The Yucatan Peninsula is a mostly flat expanse of limestone, thought to be the result of the Chicxulub meteor that struck the earth 65 million years ago. Not a single river runs above ground; the water runs many feet below the surface in a vast network of underground rivers and caves. When the water is exposed to the surface it is called a cenote (say-NOH-tay). These pools have brought relief from hot jungle temperatures for ancient Mayans and modern visitors alike.

On the west coast of the Yucatan Peninsula lies the protected biosphere of Celestun, a haven for flamingos and many other bird species. All along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, beach towns from Progreso to Chiquila provide access to lovely beaches and the wildlife that lives along the coast.

On the eastern coast, the city of Cancun, and neighboring Cozumel, are destination cities for tourists coming to enjoy some of the world's most beautiful Caribbean beaches and best scuba diving.

The center of the peninsula is still a jungle, populated with traditional Mayan towns, inhabited by North America's largest indigenous Indian group. There are ruins, cenotes, cathedrals, haciendas, and natural wonders... all just waiting to be discovered.

Use these maps for your exploration... bring an adventurous spirit and create your own Yucatecan memories.