Contoy Island – Virgin Paradise

Did you know that there is an island very similar to Isla Mujeres that has white sand, palm trees and crystal clear waters but that is totally uninhabited and virgin?

Its name is Isla Contoy and it is an area declared a Natural Reserve and National Fauna Refuge since 1961. It has an elongated shape very similar to that of Isla Mujeres, with a length of 8 kilometers and 800 meters at its widest part. It is located about 40 minutes to the north, on a mass of reef, which is why it is home to a large number of marine species, including turtles, rays, starfish and crabs, as well as numerous species of birds such as pelicans, herons, frigate birds and seagulls, among others species. You can also find a large number of reptiles on the island, with the gray iguana being the most popular species.

What to do there?

This place is ideal for relaxing due to the little human activity. You will hear the sound of the wind in the palm trees, the birds and nothing else. That is why it is ideal if what you are looking for is a real connection with nature. You can also connect with the marine world and snorkel, and walk the trails of the island. So you can get a little exercise while you enjoy the exuberant and paradisiacal landscapes. The only facilities that we will find on the island are a marine watchman post that is in charge of watching the coasts of Isla Contoy, as well as a small museum where you can learn more about the flora and fauna that inhabit it, and marvel at the landscape that can be seen from the island’s observation tower.

How to get to Isla Contoy

The only way to get there is in a tour by boat, and they depart from Cancun and Isla Mujeres daily.. It is advisable to reserve your place in advance since only 200 people can go per day. The tours include lunch, however, an interesting activity that some cooperatives in Isla Contoy carry out as part of the tour is fishing and, the best thing about this, is that the fish during the excursion is cooked on the beach. You can book the tour in different agencies, we only recommend you don’t make plans at night since you can return quite tired from the sun and physical activity. Also remember to be very respectful of the corals and the fauna and flora that you will find in your path, as well as to avoid using sunscreen as it can damage the reef.