Wildlife Connection invites you to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural environment and contribute to a vital research project aimed at understanding and protecting dolphins in Puerto Vallarta. Join us for an unforgettable encounter with a pod of bottlenose dolphins. Our expert guides, professional biologists, will share their extensive knowledge, making this excursion a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Remember, these dolphins are not captive. This is the authentic way to observe and appreciate them.
Do not support the capture of more dolphins! Visit them in their own world, because FREE DOLPHINS ARE HAPPY DOLPHINS!!!
✓ Bottled water provided✓ No alcoholic beverages served✓ Snorkeling equipment available for use✕ Granola bars and small snacks are not providedActivity Schedule
3 h 30
The excursion heads out to observe a resident group of bottlenose dolphins, and occasionally, we encounter spotted dolphins. A hydrophone on board allows you to listen to the dolphins' communications.
Depending on the dolphin group's type, their activity level, and their mood, we have good opportunities to swim with them, especially if juveniles are present (they are very curious). However, swimming cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals and their participation is voluntary.
From December to March, we may also spot Humpback whales, spinner dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, giant mantas, and marine turtles. With luck, Orcas or False Orcas might also appear.
Our guides are cetacean specialists, including Biologists with Master's Degrees in Marine Ecology, Science Journalists, and Professional Wildlife Photographers (featured in National Geographic and Animal Planet).
We are involved in several whale and dolphin research programs. During the tour, we will share information about this research, and you will have the chance to participate.
Your participation in our tour is crucial for our research, and our expertise and experience help us GUARANTEE 100% that we will find the animals, or your money back.
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
The meeting point is OPEQUIMAR, located directly across from the Westin Resort in Marina Vallarta. Upon arrival at the security gate, inform them you are here for the dolphin tour to gain entry.
Once inside, look for our sign featuring a whale and dolphin. We will greet you at the Azzul Marino Restaurant.
Please arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled tour time.
The meeting point is OPEQUIMAR, located directly across from the Westin Resort in Marina Vallarta. Upon arrival at the security gate, inform them you are here for the dolphin tour to gain entry.
Once inside, look for our sign featuring a whale and dolphin. We will greet you at the Azzul Marino Restaurant.
Please arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled tour time.
Your guide or captain will be waiting for you.
Meeting point
Av. Paseo de la Marina Sur 214, Marina Vallarta, 48450 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexique
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
This activity is wheelchair accessible. Infants and small children can be accommodated in a pram or stroller. Service animals are permitted on this tour. Convenient public transportation options are available nearby. Infants are required to sit on an adult's lap during the tour. This tour is suitable for all levels of physical fitness. Not recommended for individuals more than 7 months pregnant. Watch and Swim with Dolphins in the Wild
Arrive 10-15 minutes early at the meeting point. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Consider motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. Cameras are recommended to capture the experience. Listen carefully to your guides for the best experience and safety. Be prepared for a unique and unpredictable wildlife encounter. To receive a full refund, please cancel your booking at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 161887P1
Activity offered by Wildlife Connection via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature enthusiasts Wildlife lovers Families Eco-tourists Anyone interested in marine biology Observe dolphins in their natural environment. Opportunity to swim with wild dolphins. Guided by professional biologists and marine experts. Contribute to dolphin research and conservation. Hear dolphin communication via onboard hydrophone. Potential to see other marine life like whales and mantas (seasonal).
Population 224,166 (2020)
Elevation 101 m
Currency peso
Official languages Spanish, Nahuatl, Yucatec Maya
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 127 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Mexico City Average temperatures 20° Jan 20° Feb 22° Mar 24° Apr 25° May 25° Jun 24° Jul 24° Aug 23° Sept 23° Oct 21° Nov 20° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
Can I guarantee swimming with the dolphins? + Swimming with dolphins cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals and their participation depends on their mood and behavior. However, opportunities often arise, especially if juveniles are present.
What is the best time of year to see other marine life? + From December to March, you have the chance to see Humpback whales, spinner dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, giant mantas, marine turtles, and potentially Orcas or False Orcas.
What should I bring on the tour? + While bottled water and snorkeling equipment are included, it's recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Consider motion sickness medication if needed.
Are there any age or health restrictions? + Infants must sit on an adult's lap. The tour is not recommended for individuals more than 7 months pregnant. Otherwise, it is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
What happens if the animals are not found? + The tour guarantees 100% that the animals will be found, or your money will be refunded.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Viator review
Wasted time
Savannah_V, September 2026
I got to the meeting point early as requested by Viator, there was no guide waiting for me or reachable by phone I ended up getting refunded for a wasted 2 hours of my time and didn’t even see a dolphin
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Don’t bother. 1/2 the excursion was watching a stupid video
G8801IVjackieb, September 2026
Probably would have been a good idea to offer life jackets. Nope didn’t offer. I think that was very dangerous and the boat was far away when we were in the water. But they did offer a water and granola bar. Also no bathrooms.
★★★★★ Viator review
A must-do
Renee_R, August 2026
This was, hands down, the best experience I’ve had on a trip. The staff are super knowledgeable - actual biologists - who tell you about dolphins and other sea creatures ahead of the trip. They are so kind and helpful once out at the dive location. My daughter got scared (she’s 8, and while excited, the size of the dolphins got very real, very quickly once in the water), and they offered help and comfort to her to make her feel safe and engaged. They had plenty cold drinks which they readily offered to ensure no one got dehydrated. They were concerned primarily with safety of guests and dolphins. They did not bait dolphins with food and were concerned that we were only swimming with pods that were out for fun (no mamas with babies). Truly a magical experience and made all the better by the incredible staff. If I could give it 6 stars I would.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fabulous
marieaI2155HD, August 2026
Fabulous
We swam with the dolphins.
Gemma was a great guide! Thanks to her!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fabulous
marieaI2155HD, August 2026
Wonderful experience, we were very lucky, we were all able to swim with the dolphins!
I recommend it 1000 percent.
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