perfect itinerary.
What Divers Say
300+Reviews
Vinha Damanta
"I did 3 dives with the guys from Ankla Azul and all three were great... The diveshop gives much attention to safety and following the right procedures which gives you a very safe feeling. They have excellent gear almost new do they kit you out like a pro."
Magda K
"The dive center impressed us a lot – the equipment was top quality, making every dive comfortable and safe... Besides scuba diving, we had the chance to try freediving, which at the waterfall was an absolutely unique experience."
Nicole Reynolds
"I spent three days with the Ankla Azul team for scuba diving and it was an incredible experience... Ja, the main dive master and instructor, takes pride in his diving excursions and it's clear he has a huge love for Bahia Solano and the wildlife here."
Gloria Guillin Cuello
"This time, I did my first dive with Ankla Azul and three other friends. The experience was spectacular, from the beginning of the training to the practice session. Our instructor demonstrated kindness and knowledge, providing us with a safe guide."
Adèle B
Absolutely amazing experience! The dive was unforgettable, we could hear the whales singing underwater the entire time... The team at Ankla Azul is super professional, the equipment is top quality, and everything felt very safe and well-organized."
Dayana Jamaica
Excelente experiencia, Andres y Victor son unos duros, muy amables, atentos, cuidadosos, nos hicieron sentir seguras todo el tiempo y disfrutar del buceo aun nosotras sin saber nada, la pasamos muy bien, 100% recomendado