Welcome to a real Caribbean island that at the same time is as close to mainland Mexico, making Cozumel a delight for travellers that like to combine the remote island life with excursions to Playa del Carmen, Cancun or the highlights of Mayan culture. Cozumel measures 30 miles or 48 km from north to south but only 10 miles from east to west.
On either side of the island, beaches form a long, white sandy coast. Gentle waves and transparent waters wash the western side of the island, while huge waves crash against the eastern side.
The History
East of the Yucatán Peninsula, on top of the age-old structures of the Mayan coral reef, the second largest in the world, stands the Island of Cozumel, the largest inhabited island in Mexico.
Its name, derived from the word Cuzamil, meaning "island of swallows" in Maya, conjures up memories of its pre-Hispanic origin, the conquest of America and the pirates and buccaneers that thronged its seas. Before the arrival of the conquistadors, the island was a major commercial and ceremonial center. During the colonial era, it was largely uninhabited, except for sporadic stays by pirates and turtle hunters. In the mid-19 th century, groups of settlers arrived from the Yucatán Peninsula, fleeing the War of the Castes. The following years saw the development of the chicle extraction business on the mainland and Cozumel became a center for collecting and subsequently exporting this gum. Jacques Cousteau’s declarations in 1960 about the richness of the coral reef surrounding the island made underwater enthusiasts aware of Cozumel’s existence.
The Diving
Cozumel measures 48 km from north to south but only 16 from east to west. On either side of the island, beaches form a long, white sandy coast. Gentle waves and transparent waters wash the western side of the island, while huge waves crash against the eastern side. Its flora and fauna have a number of unusual features and include certain endemic species, such as the dwarf raccoon and the Cozumel wren. Cozumel’s greatest wealth, however, lies underwater.
Cozumel is encircled by over 25 reef formations, where divers of all ages and levels can explore a fascinating world: endless colonies of corals inhabited by enormous shoals of brightly colored fish. The possibilities are infinite, for novice and expert divers alike.
The area's diving and snorkeling are legendary and has earned a world-wide following of divers, who rank it one of the top five dive sites on the planet. The island's surrounding sea is teeming with undersea life, colorful reefs, and the slumbering hulls of Spanish galleons.
The Culture
For non-divers, the island's attractions include over 35 archaeological sites (only a few of which are accessible and worth seeing), and the charming city of San Miguel which is a hodgepodge of cafes, restaurants, and attractive boutiques. Nature lovers come to Cozumel to witness giant sea turtles laying their eggs (May to September) and to peek in on the island's varied concentration of exotic migratory bird life. Only a 40 minute ferry ride from the incredible Costa Turquesa region of the Yucatán Peninsula, brimming with hidden beaches, secluded resorts and archaeological treasures.
The Capital
San Miguel de Cozumel, the capital of the island, is a peaceful old village, with all the charm of the Mexican Caribbean. The quality of its gastronomy, based on its excellent seafood, is legendary throughout the region. Its provincial air does not make it any less comfortable or modern. Its days are sunny and full of unforgettable experiences, while its nights are ideal for those who enjoy discotheques and bars. A wide range of accommodation is available, from deluxe hotels, to small, inexpensive hostels.
The Excursions
When it comes to excursions the possibilities are endless : Ruins of San Gervasio , El Real Archeological Site , El Cedral Reef, San Francisco Beach , Chen River , Bird-Watching , Santa Maria Beach , Palancar Reef , Chankanaab Reef , Barracuda & San Juan Reefs , Columbia Reef, Maracaibo Reef Punta Sur Reef, Tormentos Reef, Cenote Aerolito at Paraiso, Central Plaza, Punta Molas Faro, Cozumel´s City Hall, Playa del Carmen, Passion Island, and what about Tulum, Chichen Itza Xcaret Park, Tres Rios Park, Xel-ha Park, Valladolid, Cancun, Mayan Riviera, Puerto Aventuras, Port Morelos, Coba or Ek Balam ?
Getting there.
Cozumel is located close to the mainland of the Mexican peninsula of Yucatán, right opposite the Riviera Maya and its heart, Playa del Carmen. International flights arrive at Cozumel International Airport (CZM) which is never further than a 20 minutes drive from any hotel, as well as the international airport of Cancun (CUN) where both taxis or busses can be taken. It is only a 50 minute drive from Cancun to Playa del Carmen where ferrys to Cozumel leave every hour.
Time Zone
Central Standard Time year around.
Climate
Cozumel enjoys sunny, sunny days. The semitropical climate is year round. The average temperature ranges from 75-90 degrees year round, although it can get chilly on windy winter days.
Electric Currency
The electric current all over Mexico is the same as in the US.
Phone Calls
There is still government tax on long distance calls in Mexico, so if you plan to call home, it is more economical to call collect, since a charge paid in other country cannot be taxed in México.
Language
Spanish is the national language in Mexico, although in all touristic locations English is spoken in most shops, restaurants, hotels and public places.
Money & Banks
Credit cards, US dollars and travelers cheques are accepted almost everywhere. It is advisable to convert some dollars into pesos at your bank or at the airport before arrival for small purchases. Banks are open from 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM. Monday through Friday and closed on holidays. |
