Diving atJicaron and Jicarita (Panama)
Reaching Jicaron and Jicarita typically involves a dedicated boat trip, often spanning multiple days, from Santa Catalina. These islands lie on the steep drop-off of the Pacific Ocean, where the seabed plunges thousands of meters deep. Such a journey offers a preview of dive sites mostly characterized by deeper profiles, catering to experienced divers seeking remote and nutrient-rich waters.
As evening covers Jicaron and Jicarita, the local air temperature is measured at 28.6°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 1.28m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
7.2113, -81.8275
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Jicaron and Jicarita are integral to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005 and a national park since 1992, providing a critical protective zone. This region acts as the northern pillar of the vast Eastern Pacific Marine Corridor, frequently referred to as The Shark Triangle, serving as a vital thoroughfare for migrating megafauna.
Here, the profound depths of the Pacific encounter the shallower underwater formations around the islands. These convergence points foster significant upwellings, enriching the waters and cultivating a thriving marine ecosystem. Panama further solidified its commitment to conservation by expanding its protection zone by 62,000 km2 in June 2021, creating a continuous corridor linked to Colombia's Malpelo Protection Area.
Diving in this dynamic environment means exploring an area central to one of the planet's most productive marine habitats, supporting exceptional biodiversity. The volcanic rock formations and surrounding reef systems of these islands create varied underwater topographies, from steep walls to current-swept pinnacles, defining the experience. Expect energetic conditions.
Best Time to Dive
Planning your dive to Jicaron and Jicarita is best aligned with the drier, calmer months, which generally offer more favorable conditions for remote travel. Dive scores indicate 'Good' conditions in January, March, April, and December. During these periods, average rainfall is notably lower, ranging from approximately 2.1 mm (March) to 7.3 mm (December). Air temperatures remain consistently warm, hovering between 27.1°C (80.8°F) in December and 28.0°C (82.4°F) in March, ensuring comfortable surface intervals. The months from May through November tend to have 'Moderate' dive scores, marked by increased rainfall, which can reach up to 18.7 mm in November, potentially impacting sea conditions and visibility.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Current dynamics are a defining feature when diving at sites near Jicaron and Jicarita. Locations such as 'La Catedral' and 'La Lavadora' are particularly known for their strong currents, often necessitating drift diving techniques. Divers frequently report feeling the 'washing machine' effect, where powerful water movement can create an exhilarating, yet challenging, experience. The islands are subject to large swells, particularly along Jicaron's rocky shorelines, which contribute to the energetic underwater environment. Water temperatures are not consistently reported for this specific site, but typically vary depending on seasonal upwellings of deep seawater, which also contribute to the abundant marine life.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching dive sites around Jicaron and Jicarita demands a high level of diver skill and preparedness. These locations, characterized by deep ocean drop-offs and significant currents, are best suited for experienced divers comfortable with advanced conditions. It's advisable to undertake these dives as part of special trips with local guides, who possess invaluable knowledge of the prevailing currents and site specifics. Given the remote nature of these islands, often requiring multi-day excursions from Santa Catalina, dive planning must account for logistical challenges and self-sufficiency. Always prioritize safety briefings and ensure your equipment is well-maintained for challenging dives.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Subtle variations in currents or depth can sometimes influence perceived water temperature.
Dive skin or rash guard tends to perform well in water temperatures like those currently observed here. The coming days appear slightly cooler according to the latest forecast. Cooler days are ahead; you might want a warmer option for later in the week. Carrying a secondary suit is common practice among experienced divers.
Current temperature readings suggest that the water at Jicaron and Jicarita is around 29°C (84°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 29°C (83°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
PAB
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at Jicaron and Jicarita
Diving around Jicaron and Jicarita provides remarkable opportunities to observe a diverse range of marine life, particularly large pelagic species attracted to the nutrient-rich waters. Encounters with sharks, including white tip reef sharks and occasional hammerheads, are possible. Divers frequently observe large schools of predatory fish such as tuna, jacks, snappers, and barracudas, along with spade fish. The vibrant reef life also includes moray eels, butterflyfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, frogfish, pufferfish, blennies, and lobsters. On the surface, sightings of spinner and spotted dolphins, orcas, humpback, and pilot whales are not uncommon, especially as they utilize these transcontinental routes for hunting and travel.
Moray Eel
Reef Shark
Tuna
Hammerhead
Pufferfish
Snapper
Butterflyfish
Lobster
Barracuda
Frogfish
Angelfish
Surgeonfish
Dive Centers Near Jicaron and Jicarita
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Jicaron and Jicarita?
Access to Jicaron and Jicarita typically begins with a boat trip from Santa Catalina, Panama. These trips are often special excursions, sometimes requiring multi-day journeys due to the islands' remote location within Coiba National Park.
What skill level is required for diving at these sites?
Diving at Jicaron and Jicarita is generally recommended for experienced divers. The sites frequently feature deep profiles, strong currents, and dynamic conditions that require advanced diving skills and comfort.
What marine life can I expect to see?
Expect a rich diversity of marine life, particularly large pelagic species like various sharks, rays, and schooling predators such as tuna and jacks. You may also observe colorful reef fish, moray eels, and crustaceans. Surface sightings of dolphins and whales are possible.
Are there strong currents at Jicaron and Jicarita?
Yes, several dive sites around Jicaron and Jicarita, notably 'La Catedral' and 'La Lavadora,' are known for strong currents. These conditions often lead to exciting drift dives and can create a 'washing machine' effect.
When is the best time to dive Jicaron and Jicarita?
The best time to dive is generally during the drier months from January to April and in December. These periods offer lower rainfall, stable air temperatures, and more favorable surface conditions, leading to better overall dive scores.
Can I do night dives around Jicaron and Jicarita?
While night dives are possible within Coiba National Park, they are more commonly conducted closer to the main Coiba Island. Specific night diving opportunities directly at Jicaron or Jicarita are less consistently reported and may depend on individual trip arrangements.
What are some notable dive sites in the area?
Two prominent dive sites mentioned are 'La Catedral' and 'La Lavadora.' Both are recognized for their dramatic volcanic rock formations and challenging, current-driven dive experiences.
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Around This Area
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