Ek-Balam is an ancient city that was founded around 100 BC and thought to have once been the most powerful pre-colonial Mayan city in Mexico. Explore its impressive ruins and see examples of Mayan masks, hieroglyphics and figurines. Then travel to the Xk-Ken Cenote, an unbelievable underwater cave, and dive into its cool turquoise water to cool off after a hot day of exploring.

Ruins, ruins everywhere. Join a licensed, local guide for a visit to Chichén Itzá, one of the country's most famous Mayan sites. The city dates from around the 7th century AD (though there is evidence of farmers living here as early as the 4th century BC). A major trade and ceremonial center, Chichén Itzá is known for its huge, 365-stepped, four-sided, pyramid El Castillo, as well as other buildings, sculptures and carved murals.

Follow your guide into the cool depths of the Yucatán to explore a cave that once served as a sacred ceremonial alter for the Mayans. See the 20 foot tall stalagmite formation that resembles a Ceiba Tree, the sacred tree of the Mayans, and the ancient ceremonial objects that surround it.

Relax like a king. Ik-Kil was a Mayan retreat, where kings and their court would come to relax and swim in the sacred blue waters. Now an eco-archaeological park, the area is preserved just as it was so that you can swim, soak, and splash in style.

Get a real taste of a classic Yucatecan eatery in downtown Mérida. Fill your plate with panuchos and salbutes, two kinds of Mexican stuffed tortillas. Sip a specialty soup made from native lime. And sink your teeth into a regional specialty made from marinated slow-roasted pork. One bite and you’ll understand why food in the Yucatan is a distant cousin from other South-of-the-Border flavors.

Tropical flowers in fuchsia, yellow and orange. The dark green leaves of almond and tamarind trees. Couples dressed all in white, sitting on ornate stone benches ringing the central plaza or "xocolo". The capital of the state of Yucatán, this sunny city is also the perfect base for excursions to the ancient Mayan Empire. But check out the city's sites first: A licensed, local guide will take you to the Cathedral of San Il defonso, located on the central Plaza de Armas. Begun in 1563, the Cathedral is the oldest on the American mainland, with the oldest true dome in Mexico. See what many consider Mexico's most "dignified" church interior, complete with thick Tuscan columns, a coffered nave and high altar. Step back outside and walk across the sunny plaza to the Government Palace to see huge murals depicting scenes of the Spanish conquest of the Yucatán Peninsula and aspects of the Mayan culture that still flourish. Continue to Progreso Beach, a favorite seaside resort lined with turn-of-the-century mansions.

Take a kayak ride through the most luscious mangroves located near the Yucatán capital. The Chuburna Port is home to regional fauna and flora that will keep you marveled. Learn all about the local ecosystems as you make your way through the 4 miles of tunnels and islets.

Clip clop through the Yucatán capital on a horse-drawn carriage or as the local call it, a “calesa.” Built on land that was once the center of Mayan culture and activity for centuries, Mérida is now commonly referred to as the “Paris of Mexico.” A ride up Paseo de Montejo’s tree-lined avenue might remind you of the Champs Elysees with a Spanish colonial accent.

Hop on your bike and explore the extended maze of ancient roads and walkways and see the great pyramid of Cobá, Nohoc Mul, that are all surrounded by the thick lush Mexican jungle.

See the Mayan idea of a beach town. Tulum is the largest Mayan coastal city and one of Cancún’s favorite daytrips. Survey the limestone ruins, the surrounding lush jungle, and the super-blue ocean with your Tour Director.

Add to the record books -- Playa del Carmen is now, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the fastest growing town in the world. Attracted by the gorgeous white-sand beach and stunning blue water, the town's newcomers maintain Playa's friendliness and vibrancy. Check out the beach or shop for souvenirs along the bustling main strip.

Spend an afternoon soaking up some vitamin D on the fine white sands of Playa del Carmen, named for the patron saint of Cancún. The turquoise waters offer ample opportunity to explore the marine life and reefs in the Caribbean Sea. So pack your snorkel and fins!

Spend an afternoon soaking up some vitamin D on the fine white sands of Playa del Carmen, named for the patron saint of Cancún. The turquoise waters offer ample opportunity to explore the marine life and reefs in the Caribbean Sea. So pack your snorkel and fins!