AKUMAL MONKEY SANCTUARY
& RESCUED ANIMALS
Animal lovers and families will delight in visiting the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals during their stay in Isla Mujeres. This sanctuary is perfect for anyone who appreciates wildlife and nature. It houses a diverse range of primates and other rescued animals, offering a unique opportunity to learn about these incredible creatures and the challenges they face due to human activity and environmental changes.
The Akumal Monkey Sanctuary operates on five fundamental pillars: a Research Centre and Professional Practices program for studying and training specialists; Rehabilitation, Relocation, and Reintroduction Programs to assist animals in recovering and returning to their natural habitats; Environmental Education to promote conservation awareness; Animal Welfare to ensure the health and safety of all residents; and Fair Trade, which supports Mayan communities through local crafts.
Consider a day trip from Isla Mujeres to the sanctuary to help support the welfare and conservation of both exotic and native animals. You’ll have the chance to meet rescued species while enjoying a fun and educational experience.
Choose from a variety of tours, including thrilling ATV rides through the Mayan jungle that lead to a beautiful cenote for swimming. You can also snorkel in Yal-ku Cove or take a guided tour of the sanctuary, interacting with snakes, macaws, and even primates. Select the tour that suits you best, or opt for one of the exciting combo packages!
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary Tour
Join a tour of the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals to discover the diverse species they care for. This family-friendly outing is perfect for all ages. The sanctuary houses spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, macaws, fallow deer, snakes, and more. During the tour, you'll engage with some of these animals through educational experiences, observing their natural behaviors and expressions, and even having the opportunity to interact with some of them. You’ll also learn the inspiring rescue stories of each species, gaining a deeper appreciation for their journeys.
General Info: This tour is 2 hours, your ticket includes entrance and a bilingual guided tour within the sanctuary facilities. It includes educational links with various species such as snakes, macaws, and monkeys. Also included are natural water and fruit water. You can include transport, and a swim in the cenote for an additional cost.
$70 Adult's Entrance
$50 Children's Entrance
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary Tour + Snorkeling
Join a half-day family adventure as you explore the diverse wildlife of Mexico's Mayan jungle and Caribbean waters. This tour features a guided visit to the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals, where you’ll learn about various species and even have the chance to interact with some, including macaws, snakes, and primates, in a fun and educational environment. You’ll also enjoy snorkeling in Yal-ku Cove, a hidden gem of the Mayan Riviera, where saltwater meets freshwater, creating a stunning setting perfect for swimming and relaxation. Immerse yourself in this unique ecosystem, teeming with vibrant tropical fish and breathtaking natural beauty.
General Info: This tour is approximately 4 hours long, it runs daily from 9AM. Your tour includes a bilingual guided tour within the sanctuary facilities. It includes educational links with snakes, macaws, and primates. Also included is the transfer and entrance to Yal-Ku Cove, and snorkeling equipment. Natural water and fruit water, as well as a box lunch, are also included. You can include transport for an additional cost. There is a minimum age for children of 5 years old.
$104 Adult's Entrance
$90 Children's Entrance
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary Tour + ATV + Cenote
Experience a half-day family adventure in the Mayan jungle of Akumal! This tour includes a guided visit to the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals, allowing you to learn about and interact with various species, including macaws and snakes (doesn't include primate interaction). You'll also enjoy an exhilarating ATV ride along dirt roads to hidden underground caverns, where you can take a refreshing swim in a cenote surrounded by stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
General Info: This tour is 4 hours, it runs daily from 9AM and 1PM. Your tour includes an ATV ride through the jungle, safety glasses and helmets for adults and children, an entrance and guided tour of the cavern/cenote, an entrance, and a bilingual guided tour within the sanctuary facilities. It includes educational links with snakes and macaws. This tour does not include interaction with primates. Also included are natural water and fruit water. You can include transport for an additional cost. To ride the ATV there is a minimum age for children of 5 years old. The minimum driving age is 16 years or older.
$110 Individual ATV
$170 Double ATV (Per 2 Pax.)
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary Tour + ATV + Cenote (With Monkey Interaction)
Experience a half-day family adventure in the Mayan jungle of Akumal! This tour includes a guided visit to the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals, where you can learn about and interact with various species, including macaws, snakes, and primates. You'll also enjoy an exhilarating ATV ride along dirt roads to hidden underground caverns, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in a cenote surrounded by stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
General Info: This tour is 4 hours, it runs daily from 9AM and 1PM. Your tour includes an ATV ride through the jungle, safety glasses and helmets for adults and children, an entrance and guided tour of the cavern/cenote, an entrance, and a bilingual guided tour within the sanctuary facilities. It includes educational links with snakes, macaws, and primates. Also included are natural water and fruit water. You can include transport for an additional cost. To ride the ATV there is a minimum age for children of 5 years old. The minimum driving age is 16 years or older.
$144 Individual ATV (Per Pax.)
$238 Double ATV (Per 2 Pax.)
ATV + Cenote + Snorkel
Explore the thrilling Mayan jungle in Akumal on an ATV. Ride along dirt paths surrounded by lush greenery until you reach a spectacular cavern filled with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Inside, you’ll find a cenote perfect for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters. The adventure then takes you to the serene Yal-ku Cove, where saltwater meets freshwater, creating an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation. Don your snorkel and dive into the cove to discover its colorful tropical fish.
General Info: This tour is approximately 4 hours long, it runs daily from 9AM. Your tour includes an ATV ride through the jungle, safety glasses and helmets, an entrance and guided tour of the cavern/cenote, as well as the transfer and entrance to Yal-Ku Cove, and snorkeling equipment. Natural water and fruit water, as well as a box lunch, are also included. You can include transport for an additional cost. There is a minimum age for children of 5 years old.
$159 Individual ATV
$264 Double ATV (Per 2 Pax.)
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary Tour + ATV + Cenote + Snorkel
Embark on an exhilarating full day adventure as you explore the region's incredible wildlife on this guided tour! Your journey kicks off at the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals, where you can engage with and learn about rescued animals and their inspiring stories. Next, hop on an ATV for a thrilling ride through the lush Mayan jungle, navigating dirt paths surrounded by vibrant flora. You'll arrive at a breathtaking cavern filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and columns, where you can take a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear cenote. Finally, unwind at the serene Yal-ku Cove, a hidden gem where saltwater mingles with freshwater. Grab your snorkel and dive into the vibrant underwater world, brimming with tropical fish in this picturesque paradise!
General Info: This tour is approximately 7 hours long, it runs daily from 9AM. Your tour includes educational links with snakes, macaws, and primates, an ATV ride through the jungle, safety glasses and helmets, an entrance and guided tour of the cavern/cenote, as well as the transfer and entrance to Yal-Ku Cove, and snorkeling equipment. Natural water and fruit water, as well as lunch are also included. You can include transport for an additional cost. There is a minimum age for children of 5 years old.
$208 Individual ATV
$374 Double ATV (Per 2 Pax.)
GALLERY
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How far is Isla Mujeres from Cancun?Isla Mujeres is 8 miles (13 km) North East from Cancun.
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How long is the ferry ride? Is there a lot of space?The ferry ride from Cancun to Isla Mujeres and back is approximately 20 minutes. The ferry is spacious, however, we recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before your desired ferry to make sure you get a spot, as it can sometimes get busy.
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Can I exchange pesos at the Ultramar ferry terminal in Cancun?No, there is currently not a currency exchange at the ferry terminal in Cancun. However, at the Ultramar ferry terminal in Isla Mujeres there is a currency exchange.
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Can I buy medicine on Isla Mujeres?Yes, there are several pharmacies located around the island where you can buy medicines that you need. (You may need a prescription for certain medications).
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Is there a grocery store on Isla Mujeres?Yes, there are several grocery stores on the island. The largest grocery store is Chedraui, located mid-island. You can also find Super Aki, a smaller grocery store in the main plaza in downtown Isla Mujeres, and one in Colonia La Gloria. There are also smaller convenience/corner stores dotted around the island with essentials (look for the signs that say SIX).
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Is beach access free?Yes. All beaches in Mexico are public, which means that they are free to use. Lay out your towel or take your beach chair and relax. However, expect to pay at the beach clubs, the use of their chairs, beds and facilities does often cost money.
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Can we drink beer on the beach?Yes, you can take your own alcohol to the beach. If you are at a beach club, you will not be able to consume your own alcohol. Remember to use the trash cans provided afterwards to keep our beaches clean!
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Can I smoke cigarettes on the beach?Yes, you can smoke cigarettes on the beach, use ashtrays provided at the beach clubs, or clean up after yourselves when not at the beach clubs, using the trash cans provided.
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Where can I buy cigarettes on the island?Most convenience stores, supermarkets, and corner shops sell cigarettes.
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I am traveling solo, what is the best transportation on Isla Mujeres?"If you are traveling solo, you can rent a Golf Cart or scooter, or even a bicycle to explore the island at your own pace. You can also travel via a taxi or on the local bus.
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I am traveling with my family, what is the best transportation on the island?"If you are traveling with your family a Golf Cart is probably the best option, (for up to 4 people) or you could all rent bicycles. The taxis can take 4 people maximum, or there is the local bus.
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If I get sick is there a local doctor on Isla Mujeres?Yes, in the unlikely event that you need a doctor while on Isla Mujeres, there are several English speaking doctors you can visit, or who can do house calls to your accommodation if you need.
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Is there a hospital on Isla Mujeres?Yes, there is a public hospital on the island.
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Can I bring CBD products from home to Mexico?There are laws in place which restrict you from bringing products from your home country to Mexico.
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Is cannabis legal in Mexico/on the island?Cannabis is illegal on Isla Mujeres, and throughout Mexico.
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How is the internet access on the island?As we are located on a small island in the Caribbean, off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres’ internet sometimes suffers from bad/flaky internet access due to tropical weather, and when there are lots of people using it on the island. This is the perfect time to disconnect and enjoy Isla Mujeres!
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What is the local currency on Isla Mujeres? Can I bring USD?The local currency on Isla Mujeres is Mexican Pesos. You can use USD, but many places make their own exchange rate. You can change USD to Mexican Pesos at locations downtown in Isla Mujeres.
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Where can I exchange USD to Mexican Pesos on Isla Mujeres?You can exchange money downtown - at the ferry terminal in Isla Mujeres, at Elektra white good store, or at one of the banks (HSBC, Banamex and Cibanco)
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Can I take money out? Are there ATMs on the island?There are several banks in downtown Isla Mujeres, including HSBC, Banamex and Cibanco, which have ATMs inside. You can also find ATMs in the grocery stores - Super Aki and Chedraui.
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Do I need a passport or a visa to get to Isla Mujeres?If you are coming from another country (USA, Canada, Europe etc.) to Mexico you will need a passport to enter into Mexico at the airport/border. You will also need to fill out a visa form before you enter which they will check with your passport at immigration when you arrive. Here you will be issued your visa for your stay for maximum 180 days (KEEP THIS SAFE in your passport during your stay).
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Do I need a license to drive a golf cart?Yes, anyone driving the golf cart must have a valid driver’s license. The rental company will take 1 license as a deposit when you take the golf cart.
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Can my 12-year-old son drive the golf cart?No. Anyone driving the golf cart must have a valid driver’s license. For your safety and the safety of others, and the community on the island, please be responsible while driving the golf cart and do not allow your child to drive or steer the vehicle.
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I had a couple of beers with lunch and feel fine, can I drive the golf cart that we rented?"No. Do not drink and drive on the island. There is zero alcohol tolerance on drinking and driving on the island (on golf carts, scooters and in cars). This includes having open containers in the golf cart. Choose a designated driver who will not drink while out exploring the island. And do not have any open bottles, cans or containers of alcohol while on the vehicle, if you are stopped by the police they can fine you and/or take the vehicle away. There are often random checkpoints set up around the island, and police are constantly patrolling in their vehicles. These rules are in place for your safety and the safety of others on the island.
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Can I drink the tap water while on the Isla Mujeres?No, it is not recommended to drink mains-supply water, this can make you sick. Buy bottled water or drink from the garaffons available at your accommodation this has been purified and is drinkable. Ice on Isla Mujeres has been made from purified water.
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Why are there signs saying not to put paper down the toilet? What do I do with the paper? What can go down the toilets?The waste systems on the island are not designed to have anything unnatural flushed into them. They block easily. Put paper and sanitary products in the waste bins provided next to the toilet. To avoid an inconvenience for yourself and others, avoid unpleasant problems by only flushing natural products down.
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What is the extra cost that has been added to my bill at the bar/restaurant?Check your bills carefully. Some places may add a ‘suggested tip’. Others may add on the tax to the total separately, (the item price shown on the menu usually shows this while the bill may not), don’t be afraid to ask or to check a menu.
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How much should I tip at the bars and restaurants?Tips in bars and restaurants is recommended at 15% (plus). Check that a ‘suggested tip’ hasn’t been added onto the total, before tipping twice. Check bills carefully!
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How many people are allowed on a scooter?Maximum 2 people are allowed on a scooter, despite what you may see. If there are more than 2 people you will be stopped by the police.
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Do I need to wear a helmet on a scooter?Yes. Both the driver and passenger on the scooter must have a helmet, this is a legal requirement in place for your safety. If you are not wearing a helmet, you will be stopped by police.
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How many people are allowed on a golf cart?There are 4 person and 6 person golf carts available to rent on Isla Mujeres. You should stick to the maximum capacity. If you have more than 4 people on a 4 person golf cart, the police can pull you over.
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How can I fish on the island?Yes there are tours that go out where you can fish. Including Sport Fishing, Deep Sea Fishing and Bay Fishing.
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Where can I swim on Isla Mujeres safely?We do not recommend swimming along the Caribbean side, even as a strong swimmer, the tide is very strong and it is very rocky. You can swim safely, you can swim at Playa Norte, and Playa Sol in downtown Isla Mujeres. There are also spots along the Cancun side of the island where you can swim (beach clubs), be careful of sea urchins in the seagrass here.
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Are there yoga classes on the island?Yes, there are yoga classes available on the island. There are several great teachers on the island who can provide private lessons or have schedules at some great spots, including on the beach, with views of the Caribbean, and more.
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Can I surf on Isla Mujeres?If you are an experienced surfer, there are some spots along the Caribbean coast where you can surf when the tide is right. There is nowhere to rent boards, if you have your own you can go out opposite the gas station, but be aware that there is a strong tide here and it is very rocky.
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What language is spoken on the island?Spanish is the primary language on Isla Mujeres, however, due to the amount of tourists that visit the island many people can speak English.
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Can I bring my pet to the island?Yes, you can travel with your pet to the island. Dogs and pets are allowed upstairs on the Ultramar Ferry. When you are on the island there are several accommodation options that allow animals. Also there is a dog beach along the Caribbean side of the island, especially for your four-legged friend to enjoy the Caribbean.
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What public transportation is available on the island?Taxis are very easy to catch on the island. Prices vary depending on your location and destination. There is also a local bus that you can catch on the main roads along the island.
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What vehicles are available to rent on Isla Mujeres?Golf Carts are the most common form of rental vehicle on Isla Mujeres. You can also rent scooters or bicycles.
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Is there live music?Yes there is live music on the island. There are several bars and restaurants that have live music.
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What time do the bars and restaurants close?Closing times depend on the license that the business has on the island.
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We want to dance and party, where can we go?"In downtown Isla Mujeres there are several bars with live music and DJs where you can dance and party. With salsa music, rock, and even electronic music available.
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I would like to get my nails done, is that possible?"Yes, there are places where you can have pedicures and manicures on the island.
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Is there someone to do my hair and makeup on Isla Mujeres?Yes, there are hair stylists and makeup artists on the island.
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Are there dentists on the island?Yes, there are dentists on the Isla Mujeres.
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Are there any dangerous insects or animals on the island?Yes, there are some insects which you should avoid. There are scorpions on the island that will give you a nasty sting and spiders that will bite, however, neither are venomous. There are also some beautiful caterpillars that you should avoid. Don’t forget to wear bug repellent for the mosquitos. As for animals, not all of Isla’s dogs are friendly, don’t approach them. Also look out for the crocodile in the Makax Lagoon, and snakes around the island.
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Can I bring a rented car over from the mainland?Yes you can bring over a rented car, on the car ferry, from Cancun.
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Can I take shells and coral when I am snorkeling/diving and take it back home with me?No, help us to protect our oceans and underwater world, unless it is human produced trash, please do not remove anything from the sea or our beaches. Please do not touch the sealife or coral when snorkeling or diving.
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I see a lot of dogs in the street, are they strays? And how do I adopt one?"Most of the time, the dogs in the streets on Isla Mujeres do have owners, they may not be wearing a collar, but usually have been allowed out to roam for the day. If you are looking to adopt a dog or a cat from the island, you can go to Isla Animals or Delfino’s Veterinary Clinic, who can help you to adopt an island animal that needs a home.
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What are some activities to do on rainy days on the island?While we have many sunny, beautiful days on Isla Mujeres, there are also days with bad weather and/or rain. On these days there are some activities that you can do including cooking classes, art classes, bead making workshops etc.