Flora & Fauna of Isla Mujeres.

Discover why Isla Mujeres is one of the islands of the Caribbean with the greatest diversity of flora & fauna.

Isla Mujeres is knowing for being a paradise on earth, which makes it the perfect place to receive thousands of tourists looking for a place with natural wealth, Mayan vestiges and crystalline beaches. Keep reading and discover all the nature that Isla Mujeres has!

This article may interest you: How big is Isla Mujeres? 

Flora of Isla Mujeres. 

Due to the tropical location of the island, it has a warm climate that allows abundant growth of vegetation, which gives rise to an exceptional diversity of plants and ecosystems, such as: jungle, mangrove, seagrass meadows and reefs.

Within these ecosystems we can find a great diversity of plants of all colors and sizes: algae, mangroves, palm trees, coconut trees, banana trees and a great variety of shrubs and gardens.

Now, if what you want is to be able to appreciate all the flora of the region, we recommend you visit the Hacienda del Pirata Mundana, a very old farm that has been adapted to a small zoo with several specimens of the local fauna, but above all with beautiful and colorful gardens. Nothing like visiting the Hacienda while enjoying a delicious coconut water!

Fauna of Isla Mujeres. 

There are many animals that live in the ecosystems of the island, since they represent an excellent place to seek food and shelter. In the mangroves and jungles of Isla Mujeres you can find up to 120 different species of terrestrial and aquatic animals.

During your visit to the region you will be able to observe different birds, such as: hawks, hummingbirds, herons, pelicans, etc. & different reptiles: turtles, iguanas, frogs, snakes, lizards, etc.

While, within marine animals we have: dolphins, stingrays, sea stars, cat sharks, whale sharks (seasonal only) and numerous varieties of fish: tuna, barracuda, sailfish, marlin, swordfish, sawfish and colorful fish banks. All these marine animals can be found when diving or snorkeling on the island!

FAQ´s.

Now, we answer the most frequent questions about the Flora and Fauna of Isla Mujeres:

• What is the island’s Flora and Fauna preservation zone called?

Costa Occidental National Park of Isla Mujeres, Punta Cancún and Punta Nizuc.

• How many different vegetation zones can be found on Isla Mujeres?

On the island you can find 4 vegetation zones: the tropical jungle, the mangrove swamp, the seagrass meadows and the reefs. Each one with different species and vegetation.

• What impact do the vegetation zones have on the island’s climate? 

In Isla Mujeres the tropical jungle predominates, which is characterized by a warm climate throughout the year and moderate rains in some seasons.

• What animal is common in nature?

The most common animal on Isla Mujeres is the Green Iguana. You can find hundreds of them on the island, but don’t worry, this species is quite social and you can sometimes find them sunbathing and looking for food. There is even a sculpture of this animal on the island!

• What attractions exist in Isla Mujeres to appreciate the diversity of Fauna?

If you want to admire the species of the region, we recommend you visit: 

• • • Tortugranja: Aquarium and conservation area for three species of sea turtle. Ideal for children and adults to learn more about marine life.
    • El Garrafón: Natural marine park that has various reefs and offers the opportunity to snorkel, to learn about the various fish that live under the sea.
    • Parque Nacional Isla Contoy: Protected natural area that houses most of the species in the region. It is located north of Isla Mujeres, but there are a lot alternatives for tours and departure times to the Island.