Cuyo Mendoza is a region located in western Argentina, known for its high-altitude vineyards, stunning mountains, and beautiful lakes. While it is not a traditional diving destination, there are some freshwater diving opportunities available in nearby lakes, mainly suitable for recreational diving and training.
Best diving spots for experienced divers:
- Potrerillos Reservoir: Located near the city of Mendoza, this reservoir offers freshwater diving opportunities with interesting underwater rock formations and underwater caves. This dive site is suitable for experienced divers due to the depth and the possibility of strong currents.
- El Carrizal Reservoir: Located near the town of San Rafael, this reservoir offers interesting underwater landscapes, with walls and canyons to explore. This dive site is suitable for experienced divers due to the depth and the possibility of strong currents.
Best diving spots for beginners:
- Laguna del Diamante: Located in the Andes Mountains, this lake offers calm and clear water, making it an ideal spot for beginner divers. The lake has a sandy bottom and interesting rock formations to explore, with a variety of freshwater fish species to see.
- Los Reyunos Reservoir: Located near the town of San Rafael, this reservoir offers easy and shallow diving conditions, suitable for beginner divers. The lake features submerged trees and interesting rock formations, with clear water and good visibility.
Marine life:
As these dive sites are freshwater locations, the marine life in Cuyo Mendoza differs from ocean diving spots. Divers can expect to see various freshwater fish species, aquatic plants, and interesting underwater landscapes. While the marine life may be less diverse compared to ocean dive sites, the unique environments offer a different kind of diving experience.
Dive conditions:
Dive conditions in Cuyo Mendoza's freshwater sites can vary depending on the weather and water conditions. Water temperatures in the lakes and reservoirs can range from 50°F (10°C) to 68°F (20°C) depending on the time of year. Visibility in freshwater environments can be quite good, ranging from 16 to 33 feet (5 to 10 meters) or more, depending on the specific location and conditions.
Cost:
The cost of diving in Cuyo Mendoza will depend on the dive center and the specific location. Generally, guided dives may range from $40 to $80 per dive, while dive courses and equipment rental costs will vary depending on the dive center.
When planning a diving trip to Cuyo Mendoza, it's important to research the available dive sites and operators to find the best fit for your skill level and interests. Keep in mind that this region is not a typical diving destination, so the available options may be more limited compared to coastal areas.
