Los Arcos: Snorkel Tour in Los Arcos and Madagascar

Planning a day on the water in Puerto Vallarta? This Los Arcos and Madagascar Island snorkel tour offers a great opportunity to enjoy marine life, explore scenic caves, and relax with a drink in hand. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and leisure without breaking the bank.

What we really like about this experience is how it packs so many highlights into one day — from that iconic snorkeling spot at Los Arcos to the tranquil beaches of Madagascar Island. Plus, the included open bar and on-board lunch make it a worry-free way to spend a full day on the water.

Of course, there are some things worth considering. The tour lasts about 7 hours, which can be a long day if you’re not used to boat trips or water activities. Also, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back issues.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet activity-filled day. If you love snorkeling, enjoy a drink now and then, and don’t mind a group setting, this could be a solid pick.

Key Points

• Balance of adventure and relaxation: Snorkeling, kayaking, and lounging under umbrellas.
• All-day experience: Around 7 hours, including transportation and meals.
• Family-friendly aspects: Water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking are included.
• Inclusive amenities: Open bar, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and transportation.
• Not for everyone: Not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with back problems.
• Best for: Travelers who enjoy marine life, water sports, and laid-back days on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Entails

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive day on the water, combining two of Puerto Vallarta’s top snorkel spots with plenty of time to relax and have fun. It’s operated by ParaViajantes, a reputable provider with a solid 4-star rating, indicating most travelers found it worthwhile.

Starting the Day: Snorkeling at Los Arcos

Your adventure kicks off with a 1 hour and 20-minute snorkeling session at Los Arcos, one of the most famous marine sites in the area. The site features striking rock formations that rise from the water, creating natural caves and hiding places for marine creatures.

From what we gather, visitors love how lively the underwater scene is, with colorful corals and an abundance of tropical fish. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the rocks formed such an interesting underwater landscape and saw plenty of fish.” It sounds like a great spot for both novices and more experienced snorkelers, thanks to the provided snorkeling equipment.

Transition to Madagascar Island

After the underwater exploration, the boat takes you to Madagascar Island, a small paradise with golden sands and calm, clear waters. Here, the focus shifts to relaxing. You can kick back under umbrellas or canopies, enjoying the sunshine while sipping from the open bar.

This part of the trip feels ideal for unwinding and soaking in the scenery. The tranquil bay is also perfect for water sports — paddleboarding and kayaking are on offer, giving you options to stay active or simply float around.

One reviewer highlighted the convenience: “The kayak and paddleboard rentals made it easy to explore the bay at our own pace, and the open bar kept us refreshed.”

Lunch and Final Relaxation

To round out your day, a delicious meal is served onboard, giving you energy after your water adventures. The meal isn’t detailed in the info, but it’s included in the price, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs unless you choose to buy extras.

The entire experience runs approximately 7 hours, mostly in the afternoon, providing enough time for both exploration and rest.

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The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

For $75 per person, you get considerable value. The package includes:

• Catamaran trip to Los Arcos and Madagascar Island
• Snorkeling equipment for underwater exploration
• Lunch onboard
• Paddleboard and kayak rentals
• Open bar (alcoholic beverages included)
• Round-trip transportation from your hotel in El Calafate (though note that this might refer to the general area; check if your hotel is covered)

The only extra fee is the port fee of 30 MXN, which is a small charge for docking.

How the Price Stacks Up

At $75, this tour is quite reasonable considering the inclusions. The open bar, water activities, and meals would typically cost extra if booked independently, so bundling everything into one price offers good value.

However, keep in mind that if you’re expecting a highly personalized experience, group tours like this can feel a bit crowded — the tour caps at 80 travelers, which is typical but worth noting if you prefer intimacy.

The Logistics and Practical Details

• Duration: About 7 hours, usually in the afternoon.
• Start time: Not specified exactly, but likely aligned with the afternoon.
• Languages: Guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a broader audience.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• Suitability: Not recommended for travelers with wheelchairs or back issues. Most travelers can participate comfortably.

What’s Great About the Trip

The group size (up to 80 people) means you’ll meet fellow travelers but can also feel a bit crowded, especially at popular spots like Los Arcos. The transportation from your hotel is a big plus, saving you from logistical headaches. The onboard lunch and drinks mean you don’t need to worry about finding food or drinks during your day out.

What Could Be Better

A potential downside is the lack of photographic services included, so if you want professional photos, you’ll need to arrange that yourself. Also, the longer duration might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to a full day on boats and in the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a well-rounded day of snorkeling, water activities, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who want everything taken care of — from transportation to meals — in a single, affordable package.

Travelers who enjoy meeting new people and don’t mind group tours will likely appreciate the social atmosphere. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but enjoy a lively environment, this tour should suit you well.

However, if you prefer private, quiet experiences or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This snorkel tour to Los Arcos and Madagascar Island offers a balanced mix of underwater exploration, relaxing beach time, and onboard comfort. The value for money is solid, especially with the inclusion of water sports, meals, and drinks.

It’s a good pick for those who want to tick off snorkeling and marine life from their Puerto Vallarta itinerary without fussing over logistics or spending a fortune. The experience might not be perfect for everyone — particularly those with mobility issues or seeking a quieter, more intimate trip — but for most adventure seekers and casual travelers, it hits the right notes.

If you’re craving a full day on the water with plenty of opportunities to snorkel and unwind, this tour could be just what you need to make your Puerto Vallarta trip memorable.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included? Yes, round-trip transportation is included if your hotel is in the designated area, making pickup and drop-off convenient.

How long is the tour? The total duration is approximately 7 hours, usually in the afternoon.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer? The tour includes snorkeling equipment, but it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water. If you’re unsure, ask the guide for assistance.

Is the tour suitable for children? The description doesn’t specify, but water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are included. Check with the provider if traveling with young children.

What’s the cost? The tour costs $75 per person, which covers most amenities including meals, water activities, and drinks.

Are drinks alcohol-based? Yes, the open bar includes alcoholic beverages, so drink responsibly.

Is there a limit on group size? The tour caps at 80 travelers, which is typical for such excursions.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, a hat, waterproof camera if you want photos, and a towel.

Are there any physical limitations? It’s not recommended for travelers with wheelchairs or back problems.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, booking ahead is recommended, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour.

If you’re after a day of snorkeling, relaxing on a beautiful beach, and enjoying a drink in the sun, this tour is worth considering. Just be ready for a full day on the water — and plenty of memories to take home.

You can check availability for your dates here: