The city of Tulum, located in southeastern Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula, owes its fame to the ruins of the Mayan city of the same name. "Tulum" means "barrier" in Maya, due to the fortifications surrounding the ancient city.
Due to its proximity to Cancun (130 kilometres along the coast), many tourists visit the city every year, despite this, the city has managed to preserve its authenticity. The cultural richness of the city, the enchanting surrounding nature, its heavenly beaches and its picturesque shops and restaurants make it the ideal place to visit during your holidays.
Here is the list of the 5 must-see places to visit in Tulum.
Visit the ruins of the ancient Mayan cities
The ruins of Tulum
A few minutes by taxi or bicycle from the city, the ruins of Tulum face the sea. They're the only ones of this kind! You can enjoy a cultural and informative visit before relaxing at the beach.
The Coba site
A little further north, about 30 minutes by car from the city, you will find Coba, another archaeological site. These ruins are located in the middle of the jungle. You can climb to the top of the main pyramid and admire the surrounding view.
The entrance fee will cost you a little more than €2.5 per person and is well worth it.
Chichen Itza, one of the 7 wonders of the modern world
An intense excursion due to the distance, Chichen Itza is one of the 7 wonders of the modern world. Located just over 150 kilometres from the city, the archaeological site consists of several elements, the main one being "El Castillo" ("the castle" in Castilian, the name given by the Spanish conquistadors).
Swimming in a cenote
Cenotes are natural wells, filled with fresh water and/or seawater and are known as "blue holes". The Maya called them "sacred wells" because they considered that these wells were the gateway to the underground world, where certain divinities lived.
Today, cenotes are considered must-see if you visit Latin America, and for good reason: the setting is magical. The water is very clear and translucent, the scenery is idyllic and you will feel as if you are disconnected from the surrounding world. Cenotes are often located near archaeological sites because they were one of the sources of drinking water for the population in the region.
Attention, swimming is not free, however the price is very low: at most, it will cost you the equivalent of 2€.
Strolling through the streets of the southern part of the city, along the beach
Beach Road South is the neighbourhood that gives the city its reputation as a "hippie" or "Zen" city. It is populated by vegan restaurants, yoga studios and shops selling all types of accessories. If you want to experience something out of the ordinary, many yoga studios offer seafront classes, an experience you won't forget!
You can also rent a bike for a day or half a day to explore the city and visit the city's archaeological site.
Sunbathe on Playa Paraiso beach and eat a typical dish on the waterfront.
In Tulum, the beaches are made of fine sand and the water is transparent. The beaches look heavenly and make snorkeling ideal, in order to discover the local underwater fauna and flora. Unfortunately, pollution is increasingly affecting water quality, resulting in the production of large quantities of algae, limiting swimming opportunities.
Nevertheless, you can still enjoy the facilities available around the beach, and enjoy a typical meal at the water's edge. Mexican cuisine is very varied, there is something for everyone. We recommend tacos with fish, which are delicious because they are caught nearby!
Visit the Sian Ka'An Natural Park
This park is one of the largest in Mexico: it covers more than 400,000 hectares and represents about 20% of the State of Quintana Roo! You can see protected species among the local fauna and flora and even wild animals such as dolphins, turtles or jaguars. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for good reason: it is one of the most beautiful stops you will ever make around Tulum.
Whether for a romantic visit or a family adventure, Sian Ka'An Park is not to be missed.
Practical questions:
It is possible to request a transfer from Cancun airport to your accommodation in Tulum. It will cost you about $140, i.e. around 125€.
