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Travel advice for Mexico
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
written by Olga Sitnitsa
updated 1.02.2019
Isla Cozumel is Mexico's Caribbean jewel, perched just a few miles off the coast of the Quintana Roo mainland. Mexico, known as one of the cheapest places to travel in the world, offers, even more, to explore on this island beyond what day-trippers experience. Stay a little longer, and you’ll discover a little piece of paradise on the Mexican coast – here are the 15 best things to do in Cozumel.
This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Mexico — your essential guide for travelling in Mexico.
17 days / from1590 USD
The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City
Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.
customize ⤍15 days / from1430 USD
Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan
Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.
customize ⤍18 days / from1735 USD
Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan
Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.
customize ⤍18 days / from2190 USD
Marvelous Mexico: From Yucatan to Mexico City
Your trip starts on the wonderful coast of Yucatan, exploring the beaches and archaeological highlights like Chichen Itza and Tulum. From there on continue the exploration to Palenque and Oaxaca before taking a flight to Mexico City - 3 days in the capital await your discovery.
customize ⤍10 days / from2147 USD
Mexico's Highlands and Coast
Discover Mexico City's historic highlights and the wonders of sites like Teotihuacan, Campeche and Palenque before you jet off to the Central HIghlands. Discover archeological ruins and traditional tribal villages, then fall for the charms of Mexico's old colonial cities and glitzy Caribbean coast.
customize ⤍7 days / from1499 USD
Mexico's Mayan Trail
Follow the Mayan Trail around Mexico on this archaeological adventure. Begin your journey with a refreshing taste of sea and salt air in the Yucatán Peninsula on one of Playa del Carmen's gorgeous Caribbean beaches before heading off to discover magical Mayan ruins and glorious colonial towns.
customize ⤍12 days / from3057 USD
Magnificent Mexico and Mayan Treasures
From Mexico City down to the southern state of Oaxaca, this trip packs in all of Mexico's colonial charms and archeological wonders. You'll also get to take to the beach at Playa del Carmen, swim in the Caribbean Sea and under cascading waterfalls and boat along lovely Sumidero Canyon.
customize ⤍7 days / from1518 USD
Mexico's Churros and Chiapas
Arrive in exciting Mexico City and get a taste of its surprising charms, imposing plazas and beautiful colonial old town. Then jet off to Chiapas where you'll spend your days exploring canyons, waterfalls and national parks. Then finish with a dose of Mayan culture deep in the jungle at Palenque.
customize ⤍10 days / from890 USD
Los Cabos Self Drive
Take your rental car and explore the beaches and islands of Cabo. Located in Baja California Sur, Los Cabos, Todos Santos, and Cabo San Lucas do not only have excellent beaches to offer for your exploration but also a fascinating wildlife.
customize ⤍15 days / from1450 USD
From Mexico City over Chiapas to Cancun: The Best of Mexico
This itinerary combines the metropolitan glamour of Mexico City with its fabulous museums and pyramids with an outdoor adventure in Chiapas visiting the Sumidero Canyon and the fascinating wildlife and cultural heritage of the Yucatan. Two weeks showing you the true highlights of Mexico!
customize ⤍9 days / from1670 USD
Mayan Heritage Tour in Yucatan
Yucatán is calling you, and this trip is the way to do it; go into the jungle and know it like no one else has ever known it; enjoy incredible food, beautiful sunsets, and the warmth of its communities that will do everything possible to offer you a dream experience. Are you ready?
customize ⤍8 days / from1516 USD
Mexico City to the Yucatán
Enjoy a whirlwind tour of Mexico City, taking in the museums, churches and colonial plazas of Mexico's vibrant capital. Then relax on Playa del Carmen's Caribbean beaches before you take off to explore some of the country's most amazing archeological treasures.
customize ⤍10 days / from2307 USD
Mexico's Nature and Beaches
Explore the nature and wildlife of Chiapas and Tabasco by visiting the Sumidero Canyon and Agua Azul waterfalls before heading off to the Yucatan Peninsula: Chichen Itza awaits to impress you with its magnificent pyramids before ending the trip at the white beaches of Holbox.
customize ⤍14 days / from1350 USD
Chiapas, Tabasco, Yucatan: Explore the Eastern Highlights
Explore the wide depths of Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, the fascinating archaeological site of Palenque in Tabasco before moving on to the Yucatan to explore Merida, Chichen Itza and the peaceful island of Cozumel. This itinerary offers adventure and relaxation in 14 days.
customize ⤍20 days / from1280 USD
Discovering Central Mexico: from Guanajuato to Oaxaca
With this itinerary, you will get to know the real Mexico: from magic towns to archaeological sites all the way down to the beautiful beaches of Huatulco - this itinerary combines history, cuisine, and relaxation, all compactly available in a 3-week trip.
customize ⤍21 days / from1490 USD
Enchanting Mexico: from the capital to the beaches
Discover Mexico's capital before heading to your first Mexican beach: Puerto Escondido. After some days relaxing in the sun, head to Cancun to pick up your rental car and explore the Yucatan Peninsula in your own car. From archaeological sites to stunning beaches, the peninsula awaits.
customize ⤍11 days / from2415 USD
Culture & Jungle in Chiapas
Get ready for an adventure through Chiapas with hosts who are prepared to welcome you and discover the natural beauty of canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers! The magnificent archaeological sites will amaze you as well as the charming towns.
customize ⤍16 days / from1850 USD
Mexico City and the Yucatan - from the city to the beaches
Take this trip to explore the best of Mexico City: From the museums to the pyramids of Teotihuacán. Afterwards continue to Merida to explore the famous Pink Lake and the Haciendas of the Yucatan. At the ed, take your time relaxing on the beaches in Playa del Carmen and Cancun.
customize ⤍7 days / from925 USD
Authentic and unique Mexico City
Mexico City seems to have it all - over 50 museums, a beautiful historic city center, an extensive city park with a majestic castle, upscale neighborhoods like La Condesa or La Roma, bohemian Coyoacan and mouth-watering cuisine. This trip shows you the best of this mega city.
customize ⤍7 days / from590 USD
Mexico City Explored
Mexico City is one of the most fascinating cities in North America. This week-long itinerary grants you an insight to the museums, restaurants, and events in the capital, as well as exploring surrounding cities such as Taxco or Puebla. Get ready for a true Mexican adventure!
customize ⤍12 days / from3405 USD
Mexico's Tomb Raider Experience
Explore the caves, cenotes, pyramids, and beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. Inspired by the famous Tomb Raider video game, this itinerary takes you exploring across the pyramids of Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Coba, before relaxing at the white beaches of Cozumel.
customize ⤍10 days / from1695 USD
Oaxacan Coast Adventure
Adventure awaits you on this trip to the Oaxacan coast, a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido. Enjoy freedom of traveling with your own rental car.
customize ⤍12 days / from850 USD
The Gems of Yucatan - a Self Drive Trip
Go at your own pace and discover the Peninsula de Yucatan with its many archaeological sites, its colonial villages, and stunning beaches. Having your own car allows you the maximum freedom to explore and the easy road access makes driving yourself a breeze.
customize ⤍11 days / from2846 USD
Amazing Mexico
This 11-day trip takes you from Mexico City, where you will enjoy the La Merced Market to Merida where you can discover Maya ruins...with more adventure along the way, such as Hierve el agua where nature will surprise you and Oaxaca city a great cosy UNESCO World Heritage City.
customize ⤍7 days / from2251 USD
Baja: Pacific Coast Paradise
Baja California is an off-the-beaten-track unspoiled paradise. The area is home to mountains, deserts and thousands of kilometers of gorgeous Pacific coastline. Come here to explore, snorkel, dive or do a spot of whale watching (in season). Otherwise, sit back and relax on its soft sandy shores.
customize ⤍9 days / from1475 USD
Taste of Mexico
Discover the most unique places in Mexico City before heading out to Puebla and Oaxaca, tasting the best Mexico has to offer: mole poblano, chocolate, a corn workshop - this is a hands-on tour, showing the variety Mexico has to offer, both in food and culture wise.
customize ⤍8 days / from2230 USD
Small Group Tour: Yucatán Off the Beaten Path
This is a trip immersed in Maya culture, considering visits to essential places, accommodations in different Maya communities, and cultural and outdoor sports activities. Trip starts February 1st & April 29, 2024 - prefer to do this trip in private? Send us a request for individual pricing.
customize ⤍9 days / from3035 USD
Mayan Heritage on the Yucatan Peninsula
Embark on a Yucatan self-drive adventure, blending renowned treasures like Tulum and Chichen Itza with hidden gems. Wander off the beaten track to discover local communities, engaging in community-based experiences. Delve into Mayan culture, sample authentic cuisine, and explore the region.
customize ⤍7 days / from1800 USD
Immersive Mexico City
Discover the vibrant heart of Mexico City in 7 unforgettable days. A stroll through historic downtown, explore colorful markets, and savor delicious street food. Day trips to Teotihuacan's ancient pyramids and Chapultepec Park's museums offer cultural enrichment.
customize ⤍10 days / from3275 USD
Flavours of Central Mexico
Start in Mexico City, exploring its rich history and vibrant markets. Journey to Cholula to uncover ancient pyramids and partake in cooking classes. Conclude in Oaxaca, where you'll dive deep into local markets and culinary traditions, forging unforgettable memories.
customize ⤍There’s no doubt that scuba diving here is stunning. Beautiful coral reefs all along the western coast of the island teem with a variety of marine species, from loggerhead turtles and seahorses to eagle rays and barracuda.
You can explore with experienced dive teams, or if you’re not qualified, you can try SNUBA – a no-experience-required alternative to scuba diving that allows you to explore the ocean’s depths with an oxygen supply that floats on the surface.
There’s also the Atlantis Submarine, an underwater ship that will take you among many species of fish and other sea creatures as well as a sunken ship.
Rough Guides tip: If you are most interested in beach time as well as diving in Mexico, try our tailor-made trip to Baja: Pacific Coast Paradise. The area is home to mountains, deserts and thousands of kilometres of gorgeous Pacific coastline. Come here to explore, snorkel, dive or do a spot of whale watching (in season). Otherwise, sit back and relax on its soft sandy shores.
Scuba diving is among the most exciting things to do in Cozumel © Pixabay
Though the ocean is Cozumel's main attraction, you can see just as much natural beauty on land. Rent a vehicle in San Miguel and drive out of the city onto the main road that loops around the southern end of the island. The drive is gorgeous from start to finish, lined with palms, enormous Ceiba trees, and flowering shrubs.
With your own vehicle, there is ample opportunity to stop and relax on one of the long white-sand beaches on the wild, eastern side of the island. They can be busy on Sundays, but you'll find them virtually deserted midweek.
Wild beaches on Cozumel © Shutterstock
Isla Cozumel was inhabited entirely by the Maya for thousands of years before the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés landed here and began his conquest of Mexico. After Cortés and his troops left in 1519, the isle remained was deserted and many of the Maya sites in ruins. Today, some of these ruins can still be visited.
The most impressive is San Gervasio, located in the northern area of the island. Amid the thick jungle environment, local archaeologists have done an amazing job of uncovering what was once the capital city of Mayan Cozumel.
Rough Guides tip: If exploring Mayan heritage is what you're looking for from your trip to Mexico - head to our tailor-made trip to Magnificent Mexico and Mayan Treasures. From Mexico City down to the southern state of Oaxaca, this trip packs in all of Mexico's colonial charms and archaeological wonders.
San Gervasio Ruins, Cozumel, Mexico © Angela N Perryman/Shutterstock
Today’s mixed population of Maya, Chilangos from Mexico City, and many Veracruzians, mean Cozumel is the happy home to a wide range of Mexican cooking styles. Though the main street – the Melgar – is studded with the bright lights of American chains and tourist-focused restaurants and bars, local favourites are just a few blocks away.
Try Los Nopales, where the menu offers cuisine from Puebla, namely tacos al pastor (marinated spit-grilled pork with pineapple, onions, coriander and spicy salsa). Vegetarians will love the vegetariano, a huge plate of nopales (a cactus), pineapples, tomatoes and mushrooms with a stack of tortillas and bowls of delicious sauces.
Otates is another favourite, open til late with offerings of frijoles charros, tacos de pastor and quesadillas.
Street vendors are no rare sight in the calles, selling tasty chicken or vegetarian tamales and esquites – hot kernel corn mixed with cayenne pepper, mayonnaise and butter.
Traditional mexican corn smut quesadilla also called "huitlacoche" © Guajillo studio/Shutterstock
Along the malecón (Av Rafael Melgar), downtown San Miguel caters to cruise shippers with restaurants, souvenir shops, tour agencies and jewellery stores. There are typically fewer boats in port at weekends, and on Sunday evenings, cozumeleños come out to the main plaza for live music.
The attractive Cozumel Island Museum has small displays of the flora, fauna and marine life of the island, as well as a good collection of Maya artefacts, vintage diving suits, and old photos. It occasionally hosts live music and theatre events – ask at the tourist office to find out what’s on when you’re on the island – and has an atmospheric restaurant.
Aside from a small public beach on the north side of San Miguel (at C 16) and a small strip north of town, all the beach action is south of town on the Carretera Costera Poniente. There are quite a few beach clubs that line the beachfront. These typically charge about a little above average for beers and seafood mains; you’re expected to buy a nominal amount.
Rough Guides tip: Explore the wide depths of Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, and the fascinating archaeological site of Palenque in Tabasco before moving on to the Yucatan to explore Merida, Chichen Itza and the peaceful island of Cozumel. This tailor-made trip to the Eastern Highlights of Mexico offers adventure and relaxation in 14 days.
Cozumel’s rugged, windy eastern shore remains undeveloped because it faces the open sea and is usually too rough for swimming. The Carretera Costera Oriente runs 20km south to Punta Sur, passing many tantalizing empty beaches (swim only where you see others and be wary of currents). Here the occasional beach hut serves margaritas, but only until sundown because there’s no electricity.
Punta Morena occasionally draws surfers, and Chen Río Beach has two protected coves where you can swim or snorkel, plus a very good restaurant (El Galeón). Playa San Martín, just south, is usually best for swimming.
Another beach that is definitely worth checking out is Playa El Cielo. The crystal clear waters are ideal for snorkelling and the beach is ideal for families with children.
Ready to explore the best beaches Mexico has to offer? Don't miss our guide to the best beaches in Mexico.
The southernmost point of the island is a protected reserve for diverse wildlife, the Faro Celarain Eco Park (also called Punta Sur Eco Beach Park). The site contains several lovely beaches, where you can hang out in a hammock, take a kayak tour around the lagoon or snorkel out and possibly spot some hawksbill turtles.
This is also a prime spot for bird watching, as the mangroves host both migratory and endemic species, including the widespread Cozumel vireo and the Cozumel thrasher, once thought to be extinct.
On the way in, you pass the tiny Templo El Caracol, which may have been built by the Maya as a lighthouse, though it’s awfully squat. When the wind is right, it whistles through the shells embedded in its walls. You can climb to the top of the Punta Celarain lighthouse for amazing views over the coast, or visit the adjacent museum of navigation in the former lightkeeper’s house.
Punta Sur park in Isla Mujeres statue © Shutterstock
One of the most unique things to do in Cozumel is to visit the Cozumel Pearl Factory. It is located on the north coast of Cozumel and has been operating since 2001 and is the only pearl factory in the Caribbean.
The factory is a family research project and works with the oyster species Pinctada radiata also known as the Atlantic Pearl Oyster. Until recently, this species was considered nearly extinct, and factory employees are helping to keep the species alive in the region.
Since 2012, the Pearl Factory has been offering tours, during which you will learn about the process of pearl cultivation and have the opportunity to buy jewellery made from local pearls.
If you want to take a break from the tourist spots in Cozumel - El Mirador gives you that opportunity. Although this beach does not fit the description of a typical white sand beach with blue waters, it is a unique natural attraction in Cozumel that is worth a visit.
Nevertheless, this is the perfect place to take leisurely walks and admire the stunning scenery of Cozumel's rugged east coast. Carved by the inexorable force of the sea, the natural rock arch gracefully connects the waters.
Climb to the top of this amazing structure and you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea all the way to Cuba. Watch the power of the ocean as the giant waves crash against the rugged cliffs, creating a spectacle of nature's might.
Cozumel island El Mirador beach in Riviera Maya of Mexico © Shutterstock
Deep sea fishing is one of the most popular things to do on Cozumel for both fishing enthusiasts and casual tourists. Due to its location in the Caribbean Sea, you will find an abundance of marine life here, making it an ideal destination for deep-sea fishing. Local fishing charters and tours offer visitors the opportunity to venture into deeper waters in pursuit of big catches.
Experienced local captains and crews lead the fishing excursions with the knowledge and tools to increase the odds of success. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or a novice, they'll help you throughout your trip, from setting up your tackle to instructing you on the best techniques to use.
Cacao, or cacao, has a long and significant history in Mayan and Mexican culture, where it was considered a sacred and valuable product. Whether you're a chocolate lover or just want to learn about the aspects of chocolate making, a visit to the Mayan Cacao Company is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the intricate world of Mexican chocolate.
Mayan Cacao Company offers a variety of tours where you will learn about the chocolate-making process, the origins and traditions, and of course you will be able to taste the delightful chocolate. More than just a chocolate museum, this is an extraordinary opportunity to interact with the world's most popular food product and learn about the true history of chocolate in Mexico.
A day trip to Passion Island is the perfect opportunity to change things up and enjoy a day of total relaxation. The island can be reached by boat or catamaran and the trip itself offers stunning views of the Caribbean waters and Cozumel's coastline.
Upon arrival at Passion Island, you will find pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The secluded and tranquil atmosphere of the island makes it the perfect place to relax and escape the crowds.
While relaxing on the beach, sunbathe and swim in the gentle waters. The waters around the island are calm, making it an ideal place for swimming.
Isla Pasion - Passion Island Cozumel Mexico © Shutterstock
Although Cozumel is not a popular Mexican region associated with tequila, there are still opportunities to experience this famous Mexican drink. The island offers some specialised tequila-tasting places in Cozumel. These venues are equipped to create a comfortable and authentic environment to experience the different varieties of tequila.
By choosing one of these specialised places, you will have the opportunity to learn about the tequila production process and taste different types of tequila. After the tasting, you will have the opportunity to purchase bottles of tequila or tequila-related souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your experience.
Mexican tequila in the bar © Shutterstock
Find more accommodation options to stay on Isla Cozumel.
Ready to start planning your trip? Check out the Rough Guide to Mexico and read our guide to the best things to do in Mexico.
If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Mexico without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.
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Top image © Tono Balaguer/Shutterstock
written by Olga Sitnitsa
updated 1.02.2019
Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.
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