Cozumel Dune Buggy & Snorkel Adventure: East Coast Tracks, Paraiso Reef, and El Cedral
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: ability to climb in/out of buggies, manage short snorkel swims, and tolerate bumpy terrain.
Overview
Drive dune buggies across Cozumel’s rugged east coast, snorkel Paraiso Reef, explore the Mayan hamlet of El Cedral, and finish with tequila and city flavors in San Miguel. This four-hour loop mixes pulse-raising terrain with easy reef swimming and cultural stops.
Cozumel Dune Buggy & Snorkel Adventure: East Coast Tracks, Paraiso Reef, and El Cedral
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The engine kicks and the island compresses: palms blur, scrubby limestone cliffs tilt toward the Caribbean, and dust rises in a thin ribbon behind the dune buggy. You drive eastward—away from the calm, cruise-ship bustle of San Miguel and into the raw side of Cozumel—where waves want to break and the coastline dares you to pay attention.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring your driver’s license
You’ll be required to drive the dune buggy—carry a valid government-issued license and a photocopy stored separately.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Sunscreen that’s safe for coral is often required; it protects both you and the reef while you snorkel.
Wear closed-toe shoes for the buggy
Sturdy sandals or lightweight hiking shoes protect feet on coral roads and rocky shore entries.
Check sea conditions before snorkeling
East-coast surf can affect snorkel entries—ask your guide if the site has a strong current or choppy water that day.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Parrotfish
- Nurse shark (occasionally spotted in deeper channels)
History
El Cedral was an early Mayan ritual site and later a colonial ranching settlement; its church and scattered stones reflect layers of island use.
Conservation
Cozumel enforces marine protected areas around many reefs—use reef-safe products and avoid touching coral to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Miguel de Cozumel
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Government-issued ID/Driver’s License
Required to operate the dune buggy and for check-in.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and coral—mandatory at many Cozumel sites.
summer specific
Water shoes
Protects feet during rocky entries and when climbing in/out of buggies.
summer specific
Rashguard or lightweight long-sleeve
Adds sun protection and reduces chafing during snorkeling and open-air driving.
summer specific