Most of this ancient city remains unexcavated, but what is uncovered can be explored on bikes, which can be rented inside the park. Bring some cash, as these bikes are not part of the addmission cost. The most memorable sites were (for me) the sacbes--the ancient roads that were paved with coastal sand and reflected the moonlight so one could travel by night--the Mayan ball court--not as dramatic, but much much older than in Chichen Itza--and, of course, the main pyramid, Nohoch Mul. This is the largest pyramid in the northern Yucatan, at 42m and 90-some-odd steps, and you are allowed to climb up. The view from the top is beautiful--lush green jungle, the nearby lakes, and the occasional ruin.

If you have a bit of time in Mexico, I would highly recommend this day trip. Also, because of all the wonderful little towns you drive through to get to Coba, you get to see how people really live. We met a partially blind man who was carving hanging monkeys. He was living in a shack with his wife and children. They were extremely kind, although a bit shy, and actually said they knew someone from Brooklyn. Small world!

Make sure to drive slowly, the road to Coba has tarantula crossing and many potholes. You'll also pass a cenote here and there if you desire to snorkel. If you're planning on buying true Mayan art, do it while driving down this road. You'll avoid the tourist traps and find some really interesting items.

When you arrive near Coba, you'll find a few little shops selling tourist items, drinks, and soda. You might want to eat in Tulum before you get here, or bring your lunch. Also near the parking area is a HUGE lagoon that you should stay away from. There are crocodiles in there, so stick to dry land!

We got to Coba around 3pm, and most people had already left to get back before dark. We paid a modest entry fee and entered the ruins. We avoided the men who wanted to take us on a tour and immediately started to walk around. Because there was no one around, I really felt relaxed and got an idea of how it was like to have lived like a Mayan. There was a ball court where teams would play against each other. The winners would be sacrificed to the gods, which is considered a great honor.

The ruins aren't in perfect shape, and a lot is yet to be uncovered ( only 6% or so has been excavated, believe it or not). But it's so breathtaking to climb that pyramid and pop your head out of the jungle. There is a rope hanging off the pyramid that helps you get up or down. It's pretty steep, so you'll find yourself going down on your bum or climbing down using the rope.

Apparently there is a road near the main pyramid that leads all the way to Chichen Itza. This is how the Mayans traded with each other. All of this is still covered by jungle.

Although harmless, do know that you will see tarantulas scuttling across the paths. This is the jungle. Also, there are a lot of mosquitoes.