Mangel Halto | |
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Map of MPA Mangel Halto (blue) and Arikok National Park (green). [1] | |
Coordinates | 12°27′54″N69°58′10″W / 12.464917°N 69.969528°W |
Dive type | |
Depth range | 16 to 25 m (52 to 82 ft) |
Average visibility | 20 m (66 ft) |
Entry type |
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Bottom composition | Sand and coral |
Water | Salt |
Nearby sites |
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Mangel Halto is a shallow lagoon and recreational dive site near Pos Chikito in Aruba. [2] [3] In 2019, it was designated as a marine reserve within the Marine Park Aruba, with management overseen by the National Park Foundation of Aruba. [1]
Mangel Halto is nestled amidst the mangrove forests and boasts is a tranquil beach that stretches approximately 600 metres (0.37 mi) in length. To the north of the beach lies the natural reserve known as Spaans Lagoen. [4] The calm and shallow lagoon make it an ideal spot for activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and SUP boarding. [5]
Mangel Halto, Tugboat is a bowl-shaped dive site with the wreck of an old tugboat, Kappel, at a depth of 12 metres (39 ft). [6] Suitable for beginner snorkelers. [7]
Mangel Halto, Outside is a sloping coastal reef dive site located just beyond the reef where the ocean depth reaches 110 metres (360 ft). [2] There are two cuts on the left side of the reef, these cuts are used to get access beyond the reef. The deepest cut is marked by a white buoy. The left cut is more shallow and less chance for boat traffic. This area is suitable for advanced snorkelers. [7]
The reef ecosystem serves as a habitat for octopuses, Green moray, sea turtles and barracudas. [5] [2]
The area around Mangel Halto features limestone cliffs from the Late Pleistocene Lower Terrace mixed with reef rubble. [1]