Oscar Ortiz sat on a bench in Plaza Amelia Wilkes, wearing cowboy boots and, in his own words, “too much perfume.” He left Mexico City with only 200 pesos in his pocket and a college degree in tourism. His city life was behind him as he found in this corner of the world a place where he could grow alongside the region. Inspired by figures like Jacques Cousteau, Ortiz sought to live close to the sea and be part of the development of a destination that, at the time, was just beginning to flourish.
by M.P. Bulnes
Oscar Ortiz: A Journey from Mexico City to Los Cabos
Los Cabos provided the perfect environment for Oscar to thrive. Como pez en el agua—like a fish in water. He adapted quickly, working on boats and soon after owning his own, offering tours. Today, as a talented nature photographer and tireless adventurer, Oscar has explored the hidden gems of Los Cabos. He knows the waves, dunes, and sierras as if he were a native element of this vibrant environment.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Los Cabos
When asked to describe Los Cabos in one word, Oscar’s eyes lit up as he replied, “Generous.” To him, the generosity of this region is reflected in the purity of its air, fueled by the 55% of oxygen produced in the ocean’s first layer. The proximity to two seas—the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean—not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also an environment where nature unfolds in its full glory. This place is much more than just a spot on the map; it’s a corner of the world that radiates generosity in every aspect.
Los Cabos is a place where contrasts blend in perfect harmony. The Sierra de la Laguna mountain ranges act as miraculous life collectors and climate regulators, while its beaches and marine ecosystems, with corals that filter carbon and protect marine life, underscore the region’s natural wealth. Here, cacti bloom in the desert, demonstrating unique resilience in an environment that, while extreme, is full of life.
Beyond the Iconic Landmarks: Hidden Treasures of Los Cabos
But the magic of Los Cabos is not limited to its natural surroundings. Ortiz highlights the warmth of its people. The inhabitants of this region offer their hospitality with an authenticity and generosity that cannot be found just anywhere.
While the iconic Arch and the art walk are musts for any visitor’s bucket list, Los Cabos offers much more. Oscar urges people to explore beyond these landmarks, venturing to places like the East Cape, Los Barriles, Santiago, and the Sierra de la Laguna. He encourages travelers to connect with locals, ask questions, and savor the local cuisine.
Connecting with the Local Culture and People
Oscar often speaks about the difference between a ‘tourist’ and a ‘traveler.’ There’s no wrong way to explore, but Oscar speaks to the travelers—the ones who want to fully immerse themselves in the land they are exploring. These are the mavericks and adventurers who understand that every encounter with nature is really an encounter with oneself. They recognize that we are merely grains of sand on the beach that is the universe. These are the people who seek experiences, and perhaps a little discomfort, because stepping out of our comfort zones expands us as human beings. After all, isn’t that what we came to do on this Earth?
In Los Cabos, life moves at a different pace. Here, it’s possible to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with nature. The chance to see both the sunrise and sunset at sea level on the same day, or to gaze at a sky full of stars, is a constant reminder of life’s greatness and brevity. According to Ortiz, these moments invite us to reflect on what truly matters: time, health, and the people we share our existence with.
The Philosophy of a True Traveler in Los Cabos
Oscar urges locals to pack a backpack and explore as much as they can during the weekends. There’s always a new beach waiting to be discovered, and he reminds us to be respectful of the land that is so generous to us.
Oscar Ortiz is a man filled with life and vitality, a force to be reckoned with, and an extension of nature itself. He offers experiences to those who seek to be awed by everything this land has to offer. An innate storyteller, passionate about living, when asked what his favorite destination is, he replied, “The next one.”
