Colombia is the 3rd most diverse Latin American country regarding sharks, after Mexico and Brazil. There are around 76 species of sharks in Colombian waters, though most are not permanent residents and are migratory.
List of the Different Types of Sharks in Colombia
| Species | Maximum Size | Aggressiveness |
Bull Shark |
7-12 feet | Highly aggressive |
| Common Thresher Shark | 12-18 feet | Not aggressive |
Dusky Shark |
9 -12 feet | Not aggressive (until provoked) |
Galapagos Shark |
9.8-12 feet | Highly aggressive |
| Great Hammerhead Shark | 15-20 feet | Highly aggressive |
Nurse Shark |
7-8 feet | Not aggressive |
| Oceanic Whitetip Shark | 10-13 feet | Highly aggressive |
Scalloped Hammerhead Shark |
9-12 feet | Moderately aggressive |
Shortfin Mako Shark |
6.5-9.5 feet | Highly aggressive |
Silky Shark |
7-10 feet | Highly aggressive |
Smalltooth Sand Tiger Shark |
12-14 feet | Not aggressive |
Tiger Shark |
10-14 feet | Highly aggressive |
Whale Shark |
18-32 feet | Not aggressive |
Recent Cases of Shark Attacks in Colombia >>
FAQs
1. Have there been shark attacks in Colombia?
There have only been a handful of shark attacks throughout the country’s history, with most of these attacks being non-fatal.
2. Can you go shark diving in Colombia?
Malpelo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a famous shark diving destination. The government only allows one boat to this reservoir, home to hammerheads, silky sharks, and other species.
