Diving in Brazil

[cam_rickman]

Hi,

I am planning to spend some time in Brazil in Aug/Sept this year for ~2 weeks. I plan to spend about a week in Rio, perhaps spend some time in Buzios for a couple of dives and stay for ~5 days diving in either Recife or Salvador. Can anyone recomend what would be a better option for diving and siteseeing? Recife or Salvador? FYI - I have researched Fernando de Noronha but the flights and taxes are a bit expensive..

Many thanks,
cam

 

[apadua]

Hi Cam,

While in Buzios I very much recommend you dive in neighboring city Arraial do Cabo (but keep your lodging in Buzios unless you're going there exclusively for the diving). It's a 45 minute drive in a windy road but totally worth the commute. You can do a two-tank boat dive there easily. Check out PL Divers (Operadora de Mergulho em Arraial do Cabo - PL Divers- Home). That's where I got certified and I really like the folks there.

Regarding hte Northeast, the only place I've been to dive is Fernando de Noronha. The place is truly unbeleivable. I didn't even know that kind of visibility was possible. And they have big animals - big Rays, sharks, dolphins, groupers, etc. The downside - the dives will be deeper and guided, and with S80 tanks you're looking at 40-45 minute dives. And yes, it's expensive.

As to whether you should go for Recife or Salvador, I'd personally try Recife first. Although i've never been to either one for diving, I've heard great things about Recife's wrecks.

PM me if you need more info and I'll try to help you out.

Cheers, and have a nice trip!