Best Things To Do in Tulum

Tulum, since tourism began to develop in the Riviera Maya, became one of the favorite places in the region for visitors and it did so by dint of its white sand beaches and Caribbean climate, but also thanks to its Mayan ruins and the attractions of its theme parks, which are very varied.

Among the best activities you can do in Tulum are to visit the Ruins of the Walled City, discover the Great Cenote, visit Xel-Ha Park, tour the Mayan Jungle Native Park and discover the Muyil Archaeological Zone, which is one of the best kept secrets of the Riviera Maya.

The Tulum Ruins are located on Mexico's Caribbean coast and are an ancient Mayan site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the civilization that flourished in the region. Tulum was a walled city that served as an important commercial port between the 13th and 15th centuries and, unlike other Mayan ruins, it stands out for its privileged site facing the Caribbean Sea, which made it a strategic location for maritime trade.

If you choose to buy tickets to visit Tulum you will be able to explore several iconic structures, the most prominent being El Castillo. This temple, which stands atop a cliff, not only served as a lighthouse for navigators, but also as a ceremonial site. Other important buildings include the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God, which displays a relief figure believed to represent a rain god.

Tulum is not only famous for its history and architecture, but also for its natural surroundings. The combination of Mayan ruins and the vibrant blue Caribbean Sea creates a visually stunning scene that attracts thousands of tourists each year. The site is located within a national park that protects not only the ruins, but also the local flora and fauna.

The combination of archaeological value and tourist attraction make the Tulum Ruins a must-see attraction for visitors to the region.

One of the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya are the cenotes and in Tulum you can visit one of the best in the region. The Gran Cenote is famous for its crystalline waters and natural beauty, but also because it is part of a Mayan subway river system and offers visitors the opportunity to swim, dive and explore a unique ecosystem.

Its stalactite and stalagmite formations, along with abundant aquatic life, create an environment that attracts tourists from all over the world. Likewise, the Gran Cenote is also a site considered sacred to the Mayan culture, making it a place of great historical and spiritual significance.

In addition to the Gran Cenote, there are other nearby natural pools worth visiting, such as Cenote Dos Ojos, known for its cave system and diving facility. Cenote Calavera, on the other hand, is popular for its unique shape and is ideal for those looking for a more adventurous experience.

Booking an excursion to the Riviera Maya's cenotes, including Gran Cenote, provides a number of both physical and mental benefits. Swimming in their cool, pure waters can be revitalizing and can help reduce stress.

If you want to visit one of the most emblematic and recognized archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization, then you can't miss a trip to Chichén Itzá. Founded around 600 A.D., this site became a political, economic and religious center and the city reached its peak serving as a meeting point for diverse Mesoamerican cultures.

In Chichen Itza you can visit the structures and monuments that reflect the architectural skill of this ancient civilization. One of the iconic sites is the pyramid of KukulkáN, which rises some 30 meters high and is famous for its astronomical alignment.

During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the shadow cast by the sunlight on the pyramid creates the illusion of a snake slithering down its steps.

In addition, during the tour you can also admire the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory and the Sacred Cenote, which are witnesses of the advanced Mayan astronomy. This is why Chichen Itza is not only a place of historical interest, but also a site of great cultural importance. Currently, this site is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to live an immersive experience in Tulum, you can buy tickets to visit Xel-Ha Park, which is an eco-park known for its beauty and focus on environmental conservation. This water park combines fun with nature exploration, where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from snorkeling in crystal clear waters to biking and hiking in the jungle.

At Xel-Há you will find a variety of attractions and activities that will satisfy adventurers and families alike. One of the most popular experiences is snorkeling in the cove, where visitors can observe colorful tropical fish and marine life in a safe and secure environment. In addition, the park has rest areas, swimming areas, a lazy river for floating and zip lines.

Xel-Há stands out for its commitment to sustainability and environmental education. The park promotes the conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity, offering educational programs for visitors of all ages, so it is also a good alternative if you plan to visit Tulum with children.

Booking tickets for the Jungla Maya Native Park will allow you to experience a unique destination located in the heart of the Riviera Maya and designed to offer visitors an interactive experience in the rich biodiversity and culture of the region. This ecological park extends over a vast area of tropical rainforest, where tourists can explore a natural environment full of native flora and fauna.

During your tour of the Jungla Maya Native Park you will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including guided jungle hikes, where you can observe a variety of native plant and animal species, and zip-line circuits that offer panoramic views of the landscape. You can also swim in crystal-clear cenotes and learn about Maya culture and traditional medicine in immersive workshops.

The history of the Jungla Maya Native Park is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of the Maya civilization, as this site was conceived with the objective of preserving and sharing the history of the local people, as well as their relationship with nature. Through informative tours, you will learn how the ancient Maya used the plants of the jungle for their daily needs, from medicine to construction.

The Sian Ka'an Nature Reserve is an ecological treasure located on Mexico's Caribbean coast that pairs perfectly with the tranquility of Tulum. It is a vast ecosystem that is home to a diversity of local flora and fauna, making it one of the most important conservation destinations in the region.

Sian Ka'an, which means "Gateway to Heaven" in the Mayan language, is a refuge for numerous species of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish.

Within the reserve you can explore a variety of habitats, including mangroves, wetlands, jungles and coral reefs. Activities are varied and include hiking on nature trails, kayaking through the mangrove channels and bird watching excursions. Snorkelers and scuba divers can also enjoy the beauty of Sian Ka'an's reef system.

Also note that the reserve is home to many endangered species, such as the manatee, jaguar and American crocodile, highlighting the importance of conservation in this ecosystem. Sian Ka'an has been the object of conservation and restoration programs, which has turned this site into a favorite destination for ecotourism lovers.

The Muyil Archaeological Zone is a fascinating vestige of the Mayan civilization, located south of Tulum. This ancient settlement was an important commercial and religious center that was connected to other Mayan sites through a network of canals and roads. Its name, Muyil, comes from the Mayan language and translates as "place of the trees" and the site has been the subject of research that has revealed its role in the trade of products such as salt and honey.

On your visit to Muyil you can explore a variety of Mayan structures and monuments. Among the highlights are the pyramids, such as the structure known as El Castillo, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle, but you will also see temples decorated with reliefs and sculptures depicting Maya deities. These sites are perfect for distinguishing the sophistication of Maya architecture.

One of the most fascinating features of Muyil is its connection with nature. The archaeological zone is surrounded by vegetation and canals that were part of a navigation system used by the Maya. These canals, which are still visible, connect Muyil to the Sian Ka'an Reserve and allow visitors to take boat tours through the jungle.

In addition to its historical and natural importance, the Muyil Archaeological Zone also offers a quiet and less crowded atmosphere than other more famous archaeological sites in the Riviera Maya. This allows visitors to enjoy a more intimate connection with the past and nature.

Tulum is not only known for its beaches and rich Mayan history, but it is also a perfect destination for foodies. Participating in a Mexican cooking class in Tulum is a unique experience that will allow you to immerse yourself in the culinary culture of the country.

These classes, often taught by local chefs and passionate cooks, offer the opportunity to learn about the fresh ingredients and traditional techniques that make Mexican cuisine one of the most diverse and flavorful in the world.

During these culinary experiences you will learn about a variety of dishes emblematic of Mexican cuisine. Among the specialties you can learn to cook are the classic tacos stuffed with grilled meat, chicken or pork. You will also learn how to make fresh salsas and guacamole, as well as handmade corn tortillas. Another popular option is the preparation of enchiladas and chiles en nogada, which are dishes rich in flavors and colors.

In addition to the main courses, many cooking classes in Tulum include the preparation of delicious traditional desserts, such as flan, tres leches cake or buñuelos. Often, chefs will share tips on how to use fresh, local ingredients such as chiles, herbs and spices to bring out the authentic flavors of each preparation.

The Tulum jungle is a natural environment that offers a unique experience for adventure and nature lovers. Venturing into this lush vegetation is an alternative way to discover the biodiversity and landscapes that make the Riviera Maya an incomparable destination.

One of the best ways to explore this region is to book a quad tour through the jungle of Tulum, where you can travel along winding trails and discover hidden corners of this impressive ecosystem. During these tours you will have the opportunity to visit several emblematic sites such as the Gran Cenote, the Calavera cenote and trails that include panoramic views of hidden beaches.

ATV tours also often include visits to local communities, where you can learn about the Mayan culture and traditions of the region. These encounters offer an invaluable opportunity to interact with the local inhabitants, enjoy typical cuisine and learn more about their way of life. In addition, many of these excursions are guided by local experts who know the secrets of the area.

Playa Las Palmas is a true paradise on Mexico's Caribbean coast. This beach is characterized by its fine white sand, turquoise waters and calm and relaxing atmosphere. Often less crowded than other popular beaches in the area, Las Palmas is the ideal place to enjoy the sun, swim and disconnect from the hustle and bustle.

One of the highlights of Playa Las Palmas is that it is considered one of the best places to book surf lessons in Tulum. Thanks to its ideal conditions, with consistent and accessible waves, it is the perfect place for beginners and more experienced surfers alike. Several local surf schools and guides offer lessons and equipment rentals.

In addition to its appeal to surfers, Las Palmas is conveniently located near other beaches that are also worth a visit. Just a few minutes' drive away are Playa Paraiso, famous for its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere, and Playa Akumal, known for its crystal-clear waters and the chance to swim with sea turtles.