Ocean Safari
in Cabo San Lucas
Wildlife Tour in the Open Ocean of Los Cabos
Snorkel with Mobula Rays, Dolphins and Sharks
An ocean safari is one of the most unusual wildlife tours in Cabo San Lucas: instead of visiting fixed spots, we go out in search of marine life wherever it shows up that day. We depart from the Cabo San Lucas marina and head to the area where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, where deep-water currents collide.
These currents bring up a steady flow of nutrients, creating a huge feeding ground for pelagic species like mobula rays, dolphins and sharks, including hammerheads, silky sharks, blue sharks and makos. It's one of the most productive areas for marine life in Baja California Sur.
Ethical Wildlife Encounters in Small Groups
There's no fixed itinerary. For up to five hours, we read the signs of the ocean to find where the action is: we follow seabirds, watch for baitfish on the surface and use a hydrophone to listen for whales in real time. At sea there are no guarantees, only opportunities, and every safari follows whatever the ocean decides to show us that day.
When the animals' behavior allows it, we slip into the water to snorkel alongside them, from dolphins and sea lions to mobula rays and sharks, always calmly and without chasing. Some species, like whales, are protected by law, so we enjoy them from the boat at a respectful distance. Animal welfare always comes first, and our small groups make every encounter safer, more personal and gentler on the ecosystem.
Wildlife Sightings in Cabo San Lucas by Season
Every season brings different wildlife to the waters of Los Cabos:
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Mobula rays: mainly from May to July, when huge groups gather and even leap out of the water. Coming for the mobulas? Read our guide to the mobula ray migration in Baja.
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Humpback whales: from December to April, during their breeding season.
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Dolphins: can be spotted throughout the year.
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Sharks: hammerheads, silky, blue and mako sharks can appear at different times of the year, depending on water temperature and currents.
01.
Can I swim with whales, dolphins or sharks on the ocean safari?
When the animals' behavior allows it, we get in the water to snorkel with dolphins, sea lions, mobula rays and sharks, always calmly and without chasing them. Swimming with whales is prohibited by Mexican law, so we enjoy them from the boat at a respectful distance.
02.
Do I need to be a good swimmer?
To snorkel with wildlife, you need to be a comfortable swimmer and feel confident using a mask, snorkel and fins in the open ocean. Life jackets are available, but basic swimming skills are essential. If you'd rather not get in the water, you're welcome to stay on board and enjoy the sightings from the boat.
03.
What is the minimum age for the ocean safari?
The ocean safari is open to ages 12 and up, and minors must be accompanied by an adult. Since we snorkel in the open ocean, younger kids can't join, but our snorkel tour in the Marine Park is a great option for families with children 6 and older.
04.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No. This is a true wildlife experience in the open ocean, and the animals move freely, so no two safaris are the same. We spend up to five hours reading the ocean to give you the best chance of meaningful encounters, but what we see depends on the season, the currents and the animals themselves.
05.
Is it safe to swim with sharks?
Yes, when it's done with the right knowledge and respect. Our guides read each animal's behavior before anyone gets in the water, and we only enter when the sharks are calm and the conditions are right. You'll get a full briefing on how to behave in the water, and your guide stays with you during every encounter.
06.
What happens if sea conditions are rough?
Safety always comes first. We check the weather constantly and decide whether to head to the Pacific or the Sea of Cortez side, since one is often calm when the other is rough. If both sides are unsafe, we'll let you know in advance to reschedule or give you a full refund.
07.
How far from shore do we go, and how long is the trip?
The ocean safari lasts up to five hours, and we can travel several miles offshore in search of wildlife. There's no fixed route: we move according to what the ocean shows us, following seabirds, baitfish and other signs of activity away from the usual tourist routes.
08.
What gear and safety equipment do you provide?
We provide professional snorkeling gear and wetsuits, along with standard safety equipment. We also carry a Garmin inReach satellite device to stay in contact at all times, even far from shore. To let you enjoy every moment, our guides usually capture the highlights of the day in photos or video.
09.
What will the water be like?
From January to July the water is cooler, with changing visibility. From August to December it turns warm and tropical, with the clearest blue water of the year. Wetsuits are included, so you'll stay comfortable in the water in any season.
10.
What should I bring, and what's not included?
• Swimsuit, sunglasses and a hat or cap • A sweater or jacket for the boat ride • A camera, and seasickness medication taken before boarding Personal travel or medical insurance and gratuities for the captain and crew are not included.
