The Mazatlán Cliff Divers
Viewing the Cliff Divers at "El Clavadista"
MEXICO
The Mazatlán cliff divers are a group of skilled divers who perform daring jumps from the cliffs of Mazatlán. This tradition dates back several decades and has become a popular tourist attraction in the area. These cliff divers typically perform their jumps at a site called "El Clavadista," which is located in Mazatlán's Old Town area, near the iconic El Faro lighthouse. They don't actually dive from a cliff; instead, they leap from a platform situated approximately 50 feet above the water.
The cliff divers do not follow a fixed schedule for their dives, but they often perform when cruise ships arrive in Mazatlán and on Sundays. During our visit at around 9 am on a Thursday, we saw several tour buses arriving and dropping off passengers to watch the cliff divers. The divers quickly took their positions and went for it!
I was amazed by how quickly they were able to swim back to shore after their dive. Additionally, you have the opportunity to get up close to these courageous individuals as they circulate to collect donations for their performance.
For tourists visiting Mazatlán, watching the cliff divers in action is a memorable experience that provides a glimpse into the region's adventurous spirit. The tradition continues to attract visitors from around the world who come to witness these fearless athletes showcase their talents against the backdrop of the stunning Pacific coastline. Happy exploring!
