Because the names are so similar, it is very easy to confuse the two! While they are located right next to each other in the marine park, they offer two completely different (and equally amazing) experiences.
Here is what you can expect from each stop on your tour:
El Cielo (“The Sky” – or sometimes “Heaven”)
El Cielo is a protected snorkelling zone with crystal-clear turquoise water, typically about 10 to 15 feet deep (3 to 5 metres). It gets its name because the pristine, white sandy bottom is covered in hundreds of giant starfish, making it look like a starry night sky!
- The Experience: You will be fully geared up with your mask, snorkel, and fins, swimming over the starfish from the surface.
- The Rule: This is a strict “look but don’t touch” zone to protect the delicate marine life.
El Cielito (“The Little Sky” – or sometimes “Little Heaven”)
El Cielito is the stunning, waist-deep sandbar located just a short boat ride from the starfish. This is the ultimate Caribbean relaxation spot. This is where we typically drop anchor to serve our fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, and drinks. It is effectively a private, floating beach party!
- The Experience: You don’t need a snorkel here! You can simply hop off the boat and stand up in the warm, shallow water. Highly docile and friendly southern stingrays frequently glide right past your legs.
- The Safety Tip: While these rays are very used to visitors, they are still wild animals. We always recommend doing the “stingray shuffle” – sliding your feet through the sand rather than taking large steps – to ensure you don’t accidentally step on a resting ray!
Whether you prefer the active snorkelling of El Cielo or the waist-deep lounging of El Cielito, you will get to experience the best of both worlds on our standard tours.