Mexican Caribbean

They say distance makes the heart grow fonder—or something like that. I’m not sure of the exact phrase, but I do know this: planning makes traveling go smoother. When it comes to travel, there’s just so much to juggle—flights, hotels, activities, documents, emergency contacts, travel insurance. Without some level of organization, what’s meant to be a relaxing getaway can quickly turn into a stressful checklist of forgotten details.

Cozumel is famous worldwide for its crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, and incredible diving opportunities. Often called a diver’s paradise, the island attracts visitors from all over the globe who come to explore its stunning underwater landscapes. Sites like Palancar Reef and Colombia Reef are legendary, but here’s something many travelers don’t know: not all reefs in Cozumel are open year-round.

I just got back from Cozumel—sunburned, happy, and honestly still thinking about how wild my day at El Barriecito was. I didn’t spend this trip just lounging on the beach. I finally decided to try some of the tours we offer there, partly out of curiosity and partly because I wanted to see what all the buzz was about. Spoiler: it’s worth it.

Welcome back to the third segment of “How to choose your snorkel excursion at Cozumel.” Last year, after sharing the first installment, I realized it might be important to be more specific, so I wrote the second part: “How to choose your snorkel at El Cielo excursion.” This year, Safe Tours Cozumel has added newer tours to the catalog, so I figured it was the perfect time to update it with some of my favorite tours to El Cielo – and what better time to do so than summer? Let’s dive right in.

Let’s just start off by saying this was one of the most exhilarating and crazy days of my life. One thinks they know what such a creature looks like because they’ve seen pictures and videos online, but the reality is: you’re not prepared for what it feels like—to know just how insignificant you are, to be faced with something that could swallow you whole simply by accident, not even out of hunger.

Calesas, once a romanticized symbol of Cozumel’s laid-back charm, are traditional horse-drawn carriages that have long been part of the island’s touristic appeal. With their polished wooden frames and clinking reins, they were meant to evoke a sense of nostalgia—a throwback to quieter times. But nostalgia can be blinding. And what was once quaint now turns into something undeniably cruel.

Nestled just before the world-famous El Cielo sandbar lies one of Cozumel’s best-kept secrets: the Turtle Sanctuary. This shallow, serene spot is a feeding ground for sea turtles, offering an incredible opportunity to observe these graceful creatures in their natural habitat. But it’s not just about turtles; this area is also home to colorful marine life, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling.
 

Mahahual is one of those places you’ll wonder why you haven’t heard of before. This tiny coastal town in Quintana Roo is still flying under the radar, but it won’t be for long. With its pristine beaches, laid-back vibe, and some of the most stunning turquoise waters you'll ever lay eyes on, Mahahual is quickly becoming the go-to destination for those who want to experience the Caribbean without the crowds or the overpriced drinks (sorry, Cancún).

Welcome back to Part 2 of our Cozumel tour guide! In the first segment, we took you off the island and across the channel to explore some of the best mainland excursions. Now, it’s time to turn our attention to what Cozumel itself has to offer. From pirate adventures to hands-on art workshops, Cozumel is brimming with activities that will make you forget you ever planned to relax on the beach (okay, maybe not forget, but at least take a break from the sun for a bit). Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or someone just looking for a unique souvenir to remember your trip, the island has it all. Let’s dive right in!

I know better than anyone that while the island’s beaches are practically begging you to just be there, you might be starting to feel like there’s a little more to this paradise than laying around and sipping cocktails. Spoiler alert: There is. Cozumel may be stunning, but it’s also the perfect jumping-off point for some epic mainland adventures. In this first segment of our two-part guide, we’ll cover some of the top tours that whisk you away from the island to explore the wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula. Ancient ruins, secret cenotes, and beach bliss—this is where the fun truly begins.