Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small island located off the coast of Cancun in the Mexican Caribbean. It stands out for its relaxed atmosphere, exceptional beaches, and coral reefs for snorkeling or diving.
The easiest way to get there is by taking a boat or ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. This journey of only 20 minutes is available most of the day from different points in the Cancun Hotel Zone and the Puerto Juárez dock if you want to go on your own.
Upon arrival in Isla Mujeres, you immediately perceive that relaxing atmosphere so typical of the Caribbean region. You can find many locals offering tours or excursions to snorkel in Isla Mujeres. In front of the north coast, there is a reef that is very famous among visitors, and where you can see different tropical fish, starfish, and urchins. You can even get a little closer to see a ship that was wrecked, and now is part of the reef.
If you prefer, you can head left and reach the famous North Beach of Isla Mujeres. You can spend a day enjoying a beach with calm waves, feel the sea breeze, and even stay in one of the restaurants or bars that rent umbrellas and chairs while trying a delicious ceviche or a cold cocktail.
Things to do in Isla Mujeres
In Isla Mujeres, you can find many activities to do, whether you visit this place for a day or if you are going to spend several nights here. Some tourists choose to rent a golf cart to explore the southern part of the island. There are many rental establishments, where they require a valid driving license, in addition to offering the service hourly, half-day, or full-day rental options.
Sea Turtles Sanctuary
On the island, there is also a Sea Turtle Sanctuary that can be visited in the central part. The specimens that arrive at Isla Mujeres to make a nest and deposit eggs, usually get here between May to September. Sanctuary volunteers collect the eggs and take them to the farm to keep safe from their predators. At birth and after confirming their health, they are released into the sea; With a bit of luck, you can be part of this experience during your visit.
Scuba Diving in Isla Mujeres
Diving in Isla Mujeres is another popular activity at this fantastic tourist destination in the Mexican Caribbean. If it is your first dive or you have a PADI certification, you can find many options to practice this fascinating activity. It is possible to dive at the Manchones Reef or even visit the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks in the southern area.
Hacienda Mundaca
On the island are the remains of an old estate that belonged to the famous Spanish pirate known as Fermín de Mundaca, who lived in Isla Mujeres in the 19th Century, after receiving the accusation of trafficking in slaves, which was a prohibited activity in Spanish territories. Hacienda Mundaca is a formidable area to walk through its gardens, where you will be able to hear the romantic history that this place contains and where the main protagonist is this famous pirate.
Whale Shark in Isla Mujeres
On the north side of Isla Mujeres is a National Park of enormous beauty, in addition to being a protected area: Contoy Island. Besides the island being is home to various species of birds, there is a limited allowed number of visitors per day, and a special permit must be processed well in advance.
The Contoy Island maritime area is a habitat for various species of fish and other marine varieties. Every year, specimens of the world's largest fish, the whale shark, come to this area. These specimens can measure up to 15 m in length and are harmless to humans, feeding only on plankton, small fish, and squid. Between June and September, it is the season to take a tour with the whale shark in Isla Mujeres.
Other attractions in Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres has several additional attractions. From parks or reefs to spend a day full of fun, such as the Garrafon Isla Mujeres area. Besides, the South Point at the end of the island is a famous site for the pre-Hispanic vestiges founded in here that served as a tribute to the Mayan deity Ixchel; due to the clay vessels and figurines in the shape of women, the island was named as Isla Mujeres (Women Island). Bring a camera and take great pictures, even better if you enjoy the sunset from this special place.
Additionally, Isla Mujeres is part of the Magic Towns of Mexico program, and walking around downtown and doing some shopping is a very fun experience. You will find craft shops, jewelry stores, boutiques, etc.
Isla Mujeres Tour
A tour or excursion to Isla Mujeres is a great option to spend a day in this Caribbean spot of exceptional beauty. There are several options by boat or catamaran that depart from Cancun to Isla Mujeres and pay a visit to the famous Playa Norte. Also, visitors can swim and relax at the ocean, plus they usually have time to shop, party on board the boat, and take tourists to a beach club or seaside restaurant for lunch.
Are you ready to enjoy one of the most popular tours in the Mexican Caribbean? Isla Mujeres awaits you with open arms to spend memorable moments with your friends or beloved ones.
