Through all the trips I've been on, there are certain places and people that just stand out and become immediately memorable. Our day trip to Cabo Pulmo last week was one of those excursions. We booked an all day driving/snorkeling trip to Cabo Pulmo with Arturo via email, based on the info on his website and so many positive reviews. He was very responsive and flexible with our limited schedule.
Arturo scheduled Julio to pick us up in San Jose for the 1 1/2 hr drive to Cabo Pulmo. Julio was one of the best drivers and tour guides I've ever had - he described the plants, animals, towns, caves, and arroyos as we passed them. He slowed down at the perfect moments for photos, and provided us a stop for snacks and restrooms. His level of knowledge really made the drive into it's own standalone tour.
Once we arrived in Cabo Pulmo, we were greeted warmly by Arturo and everyone at the dive shop. After all the prep, we headed out via boat for snorkeling in a few different spots. We got to see some a great variety of fish, two sea turtles (!!), and the crew focused in on finding us a school of big-eyed jack fish for us to see. Swimming with the jack was one of the coolest snorkeling experiences I've ever had!
Afterwards, we were all treated to a wonderful, relaxing lunch at El Caballero by Maribel. Terrific food and homemade lemonade, with folks just relaxing and several local dogs to visit with.
Overall, Arturo provided terrific service and was just a likable, easy going guy. The rest of his crew was as well, and all made the excursion so enjoyable and fun. And the park/location itself is such a special place and has quickly become one of my favorites, on my list with Belize and the Yucatan as places to repeatedly go back to. The only downside to this tour was that it had to end. I'm already planning a visit back to Cabo Pulmo, to stay for a few days next time, and will definitely be booking with Arturo and Tours Cabo again, and asking for Julio as my driver. Can't wait to go back! read more