Mayan Ruins Of Ixchel Videos:
Discover the Mayan Ruins of Ixchel. Below is a collection of videos so you can see it before you go. Looking for an amazing sunrise? Some say you can find it here in Punta Sur.
Exploring Ixchel Temple Ruins on Isla Mujeres
Getting to Ixchel Ruins
The Mayan ruins of the Templo Ixchel (Temple of Goddess Ixchel) can be found on the southern tip of Isla Mujeres, just 6 miles off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. The Ixchel Ruins are small, reduced by time and repeated hurricanes battering the island over centuries, yet they are easily accessible from Cancun.
Taxi, Shuttle, and Ferry to Isla Mujeres
If you are traveling to Isla Mujeres from Cancun International Airport or from your hotel, you will need to take a taxi or hotel shuttle to a ferry. The most common route is via the Ultramar Ferry, which takes approximately 20-minutes from Cancun. The ferry departure times depend on the departure location (there are four: Puerto Juarez, Playa Tortugas, El Embarcadero, and Playa Caracol), but you can expect to see a ferry every hour. Prices are subject to change, so be sure to check the Ultramar Ferry website for details.
Once you arrive, you can rent a golf cart to navigate the small island and make stops at all of the locations on your itinerary including the Ixchel ruins, turtle farm, dolphin sanctuary, and Playa Norte.
Things to see at the Ixchel Ruins
The Ixchel Temple
The Ixchel Ruins are the main draw of Isla Mujeres for explorers of Mayan ruins in the Yucatan. The ruins are thought to be the remains of a temple to the Maya goddess Ixchel (or Ix Chel). The Goddess Ixchel is often associated with fertility, midwifery, and medicine. The Ixchel temple ruins are also thought to have served as a lighthouse due to its location on Isla Mujeres.
Nearby Activities
Visit Tortugranja, a turtle farm near the Ixchel Ruins on Isla Mujeres. The island is known as the ancestral home of giant sea turtles which lay their eggs in the sands of Isla Mujeres from May to September. Learn about different species of turtles, egg hatching, and conservation efforts on the island.
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with dolphins, you must make a stop at Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres. The dolphinarium is your chance to learn about the intelligent aquatic creatures and swim with them in a safe environment, perfect for families. Dolphin Discovery has some other sea creatures for you to meet including manatees and sea lions. Oh my!
Ixchel Ruin Area Fun Excursions:
Looking for fun things to do on Isla Mujeres? Check out these fun excursions and tours.
