Isla Contoy is a natural national park, a paradise that only a few privileged people have the opportunity to visit. Known as a sanctuary for migratory and native birds, rich in flora and fauna, it will captivate you with its paradisiacal beaches and the turquoise blue sea that surrounds it, a place never to be forgotten. If weather conditions permit, we will snorkel at the beginning of the world's second-largest coral reef, just a few kilometers off Isla Contoy. After our visit to Contoy, we’ll head to the beautiful Isla Mujeres, an island known for the charm of its beaches and its handicraft market — the perfect place to take home the best memories of the Mexican Caribbean.
Discover the Serenity of Isla Contoy from Isla Mujeres
Just a few kilometers from Isla Mujeres lies one of the best-kept secrets of the Mexican Caribbean: Isla Contoy. This small island, declared a national park, is a protected wildlife sanctuary with limited access to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Surrounded by turquoise waters and white sand beaches, it's the perfect destination for those seeking a day of total disconnection in harmony with nature.
Visiting Isla Contoy from Isla Mujeres is a unique opportunity to escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in an untouched environment, free from mass tourism. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed each day, ensuring a peaceful, exclusive, and safe experience.
How to Get Your Tickets to Isla Contoy
Access to Isla Contoy is regulated by Mexico’s environmental authorities and requires a special permit. Tickets are not sold directly on the island or at any physical ticket office—they can only be obtained through an authorized tour.
Booking in advance is essential, as daily capacity is limited to fewer than 200 people. When you reserve a tour with certified operators, official park entry is automatically included, avoiding delays or denied access at the dock. The tour price also covers conservation fees that help protect this natural treasure.
What to Expect from an Isla Contoy Tour
A tour to Isla Contoy is more than just a boat ride—it’s a full sensory experience. From the moment you set sail from Isla Mujeres, the marine landscape already hints at what’s to come: clear waters, blue skies, and a sense of peace that's hard to find elsewhere.
The tour usually includes a stop at nearby reefs for snorkeling. Here, you might spot colorful tropical fish, living coral, and even sea turtles if you're lucky. Once on the island, a guide leads an interpretive walk, explaining the local species—especially birds like frigatebirds, pelicans, and cormorants.
You’ll also have free time to relax on the beach, explore mangrove trails, or simply soak in the natural surroundings. A buffet-style lunch with local flavors is typically served under a palapa surrounded by lush vegetation.
Best Time to Visit Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is between December and May, when weather conditions are most favorable. During these months, the sea is usually calmer, making for smoother sailing and better snorkeling visibility.
In high season (Christmas, Easter, and summer), it’s even more important to book in advance, as demand for this exclusive destination often exceeds availability.
Tips Before Visiting Isla Contoy
To ensure a pleasant and environmentally friendly visit, please keep the following tips in mind:
- Use only biodegradable sunscreen to avoid harming the reefs.
- Wear comfortable clothing, a hat or cap, sunglasses, and a swimsuit.
- Drones, speakers, and littering are not allowed.
- Avoid using any chemicals or products not approved, as they can harm local wildlife.
- Always follow the guide’s instructions to help preserve the island's natural state.
Tour Options to Isla Contoy from Isla Mujeres
Most tours depart in the morning from Isla Mujeres' main docks. The trip to Contoy takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a guided visit and free time to enjoy the beach, followed by lunch, and then return to Isla Mujeres in the afternoon.
Some tours also combine a visit to Isla Contoy with a prior stop at Isla Mujeres, allowing you to explore both destinations in a single day. These combo tours are ideal if you're short on time or want to make the most of your stay in the Riviera Maya. However, if you're looking for a more adventurous, relaxing experience with deeper contact with nature, we recommend trying one of our other activities—such as Garrafón Park, also located on Isla Mujeres.
Why Choose Our Isla Contoy Tour?
Booking a tour with us guarantees not only authorized access to Isla Contoy, but also a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience. We work with local guides specialized in ecotourism, use certified boats, and keep group sizes small to provide more personalized attention.
Our package includes:
- Round-trip boat transportation from Isla Mujeres
- Sanitized snorkeling gear
- Bilingual guide with knowledge of marine biodiversity
- Official entry to the national park
- Full lunch and non-alcoholic beverages
Available: Sunday to Friday.
