Wild Dolphin Encounter & Snorkeling Adventure
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Ecotours Vallarta offers a unique opportunity to get up close with wild dolphins in their natural habitat, guided by an expert marine biologist. This unforgettable adventure provides insight into the lives of one of the ocean’s most intelligent and endearing creatures. The experience is enhanced by a small, safe, and comfortable boat, with a group size limited to just 10 people for personalized attention.
Before heading out, you’ll receive an informative talk about dolphin biology and ecology, enriching your understanding of these fascinating animals. Afterward, you’ll have the chance to observe the dolphins in their natural environment, all while enjoying the stunning views of the bay. The adventure continues with a snorkeling excursion at the beautiful Los Arcos Marine Park, where you can explore vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with colorful fish.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
kids under 6 years old are not allowed on this tour.
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if require
What To Expect
Ecotours Vallarta
Meet your guide at our office in Marina Vallarta where we start with an informative talk about the dolphins and delivery of snorkeling equipment.
Los Arcos de Mismaloya
Jump for the snorkeling on one of the natural scenary
Options
Wild Dolphin Encounter & Snorkeling Adventure
What‘s Included
Educacional session
Bottled water
Biologist/naturalist professional guide
Box lunch: sandwish, granola bar
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Soft drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Boarding fee
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
154 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
I got to swim with wild dolphins in the ocean!
jonathanmN9193HJ,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This excursion was simply one of the great experiences of my life! We snorkeled and swam close-up with wild dolphins in the ocean. Maggie and Martin were wonderful hosts and provided a welcoming, fun, safe, educational environment. Maggie knew these dolphins like family! Seriously, if you are going to Puerto Vallarta, make this a priority!!! You don't need any prior experience snorkeling to do this. And, you don't have to be young to do it! I am in my late 60s.
Best tour you can book!
AnnieC2337,Apr 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What an incredible experience!
Thank you eco tours
Mike D,Apr 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Loved, loved, the company. I love how they keep the group small so you’re able to get more personable with not only the crew but your fellow travelers.. we went out for the dolphin experience and snorkeling. We got pretty close to the dolphins but they decided they didn’t want to get close to us which is fine. They’re wild animals so we get it. Snorkeling was pretty nice. And we got back to the pick up point pretty fast. We loved the small group as opposed to those tours that pack you in like Sardines. No pushy sales tactics like pictures and tips. Definitely a go to tour company
Very good tour, lousy guide
edgarg godoy,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Dear team of Ecotours Vallarta, I am writing to express a formal complaint regarding the service received during the dolphin swimming tour, which proved to be exceptionally deficient in many respects. From the beginning, the experience was negative. During the office reception, the guide did not show up or generate a minimum of trust or connection with the group. Subsequently, the introductory discussion on dolphins and marine mammals was superficial and inaccessible, using unnecessary technicalities — for example, mentioning that dolphins feed on “cephalopods” without providing any explanation — which is inadequate considering that most participants have no specialized training. More worrying was the group’s handling during water activity. The tour involved three children, whom the guide virtually ignored. He never checked whether they could swim or had previous experience snorkeling, either with them or with adults. It merely stated that they should be taken to the water and followed, which represents a serious lack of basic safety protocols. Once in the water, the lack of leadership and guidance was evident. No clear instructions were given; the guide simply set about swimming behind the dolphins, as if he were the one to enjoy the tour, leaving the group without proper direction or accompaniment. Additionally, there were important communication inconsistencies: initially we were told that swimming with the dolphins would not be possible, and just a minute later we were asked to be ready to enter the water. Inquiring about the order of entry, we were told that we should all enter at the same time, despite the fact that the group consisted of four adults and three children, which is clearly inappropriate. During the dives, the lack of attention and care for guests was even more evident. When he returned to the boat, the guide was always the first to board, leaving the group behind unsupervised in the water. I didn't pay attention to whether everyone was out safely. In one case, one of the guests was stung by a jellyfish, and the guide did not know how to handle the situation or provide adequate assistance, again evidencing the lack of basic security and first aid preparation. I share this feedback from an informed perspective, having worked as a guide on whale watching tours, whale shark, monarch butterfly, jaguar and other experiences in Mexico, Guatemala and Costa Rica. I’ve even had the opportunity to collaborate with Ecotours before, so I find this level of service especially surprising, considering the high standards I know Astrid and Karel have set. I hope that this comment will be taken seriously and that the necessary measures will be implemented to prevent other users from having a similar experience. Attentively,
Well worth it!
taram348,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful experience, guide was very knowledgeable. While they can't guarantee that you will be able tl swim with the dolphins based on behavior and conditions, the opportunity was well worth it. In our trip we had the opportunity to swim twice and get pretty close to the dolphins. The sandwiches they provided for lunch was better quality than I expected from a tour, and the snorkeling in Los Arcos was a nice bonus.
Unique and exciting
233bra,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A huge shout out to Captain Raphael and tour guide Francisco for creating an unforgettable experience. We encountered a large pod of dolphins almost immediately. They weren’t as interested in us being in the water as they were on a large school of fish they were feeding on. We had a front row seat to dolphins in the wild. Francisco had a wealth of knowledge including during the snorkelling portion. He has vast knowledge of the wildlife in the area. On the way back to the marina Captain Raphael spotted a massive stingray and took a detour so we could observe it. This was a very exciting and informational tour without the need of having animals in captivity. (Sorry if I spelled the names incorrectly).
Dolphin and snorkeling tour is great, but understand you can’t control wild animals and may not swim/play with dolphins.
Daniel H,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had an awesome tour with Eco Tours (again), this time the dolphin and snorkeling tour. Booked the dolphin excursion hoping to swim with wild dolphins and not those stuck in an enclosure. A family of 5 joined my family of 4 which worked well. Our guide Michael was really knowledgeable and shared many facts about the bay, its’ wildlife and PV in general. We left early heading to the north end of the bay. We found a pod of dolphins as they were heading south eating breakfast along the way. We jumped in the water at several points hoping they would join us for a swim and play. But, they swam under or around us and had no interest that day. They had a young (maybe toddler age) with them so maybe that’s why. You can’t control wild animals, of course, so be understanding if they don’t. We saw them up close from the boat and got awesome pics/video so it was really cool anyway. We then headed to Los Arcos for snorkeling and more wildlife viewing: many beautiful fishes, boobie birds, and many others. Michael was very attentive and watchful over our group which was reassuring. Alfonso navigated the boat to be sure he was always near and at the optimal spot. And he always pointed the boat in the optimal direction for pictures/videos, a nice perk. Lastly, we headed back to the marina, had delicious sandwiches along the way with a relaxing ride and great scenery (if you need a custom sandwich just email in advance- have 2 vegetarians in the fam which they accommodated). As we were in the bay the waters were calm and no one got sick. Great tour with great guides. 2 for 2 with Eco Tours!!!
Had a blast!! Dolphins...
Bradley J,Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a blast!! Dolphins were swimming all around us. Such an amazing experience! Saw a couple large turtles as well so cool!
Great experience with a knowledgeable crew.
323jasonh,Aug 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great experience. The guide was knowledgable and kind. They moved the date and time of the tour to accommodate our getting to PV late off our cruise ship. We got to swim with the dolphins all around us; they didn't come too close that often, but it was very cool. The snorkeling was fine though the waters a little muggy. The snack/sandwich they served was well needed as the swimming in the waves was tiring and we were hungry. Overall it was a 5 star experience. I would do it again. If you are reading this and want to experience dolphins, please choose a wild dolphin tour. Nt a captive experience. Dolphins should be in the wild!
Life changing experience. Very grateful. Expert and ethical experience
carab897,Aug 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We went with our 2 children (5years old and 8 years old). Maggie (biologist) and the captain were incredible throughout. So thoughtful and knowledgeable. We were lucky enough to swim with 2 groups of dolphins and learned so much. My 5 year old wants to be a marine biologist now - just like Maggie…
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Operated by ECOTOURS VALLARTA