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Located 9 kms. from San Miguel and declared a National Park in 1980 as a natural refuge and a protected area for marine flora and fauna of the western coast, Chankanaab Park is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Cozumel. Chankanaab Lagoon is a natural aquarium that has more than 60 tropical fish species, crustaceans and corals. It boasts the only botanical garden on the island.
It is the largest ecological reserve in Cozumel, dedicated to the conservation of its five ecosystems: coastal dunes, mangrove swamps, reefs, lagoons and beautiful beaches (sea turtle sanctuary). It has Mayan archaeological vestiges as well as areas for watching crocodiles, the historic Celarain Lighthouse with spectacular views, a Navigation and Cultural Museum, kayak and snorkeling tours, restaurant and snack bar. From the Colombia Lagoon, there are boat tours through the mangroves for bird-watching.
Cozumel boasts modern seaport infrastructure comprising three international cruise ship terminals: Punta Langosta, Muelle Internacional (International Pier) and Puerta Maya; besides the Banco Playa marina (harbor) and the Fiscal pier, that provides service to passenger boats.
With landscapes featuring lush vegetation and mangroves, and designed by Nicklaus Design Group, it’s the first golf course in Mexico to receive certification in Environmental Planning from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System.
The island´s original name was Cuzamil ("land of the swallows" in mayan language). Cozumel is located 18 km off Playa del Carmen and it is the largest inhabited island in Mexico - 48 km long and 16 wide - and one of the most famous dive destinations in the world, thanks to its numerous reefs, abundant marine life, the pleasant temperatures and clear waters that allow visibility up to 40 meters.
Fascinating history, lush vegetation, beaches, archaeological vestiges and underwater beauty (Video: Ministry of Tourism of the State of Quintana Roo)
The Island of the Swallows
It describes in pictures and words the many reasons why Cozumel is Mexico's favorite island. Get a glimpse of everything from its pre-Hispanic Mayan past and the conquest, to its great natural attractions, coral reefs, activities and traditions. It includes an illustrated map of San Miguel de Cozumel, a map of the island, contains an IPTV Channel of Quintana Roo and hundreds of hyperlinks for additional information.