Chacmuchuch: Lagoon and Mangroves

The lagoon system, mangrove channels, and reef zones offer distinct landscapes and activities. Consider whether you mainly want to include lagoons and mangroves, or snorkeling and diving, in your travel plans. If you have a specific hotel in mind, also check its location before making your decision.

Landscape and protected area

The coast of Costa Mujeres forms a peninsula that separates the open Caribbean Sea from the Chacmuchuch Lagoon. Behind the beaches of Costa Mujeres lies the Chacmuchuch lagoon system; mangrove channels run along Isla Blanca. Chacmuchuch Lagoon is located on Isla Blanca. You can therefore consider the open Caribbean coast, the lagoon, and the mangrove channels as distinct nature-focused options for your travel plans.

The Sistema Lagunar Chacmuchuch was designated a protected natural area with the status of an ecological conservation zone on August 9, 1999. It is located in the municipalities of Isla Mujeres and Benito Juárez and covers 1,914.52 hectares. The Chacmuchuch environmental management unit has conservation objectives to protect flora and fauna, the mangrove ecosystem, and primary productivity. These objectives therefore cover both plant and animal life, as well as the ecosystem and primary productivity.

Reefs, mangroves, and birdwatching

In the municipality that includes this area, local operators organize snorkeling and diving trips to reef zones protected by CONANP. These trips are subject to rules intended to protect participants and coral. Another activity takes visitors through the mangrove channels: in the Chacmuchuch lagoon system, you can kayak with a local guide. Reef trips and kayaking therefore offer different experiences. If you plan a snorkeling or diving trip, also take the applicable conservation rules into account.

During an evening birdwatching activity at Laguna Chacmuchuch, more than 20 species were observed in 2025. At one location, more than 100 Snowy Egrets were also counted. These results refer to the specific activity in 2025 and give an impression of the birds observed there.

Getting there in the regional context

Costa Mujeres is near Cancún Airport and a Tren Maya station.

Isla Mujeres: Beaches, Ferries, and Culture

In the wider Isla Mujeres destination, ferries from Cancún to Isla Mujeres depart from Puerto Juárez, Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero, and Playa Caracol. Check the current schedule before traveling, as departure arrangements may change. On Isla Mujeres, Playa Norte has clear, shallow water and white sand; visitors can swim, relax, and snorkel there. Garrafón Natural Reef Park is located at Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres. Visitors can also snorkel at its coral reef.

Cultural attractions also shape Isla Mujeres. The sculptures at Parque Escultórico de Punta Sur reflect Maya symbols, rituals, and forms of expression associated with the Maya worldview. MUSA, Museo Subacuático de Arte, is intended to illustrate how art and environmental science work together; over time, marine life finds refuge in its submerged sculptures. The period from May to September is listed for whale shark watching; swimming with whale sharks is promoted as a tourist activity on Isla Mujeres. Check current dates and applicable rules before your trip.

For the wider travel overview: Isla Mujeres.