This dive site, known as 'El Canyon', is situated on the southern tip of San Benedicto Island, part of Mexico's famed Revillagigedo Islands. It's a significant underwater canyon providing deep water access and exposure to the open Pacific, creating a unique environment for large pelagics. Divers typically navigate along the canyon walls, often experiencing drift diving conditions as they follow the movements of the abundant megafauna. While no specific historical events are documented for the site itself, its reputation as a world-class pelagic hotspot has grown steadily over recent decades.
San Benedicto Canyon is celebrated for its incredible pelagic encounters. Divers frequently witness majestic giant Pacific manta rays, which are a major draw. The site is also a haven for sharks, including schooling hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, and silky sharks, offering thrilling encounters. Playful dolphins are often spotted, adding to the excitement. While the primary focus is on these large animals, the rocky and volcanic structures of the canyon do support some smaller reef fish and invertebrate life, though it's not a site known for its macro diversity.
The prime season for diving San Benedicto Canyon typically runs from November to May, when cooler waters attract the largest aggregations of pelagic species. This site is strictly for advanced to expert divers due to its challenging conditions, which include potentially strong currents, deeper profiles, and open ocean exposure. Access is exclusively via liveaboard vessels, emphasizing multi-day trips to reach these remote islands. Due to these factors, it is not recommended for snorkeling or general freediving, which would not allow full appreciation or safe navigation of the site's unique offerings.
