Tulum is a small town on the Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Over the last 20 years tourism has boomed in Tulum and with that boom has come extensive change.
Considered a small quiet fishing village as recent as the 1990’s. It is only two kilometers from the archeological site with a few small shops. Yet, as of the 2020 census, Tulum registers more than 46,000 permanent inhabitants.
This rapid increase in tourism has killed the spirit of the authentic Mayan culture. The Mayan culture gave way to the constant additions of hostels, hotels, and vacation rentals. I’ve heard nothing but positive things about this beautiful place. Yet, I’m surprised to find it a little overrated. Also, it’s on the expensive side of the Mexican experience. With a little determination, visitors can still discover what makes Tulum special.
This region has a Tropical climate that is generally hot year-round, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). Low season coincides with the muggy rainy season. It extends between April and October. The peak of hurricane season is during both September and October.
November and December are often considered the best months to visit. Hurricane season has come to an end, and the humidity is relatively low. High season extends from January through April. While experiencing perfect weather, there is also a large influx of tourists. So, if you’re not a people person then low season will better suit your needs.
The number one thing to do in Tulum is visit the archeological site. Around 900 BC, the ancient site of Tulum was the last great Mayan city constructed and inhabited by the Mayans. The site was of great importance from sea trade and propagated by its premium location. In fact, Tulum was once the main port city for the ancient Mayan center of Cobá.
Tribes from both Central and South America made the voyage for the trade and commerce. It’s believed that Tulum reached its peak around 1200 AD. This was the completion of the last major construction period. The Mayans erected a great wall to help protect the city from attack by envious traders and pirates. It is one of the few walled Mayan cities and is the reason for its name, “Tulum” meaning wall in the Mayan language.
The site is beautiful but can be a letdown after visiting larger Mayan city centers, such as Chichen Itza, Palenque, and Uxmal. Do not let that deter you from stopping in. It is an incredibly unique archeological site. El Castillo (The Castle) sits on the edge of a bluff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. It makes a dramatic setting that is worth a visit.
Tulum’s archeological site is open seven days a week from 8 am to 430 pm. The last admission is at 3 pm so plan accordingly. Entrance costs 80 MXN ($4 USD), if you would like a tour there are guides out front for hire for as low as 500 MXN ($25).
There is a tram from parking lot to the ticket office. But, it’s worth it to save the 60 MXN ($3) if you can make the five-minute walk. Collectivos (white passenger vans) are the most affordable way to get here. These cost 30 MXN ($1.50) each way. Catch these on main street where a bus/collectivo stops at every corner.
Don’t forget to bring your towel and swimsuit. Part of the site connects to Playa Ruinas (Ruin Beach). At the time of writing the beach was closed due to concerns surrounding the Covid pandemic. Yet, a few minutes’ walk up the road is the much larger Playa Paraiso (Paradise Beach). Tulum is famous for its position in the Caribbean. It would be a tragedy to miss out on taking a dip and cooling off in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
One of the best experiences in visiting Tulum, like the rest of the Yucatán, are the unique cenotes. Cenotes (or limestone sinkholes) are especially fun to visit. Go swimming, snorkeling, free diving, and cliff jumping.
Tourists can plan out a dining experience with a visit to Casa Cenote. The more adventurous might enjoy the Temple of Doom Cenote (or Calavera Cenote). Where they can “cliff dive” from a platform in the crystal clear waters below. If you want a few Instagram or social media photos, then Gran Cenote is the stop for you. It’s the most famous of the Tulum Cenotes due to its photographic nature.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
The often-overlooked experience is a visit to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Take a tour and explore the ancient tropical canals. It has an abundance of wildlife, not seen in other parts of Mexico.
The biosphere has a marine area. It incorporates the world’s second largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Take a kayak through the winding river canals. Float with manatees and sea turtles, or unload for a few relaxing hours under the jungle canopy.
If time permits, the sprawling archeological site of Cobá, is a short-day trip away that is worth a visit. Collectivos departs from next to El Pechugón for 70 MXN ($3.50) one way. I recommend arriving early, as a collectivo usually does not leave until it is full.
Cobá was the first Mayan archeological site where I felt how extensive a Mayan city was. Luckily, the entrance only costs 100 MXN ($5). Please note that if you drive to the archeological site, there is a parking fee of 70 MXN ($3.50).
The Grand Pyramid of Cobá is the second largest pyramid of the Yucatán. It’s an impressive 42-meters (137.80 feet) tall, trailing only that of Calakmul’s 45-meter (147.64 feet) pyramid. Read everything you need to know to visit Mexico’s tallest pyramid in Cobá with my complete guide here!
On my return, I would concentrate seeing the biosphere reserve. I would also be sure to get in a few cenote dives. During my visit, I saw a small area of the biosphere, with a few of dives in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System.
I have nothing but praise for this incredible ecosystem. The colors are extensive and vibrant, plus I saw a wide variety of marine species. Divers and snorkelers can see sea turtles, seahorses, reef sharks, moray eels, and more. There are more than 250 species of fish that are endemic to the region.
Overall, I felt that Tulum is pretty overrated. I found the prices would change depending on the day of the week and whether the city thought it was going to be busy. It is common practice for everything here. From restaurants to hostels and hotels to cabs, even with collectivos too.
This was by far the biggest turn off during my experience. Yet, if you plan for this then you can mentally prepare for it. Instead of the surprise that it was for me. Don’t let these negatives deter you either. It’s a beautiful place that is worth passing through for a couple of days.
Tulum Ruins/Quick Notes:
- Archeological Site Entrance Fee: 80 MXN ($4)
- Tulum Site Hours of Operation: Seven days a week 8 am to 430 pm Last admission is 3 pm!
- Tour Fee: as low as 500 MXN ($25)
- Collectivo to Tulum Archeological Site 30 MXN ($1.50/one-way)
- A Collectivo to Cobá Archeological Site 70 MXN ($3.50/one-way)
- Cobá Entrance Fee: 100 MXN ($5) – parking fee: 70 MXN($3.50)
- Cobá Hours of Operation: 8 am to 4 pm Last admission is 3 pm!
