Tulum is a town located in Mexico on the Yucatán Peninsula. It is a tropical location and hot year-round. This is perfect for a vacation to get away from colder temperatures, particularly from November to April when it tends to be drier. But, if you only have one day to spend there, here are some of the highlights.
Start your day off with breakfast at Tunich. They offer a nice brunch with natural foods. These include things such as eggs, smoothies, french toast, fresh fruit, pancakes, and more. You are sure to find something on their menu for any taste palate.
From here, head to the Mayan Ruins. These are a site to see, built around the 13th century. The ruins are the only ones in Mexico built by the sea. There are breathtaking views as these sit up on the cliffs. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, so that you can visit the beach while there.
Natural Beauty
If you enjoy swimming, you surely will want to visit a cenote. This is an experience in itself. A cenote is a sinkhole in limestone rock. What you are left with is a swimming hole. This produces a magical place to swim or snorkel. Be sure to to not wear any lotions as to keep the water in the cenotes pure. There are many to be found in the area.
Have lunch at Coco Tulum. They have a beautiful beachside location. You can order tacos or seafood. Often you will find music to accompany your time here. You will feel like you are in paradise just having lunch.
In the afternoon, rent a bike or scooter from iBike on Ave. Coba or Kelly Bike on the NW corner of the main intersection in town, 100 MXP. From here you can explore Tulum and go shopping at many of its bohemian boutiques and shops. Be sure to also stop for some fresh coconut drinks.
End your day with a dinner out at Mateo’s Mexican Grill. You can grab a bite to eat and enjoy some live music. This restaurant is mostly open-air that allows you to experience a beautiful sunset from the upstairs bar. You can also see the chefs prepare food right in front of you.
Tulum Activities
Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, which are located on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Tulum beach, which is a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise water that is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest protected areas in Mexico, featuring a range of ecosystems and wildlife.
Enjoy a traditional Mexican meal or a refreshing drink at one of the many restaurants and bars in Tulum, which offer a range of local and international cuisine.
Take a dip in a cenote, which is a natural freshwater sinkhole that is common in the Yucatan Peninsula and offers a unique and refreshing swimming experience.
If time permits, consider taking a yoga or meditation class, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, which are both popular activities in Tulum due to its emphasis on wellness and mindfulness.
Mayan Ruins
The Mayan Ruins in Tulum are one of the best-preserved Mayan sites in Mexico. The site covers five acres and includes six pyramids, several palaces, and many smaller temples. Although the site may seem small compared to the large Mayan sites in other areas of Mexico, the preservation here is remarkable and makes it well worth a visit. If you are planning on visiting Cancun and want to explore another side of the Mexican Caribbean, Tulum may be just what you’re looking for!
What To Do At The Ruins
This tour will last around three hours. The bus ride from Playa del Carmen is about an hour long. Along the way, there are many stops along a highway where you can stop and pick up snacks, drinks and souvenirs. You’ll also have time for an optional swim at a beach on route back. The ruins are about 2 km from town so most of your time will be spent exploring these structures and learning about their history.
How Much Does Tulum Cost?
The entrance fee is currently around 80 pesos, roughly $5 US. There’s also a camera fee for people with go-pros or professional cameras. The ruins are interesting, but the beach is also very pretty. There’s lots of tourist type things outside Tulum to spend money on.
Where Can I Stay near Tulum?
Once you’ve made your travel plans, it’s time to start planning where you’ll stay. If you go during a high season, as many travelers do, be sure to book your accommodations far ahead of time. It might even be worth paying extra for a room with a king-size bed or additional space for more than two people.
What Else Should I Know?
If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen and have some extra time, consider a side trip to visit another archaeological site. As UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Chichen Itza and Uxmal are both amazing and fascinating cultural excursions with fascinating history—and beautiful scenery. There are also many lesser-known sites around Yucatan that are interesting stops for travelers interested in learning more about ancient Mayan culture.
Locations of above-mentioned areas:
Tunich Jungle Cabañas and Restaurant
Address: Tulum Beach, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Phone: +52 984 141 7285
https://www.tunichtulum.com
Archeological Zone of Tulum – Mayan Port City Ruins
Address: Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Coco Tulum
Carretera Tulum-Boca
Paila km 7.5
Tulum, QRoo., México
Phone: +52 984 688 8592
https://www.cocotulum.com
