Visit Tulum Mayan ruins

Perched on a cliff top overlooking the Caribbean sea, Tulum surely enjoys the most spectacular setting of all Mayan sites. Reaching its zenith between the 13th and 15th centuries, the walled port city was one of the last major settlements built by the Maya and survived for decades after the arrival of the Spanish.

As a result of its relative youthfulness it's a well-preserved site with some impressive frescoes and bas-reliefs. However you don't need the slightest interest in archaeology to appreciate the magnificent natural backdrop of azure seas and soft white sand over which the Mayan monuments stand guard. Once you've explored the compact site with your guide you can even take a dip in the gentle waves yourself, looking up at the ruins above.