Mayan Ruins: Belize Or Cozumel?

The Mayan Empire, which reached its peak from 250 to 900 AD, left behind ruins across the Yucatan Peninsula, including in Belize and Cozumel. Travellers are often curious about which location boasts the most impressive ruins. Some say that the ruins in Belize are more impressive, while others argue that Cozumel (Tulum) is superior. This debate is subjective, as both places offer unique and fascinating insights into Mayan history and culture.

Belize's Mayan ruins are more impressive but the port is in a bad part of town

Belize's Mayan ruins are more impressive than those in Cozumel, but the port is in a bad part of town.

Belize is a small nation on the eastern coast of Central America, bordered by Mexico and Guatemala. The country has a rich history and was once the central area of Mayan civilisation. The Maya civilisation spread over Belize between 1500 BC and 300 AD and flourished until around 900 AD. Belize was quite possibly the capital of the Mayan Empire, and many of its inhabitants are of Mayan descent.

Belize City, the former capital and the country's largest city, is not a particularly wealthy place. The port at Belize City is too shallow for larger ships to dock, and the city itself has been described as "not a particularly well-to-do city". The homes on the "wrong side of the tracks" are said to be "pretty sad". However, Belize has two huge advantages when it comes to tourism: its beautiful, unspoiled islands and mountains, and the fact that it is the only English-speaking locale in Central America.

The Mayan ruins in Belize are impressive. One visitor commented that they were much bigger than those in Cozumel. Belize is also home to Lamanai, the third-largest archaeological site in the country, which one person described as "wonderful". Another recommended site in Belize is Xuantunich, which has a spectacular main pyramid, "El Castillo", that can be climbed for impressive views.

In contrast, the ruins in Cozumel are described as small and quick to see. One person commented that they were not nearly as impressive as those in Belize. However, Cozumel has other attractions, including its beaches and the Chankanaab National Park.

So, if you're looking for impressive Mayan ruins, Belize is the better option. Just be prepared for the port being in a less desirable part of town.

The ruins in Cozumel are smaller and quicker to see

If you're short on time, the Mayan ruins in Cozumel are smaller and quicker to see. They can be visited in a relatively short time compared to the ruins in Belize, which are spread out and take longer to explore. One visitor to Cozumel noted that the ruins there are "small and quick to see", while another said they are "interesting, but small".

If you're looking for a more substantial experience of Mayan ruins, Belize may be a better option. The ruins in Belize are described as ""impressive" and "much bigger" than those in Cozumel. However, it's important to consider the time commitment required to visit these sites. Belizean ruins such as Tulum are located further inland and can take a full day to visit.

The ease of access to the ruins in Cozumel is also worth considering. El Cedral, for example, is one of the easiest Mayan ruins to visit on the island of Cozumel. It is located on the southern end of the island and is the oldest Mayan site there, dating back to 800 AD. San Gervasio, another site in Cozumel, is nestled within the lush jungle and was once a significant site for Mayan women to pay homage to the goddess of birth and fertility.

Therefore, if you're looking for a quick and accessible option, the ruins in Cozumel may be preferable. However, if you're seeking more extensive and impressive ruins, Belize could be a better choice, despite the longer travel time.

Belize is the only English-speaking locale in Central America

Belize is the only country in Central America with English as the official language. It was a British colony for over a century and gained independence in 1981. The country has a diverse society with many different cultures and languages. While English is the official language, Belizean Creole, or Kriol, is the most widely spoken dialect. Belize is also home to Spanish, Mayan languages, German dialects, and Garifuna.

The use of English in Belize stems from its history as a British colony. English settlers first arrived in 1638, and the area became a British colony in 1862. Belize, then known as British Honduras, became an independent nation in 1981 and joined the Commonwealth, with King Charles III as its monarch and head of state.

Belize's diverse linguistic landscape is influenced by its location in Central America and its history of European colonisation and immigration. Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language due to the country's proximity to Spanish-speaking countries like Mexico and Guatemala. Mayan languages are also widely spoken, reflecting the significant presence of Maya people in Belize, who make up three distinct groups: Yucatec, Mopan, and Q'eqchi'. Garifuna, an Arawak-based language, is spoken by the Garinagu people, who are of West/Central African, Arawak, and Island Carib ancestry. German dialects, including Plautdietsch and Pennsylvania Dutch, are spoken by the Mennonite community in Belize, who make up around 3% of the population.

While English is the primary language of public education, government, and the media in Belize, the country's linguistic diversity is reflected in its day-to-day use. Belizean Creole is commonly used in informal and formal settings, including social and interethnic dialogue and even in meetings of the House of Representatives. Additionally, Spanish and Mayan languages are prevalent in specific regions, such as "Kitchen Spanish" in the northern districts.

Belize is a good option if you want to spend time at the beach in Cozumel

Belize City is the former capital and largest city in Belize, and the country's only port. The port at Belize City is too shallow for large ships to dock, so passengers are tendered ashore. Belize City is not a wealthy city, and some parts are described as "sad". However, Belize offers impressive ruins and is a good option if you want to avoid the "bad part of town" in Cozumel. Belize is also a good option if you want to avoid the long travel time to the ruins in Tulum.

The ruins in Belize are much bigger than those in Cozumel, and it can take an hour or more to travel there by bus. Belize was possibly the capital of the Mayan Empire, and many of its inhabitants are of Mayan descent. The Lamanai ruins are the third-largest archaeological site in Belize, and they are reachable by boat through the New River. You can also see wildlife on the journey, including birds, crocodiles, and the Jesus Christ Bird, which walks on water.

If you are looking for a beach day, Cozumel is a good option. The Mayan ruins in Cozumel are interesting, but they are small and can be seen quickly. Cozumel is also a good option if you want to explore the side of the island away from the pier.

The Mayan ruins in Cozumel are easily accessible from the cruise ship piers

Other Mayan ruins near Cozumel include Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba in Yucatan, Mexico. Chichen Itza is one of the best places in the world for anyone interested in Mayan culture, history, and architecture. It is home to dozens of ancient buildings and structures, including El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcan. Tulum, once a walled port city and major trade centre, can be reached by ferry from Cozumel. Coba is one of the few unexcavated ancient Mayan sites in Mexico, allowing visitors to explore the jungle and discover ball courts, palaces, and other buildings.

Frequently asked questions