A Life Shaped by the Ocean

For Andrés León, the ocean has always been more than water — it has been a teacher, a challenge, a sanctuary, and a home. What began as simple curiosity evolved into a deep calling: to explore the limits of breath, body, and mind, and to share that journey with others.

Born and raised in Costa Rica, Leon grew up surrounded by the Pacific. While many people see the ocean from the surface, he always felt drawn to what was beneath it — the stillness, the silence, the pressure, the freedom. Over time, this passion would lead him far beyond the coastline of Papagayo.

Becoming Costa Rica’s First World Championship Freediver

Leon’s dedication to freediving pushed him into uncharted territory, both personally and nationally. In 2024, he became the first Costa Rican athlete ever to compete in the Freediving World Championships in Corsica, representing his country on one of the biggest stages in the sport.

Along the way, he set 10 national records across pool and depth disciplines — a testament to years of discipline, technique, and unwavering commitment.

But to Leon, these records are not just numbers. They are milestones in a lifelong relationship with the ocean.

El León – The Film That Captures His Spirit

In 2023, Andrés León’s journey was immortalized in the short documentary EL LEÓN, part of the acclaimed One Breath – Deep Docs series.

The film follows his evolution as an athlete and as a human being — exploring his fears, his motivation, his connection to nature, and the inner battles that freediving brings to the surface.

It is a raw, honest portrait of a man who chooses to return to the ocean again and again, not to escape life, but to understand it more deeply.

The documentary portrays Leon’s unique philosophy: that freediving is not about depth or competition, but about learning to be calm within yourself, to breathe with intention, and to find harmony with the ocean.

“The sea has a way of revealing who you are.” – El León (2023)

Teaching From a Place of Calm and Connection

Today, Leon brings everything he has learned — from competitive freediving to personal introspection — into his teaching.

His approach is:

• Calm and patient

• Science-based and technique-focused

• Centered on relaxation, equalization, and awareness

• Empowering for complete beginners

• Challenging and supportive for advanced students

Whether he is guiding someone on their first snorkeling adventure or coaching a freediver toward deeper skills, Leon’s goal is always the same: help people feel safe, relaxed, and connected in the water.

Sharing the Ocean Through Experiences

With Freediving Papagayo, Leon combines:

• Molchanovs freediving courses

• One-on-one training

• Snorkeling adventures

• Professional underwater photography

His sessions are not just activities — they are an invitation to discover a hidden world, to slow down, and to experience the ocean the way a freediver does: with presence, respect, and joy.