Things To Do
in Tulum
Tulum is a picturesque coastal town located in the Riviera Maya of Mexico. It is renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The town is famous for its well-preserved ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Tulum offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and a laid-back bohemian atmosphere, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Tulum Beach. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a beachside café while soaking up the sun.
Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Take your time exploring the site and capturing stunning photographs.
Dinner at a local taqueria is a must to savor authentic Mexican flavors. Wrap up your day by watching the sunset from the beach.
Kick off the day with a thrilling snorkeling session in the nearby cenotes. Enjoy the vibrant underwater life in a stunning natural pool.
After snorkeling, head to a beach club for some sunbathing and relaxation. Dive into delicious fresh seafood for lunch while overlooking the ocean.
Experience Tulum's vibrant nightlife at a beach bar. Dance the night away with live music and enjoy refreshing cocktails.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with beautiful turquoise waters
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites like Tulum Ruins
- Vibrant nightlife and dining scene with local cuisine
- Eco-conscious community with sustainable tourism practices
- Proximity to natural wonders such as cenotes and biosphere reserves
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Higher prices compared to other parts of Mexico
- Infrastructure may not be as developed in certain areas
- Limited public transportation options
- Increased environmental concerns due to rapid tourism growth
Best Activities in Tulum
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore Tulum's beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, such as Playa Paraíso and Playa Ruinas.
Discover the vibrant marine life in the Caribbean Sea by snorkeling or diving in the nearby cenotes and reefs.
Visit the stunning cenotes in the area, such as Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos, for swimming, snorkeling, and diving experiences.
Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, including the iconic clifftop ruins overlooking the sea.
Embark on guided bike or kayak tours to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Tulum's surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tulum with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tulum
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the ancient ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Enjoy stunning beach views and capture picturesque moments at this beautiful beach in Tulum.
Capture the beauty of this boutique hotel's architecture and surroundings for unique photo opportunities.
Explore the crystal-clear waters and natural beauty of this cenote for captivating photo opportunities.
Food in Tulum
Tulum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Yucatecan dish made of slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and bitter orange juice, typically served with pickled onions and tortillas. Don Cafeto and Antojitos La Chiapaneca are popular spots to savor this delicacy.
Must-Try!
A refreshing seafood dish featuring marinated raw fish or shrimp, mixed with lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. For remarkable ceviche, visit El Camello Jr or El Pez play.
A beloved Mexican street food, consisting of thinly sliced pork marinated with a blend of spices and roasted on a vertical spit, then served on tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. Try Taqueria Honorio for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tulum better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stroll through the bustling streets of Tulum and discover an abundance of street food stalls offering an array of delectable treats such as empanadas, tamales, elotes, and fresh fruit with chili powder. Additionally, visit the Tulum Food Crawl for a guided culinary adventure.
Explore the local Tulum Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, handmade tortillas, and authentic Mexican snacks. This vibrant market provides a fantastic opportunity to engage with the local culture and flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to show respect for the local Mayan culture, including their traditions, beliefs, and sacred sites.
Tulum values environmental preservation, so it's polite to minimize waste, avoid littering, and support eco-friendly initiatives.
When visiting cultural or religious sites, it's respectful to dress modestly and avoid clothing that may be considered inappropriate or offensive to local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tulum with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tulum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is commonly practiced in Tulum, Mexico, and is usually given for good service at restaurants, bars, and hotels. A customary tip is around 10-15% of the total bill, but it is always a good practice to check if a service charge has already been included in the bill. Additionally, it is appreciated to tip hotel staff and tour guides for exceptional service.
In Tulum, Mexico, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, especially at local markets, street vendors, and smaller establishments. However, many larger businesses accept credit and debit cards, especially in tourist areas. It is advisable to carry both cash and cards to ensure convenient payment options. ATMs are also readily available in Tulum for withdrawing Mexican pesos.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tulum.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Tulum is during the dry season when there is minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. Expect clear skies, warm weather, and ideal conditions for beach activities and exploring the Mayan ruins.
During the wet season, Tulum experiences higher humidity and increased rainfall. Expect lush green landscapes, occasional afternoon showers, and fewer crowds. This period is also great for experiencing the natural beauty of the cenotes and enjoying lower accommodation rates.
Tulum at Night
Hiking in Tulum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning underwater cave system located about 20 minutes from Tulum, great for hiking and exploring the surrounding area.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse ecosystems, offering hiking trails through wetlands and tropical forests.
Ancient Mayan ruins situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, with trails around the site for exploring the historical area.
An eco-park that offers not only snorkeling but also hiking opportunities through nature trails, perfect for a day of adventure.
A beautiful lagoon with a cenote in the center, ideal for hiking around the area while enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tulum through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tulum by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located approximately 117 kilometers (73 miles) from Tulum, offering numerous international and domestic flights.
Located on Cozumel Island, approximately 63 kilometers (39 miles) from Tulum, this airport serves various international destinations and is a gateway for travelers to the nearby island.
A smaller airport located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Tulum, primarily serving private and charter flights, with some limited domestic operations.
Located approximately 295 kilometers (183 miles) from Tulum, it serves as a significant hub for both domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Tulum's population consists of international tourists who visit for its beaches, archaeological sites, and vibrant culture.
This group includes indigenous peoples, as well as people of mixed heritage who have lived in Tulum and the surrounding areas for generations.
A growing community of expatriates from various countries who have relocated to Tulum, attracted by the lifestyle, climate, and community.
Individuals employed in hotels, restaurants, and recreational services, primarily serving the tourist population.
Workers in local shops and markets, often catering to both residents and the tourist population.
People who migrate temporarily to Tulum to work during peak tourist seasons, often in hospitality and recreational sectors.
The Soul of Tulum
Discover the essence of Tulum through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Tulum, often played on the sandy beaches, attracting both locals and tourists.
Tulum's waves make it an ideal spot for surfing, with several beaches catering to both beginners and experienced surfers.
While not a sport in the traditional sense, yoga has a significant presence in Tulum, with many classes held on the beaches, enhancing physical fitness and mental well-being.
The nearby coral reefs attract snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, making it a popular water sport in the area.
With many scenic trails, biking is a popular recreational activity for both tourists and locals, exploring the natural beauty of Tulum.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tulum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tulum embraces vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, with many restaurants and street food vendors offering plant-based versions of traditional dishes. Popular spots include Charly's Vegan Tacos and Raw Love for sumptuous vegan fare.
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find an array of gluten-free options at Tulum's eateries, with several establishments dedicated to crafting gluten-free versions of classic Mexican dishes. Farm to Table and DelCielo are excellent choices for gluten-free dining.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tulum with these cultural adventures.