When we talk about the wilder side of Cabo San Lucas, many will think of the party atmosphere and cocktails in the early hours. However, the region around Cabo is full of amazing wildlife and animal-related activities. There are lots of ways that nature enthusiasts can enjoy a vacation here and get up close with some of these creatures. Here are 10 things to do in Cabo if you’re an animal lover.
1) Hiking in Fox Canyon
Before we dive into the world of Cabo’s marine wildlife, we need to talk about what’s around on land. It’s too easy to spend every day on or in the water and miss out on the beauty of Fox Canyon. A guided tour hiking through this landscape isn’t for the faint-hearted. Yet, it can be highly rewarding for those who really want to get back to nature and see more of Cabo’s ecosystems. There are opportunities to spot cool lizards and roadrunners out here.
2) Horseback riding
If you like the idea of venturing out and exploring the landscape but not so much all the walking involved, this next option might be perfect. Horseback riding requires minimal effort and lets you see the sights under the guidance of a trained expert. You can befriend one of the local horses and have them lead you around some of the most beautiful areas in Cabo. These treks are easy to book with staff at your Cabo resorts, as is the next option.
3) Camel Riding
Horse riding is great, but it’s not the most unusual way for animal lovers to get around in Cabo. That’s where camel riding comes in. These group experiences are similar regarding the style of treks and the expert guidance from those in charge. However, you get a different cultural experience and some incredible encounters with these animals. You can book a trek along the beach with family and friends for an unforgettable experience.
4) Boat tours to see the seals
Heading onto the water now, there are some guided activities for wildlife watching out at sea. Guided boat trips are a brilliant way to see the landscape and coast of Cabo from another perspective. The trips could bring you close to some of the beautiful birds and marine life out in these waters, offering something different to birdwatching back home. Some trips will also head close to the colonies of sea lions residing near Cabo. Apparently, you can sometimes get close enough to smell them.
5) Photographing whales
Some of these boat tours will be more specifically designed around a specific species, such as a visiting species of whale. Some crews go out at just the right time to get close to migrating grey whales. Other tours are more generalized wildlife tours where encounters with any breaching whales are just a bonus. Either way, this is the best way to get a photograph of these majestic creatures – unless you also happen to have a telescopic lens and a lot of patience on your Cabo condo balcony.
6) Glass-bottomed boats and kayaks
An alternative way to get a view of the marine ecosystem around Cabo and its coastline is through glass-bottomed vessels. Glass-bottomed boats are a brilliant way to see what swims beneath while getting valuable information from the guides. You can watch shoals of fish swim by and get a glimpse of the reefs without having to get wet. An alternative option for those who are more independent is to hire a glass-bottom kayak and explore one of those.
7) Guided snorkeling tours
If being on the water looking at all these creatures isn’t enough, there are also plenty of things to do in Cabo San Lucas that get you right among them. A perfect option for those who love swimming and snorkeling is a guided snorkeling tour. This is a step up from just hiring the equipment and exploring because you get to see all the best sites under the guidance of a pro. You can find and learn more about the native animals and landscape this way, gaining a deeper appreciation for the local ecology.
8) Snorkeling with whale sharks
Snorkeling with fish and creatures in the reefs is undeniably relaxing and rewarding. However, the ultimate experience for a lot of animal-loving Cabo visitors is snorkeling with whale sharks. Whale sharks are incredible giants, and it’s a privilege to see them, let alone get close to them in the water. Guided experiences can get you up close to the creatures safely and respectfully. Just be aware that this is only available for part of the year as they are migratory animals.
9) Swimming with dolphins
For the last two options, we have excursions that you really do need to book well in advance to be sure of a place. This first one isn’t that hard to get into because it’s a year-round option, but it’s always very popular. Cabo is one of the best places to go swimming with dolphins. You can meet up with professional keepers and spend some time in the water with their trained dolphin friends. It’s a fun way for families to see these animals up close and make lasting memories in a controlled environment.
10) Sea turtle release
Finally, there are the sea turtle release experiences. This is something you have to be in Cabo at the right time for, and there’s no guarantee without booking in advance. However, there are facilities in the area that let visitors witness the emergence and release of sea turtle babies. These animals are protected and monitored when they hatch and make their way out to the ocean. You could witness this up close and play a role.
There really are so many things to do in Cabo for animal lovers that you can pack a vacation full of fun activities. Whether you prefer to stay on dry land or want to spend most of your time in the water, there’s something for everyone. So, take a look at the different tours and packages on offer and see how you can experience the wilder side of Cabo this year.
