TDI High Altitude Scuba Diver
1st Ever Certified High Altitude Scuba Diver Course
Scuba diving above 10,000 feet requires careful adjustment of dive profiles and decompression procedures to reduce the risk of decompression sickness, because lower atmospheric pressure at high elevations increases nitrogen absorption and off-gassing times.
Effects of High Altitude on Diving
At altitudes above 10,000 feet (approximately 3,048 meters), the ambient atmospheric pressure is significantly lower than at sea level, which reduces the total pressure around the diver. This has several key effects:
- Increased decompression stress: Nitrogen saturates tissues more rapidly relative to atmospheric pressure changes, making standard sea-level dive tables inappropriate.
- Modified no-decompression limits (NDLs): Divers have shorter allowable bottom times and must ascend more gradually.
- Risk of decompression sickness (DCS): The lower pressure increases nitrogen bubble formation during ascent, heightening DCS risk.
Adjustments for High-Altitude Diving
Dive Planning
- Use altitude-adjusted dive tables or a dive computer with altitude mode. These account for reduced atmospheric pressure and modify NDLs accordingly.
- Start with conservative dive profiles—limit depth and bottom time more strictly than at sea level.
Ascent Procedures
- Slower ascents: Make longer, controlled ascents with safety stops even for shallow dives.
- Include additional decompression stops as recommended by high-altitude tables or dive computers.
Surface Interval Considerations
- After diving at high altitude, wait longer before flying in an aircraft, as airplane cabin pressure increases DCS risk. Recommendations typically suggest 18–24 hours after deep or multiple high-altitude dives.
Physiological Factors
- High altitude often correlates with lower oxygen levels (hypoxia), which can exacerbate fatigue and affect judgment. Divers should be well-acclimatized.
- Cold water can further stress the body, increasing DCS susceptibility.
Training and Safety
- Only divers trained in high-altitude diving techniques should attempt dives above 10,000 feet.
- Carry oxygen and emergency equipment, as evacuation from remote high-altitude lakes can be challenging.
- Dive conservatively, using repeated short dives rather than long, deep exposures.
In summary, diving above 10,000 feet requires altitude-adjusted planning, reduced bottom times, slower ascents, and careful monitoring for DCS symptoms. Proper training and conservative safety practices are critical to safely enjoy high-altitude lakes or reservoirs.
Examples of High Altitude Lakes:
- Lake Titicaca: Located at an elevation of 12,507 feet, it is the largest high-altitude lake in the world, straddling the border of Bolivia and Peru.
- Ojos del Salado: This lake is situated at 20,965 feet on the summit of the Ojos del Salado volcano in Chile, making it one of the highest lakes in the world.
The Cost is $500.00 a day. Plus, Travel and coverage of expenses. IE: Equipment rental if outside the USA. Please call for plans and quote.
*** Additional Costs for travel and supplies DO APPLY! This is an extremely challenging and in-depth Course. Michael Robison is the ONLY person currently Certified to Teach This Course in the WORLD!! ***
