Cozumel: Manatee Encounter, Chankanaab Admission and Buffet

If you’re planning a day in Cozumel and crave a mix of adorable marine life, beautiful scenery, and a bit of relaxation, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Combining a 30-minute interaction with gentle manatees and free access to Chankanaab Park, it offers a fun, affordable way to enjoy some of Cozumel’s best features in one go.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the chance to touch and feed the tranquil, chubby manatees is a rare opportunity that’s especially popular among families and animal lovers. Second, the admission to Chankanaab Park opens up a world of lush gardens, lagoons, and excellent snorkeling. Third, the included buffet and drinks mean you can relax and refuel without worrying about extra costs.

That said, visitors should note that photos aren’t included in the price, and lockers require a small deposit, so plan accordingly. Also, this tour is best suited for those over 8 years old and not pregnant women or children under 8, for safety reasons. Overall, it’s a well-rounded experience, perfect for those wanting a close-up behind-the-scenes look at marine mammals combined with some leisure time in a scenic setting.

Good To Know

• Close Manatee Interaction: Touch, pet, and feed these gentle creatures in a safe, guided environment.
• Park Access Included: Enjoy the lush gardens, lagoons, and snorkeling spots at Chankanaab.
• Value for Money: For $79, you get a memorable experience plus park entry, buffet, and drinks.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids over 8, with guided instructions and safety gear.
• Limited Duration: The main activity lasts 30 minutes, making it a concise but impactful experience.
• Additional Costs: Be prepared for optional extras like photos, lockers, and snorkeling gear.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Manatee Encounter in Cozumel

The core of this tour is the 30-minute manatee encounter at Dolphin Discovery-Cozumel. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by knowledgeable guides who provide a short briefing on how to interact safely with these friendly marine mammals. Reviewers, like Michele, appreciated the guides’ kindness and patience, noting that the staff makes you feel comfortable and well-informed.

During your time in the water, you’ll get to touch and pet the manatees, which are surprisingly soft and gentle—something many describe as a “once-in-a-lifetime” feeling. As Lisa mentions, her guide Miguel was “awesome,” and the experience felt very personal, especially with small groups of just six people. The highlight for many is when the manatee comes over to give you a big, charming hug—an adorable and unforgettable moment.

Feeding the manatees is another favorite, allowing for a more interactive experience. Reviewers like Pamela Rene’ describe how the pictures taken during the encounter came out “so great” and were worth the extra cost, capturing genuine happiness and wonder. Because these mammals are so calm, even first-timers find the encounter accessible and rewarding.

What to Expect During the Park Visit

Once your time with the manatees wraps up, you’ll gain free access to Chankanaab Park. The park is a lush, tropical setting filled with native flora and fauna, perfect for a relaxing walk or a quick dip in the lagoons. Jewell loved that she and her teenage daughter could enjoy the park just the two of them, making the experience feel exclusive and less crowded.

The park amenities include beautiful gardens, restrooms, showers, and a swimming pool—all of which help you unwind after your water activity. There’s also the opportunity to explore the lagoon, where you might see colorful fish or even snorkel if you bring your gear. Though snorkel equipment isn’t included in the package, reviews emphasize that the park’s clear waters and scenic backdrop are worth a visit.

The Buffet and Refreshments

The tour includes a buffet lunch, which reviews describe as “good” and enough to satisfy hunger after your aquatic adventure. Accompanying the meal are non-alcoholic drinks, ideal for rehydrating in the warm Caribbean sun. Adeline appreciated that the buffet lunch added a touch of comfort to the day, especially as it’s included in the price—saving you from additional expenses.

It’s worth noting that while the buffet and drinks are included, the park offers other options for those wanting to explore further or indulge in extra snacks. The relaxed atmosphere at Chankanaab makes it a perfect spot for those who prefer a less hectic day with plenty of opportunities to soak up the scenery.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is designed for convenience and flexibility. You can reserve and pay later, making it easy to fit into your travel plans. The activity generally lasts around 30 minutes with scheduled morning and afternoon slots, so you can choose based on your itinerary.

What to bring? Pack your beachwear, a towel, and cash for optional extras like lockers or souvenirs. To protect the marine mammals and other park visitors, cameras aren’t allowed during the manatee encounter, so if you want photos, you’ll need to buy the official package. Sunscreen is also discouraged, to prevent harming the delicate marine environment.

Children over 8 can participate alone, provided they pay the adult rate, while younger children need adult supervision. Pregnant women and kids under 8 aren’t eligible, ensuring safety for all involved.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Experience from Real Travelers

Looking at reviews, most guests left very positive feedback. Lisa mentions that the manatee experience was “so fun” and highlights Miguel, her guide, as “awesome.” Many appreciate the small group sizes, which allow for more personal interaction. The photos—though pricey at $70 per person—are often described as “great,” capturing memorable moments.

Others, like Adeline, noted that her anniversary with her husband was made special thanks to the gentle nature of the manatees and the peaceful setting of the park. Several reviewers mention the value for money, especially since the tour includes park admission, lunch, and drinks.

A common theme is the friendly and patient guides, who go out of their way to ensure everyone feels comfortable and has a good experience. The overall consensus? A highly worthwhile activity for animal lovers and families seeking a fun, low-stress encounter with nature.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique blend of wildlife interaction and leisure that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The chance to touch and feed manatees is a rare experience that many find deeply memorable. Paired with free access to Chankanaab Park, it delivers not just a brief encounter, but a full day of scenic beauty and relaxation.

The value for money is evident, especially considering the inclusion of park entry, buffet, and drinks. It’s best suited for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized activity that combines animals, nature, and easygoing fun—perfect for families with older children, animal enthusiasts, or couples celebrating a special occasion.

While the experience is streamlined and accessible, keep in mind the limitations on photos and extra costs for lockers or snorkel gear. But if you’re after a gentle, engaging encounter with marine life and a chance to unwind in a stunning setting, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 8 years old can participate alone if they pay the adult rate. Younger children must be accompanied by a paying adult, with specific age and height restrictions.

Are photos included?
No, photos are not included in the tour price. They are available for purchase separately, typically around $70 per person.

What should I bring?
Bring your beachwear, cash for optional extras, and a sunscreen (though its use is discouraged to protect the environment). Cameras are not allowed during the manatee encounter.

How long does the activity last?
The main interaction with the manatees lasts about 30 minutes. The overall visit, including park time, can be longer depending on your plans.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant women?
Yes, pregnant women are not advised to participate in this water activity for safety reasons.

Can I snorkel during this tour?
Snorkel gear is not included, but you can explore the park’s lagoons and water areas if you bring your own equipment. The park’s scenic waters are perfect for a relaxing swim.

This Cozumel experience combines the joy of close-up animal encounters with the laid-back vibe of a beautiful park, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to enjoy a memorable day in the Caribbean.

You can check if your dates are available here: