Pronounced oosh-mahl, Uxmal is one impressive set of ruins, easily ranking among the top Maya archaeological sites. It is a large site with some fascinating structures in good condition and bearing a riot of ornamentation. Adding to its appeal is Uxmal’s setting in the hilly Puuc region, which lent its name to the architectural patterns in this area.
Puuc means ‘hills, ’ and these, rising up to about 100m, are the first relief from the flatness of the northern and western portions of the peninsula. For an additional cost, Uxmal projects a nightly light-and-sound show. It's in Spanish but there are audio translators available.