lifestyle, travel This is Cozumel

More than 300 paddlers in canoes are expected to take part in the annual Sacred Mayan Journey from mainland Mexico to Cozumel and back, next month.

The reenactment brings to life the ancient, mystical journey said to have been taken by the Maya in their quest to pay tribute to the Goddess Ix Chel, whose sanctuary may have rested on the island.

On May 25 and 26, 2018, they'll battle with the wind and sea. On the first day they'll leave the mainland at sunrise from Xcaret Park, just south of Playa del Carmen, and cross to Cozumel where -- tired and emotional -- they're sure to receive a warm island reception.

At Chankanaab Park participants will revive ancient practices with rituals, dances and music, and ceremonies will be performed with offerings for Mayan gods and goddesses.

On the second day they'll dig their paddles deep into the sea again to cross back to the Riviera Maya in just a matter of hours.

The Mayan Sacred Journey reenactments began twelve years ago and have helped reawaken interest in this ancient culture from both locals and visitors.

Visit Chankanaab with our All-Inclusive Beach Package or find more information about the event on the official Sacred Mayan Journey website.

Photos courtesy of Xcaret Park.