Isla Contoy, the paradise at the Caribbean!

Isla Contoy is a small paradise in the northeast corner of Quintana Roo. Although it does not receive much publicity, it is one of the most beautiful corners of the Mexican Caribbean.

About 30 km north of Isla Mujeres, Contoy is a tropical treasure, whose geographical position has favored the proliferation in variety and quantity of hundreds of species of birds, fish, reptiles and plants.

The island is in the transition zone between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, where currents mix and carry a large amount of nutrients to its waters. This attracts species such as the whale shark, which feeds on plankton.

Isla Contoy is administered by the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas, which maintains strict control over access to it and the activities that can be carried out there. The island only receives 200 visitors per day and the permitted activities are: ecotourism, scientific research and fishing.

A day at Isla Contoy

 

Upon arrival, you can visit the sustainable ecological station, a facility that includes a visitor’s center, an interactive museum, two ecological trails that will take you on a tour of the island’s natural habitat, a bird watching tower and a field of wind generators and solar panels.

Afterwards, it’s time for a snorkeling excursion to the reef and immerse yourself in the colorful underwater world that inhabits it. At the end, a delicious tikin-xic fish awaits you in the palapas that serve as dining areas.

Things you need to know before visiting Isla Contoy

 

• There are daily departures to Isla Contoy from Cancun, Puerto Juarez, Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox. Due to the limited number of tourists per day, we suggest you reserve your place on the boat in advance.
• The following are not allowed: sunscreen and sunblock to enter the sea, shouting, playing music, playing ball, littering, eating outside the designated areas, touching the flora and fauna.

Discover this small island on your next trip to the Mexican Caribbean and remember that we are waiting for you at Skulls Landing when you travel to Isla Mujeres.