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Cozumel is a paradise island around 10 miles off the coast of Playa del Carmen. Known as one of the busiest cruise docks in Mexico, Cozumel sees its fair share of cruisers, but it also has plenty to offer those people who want to spend more than a night or two on-island.
You’ll find a great range of tours and day trips covering diving and water-based activities, food tours, ATV excursions, and more. Here are some of the best tours to try on your next trip to Cozumel.
Catamaran boat trip
Catamaran boat trips are constantly increasing in popularity in the Caribbean, and it’s no wonder. After all, what better setting could there be than the clear, turquoise waters and fine, white sand in this part of the world?
So, if you’re looking for an activity that’s as relaxing or active as you want to make it, taking a catamaran trip could be right up your street. On this tour, you’ll be whisked away on the warm Cozumel waters, enjoying a full day of exploration. You’ll visit nearby Passion Island, where you can soak up the sun, snorkel and marvel at the wildlife. Food and drinks – soft and alcoholic – are also included, as is snorkel equipment and the use of paddleboards and kayaks.
Chankanaab Adventure Park
Chankanaab is a nature-filled adventure park towards the southern end of Cozumel. It’s one of the best places on the island to snorkel straight from the shore, and there are always plenty of tropical fish to admire.
Chankanaab is also a popular location for dolphin-swimming experiences. Although this is sometimes a contentious activity, if it remains on your bucket list, this could be the place to do it. You’ll also have the opportunity to swim with manatees, as well as watching sea lions. Many tours operate to Chankanaab, including this one which covers entry to the park, as well as a guided scuba dive to explore the park’s varied marine life.
Other activities include:
- Zip-lining
- Kayaking
- Diving
- Walking underwater using SkyTrek technology
Entry: USD $26 for adults and USD $18 for kids age 3 or older
Cozumel Mayan Ruins
You may not know that Cozumel has its own Mayan ruins. Although not as impressive as other, larger sites on the mainland, the sites here were of great significance to Mayan populations in the region.
The two Mayan sites are:
- San Gervasio: the largest Mayan site on Cozumel is dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility.
- El Cedral: this smaller site houses a temple, and is also dedicated to Ixchel.
There are numerous tour operators running trips to the Mayan sites, most of which also incorporate an element of ATV. Here’s one of the best tours, which includes a thrilling self-drive dune buggy experience, a guided tour of San Gervasio, lunch at a favorite Cozumel beach club, plus the opportunity to snorkel.
Foodie tour in San Miguel
Mexico is famous for its cuisine, and the Yucatan has many of its own special flavors and recipes. From tacos and tequila to fresh fruit waters and empanadas, one of the best ways to familiarize yourself with the food culture on Cozumel is by taking one of the well-planned tours available.
This foodie excursion will take you to five different establishments on the island, each one showcasing a different element of local food. Experience a ‘cocina economica’ which is a local family-run eating spot that’s low on cost but high on flavor. You’ll also visit a food market, experience some of the best street food around, plus sample sweet treats from a local Mexican bakery.
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