If you’re planning a trip to Cancun, then you’ve definitely made a wise choice. The city in southeastern Mexico has become one of the top tourist spots in Mexico. It’s also easily one of the best destinations in the Caribbean, although it’s often overshadowed by other locations in the region. I’ve been to many tourist spots throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean, and can guarantee that you will have the time of your life if you visit Cancun. So, what places should you visit in Cancun? While there are tons of different places to visit, Chichen Itza, Cozumel, and the Xcaret eco-archaeological park are three that you should certainly consider adding to your itinerary.

The large Mayan city of Chichen Itza has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. It’s situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, in what was once was the center of the Maya civilization. The area where it is located has little surface water, but there are large sinkholes that fill up with water from underground. There are two near the city, which is probably why the site was first selected. Historians believe that these cenotes were sites where the Mayans conducted human sacrifices to honor their god Chaac. Historians believe that Chichen Itza started to erode during the 1200s. That’s when the Mayapan conquered it. It was also believed that sacrificed people who survived received the oracle’s power. Today, Chichen Itza remains one of Mexico’s most impressive Mayan sites. It includes many well-preserved ruins that had a wide array of different uses.

Visiting Cozumel via boat rental is another experience you should definitely do while in Cancun. This can be enjoyed by a group ranging anywhere from five to thirty people. You’ll have several fun options to choose from including snorkeling, scuba diving, which all take place at Cozumel’s world famous reefs. Other options for people looking for a more relaxing day include sunbathing and simply enjoying Cozumel’s white sandy beaches. A boat tour typically lasts four to eight hours and includes lunch, snacks, drinks, and a sound system to enjoy music during the trip.

Finally, an American tourist’s trip to Cancun isn’t complete without visiting the  eco-archaeological park. It features over fifty fun-filled attractions and is located on the seashore in the Riviera Maya. Attractions include the Mayan and Fiesta Charra, or if you’re a nature lover you can visit the Butterfly Pavilion or Jaguar Island instead.  Other options include swimming in underground rivers, snorkeling tours, and swimming with the dolphins. At night, there is a festive celebration of color and light, which includes hundreds of artists who illustrate Mexico’s history. Another point of history is that some documents show that Xcaret was once one of the most important Mayan ports on the country’s east coast. They mention weddings between P’ole rulers and Cozumel residents, implying that Xcaret was a critical political area.