Rangiroa Atoll is known worldwide as a scuba diving paradise. The aquatic life exploration promises strong emotions and is sure to be an unforgettable memory. Diving in Rangiroa is a way of life, so what are the experiences that await you there?
Experience a Drift Dive in Rangiroa
Famous Tiputa Pass
Perhaps one of the best diving spots in the world, Tiputa Pass is one of the best things to do in Rangiroa. Carried by the incoming current, divers gradually drift from the mouth of the pass towards the interior of the lagoon. You will encounter dolphins, black tip sharks and grey sharks. You will even see manta rays and leopard rays. From January to March, hammerhead sharks will also be present. On the walls of the pass, you will see reef life with a multitude of frolicking tropical fish.
This beautiful dive in deep water is also a very impressive experience. It requires a certain level of comfort in the water (Open Water PADI). During a trip, you will do the drift dive several times in a row. The aquatic nature being capricious and changing, this will often give you a different feeling. Sometimes the fauna will be discreet, sometimes effervescent. Depending on the type of excursion you choose, you will be able to finish this drift dive in the heart of a wonderful coral garden.
Discreet Pass of Avatoru
Less famous, the Avatoru pass offers a similar experience during a drift dive. The aquatic fauna will be just as present, from sharks to rays. However, there are no dolphins to be seen, nor coral gardens nearby. This explains in part why the site is less frequented by divers. The Avatoru pass has the particularity of being shallower. Therefore, it is a more suitable site for snorkeling.
Diving in Rangiroa: Practical Information
What Is the Required Level?
For beginners, first dives and training courses are offered by accredited centers in Rangiroa. You will become familiar with your equipment and go out in a calm environment. Your instructor will then be able to evaluate your skills and guide you. The best way to learn to dive is with a program of four to five dives. You will be able to pass your first dive, obtain your certificate and do a drift dive in one of the passes. For certified divers, Open Water is sufficient to explore the passes. However, for more comfort, a level 2 is preferable.
Some Dive Centers to Recommend
We recommend two establishments: The 6 Passengers and the Rangiroa Diving Center. Both are located in Avatoru: the first one not far from the Kia Ora Resort, the second one close to the Tiputa pass. They have a long experience and show a great professionalism. Above all, they address environmental issues and the protection of aquatic life to help you become responsible divers.
Alternative to Scuba Diving: Snorkeling
In addition to scuba diving, you can also discover aquatic life on snorkeling trips. Near the Tiputa pass, the Aquarium is a place of intense aquatic excitement. The magnificent coral beds are home to thousands of fish of different sizes and colors. You won’t know where to look: the experience is unique and absolutely sensational.
Even more wonderful! At the other end of the atoll, the Blue Lagoon is a real natural swimming pool. A lagoon within a lagoon, where the numerous black tip sharks steal the show from the tropical fish. The aquatic observation on site gives a fantastic feeling. This expedition is to be experienced on an organized day tour that you can book now.
Time to Dive in Rangiroa!
Divers will find plenty to satisfy their passion in Rangiroa. Those who have never dived before can take their first dive for a successful and unforgettable experience. Have you chosen your hotel in Rangiroa? The infinite lagoon is waiting for you. Contact us to organize your stay in French Polynesia.
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