There are a seemingly limitless number of things to do and places to explore in this vast country, from the bustling streets of Mexico City, Guadeloupe, and Cancun, to the spectacular ruins of the ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations. This is a great destination for travelers who love to discover history the hard way, by trekking through the jungles and scaling mountains, and those who like getting active.

With almost 6,000 miles of coastline, Mexico is home to some of the world’s finest beaches, which offer ample opportunity for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing, while inland the flat terrain found in certain parts of the country have led to a recent surge in cycling and mountain biking through the foothills. Most activities can be organized through the large number of tour operators established here.

Climbing volcanoes is an explorer’s dream, namely El Pico de Orizaba, North America’s third-highest mountain, and Nevado de Toluca. These can be quite a challenge, but a truly rewarding experience with some phenomenal views across the surrounding valleys. Treks can be organized through GoTrek.

Bizarrely enough, it is possible to go high-altitude scuba diving in the water-filled craters of Nevada de Toluca. If you’re more into the traditional underwater variety, there are a number of spots to go scuba diving off the coast of Mexico with diverse marine areas. Off the Yucatan peninsula, you will find some of the world’s finest reefs in the Great Maya Barrier Reef, in addition to the wondrous caves of Cenote. Dives can be arranged through Aventuras Xcalak to Chinchorro Dive Center.

A popular destination for surfing since the 1940s, Mexico’s Pacific coast offers some of the best breaks around. Especially popular through the winter months, areas such as Puerto Escondido are renowned spots to catch a wave, with numerous companies, including Oasis Surf Academy, providing classes, boards, and equipment.

In an amazing landscape of mountains, jungles, and sea, hit the peaks of Puerto Vallarta and explore the terrain while mountain biking. A range of tours are available through local firm Eco Ride, including a 30-mile journey down the scenic slopes from the small town of El Tuito to Yelapa Beach. However, if you’re not up for this mammoth trip, less demanding rides are of course an option.

Ever wanted to live out your Western fantasy of roaming the sierras on horseback? Well, here’s your chance. El Aventurero organizes horse riding tours from Creel, ranging from two-hour rides to two-week expedition deep into baron wilderness of the canyon country. Basic riding experience is necessary, but lessons are also provided.

One of the best ways to discover the jungle and freshwater spring of the protected La Tovara estuary is to take a scenic boat trip down the river. The cruise starts in San Blas and meanders through the mangroves up through San Cristobal Estuary, eventually docking around 3.5 hours later at La Tovara. The tour can be arranged through Moon Travel Guides.

Embark on a coach tour of Mexico City’s endless attractions, visiting famous landmarks such as the impressive National Palace, the Anthropology Museum, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest church in Latin America. Other stops along the way may include a serene botanical garden, placid lakes, and the hidden, colonial backstreets of Mexico City. Most tours usually last all day and cover the entrance fees for visitors. One of the most popular operators is Mexico City Tours.

Live on the wild side and spend the day at Boca del Puma Eco-Park, leaving the bustling cities and scorching beaches behind. An eco-reserve set in lush jungle just outside the coastal town of Puerte Morelos, Boca del Puma provides visitors with the opportunity to cycle through greenery and zip line through the tree canopy while seeing wild jungle pigs, pheasants, and spider monkeys in their natural habitat. This exhilarating day can be organized through Zip Line Cancun Tours.