On our last night in Acapulco we went to check out one of the resort city’s most popular attractions — the clavadistas, or cliff divers, at La Quebrada.
Acapulco’s famous cliff divers of La Quebrada have been entertaining audiences since 1934. I was surprised to discover that during the 1960′s and 1970′s cliff diving in Acapulco was regularly featured on U.S. television. The clavadistas, some as young as 14 years old, dive from heights of 25-35m into the narrow cove between the cliffs. The depth of the water in the cove ranges from 6-16ft depending on the waves. Each dive must be carefully timed according to the waves to ensure adequate depth.
The show begins with an introduction and brief history in both Spanish and English followed by the arrival of the divers via a stone staircase leading down to the viewing area. After making their way through the crowd, the divers scale down the first cliff, cross the cove and climb to the top of the opposite cliff where they take turns praying in front of a shrine to the Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexico’s celebrated Catholic icon. Then they take turns diving off narrow platforms into the cove below.
La Quebrada is located on the western end of the city in the old town not far from the cathedral and zócalo. The divers perform five times each day; at 1pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 10:30pm. During the last performance of the night they dive holding lit torches. There’s a viewing area for spectators, but a far better option is to enjoy dinner and drinks while taking in the show from the terrace of La Perla Restaurant. It’s a little pricey, but the food is good, the service is friendly and the views are excellent.
Photos by Allie Lefebvre
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
I remember seeing this when we were there almost 14 yrs ago. It was amazing to watch these guys!
So amazing! I would love to see that!
That’s on my bucket list! stumbled!
Wow, I had no idea they did shows. Sounds awesome.
I remember seeing them on television here in the States! Note I didn’t say *watch* them. I’m terrified of heights and panicked just watching them–even though they know what they are doing!
#Stumbled
Super cool. My hubby would really like to see that. He’d probably like to do it too. Crazy man. Thanks for the insight!