When it comes to Caribbean beach paradises, it doesn’t get much better than Tulum.
With its slower pace of life, abundance of Mayan culture and many awesome things to see and do, it’s no wonder that most tourists keep coming back for more ...
Myself included!
It’s also a great place to base yourself in for when heading out to explore more of the Riviera Maya region.
From its palm-fringed beaches and wild jungle, to blue cenotes and crystal clear waters ...
You simply won’t want to leave Tulum once you’re here.
It's honestly one of the best places to visit along the Yucatan Peninsula and a personal favourite of mine.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Tulum.
This includes the very best things to see and do, where to stay, the best time to visit as well as my top recommendations!
Let's get stuck straight in ...
The simple answer is that Tulum has pretty much everything that makes for a perfect beach destination.
Whilst its long expansive beach may be a little way away from town, you’ll now find the large hotel zone situated right here along its coast.
It’s also a fantastic place to get out of the crowded cities (which is quite an often ordeal when travelling through Mexico) and to explore some incredible nature.
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is known for its authentic towns and beaches, whilst you’ll also be able to swim with turtles in nearby Akumal.
Of course I can’t not mention the cenotes too, which are caves filled with crystal-clear blue water. These are perfect for a much needed cool-off from the hot weather, and you can even go diving too!
Tulum is also the perfect blend between tourism and an unspoiled destination.
Whilst the town definitely feels overrun (not necessarily a bad thing - you’ll find a tonne of great restaurants, bars and tourist agencies here), it’s just a quick bike ride out to explore some more peaceful nature, including the jungle and more remote beaches.
Tulum is located within the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, in the extreme south-east of the country.
Getting here is very easy, considering its located close to one of Mexico’s biggest and busiest airports.
For the majority of travellers, you're going to fly into Cancún International Airport, given it connects with various continents with direct flights daily.
From here you’ll then need to make your way to Tulum, which is roughly 118 km south.
The ADO bus is the most popular (and cheap) way of covering the 3 hour journey, however you can also rent a car or even book private transport in advance.
You can arrive in Cancún from other destinations around Mexico too, which is much quicker and comfortable than the bus.
Some of the most popular cities to fly from include Mexico City, Monterrey, Oaxaca, Acapulco and Tijuana.
The best place to compare all flight routes and prices is on SkyScanner.
Those who are already travelling within Mexico will now be familiar with the buses, given they're the best way to get around.
ADO is one of the best companies to travel with (which is more used in the south of the country).
Tulum is a pretty small town, so you can easily walk or ride a bike to get around.
The beach is somewhat far from the centre, however you can rent a bike to get there or take a taxi (or use the local colectivos).
There are plenty of awesome activities in Tulum, but some of the destinations in this guide are located out of the centre.
When visiting gems outside of the town such as the Mayan Ruins or Cenotes, then you’ll find the colectivos the best way to get around the region.
You can find them along the main highway in town, where they depart often and are very cheap.
Tulum can be split into two main areas where you can base yourself.
If you want to stay in Tulum on a budget, then I recommend staying at the Emotion Hotel & Hostal. Here you’ll find both dorm beds and private rooms for a great price, and the hostel is also perfectly located along the main strip.
For those looking for a mid-range accommodation option, then Corazón de Tulum will be the place for you. It has stylish rooms as well as being located close to all the best restaurants and nightlife options in town.
Those who after the ultimate resort experience must stay at La Diosa Resort & Spa. This 4-star resort is located right on Tulum beach, where you’ll have your own private beach access as well as a beautiful on-site pool. The Tulum ruins are also located nearby too!
p.s. ... If you want some tips on how to save money on accommodation, check out our guide on the best ways to get cheap hotels.
Now it’s time to explore the very best things to do in and near Tulum (in no particular order of course).
One of the most unique things about the Riviera Maya region is the sheer amount of cenotes located here (open or closed caves filled with blue waters).
When staying in Tulum, the one that I recommend most has to be the Dos Ojos Cenote, which are actually two separate caves.
Here you can go swimming in the cool waters, which are very much needed after walking in the hot sun.
It’s also worth renting some snorkelling gear since there’s many tropical fish living here.
This early morning private tour is a great way to explore the Cenotes with no other tourists around.
The divers who are reading this guide will especially want to come here, since there’s a deep cave system to be explored (I haven’t done this personally but have heard really good things from others).
Make sure to bring lots of sunscreen since it can get quite hot when walking around, especially along the walk from the entrance to the site.
The Dos Ojos Cenote is located about a 30 minute drive north of Tulum, with the colectivos making a stop here along the highway.
Whilst I love spending my time uncovering hidden gems and lesser known experiences, I also have a big love for Mexican food (and I think we can all pretty much agree on this one).
Tacos will forever be king of the crop, and a dish that travellers will want to try the most authentic version of.
Tulum has many restaurants that serve great tasting tacos, so you’ll need to do a bit of trial and error yourself to find what’s best for you and your particular taste.
I recommend heading to the ever-popular Taqueria La Chiapaneca, and also to Tropi Tacos for a more local experience.
You’ll also find that many other sites and nearby towns will often have pop-up taco stands, and usually the quality is also spot on.
If going for a more local style taco, then just be sure to watch how they cook it, and also to avoid having any salad in there (my stomach can attest to this more times than I’d care to admit).
Either way, trying this delicious dish is one of the top things to do in Tulum!
Tulum has a few different beaches along its share of the Mexican Caribbean, however Playa Paraíso is hands down one of the best.
Also used by the Hotel Zone (with resorts having their private access here), there’s even a large public area so you’ll be able to find your own slice of white sand heaven.
Here you can rent sunbeds for the day, where you can have coronas and mojitos brought to you as needed!
There’s also many restaurants too which are great for a meal between dips in the sea, such as El Paraíso Restaurant.
The good thing about this beach is that, whilst many others along this coast can be hit hard by the brown sargassum seaweed that gets washed up, this gets removed just as quickly in Playa Paraíso.
Given it’s also a hotel zone, they have teams who usually clear any seaweed daily to keep things all good and in order.
Playa Paraíso is located roughly 7 km from Tulum town, which is about 20 minutes by bike (it looks less, however it's more as the roads wind to get to here).
If you're a fan of the beaches in Tulum then make sure you add Isla Mujeres and Puerto Vallarta to your Mexico bucket list!
Do you love exploring more remote nature?
Then the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the place for you, where you’ll be able to get away from the endless crowds found in town and within the more popular attractions.
Known as “where the sky is born” in the native Mayan language, you’ll have over 1.3 million acres of beautiful landscapes waiting to be explored!
From mangrove swamps and jungle to more peaceful beaches, you’ll find it all at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This area is also a great area for spotting nature, with over 300 species of exotic birds found here, as well as crocodiles and various types of monkeys.
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is located roughly 63 km south of Tulum, so if heading all the way here then you’ll need to be prepared for a long ride!
For more information, check out this in-depth guide of Sian Ka’an which includes all the information you'll need!
Otherwise you can also go with this full day tour, where you’ll be able to get close with dolphins on the included boat ride.
This museum really is one of a kind, offering a very authentic experience which is different to other show and tell sites.
Mystika has several different rooms, each transporting you to varying events and important parts of life in the Mayan times.
This includes seeing Chichén Itzá at night during a cosmological event, as well as to the sanctuary where you’ll see Monarch Butterflies, Humpback Whales and even Fireflies at night!
Each room is actually a 360° dome, which allows for the very best sensory experience.
Mystika is located a few miles down the highway from Tulum towards the beach, where you’ll see it on the right-hand side.
It’s open from 10:00am until 8:00pm every day of the week, although certain days it may be open for an extra hour.
The coast of the Riviera Maya is known for its deep blue hues, with most happily enjoying them from the palm fringed, white sands.
However it’s a sin not to go snorkelling here at least once when in Tulum, given the great conditions as well as the variety of beautiful marine wildlife swimming below.
One of the very best spots is actually at the Tulum Ruins, making it an easy way to kill two birds with one stone.
The beach is located beneath the cliff where the ruins are, which requires just a few flights of steps down.
The best time to go snorkelling would be during the dry season, which is between December and April.
Conditions are much more calm, so there will be less sediment being thrown around which would otherwise obscure your view.
Under the tropical waters you can see everything from turtles and sea urchins to multi-coloured fish.
I recommend joining this sailing tour, where you’ll visit some of the very best snorkelling spots off the coast.
If you'd prefer to go solo, then here's some more information on the best snorkeling spots in Tulum!
As we’ve already explained in this guide, Tulum is the gateway into one of the most incredible regions in Mexico - The Riviera Maya.
So when here you’ll want to take advantage of other destinations within the region, with Valladolid being one of these.
This city is located within the mesmerising Yucatán state, and is a very charming city indeed.
Here you’ll find colourful houses and cobblestone streets around the historic centre, which gives a great insight into what times were like during the Spanish colonial era.
Some of the best sites to see in town include the imposing Convento de San Bernardino de Siena, as well as going for a stroll around the beautiful Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado.
Valladolid is also close to the ruins of Chichén Itzá, so it’s worth taking an early day tour to see them before the crowds arrive from further afield.
The distance between Tulum and Valladolid is roughly 103 km, with a bus taking just under 2 hours.
Even if you haven’t yet got a good grip on Spanish, you could probably guess that this cenote is going to be big!
Gran Cenote is one of the only sites to have multiple caverns and caves accessible to the general public, meaning it’s a great way to spend the day exploring all of its different gems.
Here you’ll find turtles and fish swimming with you, as well as numerous bats in the caves that you can walk through.
You can also rent snorkelling equipment at Gran Cenote, although it’s better to bring your own since prices aren’t the cheapest (and this goes for the admission ticket too - remember this is one of the most popular cenotes you can visit in Mexico).
Gran Cenote is located 5 km north of Tulum, and you can easily hop on colectivos heading towards Coba Ruins and get dropped off here before.
The opening times are from 8:00 until 17:00, Monday through to Sunday.
You can also head here with this day tour which includes lunch as well as hotel pick-up / drop-off.
The town of Tulum itself is mostly seen as a base camp for travellers heading here, who use it to visit the various attractions nearby.
Being completely honest - Tulum itself isn’t the most exciting town when it comes to things to see and do, however there’s still some that’s worth the visit.
You’ll first want to head to the Tulum sign, which is a classic photo spot.
From here you can also head down Avenida Kukulkan, which is on the way to Tulum beach in the south (there’s an awesome statue of a Jaguar head along here).
On your way back you’ll want to make a stop off at Parque Dos Aguas, which is the main park in town.
You’ll probably pass the park on various occasions anyway, but it’s nice to spend time wandering around, where you can see the awesome circular statue that depicts the Mayan Calendar.
I recommend hiring a bike to get around, which makes things quicker and easier (they’re also quite cheap too).
The ultimate must-see on this list, you may be confused why it wasn’t mentioned higher up (remember this list is in no particular order after all!).
Tulum Ruins are one of the most spectacular, scenic ruins that you can visit in all of Mexico.
It’s unique in that it’s located above a cliff overlooking the varied shades of blue of the Caribbean, whilst the majority of other ruins are usually located within the jungle.
Built around the 13th Century, this ancient site was once a thriving area that was very important for trade with cultures further south in Mesoamerica.
The Mayans lived here up until the Spanish arrived around the late 16th Century, however thankfully these ruins are still preserved in pristine condition.
Walking around you can observe these ancient structures, and also learn how life was back in these more primal times.
I recommend buying this all-action day tour! You’ll not only have a guide show you around the ruins, but you’ll also get to visit Coba ruins too (more on this one later).
There are many different ways of getting to know local cuisine.
Most just kind of hoof it and see where they end up (that’s also my style too), whilst others like to head on food tours for more insight.
However you can also go one step further and take an authentic cooking class.
With this incredible cooking class, you’ll be able to sit down with a local who will teach you all about the various ancient ingredients from both the Aztec and Mayan empires.
You’ll also learn to make some classic Mexican dishes too, which includes the favourite classic of Tacos al Pastor.
All in all it’s a great way to see the more authentic side of Mexican culture with your host, and given you’ll be in a small group (maximum of 10), it will still feel very personable.
And if you’re still not convinced?
You’ll also have some Mezcal tasting included too!
Quality beach time is a given when heading to the Riviera Maya region in Mexico.
Whilst the beach in Tulum is a pretty good all-rounder, it’s also worth checking out others for their own particular style and pros.
Puerto Aventuras is one of these, which is essentially a large resort in and of itself.
Here you’ll find pretty much all activities, with the Catamaya Catamaran Cruise one of the main highlights (where you’ll have a meal, an open bar and experiences such as fishing and snorkelling all included).
The beach here is also pretty nice, which starts off quite busy and touristy near the resort, but gets more remote and quiet the further south you head.
Puerto Aventuras is located 42 km north of Tulum, with the colectivos making a stop here along the highway. It takes around 40 minutes to get here.
Although there are plenty of things to see in Tulum itself, there are some fantastic attractions that are just a short drive away!
Perhaps not what you were expecting to find on a list of things to experience in Tulum, however a great one nevertheless!
The Laguna Kaan Luum is a different kind of lake found here, which is located within the dense Mayan jungle.
It’s actually quite the versatile destination, as whilst most head here to lather themselves with mud (it’s said to have great healing properties for the skin), it’s also home to a cenote too.
In the middle of the lake you’ll find the much deeper waters and cenote, and from above it looks similar to The Blue Hole which is found in neighbouring Belize.
Scuba Diving is a popular activity for those who wish to enter the 82m deep cave system below.
As you can probably imagine, it’s not the most ideal place to snorkel given it’s sand and mud based, though it's still great for a relaxing swim.
If you're planning to do this (which I definitely recommend) then make sure you include a old swimsuit on your Mexico packing list. Trust me, it's going to get filthy!
The Laguna Kaan Luum is located 11 km west of Tulum, with the colectivo ride taking just 15 minutes (it’s close to the cenote of Xa’ay).
Coba is one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins you can visit in this part of Mexico.
Famed for its sprawling pyramids that offer unparalleled views over the dense jungle canopy, it’s also quieter compared to the very touristy sites of Tulum Ruins and Chichén Itzá.
It’s a pretty big site too - with over 5000 different structures located here - although only 3 of these are currently open for viewing.
Whilst I’ll admit that does sound pretty disappointing, you'll still be able to see the legendary pyramid of Nohoch Mul - which is the tallest of all in the Yucatán.
You’ll want to climb to the top for some insane views!
This highly rated tour is a perfect way to explore Coba, where you’ll also visit Chichén Itzá, a cenote, and the city of Valladolid for good measure too!
Coba Ruins are located 48 km north of Tulum, with the drive taking around 45 minutes. You’ll be heading on the highway that goes toward Valladolid to get here.
This archaeological site is open from 8:00am until 5:00pm all days of the week.
If you're looking for things to do in Tulum at night then I've got you covered!
Whilst it can’t compete with the likes of Playa del Carmen and Cancún, Tulum still packs a punch when it comes to some night-time fun.
Most of the action is focused along the main interstate that runs through town, and is often much needed after a day of jungle exploring or lounging on the beaches.
Xibalbar and Caribe Swing are two great bars to kick things off, with the popular Argentinian club of Santino being another which is great for different Latin styles of music.
Tulum centre is also home to numerous hostels where things get heaving come the evening. Emotion is one of the most popular for DJ events that go on through to the early morning.
You’ll also find some really good bars along the beach too, with Gitano and Casa Jaguar being some of the best options.
Most who head to Tulum tend to focus on the beaches and coast.
However when travelling around the region, you’ll notice that there’s also quite a bit of rainforest here which is perfect for some trekking and outdoor experiences.
The Selva Maya Eco Adventure Park is one of the best places to come and explore the jungle, where they have an awesome zipline so you can fly through the Jungle canopy at great speeds.
It’s quite a big site, so when purchasing an admission ticket you’ll also have access to a cenote, rappelling and some stunning hanging bridges which are just waiting to be explored.
So if you're looking for fun things to do in Tulum then this is your place!
I recommend heading with this all-inclusive tour, which includes all activities as well as a tasty, Mayan-inspired lunch.
The Selva Maya Eco Adventure Park is open from Monday through to Saturday, from 9:00am until 5:00pm.
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, travellers simply cannot head to The Riviera Maya without seeing this stunning historical site.
Once the beating heart of the Mayan culture that thrived between A.D. 300-900, this site was of particular importance for various reasons.
The Mayans were also experts in astronomy, and here you’ll be able to see just how advanced they were with these meticulously built pyramids. For example during the exact days of the Equinox, a shadow of a snake forms along the base of the main pyramid.
Getting to Chichén Itzá is relatively simple, with the ride taking roughly 2 hours from Tulum that lies further south.
The only disadvantage though is that crowds form in large masses here by midday (as you would otherwise expect), given it’s such a sought-after destination.
You can avoid all of this hassle though with this early-access tour which includes a Mexican buffet.
If you do choose to go on your own, this guide to Chichén Itzá may prove useful...
Those who love a good adrenaline rush will want to head here, whilst those who get queasy from heights may want to think twice!
Rising over 115 ft into the air, the Tulum Tower is one of the best ways to get a bird's eye, panoramic view over Tulum, the archaeological ruins as well as the Riviera Maya region.
Once at the top, it slowly spins 360° on its axis, so all 16 people can get all kinds of awesome views.
It’s currently the only aerobar of its kind in all of Mexico, and at the top you’ll be able to order some drinks and snacks to compliment the pretty unorthodox experience unfolding in front of your eyes.
If you're wondering what to do in Tulum, then you'll definitely want to check out this place!
You can get your entrance ticket here, where you will meet your group and also have HQ photos taken for you (which is much better than risking your phone given the big drop down).
Tulum Tower is located just under 4 km east of town, towards the Mayan ruins.
It’s open all days of the week, from 10:30am until 6:00pm.
This cenote is one my personal favourites in all of Mexico, given the caves look like something out of an otherworldly planet.
Aktun Chen is home to two bright blue pools of water which are great to explore, where you can go swimming in one of them.
One of the best things you have to do though is to join the cave tour, where you’ll need to do a bit of crouching and minding some gaps along the way.
Here you’ll see a massive complex of rocky structures, along with stalagmite and stalactites for a more stunning backdrop.
You’ll also see tonnes of bats flying around the caves, as well as a picturesque sinkhole emerge as you manoeuvre your way through the cave system.
Aktun Chen is located roughly half the distance between Tulum and Puerto Aventuras, and you can take a colectivo here and get dropped by the entrance (which is next to the highway).
Once you arrive at the gate, they have a free transport van to the site which is worth asking for (otherwise it's a long walk in the hot sun to get there).
It’s open from 10:00am until 5:30pm all days of the week.
As you can see there are plenty of attractions in Tulum, but you don't want to miss out on the shopping opportunities either!
Whether looking to get something to remember your time spent here, or buying a souvenir for family or friends, you’ll have quite a few options in Tulum.
Along the main road you’ll find a tonne of gift shops as well as boutique stores that offer a range of different Mexican souvenirs, so it’s just a case of browsing until you find that special something.
If you’re stuck for ideas, then some good souvenirs from Tulum could include a bottle of tequila, T-shirt, bottle opener or even a small Mayan pyramid magnet.
A good place to start looking is within Mexicarte, which is located right across from Parque Dos Aguas.
It’s open Monday until Sunday from 8:00am to 8:00pm, however it’s best to go in the morning where there’s less people.
You'll also find some cool open-air markets in and around Tulum!
A food tour has always been one of the best ways to explore dishes of a new country, especially if you’re a bit nervous of jumping in fully yourself.
Mexican cuisine is pretty varied, and the Riviera Maya is also known for its own particular foods which are worth trying.
I recommend heading on this authentic food tour when in Tulum, where you’ll be joined by a local guide as you explore some of the more traditional restaurants and local food choices.
Here you’ll try dishes such as Tamales and Tacos, traditional desserts as well as some local drinks too.
Whilst there’s usually many tours that you can join, this one is the best since all costs are already paid upfront (including tips).
As well as this, it will be better since the group size will be capped at 10, so it will feel more intimate too (and not like a massive group of gringos bombing around together!).
Going on a food tour is a must do in Tulum so what are you waiting for?
Mexico has always been one of the biggest hotspots for swimming with turtles, where they can be found along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
However Akumal is one of the all-time best places you can visit to see these beautiful sea creatures.
The best time to spot turtles are between the months of May and October (during the wet season) where they come to lay their eggs.
This small town has two major areas for turtle-viewing which are Half Moon Bay as well as Akumal Beach, and it’s just a case of grabbing some snorkelling equipment and jumping in.
Here you’ll be able to see a variety of different turtle species, which range from Green Sea Turtles to Loggerhead Turtles.
I recommend heading on this full-day combo tour where you’ll snorkel in the best areas for turtles in Akumal, as well as having a visit to Tulum Ruins and a cenote included too.
The town of Akumal is located just 28 km north of Tulum, with the ride taking around 25 minutes by car or colectivo.
If you're a turtle fan (who isn't) then you'll also want to add Puerto Escondido to your bucket list. Here, you can actually release baby sea turtles into the wild!
Of all of the things you can visit on this list, this is perhaps one of the least known about by tourists heading to Tulum.
The Ahau Sculpture Park is actually located within the Ahau Hotel, which lies just south of the Hotel Zone along Tulum Beach.
Because of its location, many don’t tend to visit it, however you definitely should make the trip when in the area!
Here you’ll find several different art and sculptures which are geared towards nature and Mother Earth.
One of the most famous pieces you’ll find here is the popular “Ven a la Luz” sculpture, which was once based within the streets of Tulum but has since been made private.
If you're looking for unique things to do in Tulum then visiting this place should be right at the top of your list!
The cost of entry is just 60 MXP (around $3 USD), where you’ll also be able to use some of the hotel's facilities too.
Only two hours away, it’s impossible not to mention this all-time popular Mexican destination on this list of things to see!
Playa del Carmen is one of the most visited areas in Southern Mexico, which is known for its legendary Quinta Avenida.
This street is famous for its 24/7 bustle, with a tonne of restaurants and bars lining it.
It’s worth coming here for the weekend, as the nightlife here reaches levels that Tulum simply can’t compete with.
Mandala and Cocobongo are two of the biggest hits, with the latter known for its crazy scenes and performances.
Whilst here you can also visit the Parque Los Fundadores, before visiting its own tropical beach (it gets pretty busy here, which has its own pros and cons).
Xcaret Park is another worthy destination which is located just outside of town, where you can visit beautiful cenotes and also see Mayan-inspired performances as well as animals such as Pink Flamingos.
You can reserve your ticket in advance here, where you’ll be able to skip the long line as well as having a variety of authentic activities included such as a night show.
Those who love diving will fall head over heels for the Riviera Maya region, which has both the underground cave systems and cenotes as well as the Caribbean Sea all waiting to be explored.
However it’s the warm waters of the ocean which will give you the best chance of spotting exotic wildlife.
From Tulum it’s just a short speedboat ride away, where you’ll be able to explore some stunning reefs, which are full of tropical beauties including Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, turtles, and Eels.
Those who want to see Bull Sharks will want to head between the months of November and March, whilst turtle lovers will want to dive between March and October.
Tulum has many different dive centres to pick from, and it’s also renowned as one of the best places in North America to get your PADI Open Water License if you haven’t already done so.
If seeing Whales Sharks is of particular interest to you, then I recommend heading with this all-inclusive tour.
Not only will you visit the best areas for seeing them, you’ll also have all the gear and drinks provided. You’ll then visit the stunning Playa Norte after for some much needed beach time.
Given Tulum is located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, the climate is tropical, with a contrasting dry and wet season.
The dry season runs from December until April, and is the overall preferred time for a visit.
Daily average temperatures range from 72-78°F, which is pleasant and not too overbearing. Highs can reach up to 90°F, with lows hovering around 62°F.
Rainfall ranges from 1-1.5 inches per month, which makes it a great time for visiting the beach and heading out into nature.
The only downfall is that It’s the most expensive time to visit, with the Christmas holidays and Spring Break periods being the most popular (and costly!).
The wet season starts in early May and lasts until November, and is both much hotter and wetter than the dry season.
Average temperatures range from 75-80°F, with highs reaching a toasty 92°F, with lows of 65°F.
Levels of rainfall are much heavier this time of year, with anywhere from 3-6.5 inches falling each month.
Whilst this puts many off, the rain usually falls in quick, heavy bursts, and once it’s over you can go back to whatever you were doing quickly.
The main advantage of coming this time of year is that it tends to be much cheaper, with less crowds in the major sites.
Be sure to use WeatherSpark to compare the weather before heading out!
If you’re just heading to Tulum to see the town, beach and main attractions nearby, then you’ll want a minimum of 4 days here.
However,we also need to remember that Tulum is located within the really awesome region of the Riviera Maya, which has plenty of worthwhile things to see and do.
If you have the time, I would strongly recommend spending 7 days here.
With this time you can also explore other spots such as Akumal and Puerto Aventuras, as well as making a trip to further afield cenotes such as Suytun and the incredible lagoon of Bacalar.
As I already mentioned earlier in this article, Tulum has two very different areas.
The Hotel Resort area is very expensive, given the price of staying there as well as the guided tours they offer are usually more expensive too. So the answer here is that there really is no limit when staying in this area!
In Tulum town, sticking to a budget is much easier. For those looking to keep things cheap, then you can budget for around $20-25 a day, which will include a good dorm bed, local restaurant meals as well a bike ride or entrance to a low-cost attraction.
For those who want a more deluxe experience in town, then you can expect to spend around $30-40 each day. Here you’ll be staying in a comfortable private room, eating at better restaurants and also be able to take more colectivo rides (or taxis) around town.
It’s important to remember that these budgets only account for accommodation and food costs, with a little left over for an attraction or colectivo ride.
It doesn’t account for flights, travel insurance, tours or buses between destinations.
Booking a tour of Tulum is perfect for those who don’t have much time, or prefer to see all of the sites with a knowledgeable guide.
This all-inclusive tour is perfect since you’ll have all meals included, as well as any necessary equipment for activities at no added cost.
You’ll also have a private guide show you around the Tulum Ruins, as well as spend time in the jungle where you’ll be able to go snorkelling, zip-lining through the canopy and more.
Once you’ve explored all of the beauty and adventure that Tulum has to offer, you’ll probably be scratching your head as to where to go next.
The Riviera Maya is full of worthwhile destinations, so it can often be quite hard to pick your next choice!
I recommend heading south to Bacalar, which is known for its stunning, multicoloured lagoon.
It’s also a chill place perfect for relaxing, where you’ll want to visit the imposing San Felipe Fort.
I recommend this awesome private boat tour, where you’ll explore the best spots of the lagoon, as well as having an on-board BBQ and drinks all provided for you.
If you're visiting Mexico here are some other guides that you might find helpful:
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