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Chankanaab National Lagoon Park
In Maya, Chankanaab means "little sea". With over 60 species of marinelife its no wonder
that this natural aquarium is the national submarine park for
"Atlantis" as well as home of "Swim with the Dolphins". |
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Botanical gardens surround the park with 352 species of tropical plants. As you stroll the grounds of the wonderful shady park, you'll discover stone Maya reproductions. Don't miss the Mayan Village along the trail and the small natural-history museum. Being prepared with insect repellent is also recommended for the garden tour. The restaurant has delicious fresh seafood dishes and tropical refreshments. Make sure to visit the first shop at the entrance to the park for unique Mayan souvenirs. With shady palapas, fresh water showers, dressing rooms and lockers, you can plan to spend the afternoon on this lovely stretch of white sandy beach. Park fee covers admission and botanical gardens. Submarine, dolphins, or snorkel/dive gear rental are extra.
Located off of the main highway 9 Km (5.5 miles) south of the town San Miguel. See
map. |
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Punta Sur ecological park, a natural protected area, is located at the tip of the southern end of Cozumel Island. The area is subject to ecological conservation and a state refuge for flora and fauna. It contains all the primary natural resources which must be preserved in any ecosystem to ensure its survival. The park consists of Columbia Lagoon, the Mayan ruins of Tumba del Caracol, Tombs of the Shell and the Faro de Celarain, Point Celarian Lighthouse. The area was first inhabited in the pre-hispanic era when El Caracol probably a lighthouse, once had conch shells embedded in its wall which changed sounds with the wind. In the colonial period, it was a refuge to pirates and smugglers. During the first half of this century, on the north and northeastern shores of the lagoon, agriculture, fishing and crocodile hunting were the mainstay of the resident's economy. |
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For the Maya, Cozumel was considered a sacred island. Pilgrimages from all over
the Mesoamerica came to honor Ix Chel, goddess of fertility, childbirth, medicine,
and moon. Every Maya woman was expected once in her lifetime to make the perilous
journey from the mainland to the island by large dugout canoes to visit the site.
Situated in the cool dense forest surrounding, these remarkable ruins are the
largest existing Maya and Toltec site in Cozumel. San Gervasio was once the
island's capital and probably the ceremonial center, dedicated to the goddess
Ix Chel, wife of Itzamma. He was the Maya god above all, who invented corn, cacao,
writing, and reading. It was believed that priests hid behind a large pottery
statue and became the voice of the goddess speaking to pilgrims and answering
their petitions. |
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Three building groups are visible at San Gervasio and are connected by trails built along the old Maya causeways. The structures are mainly small temples and shrines built on platforms. In the middle of one causeway is the temple of Ix Chel, "She of the Rainbow". Each of the ruins is clearly identified and explained with plagues written in English, Spanish and Maya. They are also placed in context with individual maps. Be sure to see the "hands" temple which has red hand imprints all over its alter. Located at the entrance is a snack bar and a few gift shops. Take the cross-island road (Avenue Juarez) to the San Gervasio access road; follow this road north for 7 km (4 1/2 miles) See map. |
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Island Museum
Uncover the mystical history and beauty that has created the natural paradise of Cozumel at the island's museum which was once the first luxury hotel for the islanders. Learn about the natural development that emerged from the Caribbean Sea with exhibits on the origins of the island, endangered species, present day topography, and the coral reef ecology. While the first floor is dedicated to the natural history, the second floor covers the history during Colonial times with displays of cannons, swords and maritime artifacts. Before visiting the ruins, make sure to visit the museum for the best information about the history of the ancient Mayan civilization that was first to dwell on the island. It's a perfect spot to wait out a tropical rainstorm. On the terrace off the second floor is a restaurant with a great waterfront view. On the waterfront, between 4th and 6th streets. |
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At one time this tiny village and ruins comprised the largest Maya site of Cozumel. Although El Cedral's temple is small and not enormously impressive, major ceremonies were probably held at this site. El Cedral is the oldest Maya structure and still bears a few traces of paint and stucco applied by the original Maya artist. These days, there is little archaeological evidence of El Cedral's past glory because the conquistadors tore down much of the temple. By the turn of the last century, the site was uninhabited. Then during World War II the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers destroyed the rest of the site to build the island's first airport. Numerous small ruins can be found in the surrounding heavy growth with the help of a tour guide. After exploring the ruins, make sure to see the rustic, modern-era stucco church painted vivid green. Inside, a number of crosses are shrouded in embroidered lace. Every May the town comes alive with a festival which includes a fair, dancing, bullfights and stock show. Take the main highway south to Km 17.5, there is a large arched entry, take a left, then drive 3 Km (2 miles) inland to the site. See map. |
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