Peru?

[mickwood]

We're off to Peru in April and was wondering if anyone has dived there? We'll be spending a few days in Lima but could venture aroudn that coast if we could find some diving? Has anyone been?

[PeteStewart]

Hi Mick,

The only place known is in the area of Paracas, but sea is cold and lumpy but it is a nature reserve. The Ballestas Islands are just off the coast there where there could be something decent. However, it is unlikely that there is a dive centre there. Best bet is to ask in Lima.

Ballestas Islands:
Known by many as the "Galapagos of Peru", these small islands are nonetheless spectacular in their own right and well worth visiting. They are part of a national reserve where sea lions, seals, penguins, guano birds and turtles (rarely found at this latitude) can be seen. On the way there by boat, you will undoubtedly see the famous Candelabro (candlestick) traced in the hillside of the mainland by Pre-Inca peoples. It is at least 50 meters long and believed to be linked to the Nazca Lines. Some relate it to the Southern Cross constellation, while others say it is a drawing of a cactus, a symbol of power from the Chavin culture.

Pete

[mickwood]

Thanks, yeah apparently there is a dive centre in Lima but I was hoping some wise elder on here will have been and had some advice....suck it and see I guess?

[bottlefish]

I've travelled the coast line of Peru in 2001, including Ilsa Balestas, I kept a good eye open but didn't find a single dive store. A shame, as I reckon some of the areas would be quite good....

[mickwood]

Cheers, think we should grab a gang of us and become diving pioneers!!

I'll just keep an eye out I reckon??