Full Day Tour to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres from Cancun

Explore the Stunning Islands of Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres from Cancun

This full-day tour from Cancun offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, lively culture, and easy comfort, all for $189 per person. The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting early in the morning with hotel pickup and ending back at the meeting point. It includes snorkeling in coral reefs, a buffet lunch, and visits to both Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres, making it an ideal choice for those eager to explore two of the region’s most beautiful islands in one day.

With reviews rating this tour a perfect 5 out of 5 from 6 reviews, it’s clear that travelers value the friendly guides, quality transportation, and the variety of activities. The tour is suitable for most visitors, with most travelers able to participate, and offers a full experience with all major costs included, aside from a small dock fee.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $189 per person for 8 hours, this tour offers good value for a full-day adventure.
• Transportation: Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your hotel in Cancun is included.
• Snorkeling in Isla Contoy: 45 minutes of snorkeling in Ixlache reef showcases vibrant coral and colorful fish.
• Lunch and Drinks: A buffet lunch featuring chicken fajitas, fish, and lasagna, plus a national open bar with rum, vodka, tequila, waters, and soft drinks.
• Visit Isla Mujeres: You get one hour to explore either Playa Norte or Isla Mujeres Town.
• Additional Fee: A $20 USD dock fee per person is payable on-site.

Convenient Pickup and Meeting Arrangements in Cancun

The tour departs from Smart Cancun on Av. Tulum 4, near the Capilla Ecumenica, with pickup offered from most hotels. The entire process begins early, with the departure window opening at 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM. The activity is managed by Conoce Lo Tuyo – Know Thy World, a reputable provider with a strong safety record and attentive guides.

Travelers should note that the tour ends back at the meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The tour runs consistently from February 2022 through October 2026, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visiting Isla Contoy National Park: The Snorkeling Highlight

The first stop takes you to Isla Contoy, a protected national park renowned for its pristine natural environment. The 45-minute snorkeling session in Ixlache reef is the highlight, where you can see coral formations and a variety of colorful fish in their natural habitat. The guided tour on Isla Contoy also includes a visit to the lighthouse viewpoint and bird watching, providing a well-rounded experience of this unspoiled island.

The admission to Isla Contoy is included in the tour price, and the guided tour ensures you gain insights into the island’s ecological significance. The environment is peaceful, and the boat ride to and from the island is comfortable, often described as fun, especially due to the speedboat ride back to Isla Mujeres.

Enjoying the Buffet Lunch in Isla Contoy

After snorkeling, the tour offers a buffet lunch in Isla Contoy that features a variety of delicious options. The menu includes chicken fajitas, Tikin-Xic fish, Bolognese lasagna, alongside salads, bread, dressings, sauces, and seasonal fruit desserts. This plentiful meal keeps guests energized for the rest of the day and is included in the overall price.

The lunch in Isla Contoy is praised as good value and tasty, with many appreciating the generous portion and variety. The buffet provides a nice break before more sightseeing or relaxing in the island’s natural surroundings.

Discovering Isla Mujeres: Playa Norte or the Town

On the return journey, the tour stops for one hour in Isla Mujeres, giving visitors a choice between Playa Norte or the town of Isla Mujeres. This free time allows for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing on the famous Playa Norte beach, known for its clear waters and soft sands.

This stop is flexible and provides a chance to soak up the island’s vibrant atmosphere or take photos of the colorful streets and local shops. The visit is free and included in the tour.

Snorkeling Equipment and Safety Measures

The tour supplies snorkeling equipment and life jackets at no extra cost, emphasizing safety and ease of use. The guides are certified and attentive, ensuring that all participants feel comfortable in the water, whether they are experienced snorkelers or trying it for the first time.

Most reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and the importance they place on safety, making the snorkeling part of the adventure accessible for everyone.

The Atmosphere and Pace of the Tour

Travelers appreciate the well-paced schedule, with enough time at each stop for activities and relaxation. The speedboat ride to Isla Contoy adds an element of fun and excitement, often described as a highlight of the day. The guided tours are informative without being overwhelming, and the small group size (up to 60) ensures personal attention.

The overall atmosphere of the tour is warm and welcoming, with staff making sure everyone feels at home during the experience.

Pricing, Inclusions, and Additional Costs

The $189 price includes transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, and guided tours. The only extra fee is the $20 USD dock fee, payable on-site. The all-inclusive nature of the tour makes it easy to budget, and many reviews confirm that the value exceeds expectations considering the variety of activities and facilities.

Guests should confirm their booking ahead of time, as the tour is regularly booked about 55 days in advance.

Suitability and Recommendations

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience exploring Isla Contoy’s untouched environment, enjoying snorkeling and a buffet lunch, and having the chance to relax or explore Isla Mujeres. It suits most ages and physical levels, thanks to the comfortable transportation and safety measures.

Expect an engaging, well-organized day with a balance of activity and relaxation, especially appreciated by those who enjoy marine life, natural scenery, and lively islands.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Island Adventure from Cancun

The Full Day Tour to Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres offers a comprehensive and enjoyable day out. The combination of snorkeling, cultural visits, good food, and beautiful scenery makes it a standout choice. The positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, good value, and enjoyable rides, confirming the tour’s quality.

While the dock fee is an extra expense, the overall experience delivers memorable moments and a great taste of what Cancun’s islands have to offer. It’s best suited for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from most hotels in Cancun, starting early in the morning.

How long does snorkeling last?
Snorkeling in Isla Contoy lasts approximately 45 minutes in Ixlache reef, giving plenty of time to see the coral and fish.

What is the lunch like?
The buffet lunch features chicken fajitas, fish Tikin-Xic, lasagna, salads, bread, and seasonal fruit desserts.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the national open bar includes rum, vodka, tequila, waters, and soft drinks.

Is there an extra fee to visit Isla Mujeres?
The one-hour visit to Isla Mujeres, either at Playa Norte or the town, is free but requires no additional charge beyond the tour fee.

What about safety and equipment?
Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, and guides are certified, emphasizing safety and comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 55 days in advance, and the tour operates reliably from February 2022 to October 2026.

Is this tour suitable for children or less mobile guests?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical activity involved in snorkeling and boat rides should be considered for those with limited mobility.

How long is the total tour in hours?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including transportation, activities, and free time.