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Cozumel is Mexico's largest Caribbean island, located off the northeast tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. Its culture is the legacy of the Mayan Indians. Legend says the island was the home of Ixchel, Maya moon goddess and deity of childbirth and fertility. You can visit Mayan ruins on the island.

www.cozumel.net

Cozumel's rich history doesn't end there. In 1518, Juan de Grijalv discovered the island en route to Cuba and it became a sanctuary for pirates. In the mid 1800s, mainlanders began to resettle the island, which became popular for its supply of zagote tree. The tree provided chicle for the American chewing gum industry. In 1961, Jacques Cousteau introduced the island to the world.

Diving Cozumel

Cozumel is famous for its reef diving, which makes up the second largest barrier reef in the world, the Belizean Reef. In 1996, the Mexican government designated a 25-mile tract of reef as a national marine park. Rules and regulations were established to protect the abundance of tropical marine life and plants. There are also caves and a wreck for those who get bored with the reefs.

The dive sites fall into three basic categories: shallow near shore coral gardens (such as Paradise Reef South for novices), vertical walls with dramatic drop-offs (such as Santa Rosa Wall for intermediates and Maracaibo Deep for advanced), and coral pinnacles with labyrinths of eaves and tunnels (such as Palancar Horseshoe for intermediates).

Cozumel thrives on the tourist industry and there are many resorts to choose from. Many of the resorts run their own dive operations. The dive operators offer scuba packages, instruction, and rentals. Rodale's Scuba Diving Magazine lists reputable resorts and dive operators.

Visit Cozumel

Cozumel is in Mexico so be sure to bring proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport. You will also need a valid photo ID and A Temporary Tourist Card. If you are planning a trip to Cozumel or any other part of Mexico, be sure to visit Mexico Travel Guide's traveler tips for more information on entry requirements, when to go, getting around, what to bring, health tips, money exchange & credit, and tips for seniors.

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