Isla Contoy Cancun

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Isla Contoy Cancun - 2023 Visitors Guide

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Welcome to Isla Contoy Mexico

Embark on a magical journey to Isla Contoy, the pristine gem of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Home to over 150 tropical bird species and four types of endangered sea turtles, this stunningly beautiful island is heavily protected by strict regulations – granting you an unforgettable day trip! Before visiting Isla Contoy for yourself though, be sure to plan ahead and take note of these few logistical details below so that your experience can be as smooth sailing as possible. 

Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy

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Where is Isla Contoy?

Escape with a trip to Isla Contoy, an unspoiled paradise located off the coast of Cancun in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. With its abundance of white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and proximity to Isla Mujeres – all sitting atop one of the world’s longest coral reef systems – this is truly your chance to experience quintessential island living! Whether you’re looking for snorkeling or scuba diving adventures or simply time spent relaxing on powdery shores, there is something here for everyone. Come explore what makes Isla Contoy so special!

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🇲🇽 Mexico Travel Resources We Use:

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Things to do on Isla Contoy in Cancun

Isla Contoy may be uninhabited, yet it is a destination worth exploring. This incredible place boasts the safeguarded Isla Contoy National Park – an ideal refuge for endangered species and native wildlife alike. Here you’ll have a chance to admire breathtaking views while doing your part to preserve these delicate grounds with restrictions enforced by the park itself.

Panoramic View

If you’re searching for the ultimate snorkeling experience, look no further! The array of sea life here will amaze and captivate you – from dolphins and turtles to coral reefs. Not in the mood for diving? No worries! You can still enjoy a variety of leisurely activities such as swimming or bird watching on some of the most spectacular white sand beaches around with crystal clear blue waters. 

What is the Best Time to Visit Isla Contoy

 Thanks to its tropical climate, you can visit Isla Contoy any time of the year! You won’t have to worry too much about temperatures since they stay around 83°F all year round. The only thing travelers should keep in mind is the rainy hurricane season. Make sure you plan wisely and bring an umbrella with you!

January – April

Although the weather is generally ideal, this destination sees a large wave of visitors. If crowds aren’t your cup of tea, you may want to consider another option.

May – October

Although it’s the hottest and wettest season of the year, there is still plenty of gorgeous sunshine and warm waters perfect for snorkeling or diving. Just be sure to keep an eye on hurricane forecasts during September & October! Plus, with fewer tourists around you can find some great bargains when booking hotels, resorts and tour companies. An added bonus? Travel insurance will ensure peace of mind should a storm appear in your vacation plans.

November – December

Visiting Isla Contoy during the autumn-winter season is optimal, as hurricane season has passed and the air is dry. It may become a bit brisk in the nighttime, but that’s all part of experiencing this stunning island!

Snorkeling Isla Contoy
Snorkeling Isla Contoy

How to Get to Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy is a paradise that can only be accessed through boat tour companies, and the number of guests allowed on the island each day is limited to 200 in order to protect its glorious natural environment. You are free to select whichever tour package you find most convenient; however, all tours offer similar experiences.

A tour to Isla Contoy usually ranges from $90-150 USD, and may include a stop in Isla Mujeres. On the boat you will receive light breakfast snacks and drinks plus lunch; hotel and resort pickup is an optional service for an additional fee in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya regions. You can expect o last 9 am – 5 pm (not including pick up time) with a snorkel at Ixlache Reef included but not the national park fee which needs to be paid separately – cash only – when you arrive on the island ($15).

Panoramic View Isla Contoy
Panoramic View Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy Tips

Before your journey commences, it is essential that you review the tour’s information and regulations. To ensure a smooth and safe trip, take note of these important details:

  • Before embarking on your journey to the island, make sure to apply both sunscreen and bug repellent that are reef-safe biodegradable.
  • Note that smoking is strictly prohibited in this area as well.
  • To ensure you have a pleasant experience, consider packing a swimsuit, a change of clothes, comfortable footwear, sunglasses, a towel, hat and binoculars with you;
  • Do not forget $10 for entrance fee either! 

Traveling to 🇲🇽 Mexico soon?

I recommend these travel resources for Mexico that I personally use:

🏨 Hotels: I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Mexico. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights: To find the best flight deals to Mexico, I always use Kayak. Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia.

🚗 Rental Cars: I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation. Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.

🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Mexico, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Mexico. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master, whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.

📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro, It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.