Tulum Travel Guide

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Top Attractions

Cheap Flying Tips

Where to Stay

Things to Do

Your Guide to Tulum

If you’re looking for a getaway that features Mayan ruins, pristine beaches, warm weather year-round, and cenotes, Tulum is the place for you. It can be pretty overwhelming to try to navigate all the Tulum has to offer and to make sure you get the most out of your experience.

Look no further! You’re sure to discover everything you need to know about Tulum in this guide.

Top Attractions in Tulum

Tulum is jam-packed full of fun and unforgettable attractions. It would be easy to spend weeks there without going to the same place twice. Because there are so many options, it’s hard to know which ones you should definitely plan to visit, especially if you’re pressed for time, but a few popular attractions stand out as must-sees.

Cenotes

There are over 6,000 cenotes (natural sinkholes) on the Yucatan Peninsula, and there’s no wonder they’re so popular. With many of them, you’ll get cool, clear water and breath-taking Instagram-worthy views. Most of the cenotes cost around $10 (or 205 pesos), and it’s well worth the money for an experience you’ll never forget.

Cenote Dos Ojos – One of the best cenotes, according to The World is My Playground. It offers crystal blue water and incredible views. You can even rent snorkeling equipment or go diving if you have a diving certificate.
Cenote Car Wash – Funny name, but amazing for snorkeling according to Castaway Crystal. It’s unique and not well-known, so you’ll be able to explore without many other tourists around. You’ll see a variety of fish and plants in this peaceful cenote.
Sistema Sac Actun – This cenote could be the largest cave system in the world! You’ll take a 90-minute tour. You’ll see bats, Mayan archeology, and so many beautiful creations throughout the cave.

Tulum Ruins

Many of Tulum’s Mayan ruins are situated on cliffs overlooking the ocean, making for a picturesque visit. Though you can no longer climb them, you will get to witness true historical artifacts and get a feel for how the Mayans lived thousands of years ago.

According to Expert Vagabond, some of the important ruins to see are:

El Castillo
Temple of the Frescoes
House of the Columns
House of the Halach Uinic

Each one is well-preserved and offers unique views and history.

Xel-Há Park

Xel-Há Park is probably the most touristy location on this list, and there’s a good reason so many people love it. Run by a local tourist company, XCaret, this natural aquatic theme park is packed full of fun activities that could keep you entertained for days.

From snorkeling, zip-lining, and hiking, to cycling through the jungle or relaxing in a hammock, this place has something for everyone. Explore the different packages and find one the fits best your adventure style. You might even look into pairing your park admission with a cenote or ruins tour to get the most out of your money and your visit.

The Experience Flying into Tulum Airport

While there are current plans to eventually build an airport in Tulum, it’s not likely that this will happen any time soon. Until then, your best option for flying into Tulum is the Cancun airport.

Cancun airport is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Tulum. However, since Tulum is a frequent travel spot, there are many easy options for getting from the Cancun airport to your lodging in Tulum.

When you arrive at the airport, you’ll go through customs and wait for your luggage. This can take a couple of hours during busy seasons or as little as 30 minutes during the off-season. After you grab your luggage, you’ll walk out of the airport.

It’s a good idea to have your transportation from Cancun to Tulum squared away before you arrive. There will be a large group of salespeople waiting for you outside of the airport. They tend to bombard visitors with sales pitches or ride offers. If you already have your transportation nailed down, you’ll find it easier to say “no” to the salespeople and go on your way.

Once you get out of the airport doors, you’ll see designated areas for shuttles, taxis, buses, and rental cars. Each of these options has pros and cons, so do your research beforehand to decide which option works best for you. If you are staying at a resort in Tulum and don’t plan on using a rental car, check to see if they offer a shuttle service. These are often a fraction of the cost of a taxi.

Curious about where Tulum, Mexico is located and how to get there? Dive into our comprehensive guide for detailed insights on Tulum’s location and the best ways to reach this stunning coastal destination for your next adventure.

Top 3 Tips to Fly Cheap to Tulum

Flying to another country can be pretty expensive, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on prices and look for options that will save you money.

1. Watch Your Calendar

According to Cheapflights, the best month to fly to Tulum is March and the best day is a Tuesday. This is when you’ll see flights at their cheapest while still getting good seasonal weather in Tulum. Avoid going during the busy season in July and try not to buy tickets close to the weekend, as these tend to be more expensive.

2. Use a Budget Airline

If you’re willing to give up a few amenities and comforts on the journey, a budget airline is a great way to save money. Airlines like Spirit Airline cut costs by doing away with complimentary in-flight beverages and snacks, as well as charging fees for more comfortable seating and boarding arrangements.

Decide what you’re willing to give up in order to save. Sometimes it’s worth the savings, and sometimes it’s not. It’s all based on personal preference.

3. Keep an Eye On Budget Sites

There are many websites out there that help you find the best deals on flights. Doing your homework and looking around can save you hundreds of dollars. Some websites even offer a subscription service to help you keep an eye on prices for flights to your favorite destinations.

Unveil the secrets to finding cheap airline tickets by keeping an eye on budget sites, where you can discover hidden deals and discounted fares for your next travel adventure.

Some great budget sites are:

Have a look around and see which sites are best at helping you find what you need.

Popular Areas of the City to Stay

Tulum is divided into two basic areas: The Pueblo (downtown) and the beach. You’ll find different accommodations at both places, so choosing to stay at either one is really a matter of preference.

The Pueblo

The Pueblo is less luxurious and more affordable than the beach zone. Many of the hotels are within minutes of the beach.

You’ll get more of a night-life feel with clubs, bars, and street parties, which make for a more authentic stay. The Pueblo is also a great place for souvenir shopping and authentic Mexican food.

The Beach

The beach is more luxurious and often pricier than downtown. It comes with views and built-in activities and restaurants so that you don’t need to travel downtown unless you prefer to. The beach is separated into four basic areas, and each of them brings a different style to your stay.

The four beach hotel zones are:

The North- known for its intimate, romantic scenery.
The Beach Town- known as the lowest-cost beach.
The Middle- known for its amenities, like food spots and nightclubs.
The South- known for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities.

Popular Hotels in Tulum

There are many different lodging options to choose from in Tulum. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort or a simple, no-frills hotel room, Tulum has something for everyone.

Luxury Hotels

Be Tulum- Set on a private beach, this resort only allows adults and children 13 and older. It has easy access to the ocean and is connected to many in-house activities or outside tourist attraction packages. Some of the rooms even come with private balconies, pools, or hot tubs. See More options on Expedia.com
Nomade- Also part of the private beach area, this resort offers a spa, free parking, and in-house restaurants. It has easy access to the ocean and other adventure attractions. See More options on Expedia.com
Amansala- Just a 5-minute drive from the Mayan ruins, this resort offers ocean views and a spa. It’s a picturesque location with access to many other attractions. See More options on Expedia.com

Middle Range and Budget-Friendly Hotels

Diamante K- Mid-range hotel with plenty of amenities. It has access to a quiet public beach and some nice views. Some rooms have private bathrooms while others share, but toiletries are included. It’s a little further away from all of the main attractions. See More options on Expedia.com
Mi-Amor a Colibri – Adults-only hotel with more of a luxury feel. It offers a private plunge pool and pretty views of the ocean with good access. See More options on Expedia.com
Central Park- A resort in the downtown area. No beach access, but they do offer a shuttle service to a beach club in their network. See More options on Expedia.com
Una Vida- This comes with 11 separate and independent Villas. It’s set in the jungle part of Tulum, but only 3 miles from the beach. It has a pool and many activities and other amenities during your stay. See More options on Expedia.com

Popular VRBO Places in Tulum

Beachfront Paradise Villa

Wake up to the sound of waves crashing in this stunning beachfront villa, nestled in the heart of Tulum. Featuring a private pool, rooftop terrace, and luxurious amenities, this idyllic rental promises an unforgettable stay.

Jungle Hideaway

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Tulum’s lush jungle in this eco-friendly retreat. With solar power, a natural pool, and stylish interiors, this unique rental offers a tranquil escape close to the area’s top attractions.

Chic Boho Bungalow

Experience Tulum’s laid-back charm in this charming boho bungalow, featuring colorful decor, a private garden, and easy access to the beach. Perfect for couples and small groups seeking a relaxed, authentic experience.

Luxury Penthouse Oasis

Indulge in upscale living at this contemporary penthouse, boasting a private rooftop pool, floor-to-ceiling windows, and panoramic views of Tulum. With easy access to the beach and vibrant town center, this rental promises a memorable stay.

Top 3 Things to do in Tulum

By now, you can see that Tulum has activities for everyone. Whether you want a relaxing vacation by the beach or a trip full of adventure and sightseeing, Tulum has you covered.

Swimming

You have many different options when it comes to swimming in Tulum. Check out the cenotes for a refreshing swim with incredible views or dive into the ocean. Bring a snorkel with you or rent one (most places have them available), and you’ll have an even more immersive experience.

Eating

There are so many options when it comes to eating in Tulum. For more authentic foods, try going downtown. There are informal eateries like street tacos from taco carts or fast food restaurants. Then there are much more formal, luxurious places that offer 5-course meals and fine-dining. Check with your hotel concierge, and they will often have great recommendations.

Sightseeing

With Tulum having an ocean, jungle, and Mayan ruins, you get pretty much all of the sightseeing you could want in one trip. Take a ride through the jungle or visit several different Mayan ruins. You’ll come away with a treasure trove of long-lasting memories.

Coolest Airbnb Experiences in Tulum

While mainstream tourist companies are aplenty in Tulum, if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you might want to take a look at Airbnb Experiences. You’ll get unique adventures with local people who know the ins and outs of living in Tulum.

Mexican Cooking Class– Want to learn to cook like a local? Try out this Mexican cooking class. For 3 hours, your guide will take you through the process of cooking authentic Mexican dishes from scratch.
Snorkeling with Sea Turtles– For 90 minutes, your Tulum Tour Guide will take you on an incredible snorkeling adventure. During your swim, you’ll spot sea turtles, stingrays, barracudas, coral reefs, and much more.
Pottery Making– With locally sourced clay, create your own pottery as you learn important techniques for success. For 2 hours, you’ll enjoy creating and learning about Mexican pottery making, and you’ll leave with a perfect souvenir to take home.
Ancestral Healing– Looking for a more holistic vacation? Experience a unique Mexican ancestral healing custom that has been passed down by shamans for generations. During the 2 hours, you’ll learn about and experience healing plants, fire cleansing, and energy harmonization.

Final Thoughts

Tulum is a beautiful, historic place with incredible culture and substance. It offers relaxation, adventure, and exploration through its many unforgettable experiences.

Once you find your perfect place to stay, choose the activities that will make your stay everything you want it to be. You’ll be able to use this guide to help you create the perfect Tulum vacation and make memories that will last a lifetime.