Paradise Islands Tour: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres

The Paradise Islands Tour in Cancun offers a full-day adventure for those eager to explore two of the region’s most beautiful islands, Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres. Priced at $199 per person, this tour is designed for comfort and convenience, with round-trip transportation with A/C, breakfast, lunch, and beverages included. The tour departs early at 7:00am and lasts approximately 11 hours, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning.

What makes this experience stand out is its combination of nature, wildlife, and relaxed island exploration. The tour’s highlights include visiting Isla Contoy National Park, a protected bird sanctuary, and enjoying snorkeling at the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Despite some mixed reviews about the snorkeling experience, the overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 and recommendation rate of 100% suggest high satisfaction among participants. This tour is ideal for those interested in nature, birdwatching, and scenic beaches, and who appreciate well-organized trips with all essentials covered.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting about 11 hours from Cancun
• Includes round-trip transportation with A/C, light breakfast, lunch, and drinks
• Visits Isla Contoy National Park, a bird sanctuary and protected area
• Enjoys snorkeling at the second-largest barrier reef
• Features time in Isla Mujeres for beaches and craft markets
• Maximum group size of 15 travelers for a personalized experience

Departure and Transportation from Cancun

The tour begins at 7:00am at the designated meeting point, with a drive of roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes to Marina Marazul in Puerto Juarez. This transfer includes comfortable, air-conditioned transport, helping travelers start their day relaxed. The trip concludes with a return drive to the hotel, also taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The pick-up service ensures a smooth start and end to the day, removing the stress of navigating transportation arrangements.

Visiting Isla Contoy National Park: Bird Sanctuary and Natural Beauty

At Isla Contoy, the tour spends approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, giving plenty of time to explore this protected national park. Known as a paradise for migratory and native birds, the island offers a chance to see diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can appreciate the pristine beaches and observe the wildlife in their natural environment. Since the island is a bird sanctuary, the experience emphasizes nature conservation.

The tour provides admission to Isla Contoy, which is included in the price. It’s an opportunity to enjoy scenic views and peaceful surroundings away from crowded tourist spots. The island’s dream-like landscape makes it a highlight for nature lovers, though the focus is primarily on birdwatching and relaxing beaches.

Snorkeling at the Second-Largest Barrier Reef

Following the visit to Isla Contoy, the tour moves to snorkel at the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The activity lasts around 45 minutes, with included snorkeling gear. Travelers head just a few kilometers off the island if the weather permits, providing a chance to see marine life in a vibrant coral environment.

However, a note from a review mentions that some participants found the snorkeling experience less lively, with a lack of fish sightings near Cancun. Despite this, the reef’s reputation and the opportunity to swim in turquoise waters remain compelling features of the trip.

Exploring Isla Mujeres: Beaches and Crafts Market

The final stop is Isla Mujeres, an island renowned for its beautiful beaches and craft markets. Visitors have about 1 hour here to enjoy the scenic coastlines, browse local artisan stalls, or relax on the sands. The island’s charming atmosphere is a perfect way to wind down after a busy morning of sightseeing and snorkeling.

The visit to Isla Mujeres offers a chance to experience local culture through craft shopping and beach leisure. The tour guides typically point out popular spots, making this stop a relaxed, picturesque conclusion to the day.

Included and Excluded Items

The tour package covers round-trip transportation with air conditioning, a light breakfast, lunch, and bottled water or soda. Beverages are plentiful throughout the day, ensuring hydration during the adventure.

Participants should be aware that the marine life conservation tax of $20 USD is not included and must be paid separately. The tour also does not include photos or souvenirs, giving travelers the option to purchase these independently.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. Confirmation is received immediately upon booking, and most you can participate as long as they are not under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating substances. The meeting point is at Puerto Juarez, with most travelers booking about 46 days in advance, indicating strong interest and early planning.

The Experience Provider: WISEST TRAVEL

The operator, WISEST TRAVEL, emphasizes professional service and provides contact options via phone (+529989800881) and email ([email protected]). Their reputation is reflected in the tour’s high ratings and seamless organization.

Final Thoughts on the Paradise Islands Tour in Cancun

The full-day experience offers a balanced mix of nature, marine activity, and cultural exploration. Its inclusive price and comfortable transportation make it an attractive choice for visitors seeking a hassle-free day out. While some reviews suggest snorkeling may not always meet expectations, the chance to see Isla Contoy’s wildlife and relax on beautiful beaches offers plenty of appeal.

This tour suits nature enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those eager to explore less crowded, protected areas. Its small group size and comprehensive inclusions provide a personalized, stress-free adventure in the Mexican Caribbean.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour in total?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and activities.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes round-trip transportation with A/C, light breakfast, lunch, and bottled water or soda. The marine life conservation tax is not included.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Puerto Juarez for boarding, Isla Contoy National Park for birdwatching and exploring, snorkeling at the reef, and Isla Mujeres for beaches and markets.

Is snorkeling guaranteed to be good?
While snorkeling at the reef is part of the experience, some reviews note that the visibility or fish sightings may vary, especially near Cancun.

Who operates the tour?
The tour is operated by WISEST TRAVEL, known for their professional organization and high guest ratings.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring cash for the conservation tax, personal sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and camera if desired.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.