Isla-Mujeres.com.mx
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Isla Mujeres Mexico
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Description
Isla Mujeres is a privileged place with a unique natural and cultural wealth in Mexico. This beautiful island combines the beauty of the Caribbean, the dense tropical jungle and the wonderful heritage of the Mayan civilization. It stands out as one of Mexico´s natural treasures, a truly delightful paradise on earth.
In addition to its beaches and the stunning natural architecture of its cliffs, Isla Mujeres has archaeological vestiges and marine parks with incredible natural reefs. Visiting Isla Mujeres is like discovering a magic world which all visitors would like to call their second home. Isla Mujeres is fascination at first sight, since no one escapes from the natural beauty of the island and the charm of the Caribbean. On Isla Mujeres, many different worlds are combined by a common factor: the genuine flavor of the Mexican Caribbean.
History
A quick journey through time will give you a good vision of Isla Mujeres´ rich and long history.
The first news about Isla Mujeres date back to 564-1516 A.D. when it was a mayan province, Ekab, one of the four provinces or Mayan territories that formed what is today the State of Quintana Roo.
At that time, Isla Mujeres was not a human settlement, it was a sanctuary to Ixchel (goddess of weaving, happiness, the moon, abundance and medicine, among others). From March 1st to 4th, 1517, a Spanish expedition under Francisco Fernández de Córdoba´s leadership, discovered the island and found a sanctuary with a representation of Ixchel and a court of women, hence the name Isla Mujeres it was given.
Isla Mujeres Facts
Isla Mujeres, although it is not even four miles (6 km) from Cancun, it might as well be on another continent. In contrast to the flashy glamor of Mexico´s most popular tourist destination, it is relaxed, compact and a perfect spot for getting away from big-city stress. This little island is only five miles long and less than half a mile wide and you can walk the length of it in a couple of hours. Yet it offers good beaches for swimming, coral reefs for diving and snorkeling, a tranquil lagoon, the ruins of a pirate´s hacienda, and ample tourist facilities.
To Cancun - 45 minutes
To Playa del Carmen - 1:35 hrs
To Tulum - 130 km - 80.77 mi -2:15 hrs
To Merida - 4:52 hrs
Activities in Isla Mujeres
The sandy beaches on the west side of the island are good places for swimming; but the strong currents of the east coast are hazardous.
Playa Cocos, on the north end of the island, is the prettiest beach and has translucent, calm waters. Playa Lancheros, at the south end, is more secluded. You can visit the sea turtle pens and enjoy the sheltered water for swimming.
Dolphin Discovery offers a chance to swim with the dolphins.
Garrafon Natural Reef park, thrill to the best snorkeling adventure at the Garrafon's Reef, one of the most stunning in the world. Kayak rides, scuba diving , underwater strolls, snuba, zip line flights and the bungee jump , are just a few of the great activities you will enjoy at Garrafon Natural Reef Park in Isla Mujeres.
Diving The best diving spots are Banderas, Manchones and Cuervones reefs. An undersea coral garden, El Garrafon National Park and Marine Life Refuge, with its hundreds of varieties of colorful tropical fish, offers superb snorkeling, especially early in the morning before the tour boats come over from Cancun.
El Dormitorio is a sunken pirate ship lying under 40 feet (12 m) of transparent water.
Boating/Fishing Hire a boat to go fishing or yachting, to visit the turtle pens or for visiting the unspoiled ecosystems on nearby Contoy Island, a Special Biosphere Reserve and National Bird Sanctuary.
Makar Lagoon. The Puerto Isla Mujeres Resort and Yacht Club is located on this long, thin body of water and has its own 60-slip dock.
Biking/motorcycling You can rent a couple of wheels and go exploring on your own.
Shopping in Isla Mujeres
Shops feature fine coral jewelry and the latest in resort wear.
Dining in Isla Mujeres
There are several good dining spots in town, casual restaurants on the beach, and others at the resorts.
