Cabo de Gata

Cabo de Gata Njar Natural Park is Andalusia's first marine-terrestrial Natural Park, located near Almeria. With a surface area of about 500 km2, it is also the largest in the European Western Mediterranean Sea. It also contains the municipality of Carboneras, the Sierra de Cabo de Gata mountain range, and 120 km2 of sea as part of a Marine Reserve.

The area is volcanic in origin, and the coastline is a true scuba diving paradise. Warm, clear seas allow for excellent visibility; the water temperature is pleasant from January to December, and the sea is tranquil. But, in the end, you come to dive here to see the thousands of different animal and plant species that await you.

Because the park is a protected natural area, you will need to obtain a permit from the Andalusia Regional Government's Environment Department. You will be required to submit your official diving certification as well as applicable insurance in order to do so.

Alternatively, you can hire the services of one of the area's specialized diving clubs to arrange diving tours. It may appear to be a hassle, but the lack of divers is part of what makes it one of Spain's top dive locations.

Location: Níjar, Almería