San Gervasio Mayan Ruins

Overview

San Gervasio is one of the largest and most important Mayan archeological sites in Cozumel. It was a significant ceremonial center dedicated to the goddess Ixchel. The ruins offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the ancient Mayans.

San Gervasio was a crucial pilgrimage site for the Mayans, particularly for the worship of Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and medicine. It provides valuable insights into Mayan religious practices and architecture.

Historical Site Cultural Site

Location

Address

Carr. Costera Pништula Km 13.5

Neighborhood: San Gervasio

Coordinates

20.396389, -86.928056

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$100 MXN

Children

$50 MXN (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November to April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Flowering plants
• Mild weather

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended daylight

autumn

Warm to mild

• Cooling weather
• Fewer tourists

winter

Cool and pleasant

• Cooler temperatures
• Peak visiting season

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Water bottle Comfortable shoes Sunscreen Hat

seasonal

Light jacket (winter) Umbrella (rainy season)

not allowed

Large backpacks Drones Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Stay hydrated
• Use sunscreen
• Watch for uneven surfaces

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (MXN), Credit/Debit cards (Visa, MasterCard)

Currency

Mexican Pesos (MXN)

Typical Costs

entry $100 MXN

parking $50 MXN

food $100-200 MXN

souvenirs $50-300 MXN

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes, light clothing, Walking shoes or sandals, Inappropriate clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance
• Official website or authorized vendors
• 48 hours in advance for full refund
• Available for online tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

San Gervasio Guide

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guides, Ticket booking, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Main plaza

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafeteria

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Cozumel International Airport (CZM)

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$20-30 USD 20 min

public_transport

$2-3 USD 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

taxi

$10-15 USD 10 min

bicycle

$0 20 min

public_transport

$1-2 USD 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: San Gervasio is a significant part of Cozumel's history and culture. It's a place where locals can connect with their ancestors and share their heritage with visitors.

Historical Significance: The site was a major religious center for the Mayans, particularly for the worship of Ixchel. It's believed that pilgrims from across the Yucatan Peninsula would travel to San Gervasio to pay their respects.

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning for the best experience and fewer crowds
Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of the site's history
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Local Recommendations

• Try local food at nearby restaurants
• Visit the nearby Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
• Ask for a local guide who can share Mayan stories and history

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Mayan dialects

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

El Temazcal

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle shots for dramatic effect

Result: Stunning photos of the ancient structure

#SanGervasio #MayanRuins #Cozumel

Nohoch Kaab

Best Time: Mid-morning

Tips: Wide shots to capture the full structure

Result: Impressive views of the main pyramid

#Archaeology #History #Travel

Central Plaza

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Use the setting sun for backlighting

Result: Beautiful photos with the warm glow of the sunset

#Sunset #TravelMexico #CulturalSite

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Inside restricted structures

flash photography Allowed but discouraged in certain areas

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in certain areas, check with staff

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park

Distance: 1.5 km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Beach Park

Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Adventure Park

Cozumel Museum