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Marietas Islands Snorkel
Discover the Hidden Beach, the most important bird sanctuary and marine life haven in the bay.
View DetailsLos Arcos Snorkeling
Discover Puerto Vallarta's Natural Icon
Marine Life
Birdwatching
An enigmatic adventure in the South Bay
Sailing towards the southern zone of Banderas Bay, you will discover a group of islets called Los Arcos. This part of nature is a symbol of Puerto Vallarta, and for explorers like you, it will be a unique experience. Its waters are home to endless marine species: tropical fish, corals, sponges, algae, and anemones.
Explora Vallarta will guide you on this adventure, and together we will snorkel, discovering a whole new world under the sea. During the tour, it is very likely to observe sea turtles, dolphins, giant manta rays, and, in winter, beautiful humpback whales.
Aerial Inhabitants & Jungle
While on the boat, you can observe the dense jungle vegetation and the aerial inhabitants of the islets. This site is a nesting area for impressive seabirds such as gulls, frigatebirds, the beautiful Blue-footed Booby, and large pelican chicks.
Passion & Respect
Our guides will look after you and ensure you enjoy this exciting exploration to the fullest, filled with knowledge, passion, and respect for nature.
Book Your Spot
Adult Price
$112 USD
Child Price (4-11 yrs)
$90 USD
Reserve with 50%
What's Included?
- Specialized guides (Biologists and Naturalists).
- Certified boat captain.
- Full snorkel gear.
- Life jackets.
- Box Lunch.
- Non-alcoholic drinks.
What to Bring?
- Sunglasses and hat/cap.
- Biodegradable sunscreen.
- Towel and windbreaker.
- Motion sickness medicine (take before).
- Camera (with protection/plastic bag).
- Plenty of memory space!
Family & Scientific Company
Meet Your Expert Guides
At Explora Vallarta you are not just a tourist, you are our guest. We are a family of Biologists and Naturalists dedicated to protecting what we love most: the ocean.
Biol. Jorge Morales
Director & Marine Biologist
Jorge will guide you to identify the tropical fish species and birds that inhabit the islets of Los Arcos with a scientific and educational approach.
Fabiola Flores
Naturalist Guide
Specialist in connecting people with nature. Her educational approach makes the experience unforgettable for children and adults.
Capt. José Ángel
Boat Captain
No one knows the Bay like him. His experience guarantees a safe, respectful approach with the best angles for photography.
Explorer Reviews
"We saw the blue-footed birds! It was incredible. The snorkel gear was in great condition and the guides were very attentive."
- Lucia P."The amount of fish at Los Arcos is impressive. A very educational experience for my children."
- Mark D.Expedition Captures
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Los Arcos located?
It is located in the southern zone of Banderas Bay, off the coast of Mismaloya, approximately 12 km south of Puerto Vallarta. They are a set of granite islets emerging from the sea, becoming the most important natural symbol of the region.
What protection category does it have?
It holds the official category of National Marine Park. This decree protects the site's biodiversity, prohibiting fishing and regulating tourism activities to preserve coral reefs and nesting areas for seabirds like the Blue-footed Booby.
Is it necessary to know how to swim?
It is recommended to have basic notions, but the use of a life jacket is mandatory and keeps you afloat. Our guides are always nearby to assist you.
Can whales be seen?
Only during the winter season (December to March). The rest of the year, it is possible to see dolphins, turtles, and manta rays during the journey to the islets.
Other Conservation Adventures
If you enjoyed learning about the ocean, you'll love these biologist-guided tours.
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Winter Season
Whale Watching
Scientific expedition to hear and see humpback whales with a hydrophone.
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Wild Dolphin Encounter
Find pods of dolphins in their natural habitat, with no tanks or tricks.
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