8 Fun Cozumel Facts That’ll Make You Want to Visit ASAP
Cozumel might be famous for its clear waters and coral reefs, but there’s so much more to this island than meets the eye. From ancient legends to surprising wildlife and quirky local traditions, Cozumel is packed with little-known gems that make it an unforgettable destination.
Whether you’ve been here ten times or it’s still on your bucket list, these eight fun facts will definitely give you a new reason to love it.
There are many things to do in Cozumel, even if you don’t dive, and awesome places to stay. I’d choose one of the beautiful Airbnb in Cozumel, for a better experience.
Among the interesting and fun facts about Mexico, there are some notable ones about Cozumel that I thought you might enjoy reading.
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MAYAN MYSTICISM
According to legend or history, during the Mayan civilization, women seeking a prosperous marriage would travel to Cozumel to make offerings to the temple of Ixchel, the fertility goddess, and consult the oracle.
THE LEGEND
The Mayans worshiped Ixchel through numerous ceremonies at the site’s numerous temples – many of which can still be found today, with the most prominent ruins located at the archeological site of San Gervasio near the center of the island.
THE TRAVESIA SAGRADA
Every year, the parks of the Xcaret group organize a competition as part of their marketing strategy. More than a hundred people rowed on replicas of ancient canoes from Xela to Cozumel and back the following day.
It’s a very tough physical challenge for which they seriously trained for four months, three times per week.
I have heard that a few women who believed in the fertility goddess legend took part in the competition with the sole purpose of getting pregnant, and it happened.
A MECCA FOR PRO SURFERS
The oceanside of Cozumel is ideal for expert surfers, but there is a local surfer community that is very jealous of their stunning waves. I am sure if you ask, they will let you ride as well, though. But it’s a very rough spot, just for a pro surfer. So if you are a beginner, it’s not your place.
THE SECOND LARGEST BARRIER REEF IN THE WORLD
The Island of Cozumel is located by the world’s second-largest barrier reef system, known as the Mesoamerican Reef which stretches out for nearly 700 miles (1,126 kilometers) along the coast of the Yucatan peninsula up to Honduras.
This is why Cozumel is known as one of the best diving destinations, and although the coral has been damaged, unfortunately, it’s still home to rich marine life, including exotic fish, marine turtles, dolphins, and even sharks, providing a truly magical experience to divers and snorkelers.
THE MEANING OF A NAME
Cozumel’s original name actually comes from the Mayan name “Ah Cuzamil Peten”, which in English translates to “Island of the Swallows” (Islas de las Golondrinas in Spanish). And this is why walking on the malecòn (promenade) you will see lots of Swallows in many art forms, as it has become the symbol of the island.
IRONMAN COMPETITION
Cozumel is home to a spectacular Ironman competition that attracts athletes from all over the world every other year to challenge themselves in such hostile conditions, which are extremely hot and humid.
THE THIRD LARGEST ISLAND IN MEXICO
Cozumel is the third-largest island in Mexico, with its 181 square miles (467.9 square kilometers). I am sure now you want to know which one is the two biggest islands in Mexico. They are Isla Tiburòn and Isla Ángel de la Guarda, both in the Gulf of California.
I hope you enjoyed these facts about Cozumel. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful and exciting island check out my guides on Cozumel and my informative post on how to get to Cozumel.
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