Cozumel may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about Mayan ruins. But it turns out there are actually a few archaeological sites on the island.
San Gervasio is the biggest and most visited. There are also ruins at El Cedral and small sites scattered all over the island.
I live in Cozumel and have been able to see most of these ruins. They are all fascinating but very different. So which to choose? To help you out, I’ve rounded up the best Cozumel ruins tours.
Since the options in Cozumel are limited, I’m also including some great options off the island. But go see the smaller ones before you visit Chichen Itza because that’s a hard act to follow!
No matter which you choose, you’ll get a great tour and a deeper understanding of the Mayan people.
Just want the bottom line? I’ve got you!
My top pick for ruins tours is Cozumel Mayan Ruins and Beach .
I love that it’s a private tour so you can customize it. Plus it includes amazing beaches. Learn more .
My Top 3 Picks For Cozumel Ruins Tours
#1 TOP PICK
Cozumel Mayan Ruins and Beach Includes Cozumel’s most beautiful beaches
Private and customizable
#2 PICK
5-Hour Sightseeing Tour with Private Driver
Visit multiple sites and attractions
Fully customizable
#3 PICK
ATV Jungle, Caverns, and Mayan Ruins Tour
The fun of ATVs combined with some history
See hidden parts of Cozumel
Overview of Mayan Ruins In and Near Cozumel
Cozumel offers not only turquoise waters and sandy beaches but also a window into ancient Mayan civilization.
Let’s take a look at the major sites in the area.
San Gervasio
- Located on Cozumel Island itself
- Was a ceremonial center dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel
- History suggests it was a site of pilgrimage, especially for women seeking fertility blessings
Tulum
- A short ferry ride from Cozumel and then a drive south
- Clifftop ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea
- Known for its iconic El Castillo, a temple with a stunning backdrop of turquoise waters
Coba
- Inland from Tulum, nestled in the Yucatan jungle
- Home to Nohoch Mul pyramid – one of the tallest Mayan pyramids which visitors can climb
- Connected by ancient white stone roads called “sacbeob”
Chichen Itza
- Further inland, it’s a full day trip from Cozumel
- Features the famous El Castillo pyramid, aligned with astronomical events
- Known for the “Serpent’s Shadow” phenomenon during equinoxes
Why Visit?
The Mayan ruins provide a profound understanding of an advanced ancient civilization. Their architecture, combined with tales of rituals, gods, and astronomy, make for a fascinating journey.
If you’re looking to mix cultural immersion with your next family getaway, these sites offer both adult and kid-friendly explorations.
Best Cozumel Ruins Tours
1. Cozumel Mayan Ruins and Beach: Private Tour
RATING: 5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🗸 Book it!
Discover Cozumel’s Rich Mayan History and Scenic Beaches
Journey into Cozumel’s heart and soul with a private tour that combines the beauty of its beaches with the depth of its Mayan roots.
If you want a cultural experience that includes fun, this private tour is the perfect fit. The personalized experience ensures that you can relish every moment while having all the details taken care of for you.
We loved our experience in Cozumel. I wanted to learn some history and our tour guide Petrus was just the man for the job. He took us around the island teaching us the language and history of Cozumel. We went to the Mayan ruins and really enjoyed our time there. Afterward we went to a local beach which was quiet and beautiful, the perfect place to sip on drinks and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
– Hannah_B ( See more reviews )
Cozumel Mayan Ruins and Beach: Private Tour Highlights:
2. 5-Hour Sightseeing Tour With Private Driver
RATING: 5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | 🗸 Book it!
Experience Cozumel in Style
With a dedicated 5-hour sightseeing tour and your very own private driver, embark on an intimate journey to truly connect with the island.
Imagine a day where you’re in the driver’s seat, choosing adventures that resonate with you.
From the echoes of ancient Mayan civilizations to the tantalizing flavors of local tequila, this tour isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about immersing yourself in the true essence of Cozumel.
If you want a genuine connection with Cozumel, this experience is tailor-made for you. Don’t just visit Cozumel; truly get to know it.
Our tour guide, Gerry, and all the guides at the tours and tastings were so knowledgeable and accommodating. Everyone was so kind. We were made to feel so special. Learned so much about caçoa, tequila, honey, the Mayan culture, and the island. And ended with a late lunch on a lovely beach.
-Robin_F ( See more reviews )
5-Hour Sightseeing Tour With Private Driver Highlights:
3. ATV Jungle, Caverns and Mayan Ruins Tour
RATING: 5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🗸 Book it!
Unearth Mayan Secrets With a Touch of Adventure
Venture into the heart of the Mayan world with an ATV tour that promises not only adrenaline but also a deep connection to history and culture. This isn’t your average ATV ride.
Picture yourself navigating through caverns echoing with ancient legends, seeing Mayan sculptures that have stood the test of time, and feeling the exhilaration as you zoom past lush jungle terrains.
This ATV tour offers a mix of excitement and cultural enrichment.
Super recommended, the attention is unique, it is a fascinating tour, we saw crocodiles , caves, caverns. For the family or to go with your partner, it is great.
-Anonymous ( See more reviews )
ATV Jungle, Caverns, and Mayan Ruins Tour Highlights:
Mayan Ruins Tours Outside Cozumel
4. Private Chichen Itza Full-Day Tour From Cozumel
RATING: 5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | 🗸 Book it!
Discover One of the World’s Wonders + Swim in a Cenote
Starting from Playa del Carmen, just an easy ferry ride away from Cozumel , embark on a journey to Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Imagine walking through the remnants of a civilization that once thrived, with each step revealing a piece of history. Whether it’s the towering pyramids, the intricate carvings, or the serene cenotes, this tour offers a holistic glimpse into Mayan life.
If you’re seeking an adventure that blends history, culture, and natural beauty, this is it.
Alvaro, our personal tour guide. Was the very best. He picked us up in a Mercedes E class. On the 2 hour trip there he told stories about the history of the Yucatan. He is a very kind, patient and knowledgeable guide. The cenote swim was just as good as Chichen Itza.
-Gary_R ( See more reviews )
Private Chichen Itza Full-Day Tour From Cozumel Highlights:
5. Tulum Ruins, ATV Extreme, and Cenotes Tour
RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | 🗸 Book it!
Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit
Embark on a journey that takes you from the ancient walls of Tulum to the heart of the Mayan jungle. This tour promises a blend of history, adrenaline, and natural wonders.
Setting off from Playa del Carmen, this full-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and adventure-packed activities.
Whether you’re enjoying the architectural wonders of Tulum, navigating the jungle trails on an ATV, or snorkeling in the serene waters of a cenote, every moment will leave you in awe.
Overall this tour was exhilarating, educational, and a great way to break up our vacation. We had a wonderful experience from the time we were picked up at our hotel to the time we returned. Our tour guide (Jazmin) for the ATV ride and cenote swim in the caverns was attentive and educational. Our guide for the Tulum ruins was equal parts entertaining and educational making our overall experience fun even during the sweltering heat. I definitely would recommend this experience to anybody and everyone families and couples alike. -Thomas_F ( See more reviews )
Tulum Ruins, ATV Extreme, and Cenotes Tour Highlights:
6. Tulum and Cobá from Riviera Maya
RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | 🗸 Book it!
An Exclusive Journey Through Time
Discover the majestic allure of the Yucatan Peninsula’s ancient treasures with a private tour tailored exclusively for you and your group.
This journey offers a deep dive into the heart of Maya civilization, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.
Choosing the private Tulum and Cobá tour means you’re prioritizing depth, authenticity, and personal connection over the typical crowded bus tours.
It’s not just about visiting two archaeological sites; it’s about truly experiencing them, understanding their significance, and making memories that resonate.
Loved Tulum, Coba, and cenote. Our driver/guide made the whole experience pleasant and memorable. Easy pickup and drop off. Would highly recommend to others. – Traci_N ( See more reviews )
Tulum and Cob á from Riviera Maya Highlights:
7. Tulum Ruins & Cenote Private Tour
RATING: 5/5 Stars | TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 hours | 🗸 Book it!
Rediscover Mayan Wonders
Journey into the heart of the Yucatan’s mesmerizing history and natural beauty with a private tour that promises an enriching experience.
One visitor recounted their experience as perfect, praising not only the sites but also the wealth of information shared by their guide.
The Tulum Ruins & Cenote Guided Tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an intimate encounter with the Yucatan’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
If you’re looking for a half-day journey that seamlessly blends history, nature, and gastronomy, this is your ticket.
This was our third tour with Mexico Kan Tours. It was a private tour with just the three of us. Our guide Syed was amazing, very knowledgeable, and personable. The scheduled times of the tours were great because we got to beat the crowds of tourists. The cenote location was great as well since it was not crowded. It was also a plus that the cenote is owned and operated by a Mayan family. He took lots of pictures for us and knew the best spots. We highly recommend this tour!
– Wendy_B ( See more reviews )
Tulum Ruins & Cenote Private Tour Highlights:
Where to Stay in Cozumel
Cozumel has a lot of accommodation options. You’ll find everything from high-end luxury hotels and family-friendly all-inclusive resorts to budget-friendly hostels.
These are my recommendations:
- Luxury: Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa
- Budget: Kinta Kan Hotel Boutique Cozumel
- Hostel: Hostel Auikyani
- For Families: Iberostar Cozumel
Getting Around Cozumel
Navigating Cozumel is all about soaking in the island vibes while ensuring you get from point A to B efficiently. Here’s your quick guide to transportation on the island:
Rental Cars
- Ideal for those who crave the liberty to roam and discover hidden spots.
- Numerous rental agencies pepper the airport and downtown areas, making it easy to pick and drop. Or reserve in advance with Discover Cars , the company I recommend.
Bikes
- An eco-friendly way to explore the island’s trails and paths.
- Great for those who love a bit of exercise while soaking in the sights.
Taxis
- The most preferred choice for many visitors as Uber isn’t an option.
- You’ll find them in abundance, especially around popular attractions, accommodations, and the ferry terminal.
- Be sure to settle on a fare before starting your journey.
A Word on Scooters: While scooters might seem like a fun idea, I’d advise against them . They can be dangerous, and there are, unfortunately, frequent reports of nasty accidents involving scooters on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which Mayan ruins are located on Cozumel Island?
San Gervasio is the primary archaeological site on Cozumel Island, dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel.
What’s the best time of year to visit the ruins?
The ruins can be visited year-round. However, the dry season from November to April is preferable as there’s less rain and humidity. Early morning tours are recommended to avoid the midday sun.
Can visitors climb any of the ruins?
Yes, at the Coba archaeological site, visitors can climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid, one of the tallest Mayan pyramids. However, climbing is restricted at most other sites for preservation reasons.
How far are the Tulum ruins from Cozumel?
Tulum ruins are a short ferry ride from Cozumel, followed by a drive south. It usually takes around 1-1.5 hours to reach.
How far is Chichen Itza from Cozumel?
Chichen Itza is about 120 miles from Cozumel. After a ferry ride to the mainland, it’s a 2.5 to 3-hour drive to reach the ruins.
Is Cozumel better than Tulum?
Whether you should stay in Cozumel or Tulum depends on what you prefer. Cozumel is more laid back and focused on diving and snorkeling. Tulum has a more bohemian, trendy feel.
Wrap-Up: Cozumel Ruins Tours
Cozumel has more to offer than gorgeous beaches, and great snorkeling and diving . It’s also worth visiting Cozumel for the ruins.
You should not miss taking a tour of the ruins in (or near) Cozumel. Whether you see San Gervasio on the island or venture farther away, you can’t visit the Yucatan Peninsula without seeing some ruins.
My favorite Mayan ruins tour is Cozumel Mayan Ruins and Beach because it’s a private tour that includes some of Cozumel’s best beaches.
Just don’t forget to pack the insect repellant. Mosquitoes can be fierce when you’re hiking through the jungle at the ruins.
Related Posts
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- Best Tequila Tours in Cozumel
- Jeep Tours in Cozumel
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- Hiking in Cozumel: The Ultimate Guide
- What Not to Do in Cozumel: 15 Things to Avoid
- Is Cozumel Worth Visiting?
- Cozumel Crocodiles – What You Need to Know
- Best Time to Visit Cozumel: Month-by-Month Guide
- Is Cozumel Safe?
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Do I need travel insurance?
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YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company . They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.
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Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.
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For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, check out Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper with more options.
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My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.
What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?
For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website.
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The post Exploring Mayan Mysteries: Breathtaking Ruins in (and Near) Cozumel appeared first on Digital Nomad and a Dog .
