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Cancun is rated as one of Mexico’s top beach destinations, but the area is also home to some of the most impressive coral reefs in the country. Together with marine authorities, nature conservationists have been stepping up their game to preserve and restore existing coral reefs. As a result, over 20,000 coral reefs have been restored, giving visitors a unique chance to experience these colorful ecosystems. Whether it be diving or snorkeling, we’ve rounded up the best tours to enjoy coral reefs & marine life in Cancun.
Sometimes referred to as rainforests of the sea, not only are coral reefs beautiful, but they also house a variety of fish and marine species that are hard to find elsewhere. Octopi, sting rays, and lobsters are just a few of the hidden gems that can be found in the area’s growing coral reef ecosystems.
5-In-1 Snorkeling Tour
This top-rated tour offers tourists the perfect package to discover Cancun’s rich marine wildlife and vibrant coral reefs. The 3-hour tour is an excellent choice for beginners and takes visitors to beautiful local reefs. First-timers will feel safe in the hands of Total Snorkel, a tour company whose experienced guides accompany tourists throughout the experience. Coming in at just $75 per person, the tour offers one of the most compact experiences at an unbeatable price. Visitors can also witness an array of unique marine life, including sea turtles and sting rays.
Luxury Isla Mujeres Coral Reef Tour
Isla Mujeres is a top pick for nature lovers; the stunning tropical island is easily reached from Cancun by ferry or catamaran and is ideal for a day trip to experience the location’s rich nature. Cancun Adventures’ 5-and-a-half-hour Catamaran tour takes visitors on an extensive tour of the island’s crystal clear tropical waters and colorful marine life. It includes hotel pick-up from Cancun, as well as an open bar where guests can enjoy complimentary drinks. Priced at $129, the tour focuses on providing a luxurious experience aboard its elegant catamaran sailboat.
Diving Tour – Perfect For Beginners
Go Diving Cancun’s driving tour of the Mexican Caribbean is designed to be a comfortable and pleasant experience for complete beginners. This 6-hour tour includes both theory and practice and helps first-timers to become acquainted with the art of scuba diving. The professional tour guides provide visitors with equipment and training before heading into the actual tour, which includes several interesting sights. The highlight of the tour is the impressive MUSMA underwater museum, with more than 400 sculptures that harbor all kinds of marine life. The tour is affordably priced at $145, as it includes both training and equipment.
More Than Twenty Thousand Coral Reefs Restored In Canucn & Isla Mujeres
Now is one of the best times to witness Canun and Isla Mujeres’ extensive coral reels as local authorities take action to restore more than 22 thousand reefs. Thanks to extensive conservation efforts, tourists can enjoy one of Mexico’s best Caribbean destinations surrounded by colorful reefs.
According to the National Institute for Fisheries (Inapesca), the restoration efforts have been highly successful, targeting several national parks in the area, such as the Costa Occidental National Park in Isla Mujeres. Reefs in Cancun and the rest of Quintana Roo are also thriving, such as those of Punta Nizuc and Arrecife National Park.
Authorities have stressed the importance of taking preventive measures to avoid damaging the delicate species, which take years to grow. That’s why it’s important for visitors to be respectful of local reefs, and to opt for guided tours, which offer a safe and environmentally-friendly way to witness one of nature’s most colorful sights.
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