Isla Contoy Day Trip from Cancun: Snorkel Ixlache Reef & Isla Mujeres Visit
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; involves short snorkels and flat, easy walking on the island.
Overview
A single-day catamaran from Cancun puts you on Isla Contoy—one of the Caribbean’s most protected islands—where guided reef snorkels, a shore walk, and a stop in Isla Mujeres make for a nature-focused escape. Book early: only 200 visitors are allowed daily.
Isla Contoy Day Trip from Cancun: Snorkel Ixlache Reef & Isla Mujeres Visit
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The catamaran slips away from Cancun at first light and the city’s roar thins to the soft slap of waves. On deck, the Caribbean spreads a blunt, bright blue; gulls wheel and seem to dare the boat to go further. After a short run along the coast the hull slows near a ribbon of reef—Ixla che—where masks fog and fins kick as parrotfish and butterflyfish weave through corals like commuters in a busy city.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Only biodegradable sunscreen is allowed on Contoy to protect coral and marine life; apply before boarding and bring a small travel bottle for re-application.
Secure a fitted mask
Snorkel equipment is provided but a well-fitting personal mask reduces fogging and improves visibility on the reef.
Arrive ready for an early pickup
Pickup windows start around 7:00 a.m.; confirm your exact pickup point with the operator to avoid missing the boat.
Carry cash for dock fee and souvenirs
A $20 USD dock tax is not included and Isla Mujeres vendors often accept cash only—have small bills handy.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- frigatebirds
- green sea turtles
History
Contoy has been managed as a protected area with strict visitor limits to preserve nesting birds and reef habitat; the cap on visitors keeps development minimal.
Conservation
Visitors are required to follow park rules—biodegradable sunscreen only, no littering—and the daily visitor cap is enforced to reduce ecological impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cancun
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Biodegradable sunscreen
Protects coral and is required by island rules.
Mask and snorkel (personal)
Personal gear improves fit and comfort in the water; rentals are available.
summer specific
Light beach towel and quick-dry shirt
Shade is limited; a towel and sun shirt make the beach and boat time more comfortable.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the day; reducing plastic waste helps preserve the park.