Fernando de Noronha vs Malpelo Island — Dive Destination Comparison
Fernando de Noronha (Brazil) scores 55.3/100 vs Malpelo Island's 54.6/100 in OkToDive's 12-category rating. Choose Fernando de Noronha for wreck diving with 24–49m visibility. Choose Malpelo Island for reef diving at ~$200/dive.
Last updated: 2026-07-22
Side-by-side comparison
| Metric | Fernando de Noronha | Malpelo Island |
|---|---|---|
| OkToDive Score | 55.3/100 | 54.6/100 |
| Country | Brazil | Colombia |
| Visibility | 24--49m | 9--24m |
| Water temp | 26--29 C | 18--26 C |
| Max depth | 40m | 40m |
| Current | moderate | moderate |
| Cost per 2-tank dive | $120 | $200 |
| Budget tier | mid range | mid range |
| Best months | September, October, November | January, February, March |
| Dive types | wreck, pelagic | reef, pelagic |
| Min certification | Open Water | Open Water |
| Key species | dolphins | whale |
| Google rating | 0 (0 reviews) | 0 (0 reviews) |
Which should you choose?
Choose Fernando de Noronha when...
- + Wreck diving enthusiasts
- + Wide-angle photographers wanting crystal visibility
- + Groups seeking 20+ named dive sites in one area
Skip if
- - You don't have Advanced certification
- - You need shore access — this is boat-only
Choose Malpelo Island when...
- + Divers who prioritize reef diving
- + Anyone visiting South America for the first time
- + Groups seeking 10+ named dive sites in one area
Skip if
- - You don't have Advanced certification
- - You hate cold water — temps drop to 18°C
Bottom line
Fernando de Noronha wins on overall score (55.3 vs 54.6), but the right choice depends on your priorities. Fernando de Noronha is more affordable ($120 vs $200/dive). Fernando de Noronha has better peak visibility (49m vs 24m).