Mexico: Yucatan cenotes & temples

Cobá is a large ruined city of the Pre-Columbian Maya civilization, located in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is located about 90 km east of the Maya site of Chichen Itza, about 40 km west of the Caribbean Sea, and 44 km northwest of the site of Tulum, with which it is connected by a modern road.

Coba is estimated to have had some 50,000 inhabitants (and possibly significantly more) at its peak of civilization, and the built up area extends over some 80 km². The site was occupied by a sizable agricultural population by the 1st century. The bulk of Coba's major construction seems to have been made in the middle and late Classic period, about 500 to 900, with most of the dated hieroglypic inscriptions from the 7th century. However Coba remained an important site in the Post-Classic era and new temples were built and old ones kept in repair until at least the 14th century, possibly as late as the arrival of the Spanish.

Cobá, like all archaeological sites in Mexico open to the public via INAH, is free to Mexican citizens on Sundays and national holidays.

The city of Valladolid is one of the Yucatán’s most charming, characterised by its colourful colonial buildings and bustling main square. Valladolid also makes a great base for visiting the UNESCO-listed ruins of Chichén Itzá as well as numerous cenotes and the ancient archaeological site of Ekʼ Balam. Do as the locals and meander in the Plaza e Parque Francisco Canton, marvel at historic churches, enjoy authentic street food and soak up the rich culture of this delightful city.

Chichén-Itzá, located on the Yucatán Peninsula, is one of the most impressive Mayan cities in Mexico. This archaeological site is famous for the iconic pyramid of Kukulcán and other well-preserved structures. Visitors can explore the rich history and culture of the Mayans here. A visit to Chichén-Itzá is a journey back in time to one of the greatest civilizations of Central America.

Izamal is a remarkable blend of two worlds. On the enormous plaza stands the impressive Franciscan monastery, built on top of a Maya pyramid using materials from the original temples. You'll feel the contrast between colonial architecture and Maya history everywhere. Climb to the top of Kinich Kakmó, one of the peninsula's largest Maya pyramids that still towers over the city. From here, you'll enjoy a beautiful view over the sea of yellow buildings and the surrounding green jungle.

The capital of the Yucatán and the region’s cultural heart, Mérida is a charming city that dazzles with its elegant colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Its colourful streets house world-class museums, authentic restaurants, local markets and lively bars, and in the evenings the city’s bustling squares come alive with live music and traditional dance performances. Mérida also makes a great base for visiting the nearby archaeological site of Uxmal where you can marvel at some of Mexico's most incredible Mayan ruins.

Uxmal stands out for its unique building style with elegant facades, geometric patterns, and countless masks of rain god Chaac. You'll walk past impressive structures like the oval Pyramid of the Magician that towers above everything with its steep staircase. Explore the vast Governor's Palace with its detailed reliefs and the so-called Nunnery Quadrangle where four buildings enclose an atmospheric courtyard. What makes Uxmal special is that you admire the structures as they have stood for centuries, without extensive modern restorations.

The fortified city of Campeche is a historic jewel of the Yucatán Peninsula, its colourful colonial buildings, old city walls, charming cobblestone streets and laid-back atmosphere enchanting everyone who visits. Boasting UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the city is home to a lovely Old Town where visitors can marvel at its pastel-hued houses, well-preserved mansions and Baroque cathedral, and nearby the hilltop fort houses an excellent archaeological museum that gives an insight into the region's Mayan heritage.

The Mayan ruins of Chicanná are some of Mexico's finest, famed for the well-preserved and intricate doorway that features a monster's mouth and gives the ancient city its name as the "House of the Serpent Mouth". The magnificent archaeological site was built in the Rio Bec style and is surrounded by a lush jungle landscape, and visitors can base themselves in the nearby town of Xpujil which offers some excellent accommodation options and amenities.

The capital of Quintana Roo, Chetumal is a diverse and laid-back city on Mexico’s border with Belize. The Museum of Mayan Culture is a must-see for an insight into the region's rich culture and history, and the city's pretty setting on the sheltered Bay of Chetumal, its vast waterfront that hosts vibrant local events and the abundance of incredible Mayan ruins and lush jungles in the surroundings make it well worth the visit.

Bacalar, located on the stunning Laguna Bacalar in Mexico, is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and serene atmosphere. This hidden gem offers visitors the chance to relax, swim in the Cenote Azul, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. Bacalar is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure in a breathtaking setting.

Set on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum is one of Mexico’s most incredible resorts. By day, relax on tropical white sand beaches and swim in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, and by night you can enjoy Tulum’s bohemian atmosphere in its chic restaurants and bustling beach bars. The town also has a rich Mayan history, and nearby there are plenty of well-preserved ruins that will transport you back in time.

Playa del Carmen is the beating heart of the Riviera Maya, where white sand and turquoise waters meet a lively atmosphere. The famous Quinta Avenida forms the backbone of this beach resort, featuring trendy restaurants, cosy bars and colourful shops. During the day, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches or dive into the crystal-clear cenotes nearby. From Playa del Carmen, you can easily reach Cozumel island for spectacular snorkelling among tropical fish. The Mayan ruins of Tulum are just half an hour's drive away. In the evening, the town buzzes with energy, offering live music and delicious Mexican cuisine. Playa del Carmen provides the perfect blend of relaxation, culture and adventure for every traveller.