Tour · Urca
Mergulhei
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Mergulhei is a premier scuba diving tour based in the upscale Urca neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, just across from the famous Bar Urca. The experience takes you into the clear waters of Guanabara Bay, where you'll explore vibrant reefs and encounter sea turtles, rays, and colorful tropical fish. The tour is led by certified instructors who provide all equipment and safety briefings, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. After the dive, you can relax on the beach or enjoy a cold drink at Bar Urca while taking in views of Sugarloaf Mountain. It's a unique way to experience Rio's natural beauty from beneath the surface.
Don't miss
- Dive in the protected waters of Guanabara Bay with abundant marine life
- See sea turtles, rays, and schools of colorful fish up close
- Enjoy views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the Urca coastline
- Professional instruction and high-quality rental gear provided
- Convenient location across from Bar Urca for post-dive refreshments
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Mergulhei
You can visit on your own (paid entry, check official site for pricing and booking). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inEntrance to the Giant Roda of Rio de Janeiro4.8★ · 1,440 travelers20 minutesFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →
Most bookedRio de Janeiro Sunset Sailing Tour with Drinks4.8★ · 995 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$70 per personSee dates →
Private & flexible6-Hour Private Guided Tour in Rio de Janeiro5★ · 23 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$125 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- You must be comfortable in water and able to swim; a basic health check is required.
- Bring a valid ID and any diving certification if you have one.
- Check weather conditions; tours may be canceled in rough seas.
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
A bit of history
Urca is one of Rio's oldest neighborhoods, developed in the early 20th century. The bay's waters have long been a spot for recreational diving, with Mergulhei establishing itself as a trusted operator for guided underwater tours.
Common questions
Do I need a diving certification?
No, beginners are welcome with a guided introductory dive; certified divers can bring their own logbook.
What equipment is provided?
All scuba gear is included: wetsuit, mask, fins, regulator, and tank.
How deep is the dive?
Depths vary from 5 to 15 meters depending on conditions and experience level.
Is the dive safe for children?
Minimum age is typically 10 years old with parental consent.
What marine life can I expect?
Common sightings include sea turtles, rays, parrotfish, and moray eels.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, tours are weather-dependent; you'll receive a full refund if canceled by the operator.
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