Isla Contoy Boat Excursion

Overview

Isla Contoy is an uninhabited national park island 30 km north of Isla Mujeres, served by limited daily permits (200 visitors max). The excursion includes boat travel through mangrove channels, snorkeling on the Ixlaché reef, and beach time on pristine, empty shores.

Highlights

• Pristine Isolation: The 200-visitor daily cap means empty beaches and undisturbed wildlife.
• Ixlaché Reef: A shallow, colorful reef system rich with parrotfish, angelfish, and sea fans.
• Bird Sanctuary: Home to over 150 bird species including frigate birds, brown pelicans, and cormorants.

History

Declared a national park in 1998, Isla Contoy is one of the most important nesting sites for sea birds in the Mexican Caribbean. Strict visitor limits and no permanent structures maintain its near-pristine condition.

Visitor Tips

• Book in advance: Only a handful of licensed operators have permits; tours sell out.
• All-day commitment: Boats depart around 09:00 and return by 16:00.
• Duration: Full day (7 hours).