Get Your PADI Scuba Certification in Guatemala!
by MAXIMO NIVEL
Program Overview
Earn your global PADI Certification in Guatemala, while exploring the iconic waters of Lake Atitlan.
Travel to Santa Cruz on the edge of Lake Atitlan, only a 15-minute boat ride from Panajachel. An untraditional destination for PADI Open Water Diving certification, Lake Atitlan offers a unique high-altitude dive experience into the volcanic crater of Lake Atitlan. Divers touch hot mud along the lake’s volcanic fault lines; view the underwater volcanic rock formations and swim-throughs; and visit the lake’s local inhabitants, including freshwater fish, crabs, and a variety of plant life.
Scuba certification structure:
1. Knowledge Development
2. Confined Water Dives
3. Open Water Dives
If you're short on time or testing the waters, the 2-day Scuba Discovery program pairs basic pool training with two guided open-water lake dives.
Ready to dive deeper into this program?
Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- Throughout the Year
- Scuba
- Spanish
- Sports
Updated Sep 30, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Antigua, Guatemala
- Panajachel, Guatemala
Types & Subjects
- Adventure Types
- Scuba
- Subjects & Courses
- Spanish
- Sports
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
- Terms Available
- Throughout the Year
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Education
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accommodation Options
- Apartment/Flat
- Guest House
- Home-stays
- Independent living
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
14+
Starts At
- 2 days: $495
Payment Terms
- Payment Plan
- Upfront Deposit
- Changes Allowed
Refund Policy
Full Refund
View Refund Policy
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about MAXIMO NIVEL.
What are the program requirements?
– Physically fit
– Basic swimming skills; comfortable in the water
– Able to swim 200 meters unassisted
– All scuba equipment is provided, but you may choose to bring your own mask, snorkel and fins
– All surf equipment is provided, but feel free to bring your own board
What does the scuba program include?
– Accommodations
– Bilingual, PADI-certified instructor
– All PADI course materials
– Diving equipment
– Transportation to/from dive sites
– PADI Certification
– Must wait 24 hours after last dive before flying to avoid decompression sickness
Can I combine the Scuba program with other Maximo Nivel programs?
Yes! You can easily pair your scuba certification with Spanish Immersion, Volunteer Abroad, TEFL Certification, or an International Internship to build a fully customized study abroad experience.
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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