El Caracol

Modest compared with those on the Yucatán peninsula, Cozumel's Mayan ruins are still distinct. San Gervasio, in the interior, was occupied by the Maya for more than 1,300 years and served as a trading hub as well as the worship center for the goddess Ixchel. In the south, the post-classic pyramidal structure El Caracol funneled pressurized air in an ingenious way to give warning of hurricanes and other storms. Guides are available.

Created by the editors of T+L for Regent Seven Seas Cruises.