Chill at -18°C Isla Mujeres Ice Bar (tickets)

Traveling to Isla Mujeres and looking for something truly different? The Ice Bar Isla Mujeres might just be that icy surprise you didn’t know you needed. It’s the only ice bar in southern Mexico, built entirely from solid ice and kept at a chilling -18°C (0°F). While that sounds extreme, it’s also surprisingly fun and worth considering if you’re after an offbeat experience.

We love how this tour offers a visual feast with stunning ice sculptures and a playful vibe — perfect for snapping Instagram-worthy photos. Plus, the chance to stay longer and win prizes by breaking endurance records adds a quirky twist. But, it’s not for everyone — if you’re sensitive to cold or dislike short visits, this might be a quick stop rather than a lengthy outing.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy unique, photogenic adventures and don’t mind a brisk 30-minute indoor freeze. If you’re traveling with friends or want an amusing break from beaches and snorkeling, it’s a great pick. Just remember, it’s a fun, novelty stop rather than a deep cultural dive.

Key Points

• Unique Atmosphere: The only ice bar in southern Mexico, built entirely from ice, offering a surreal environment.
• Short but Memorable: About 30 minutes of access, ideal for a quick, fun experience.
• Interactive Elements: Ice sculptures, ice lounge, hockey table, and opportunities to challenge friends.
• Complementary Drinks: Included in the ticket, served in ice glasses—alcoholic or non-alcoholic.
• Potential for Prizes: Stay longer, beat endurance records, and win giant mugs or mega cocktails.
• Practical Consideration: Keep in mind the cold — dress warmly to enjoy your visit comfortably.

What to Expect from the Ice Bar Experience

The main draw here is stepping into a climate that’s a stark contrast to the tropical weather outside. The entire space — from walls to sculptures, seats, and even the hockey table — is carved from solid ice, creating a mesmerizing, otherworldly scene. You’ll need a warm jacket or layers, as the temperature hovers at -18°C (0°F), but once inside, the environment is as much about visual impact as it is about the chill.

You’ll be greeted with a complimentary drink — choose between alcohol and non-alcohol options — served in an ice glass. It’s a small detail, but it makes for some cool photos and adds to the novelty. The bar also offers the chance to order additional drinks if you want to stay longer or keep the party going.

One of the most fun parts is the ice lounge area where you can relax on ice benches, admire intricate sculptures, or challenge your friends at the ice hockey table. If you’re feeling daring, you can try to beat the endurance record of 14 hours, which sounds crazy but adds a playful challenge for those who want to push their limits. The staff even offer rewards like large beer mugs or mega cocktails for those who succeed, although you’ll want to ask inside about the rules.

Photography is definitely a highlight — the sculptures are often stunning and make for great shots. Visitors mention that the environment is Instagram-perfect, though one thing to keep in mind is that there isn’t an included photo package, so you’ll want to bring your camera or phone and be prepared for potentially chilly fingers when capturing your shots.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour is straightforward but packed with visual and interactive appeal. It begins right at the Ice Bar itself, which is the main event. Since the experience is designed to be short and sweet—around 30 minutes—there’s no complicated schedule or multiple stops.

Once inside, you’re immediately immersed in a completely frozen environment where every surface is carved from ice. This includes furniture, sculptures, and even the hockey table. The experience is about enjoying the surreal surroundings and having fun with your drinks and friends.

You can relax on ice lounges, take incredible photos with eye-catching sculptures, and challenge your friends to games on the ice hockey table. If you’re feeling brave, you might try to stay longer and break the endurance record, which could earn you some cool rewards.

The only other component is the free time inside — which is flexible. You’re encouraged to stay as long as you can tolerate the cold, but most visitors find 30 minutes to be enough for a quick, memorable visit. If you’re planning to stay longer, just remember that the temperature inside remains consistently icy.

The Pros and Cons

What We Love

• Visual wow factor: The ice sculptures are genuinely impressive, making for great photos and a memorable experience.
• Unique environment: It’s the only ice bar in southern Mexico, offering an experience you won’t find elsewhere nearby.
• Included drinks and fun challenges: The complimentary drinks and the possibility of winning prizes add a playful element to the visit.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Limited duration: About 30 minutes inside is typical; if you’re not a fan of cold, it might feel brief.
• No photo package included: You’ll need to bring your own camera if you want high-quality photos.
• Cold sensitivity: Some might find the temperature too chilly, especially if unprepared.

Price and Value

For $25 per person, this experience offers a distinctive visual and interactive experience. It’s not a full-day activity or cultural tour — rather, it’s a quick, fun diversion. Considering the uniqueness and the entertainment value, many find it worth the price, especially if you’re into quirky photo ops and novelty experiences.

Who Will Love It?

This experience is perfect for photographers, fun-seekers, and fans of unusual attractions. If you enjoy snapping photos of cool environments or just want a story to tell, it hits the right notes. It’s also suitable for groups, friends, or even couples looking for a memorable, light-hearted outing.

However, if you’re sensitive to cold or prefer longer, more immersive experiences, this might feel too brief or chilly. It’s best viewed as a highlight or a quick break rather than a day-long adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay inside the Ice Bar?
Most visits last around 30 minutes, but you can stay longer if you’re able to endure the cold and want to try beating the endurance record.

Is the drink included in the ticket?
Yes, your ticket includes a complimentary drink, which can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic, served in an ice glass.

Can I order more drinks?
Absolutely, you can order additional drinks and cocktails from the frosty bar once inside.

Is there a photo package available?
No, there isn’t an official photo package included, so you’ll need to bring your own camera or phone.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the temperature is extremely cold, so it’s more appropriate for teens and adults who can handle brief exposure.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 15 days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure their spot.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

If you’re heading to Isla Mujeres and want to add a bit of winter magic to your Caribbean trip, the Ice Bar offers a playful, visually stunning experience. It’s perfect if you’re after a quick, memorable adventure that gives you plenty of fun photos and laughs. The environment is as much about the aesthetic as it is about the chilly thrill — a great way to beat the heat and enjoy something totally different.

While it’s not a lengthy or deeply immersive activity, the visual impact and interactive elements make it a worthwhile stop, especially if you’re traveling with friends who enjoy a bit of friendly competition or just want a great story to tell. Just remember to dress warmly and don’t expect a long, leisurely experience — think of it as a frosty highlight of your trip rather than the main event.

In summary, the Isla Mujeres Ice Bar is a quirky, photogenic adventure that offers a cool break from the tropical heat. It’s best suited for those who love fun, unusual sights and don’t mind the cold for a short period. If you’re after a memorable, Instagram-ready experience, this one’s worth considering.

Ready to chill? You can find this experience here.