Cabo Pulmo is known as ‘The Aquarium of the World,’ and its history is an international example of environmental conservation. Located 90 kilometres from San José del Cabo, its impressive 20,000-year-old coral reef is home to more than 800 marine species, including turtles, manta rays, bull sharks, and, between December and March, majestic humpback whales.
With its rustic charm and incredible biodiversity, this paradise’s history is a global example of conservation. In the late 1980s, Cabo Pulmo was facing an environmental crisis caused by overfishing. It was then that local families decided to turn the destination around, choosing to protect its natural wealth.
This effort culminated in 1995 with its designation as a National Marine Park. Since then, its ecosystem has flourished: fish biomass increased by 463% in just a decade, an achievement recognized worldwide.
Cabo Pulmo is the must-see destination for adventure seekers under the sea. Its crystal-clear waters, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C depending on the season, offer visibility of up to 20 metres. The area is ideal for diving or snorkelling to explore its impressive biodiversity, where bull sharks, manta rays, and colourful tropical fish coexist in perfect harmony.
Cabo Pulmo is a model of sustainable tourism. Its community carefully controls the number of daily visitors, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Many of the local tour operators and restaurants adopt eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy and eliminating disposable plastics.
Gastronomy is an example of this commitment. Visitors can enjoy fresh dishes prepared with local ingredients, such as ceviches, grilled seafood, and fish tacos while supporting the community economy.
The tranquillity and beauty of Cabo Pulmo have captured the attention of international media, such as National Geographic, which rated it as one of the best diving destinations in the world. This recognition and UNESCO’s inclusion as a Natural World Heritage Site in 2005 position it as a unique place on the global tourist map.
However, Cabo Pulmo is much more than just a place to visit. It is a reminder that collaboration between communities, scientists and governments can achieve the unthinkable: reversing environmental damage and restoring life to an endangered ecosystem.
Visiting Cabo Pulmo is a gift for the soul and a way to support the conservation of one of the planet’s most valuable ecosystems. Here, every reef, every fish, and every sunrise tells a story of resilience and love for nature.
