Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour With Snorkeling From Cancun

Discover the natural wonders and vibrant culture of the Mexican Caribbean on this full-day Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour from Cancun. Explore the renowned Isla Contoy, a protected bird sanctuary brimming with diverse wildlife, and enjoy snorkeling in the pristine coral reefs. Then, venture to the charming Isla Mujeres, known for its picturesque streets, local handicrafts, and delectable street food. With a continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and ample time for shopping and exploration, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Get ready to learn about the beauty and excitement that await.

Key Points

• This full-day catamaran trip from Cancun includes visits to the protected natural reserve of Isla Contoy and the tourist-centric Isla Mujeres.
• The tour offers snorkeling at the coral reef surrounding Isla Contoy, with potential visibility and marine life limitations.
• Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and drinks, and have the opportunity to shop in Isla Mujeres.
• The tour duration is approximately 12 hours, and guests should be prepared for potential discomfort due to boat conditions.
• Early booking is recommended, as the tour has a maximum capacity of 160 guests per excursion.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day catamaran trip from Cancun to the protected natural reserves of Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres.

It’s rated 4.0/5 based on 76 reviews and departs from Cancun, Costa Mujeres, and Puerto Morelos, with additional fees for pickups in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

The tour includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, drinks, and snorkeling equipment.

Guests must pay a $20 USD fee at the dock for National Park preservation.

The total excursion duration is approximately 12 hours.

Itinerary Highlights

At the start of the tour, guests enjoy a continental breakfast at the marina. Next, they embark on a guided visit to Isla Contoy, a protected natural reserve since 1961, known for its biodiversity and bird sanctuary status. After arriving, guests have the opportunity to go snorkeling at the island’s coral reef, followed by a buffet lunch.

Activity	Duration (approx.)
Continental breakfast	30 minutes
Guided visit to Isla Contoy	2 hours
Snorkeling	1 hour
Buffet lunch	1 hour
Shopping in Isla Mujeres	1.5 hours

The tour then provides time for shopping in Isla Mujeres before returning to Cancun or Playa del Carmen, with the total excursion lasting approximately 12 hours.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Pickup points for the Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour include Costa Mujeres, Cancun, Puerto Morelos, and additional fees apply for Playa del Carmen ($10 per person) and Riviera Maya ($20 per person).

The tour starts at 8:30 AM, and confirmation is received upon booking. The excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Travelers should keep in mind that the total duration of the tour is approximately 12 hours, and they may experience discomfort due to the boat conditions and long travel times.

Guest Experiences

Positive feedback from guests highlights the professionalism, organization, and hospitality of the tour staff. However, the snorkeling experience received mixed reviews, with some noting poor visibility and limited aquatic life. Plus, some guests expressed discontent regarding discrepancies in the itinerary, including timing and meal quality.

Guest Feedback	Positive	Negative
Snorkeling Experience		Poor visibility, limited marine life
Itinerary		Timing, meal quality
Staff	Professionalism, organization, hospitality	–

Travelers are advised to bring mosquito repellent due to the high mosquito presence on Isla Contoy. Overall, guests should prepare for potential discomfort from boat conditions and long travel times.

Recommendations and Considerations

To make the most of this tour, travelers should book early as there’s a maximum of 160 guests per excursion.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for flexibility.

Guests should prepare for potential discomfort due to boat conditions and long travel times.

Those with personal preferences for shopping and dining in Isla Mujeres should consider that the island is described as tourist-centric.

Plus, travelers are advised to bring mosquito repellent due to the high mosquito presence on Isla Contoy.

Catamaran Trip Details

The full-day catamaran trip from Cancun to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres includes a continental breakfast at the marina.

The tour provides snorkeling equipment for exploring the coral reef at Isla Contoy, followed by a buffet lunch. Guests can expect to spend time shopping in Isla Mujeres before returning to Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

The total excursion duration is approximately 12 hours. Pickup points include Costa Mujeres, Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya, with additional fees for the latter two locations.

Travelers should note the $20 USD fee at the dock for National Park preservation.

Isla Contoy Exploration

After exploring the catamaran trip details, the tour shifts its focus to the highlight of the excursion – Isla Contoy.

This protected natural reserve is known for its impressive biodiversity and bird sanctuary status. Guests will enjoy a guided visit to explore the island’s wonders.

Following the visit, they’ll have the chance to snorkel the coral reef surrounding Isla Contoy. With its diverse marine life, this promises to be a memorable experience.

However, guests should note that visibility can be mixed, and the aquatic life may be limited compared to other snorkeling destinations.

Isla Mujeres Shopping Experience

Following the guided tour of Isla Contoy and snorkeling its coral reef, guests often look forward to the shopping experience in Isla Mujeres.

The pedestrian-friendly downtown area offers a variety of options, including:

1. Colorful souvenir shops selling traditional Mexican handicrafts, such as handwoven textiles, pottery, and jewelry.
2. Lively open-air markets with stalls showcasing local produce, artisanal goods, and street food.
3. Upscale boutiques featuring designer swimwear, beachwear, and high-end fashion.
4. Galleries and art studios showcasing the work of local artists and artisans.

While the shops cater primarily to travelers, the Isla Mujeres shopping experience allows guests to enjoy the island’s vibrant culture and bring home authentic souvenirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

You can bring your own snorkeling equipment, but the tour provides it at no extra cost. Using the provided gear ensures it’s suitable for the activity and in good condition.

Are There Any Tours Available in Other Languages?

The tour company offers tours in multiple languages, including English and Spanish. Travelers should check the availability of tours in their preferred language when booking to ensure a more comfortable and informative experience.

Can I Make a Hotel Pick-Up Request?

Yes, guests can request hotel pickup at additional fees. Pickup points include Costa Mujeres, Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen ($10 per person), and Riviera Maya ($20 per person). Travelers should book early as the tour has a maximum capacity.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?

The tour’s buffet lunch offers a variety of options, but doesn’t specify dietary restrictions. Travelers with special dietary needs should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about accommodations.

What Should I Bring to Protect Myself From the Sun?

Given the sun exposure on the tour, visitors should bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect themselves. Wearing lightweight, long-sleeved clothing can also help shield against the sun’s rays during the day-long excursion.

The Sum Up

The Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Caribbean. Visitors can marvel at the diverse wildlife on Isla Contoy, snorkel the vibrant coral reefs, and enjoy the lively culture of Isla Mujeres. With a seamless itinerary and a range of activities, this tour promises an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery for nature and culture enthusiasts alike.