If you’re considering a day tour in Los Cabos, the LOS CABOS ENCOUNTER offered by Panchito Tours is worth a serious look. It promises a blend of cultural sights, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship, all packed into a 7-hour journey. While we haven’t personally experienced it, a close look at the itinerary, reviews, and details suggests it’s a well-rounded option for travelers wanting a bit of everything—history, scenery, and authentic local flavor.
What we love about this tour is its variety of highlights, from a boat ride to the iconic Arch to tasting traditional tequila and shopping for pearls. Plus, the inclusion of local markets and the charming town of San Jose del Cabo makes it feel genuine rather than overly commercialized. The tour’s flexible price point of $102 per person offers good value, especially considering the mix of activities and the professional bilingual guides.
A small consideration: with such a packed itinerary, there’s a fair amount of moving around and some expectations for a full day of activity. If you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to see many facets of Los Cabos in one day, it’s likely to satisfy.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of culture, nature, and scenic views. It’s particularly good for first-timers or those with limited time but who want a comprehensive snapshot of what Los Cabos has to offer.
Key Points

- Diverse Experiences: Combines sightseeing, cultural stops, and scenic boat rides in one day.
- Authentic Encounters: Includes visits to local markets, a historic mission, and a pearl cultivation shop.
- Great Value: At $102, the tour covers transportation, guides, boat ride, and lunch, delivering good overall value.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and professionalism.
- Scenic Highlights: The boat trip to the arch offers iconic views and opportunities for memorable photos.
- Accessibility & Flexibility: Wheelchair accessible, with flexible cancellation options.
A Deep Dive into the Los Cabos Encounter Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cabo San Lucas.
Starting the Day: Personalized Pickup & First Impressions
The tour begins with hotel pickup, which is a real plus—no wandering around trying to find the meeting point. This sets a comfortable tone, especially after a morning coffee. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, your guides—bilingual in English and Spanish—set the stage for what’s ahead.
Expect a friendly, professional atmosphere. According to reviews, guides like Franco and Nathan stand out for their helpfulness, making the experience more engaging and informative. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and everyone can ask questions.
Exploring Cabo San Lucas: Art, Tequila, and Shopping
Your first stops are in Cabo San Lucas, the lively hub of Los Cabos. The visit to the glass-blown art craft shop is a highlight. Here, artisans recycle glass bottles into stunning art pieces—an eco-friendly activity and a chance for some unique souvenirs. The showcase is impressive; we loved the way recycled glass transforms into colorful, intricate art.
Next, you’ll visit a tequila distillery, a quintessential Mexican experience. The tour explains how tequila is made from Jalisco traditions, and the tasting session is both educational and enjoyable. Expect to sample various flavors and qualities—perfect for those wanting to understand what makes tequila so acclaimed worldwide.
Then, on to the pearls show—a nod to Cabo’s history as one of the world’s richest pearl beds. The tour includes a visit to a jewelry store where you can learn about cultivating pearls and perhaps pick up a special gift. As one review notes, “We learned how they are cultivated,” making this both an educational and shopping opportunity.
Scenic & Iconic: The Boat Ride to the Arch
The boat ride to the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas is undeniably the highlight. Lasting around 40-50 minutes, it’s a chance to see Lovers Beach, Divorce Beach, and the Sea Lion Colony—all renowned formations. As you glide across the water, you’ll appreciate the stunning scenery and rock formations that make this coastline so distinctive.
The boat trip is praised in reviews for its professional crew and spectacular views. It’s an opportunity for excellent photos and a fresh perspective on the natural beauty of this part of Baja California.
More Great Tours NearbySan Jose del Cabo: Charm & Heritage
After the boat trip, the tour continues to San Jose del Cabo, a town that exudes old-world charm. You’ll visit the historic Jesuit mission, founded in the 16th century, and stroll through traditional adobe homes and a beautiful town square. The town’s slower pace and heritage make it a perfect contrast to the bustling Cabo San Lucas.
The estuary is a highlight here—a lush oasis filled with palm trees, endemic and migratory birds, and a spring that feeds into the local waterways. As one traveler noted, it’s a fantastic oasis for nature lovers.
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Culminating with Food & Relaxation
Your day ends with a lunch at a well-known Mexican restaurant, giving you a taste of local flavors. The included lunch is a great way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Logistical Details & Practical Considerations

The 7-hour duration is perfect for those with limited time but wanting a comprehensive experience. The inclusion of transportation, a bilingual guide, bottled water, and lunch adds to the tour’s value.
The price of $102 covers most activities, making it a reasonably priced way to see the highlights without booking multiple excursions. The cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal to travelers with mobility needs. The small group size means more personalized attention, and the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge receive high praise.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded overview of Los Cabos. It appeals to those who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural heritage, and authentic shopping. If you’re a nature lover, the estuary and bird-watching opportunities will be especially appealing.
Travelers seeking a relaxing, educational, and fun-filled day will find this tour hits the right notes. It also works well for those looking for a good value—covering transport, guide, meals, and activities—all in one package.
Final Thoughts

The LOS CABOS ENCOUNTER tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local crafts. It’s designed to give you a taste of the region’s diverse attractions without the need to plan multiple separate activities. The highlights—especially the boat ride to the Arch and the visits to historic sites—are authentic and memorable.
While the itinerary is quite full, the professional guides help keep everything flowing smoothly. The included amenities and the reasonable price make it a strong option for travelers wanting a comprehensive, fun, and educational day in Los Cabos.
If you’re eager to experience both the scenic and cultural sides of Baja California Sur, this tour provides a solid, well-reviewed way to do so. It’s especially suited for first-timers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a snapshot of the region’s natural and cultural beauty—all in one well-organized day.
FAQ

What is the duration of the LOS CABOS ENCOUNTER tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including all stops, activities, and transportation.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is part of the package.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What activities are included in the tour?
Visits to Cabo San Lucas, a glass craft shop, tequila tasting, pearls shop, boat ride to the Arch, and time in San Jose del Cabo are all included.
What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended.
How much does the tour cost?
The price is $102 per person.
Are meals included?
Yes, a Mexican lunch is included in the tour.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if children enjoy scenic boat rides and cultural visits, but it’s best to check if they have particular needs.
To sum it up, the LOS CABOS ENCOUNTER offers a full-day, well-balanced experience with a focus on authenticity and scenic beauty. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a mix of cultural and natural sights.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Cabo San Lucas
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