Island Contoy Adventour & Buffete & Isla Mujeres only from Cancun

Discover the Full-Day Island Adventure from Cancun for $148

This full-day tour from Cancun offers a chance to visit Isla Contoy, a protected natural reserve, and Isla Mujeres, renowned for its lively beaches and colorful streets. Priced at $148 per person, the experience lasts approximately 8 hours and includes round transportation, a continental breakfast, snorkeling gear, a buffet lunch, and free time on Isla Mujeres for shopping and relaxing.

While some tours skip the natural reserve and head directly to Isla Mujeres, this combo allows travelers to enjoy the best of both worlds: a pristine, wildlife-rich island and the bustling, beach-lined streets of Isla Mujeres. The tour’s group size is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. However, the late lunch timing and some limitations noted in reviews are worth considering.

This tour appeals most to those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and snorkeling, balanced with relaxed beach time and local exploration. It offers a well-rounded day out, but visitors should be prepared for a long day with early pickup and potential delays.

Key Points

• Visiting both Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres in one full-day trip
• Includes round transportation from Cancun with pickup offered
• Snorkeling stop at Ixlaché Reef with provided gear
• Buffet lunch served on the beach around midday
• Free time on Isla Mujeres for shopping and walking
• Limited group size of up to 25 travelers for a more personal experience

Starting at Dawn: Early Pickup and Included Breakfast

The tour begins bright and early with a pickup at 6:30am from Cancun, making the most of the day. A continental breakfast is provided to start the journey, giving travelers energy for a day packed with activities. The early start ensures ample time for snorkeling, island exploring, and relaxing.

The transportation is included in the price, and the tour operates with a maximum of 25 travelers, balancing intimacy with the opportunity to meet fellow visitors. This setup makes it suitable for those who prefer a structured schedule with guided assistance.

Exploring Isla Contoy: Nature Reserve and Bird Sanctuary

The first major stop is Isla Contoy, a government-protected island famed for its over 150 bird species and lush native flora. The island is a true eco-paradise, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Visitors explore this pristine sanctuary, surrounded by turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. The island’s status as a protected reserve means access is limited, helping preserve its biodiversity. Some reviews mention that the natural landscape and abundant wildlife make it a memorable stop, although heavy wildlife presence might minimize the number of visible marine creatures during snorkeling.

Snorkeling at Ixlaché Reef: Marine Life and Coral Formations

A highlight of the tour is the snorkeling stop at Ixlaché Reef, part of the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The provided snorkeling equipment allows travelers to observe vibrant marine life, colorful coral formations, and tropical fish in the clear waters.

Despite the reputation of the reef, some feedback notes that the snorkeling experience may not always be as spectacular as hoped, with one comment suggesting not much to see. Still, the opportunity to explore protected marine habitats adds value for water enthusiasts.

Free Time and Shopping on Isla Mujeres

After exploring Isla Contoy, the tour heads to Isla Mujeres, a lively island known for its powdery beaches and charming streets. Travelers get free time to relax on the beach, soak up the Caribbean sun, or walk through the vibrant downtown.

During this period, visitors can shop for souvenirs, explore the local shops, or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere. The tour includes an open bar, allowing guests to enjoy drinks while relaxing or wandering the streets.

Buffet Lunch on the Beach: Timing and Quality

A buffet lunch is served on the beach, providing a plenty and tasty meal. However, it’s worth noting that reviews mention the lunch is served at 3pm, which some find too late in the day. The meal offers variety and plenty of food, but the timing could impact those eager for a quicker meal or snacks earlier in the day.

The lunch is a key part of the experience, giving guests a chance to recharge after snorkeling and sightseeing. The all-you-can-drink open bar complements the meal, adding a festive touch.

Considerations Based on Reviews and Practicalities

A review expresses some disappointment, citing poor breakfast quality, limited snorkeling to see, and late lunch timing. The review also notes that the tour is somewhat expensive relative to the experience provided.

Another practical point is that snorkeling over 60 years old or after recent surgeries is not recommended for health reasons. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Travelers should be aware that the main dock for boarding in Cancun is not in Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya, but specifically in Cancun itself.

Who Will Truly Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits nature lovers, birdwatchers, and snorkeling enthusiasts eager to explore Isla Contoy’s wildlife and Ixlaché Reef. It also appeals to those wanting a mix of leisure and exploration, with free time on Isla Mujeres for shopping or relaxing.

However, visitors seeking spectacular snorkeling or quick, casual trips might find the experience less engaging, especially given the late lunch and mixed reviews about the quality of some aspects.

Final Thoughts on the Island Contoy Adventour & Buffet & Isla Mujeres Tour

This full-day package offers a balanced combination of nature, marine activity, and local culture. The small group size and guided visits make it a comfortable way to see two contrasting islands in one day. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, buffet lunch, and free time adds to its convenience.

While some aspects, like lunch timing and snorkeling experience, may not meet every expectation, the opportunity to explore Isla Contoy’s protected environment and enjoy Isla Mujeres’s lively beaches remains a compelling draw. It’s best suited for those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and relaxed island exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Cancun is included, with pickup offered at the start.

Can children participate in snorkeling?
Children from 0 to 11 months pay $15 USD for transportation, while children aged 1-11 pay the minor price. People over 60 or with recent surgeries cannot snorkel for health reasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What should I expect at Isla Contoy?
You’ll explore a protected natural reserve, home to many bird species and native plants, with opportunities for guided walks and wildlife viewing.

How late is the buffet lunch served?
The lunch is served at 3pm, which some may find too late for a midday meal. It’s a generous buffet, though.

Is there free time on Isla Mujeres?
Yes, the tour provides free time to relax, shop, or walk through the town at your own pace.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 25, ensuring a comfortable experience with guided assistance.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Exclusive Agency Tours.
For more details, visit their official page.