Discounted admission to Socorro: this is what you need to know about the new park fees
Socorro is high on many divers’ bucket lists. And for good reason. This remote island group, officially the Revillagigedo Archipelago, offers encounters you won’t experience in the same way anywhere else in the world. Think curious manta rays circling around you for minutes at a time, large schools of hammerhead sharks, dolphins actively seeking contact and, in the right season, even humpback whales.
Because Socorro is so unique and fragile, park fees apply to the protected area. Since Jan. 1, 2025, these fees have been increased throughout Mexico for all natural protected areas, including Socorro. However, there are also some exceptions and discounts, we’ll tell you more about them in this blog.
Park fees in Socorro since 2025
Entrance fees to Mexican nature reserves have doubled since 2025. That includes the Revillagigedo archipelago.
For divers traveling with Nautilus Liveaboards, however, there is a significant cushioning to this increase. Nautilus has arranged for guest fees to be subsidized, capping the amount you pay yourself at $172 per day. This remains true regardless of currency fluctuations or further changes.
Discounts and exceptions to the park fee
In addition to the general increase, official exceptions and discount categories have been introduced. As a result, certain travelers pay significantly less or even nothing.
No park fee
The following groups are exempt from payment:
- Children under 12 years of age
- Persons with disabilities (with medical certificate)
- Seniors registered with INAPAM (Mexico).
- Pensioners or pension recipients with official proof
75% discount
- Students and teachers with valid identification
- Persons from government-designated socially vulnerable regions
50% discount
- Mexican citizens (with valid ID, passport or birth certificate)
- Foreign residents of Mexico with temporary or permanent residence permits
Why Socorro is so special
Socorro is not a standard diving destination. It is an expedition to one of the most impressive marine ecosystems in the world. The remote location of the islands ensures that the marine life remains exceptionally pristine.
What makes Socorro especially unique are the interactions with large pelagic animals. Manta rays often actively seek contact with divers here, dolphins keep playing near you, and on some trips you may even encounter humpback whales. In addition, sightings of hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, Galapagos sharks and whale sharks, among others, are frequent.
Smart travel to Socorro
If you are traveling to Socorro, it is important to check in advance to see if you qualify for a discount or exemption from the park fee. In particular, students, teachers, Mexican residents and certain groups with official status can benefit.
Always make sure you have the proper documents with you, such as a student ID, residence permit or official proof of status. Without these documents, the discount cannot be applied.
Despite the higher park fees, Socorro remains one of the most impressive dive destinations in the world. The combination of huge pelagic encounters, clear blue waters and the remote location makes every dive here unforgettable.
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