
Mayan Ruins in Mexico: Chichen Itza (pictured) is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico. But there are other important sites throughout Yucatan state, all of which are guaranteed to be less crowded.

Chichen Itza: This former Mayan city, like many Mayan ruins, is home to cenotes, or sinkholes full of water you can swim in.

Ek Balam: In Mayan, the name of this complex translates to "Black Jaguar."

Acropolis: Ek Balam is a mix of Mayan and Yucatecan ruins, and it's also so new--not in the historic sense; in the tourism sense, as it's still being excavated daily--that you might find yourself the only tourist there.

Mayapan: About a half hour from Yucatan's capital of Merida, this site was modeled on Chichen Itza. There's one important difference, though -- you're allowed to climb it.

Dzibilchaltún: This is believed to be the only archaeological site in the world with a mix of Spanish and Mayan artifacts.

Dzibilchaltún: The best way to experience the site is to walk to the "sacbe" (white road) from one end to the other, finishing at this cenote for a swim.