Mexico is, undoubtedly, a country that deserves to be at the top of the list of places to visit at least once in your lifetime. Take a moment to think about all the astonishing things you could see and explore during a vacation here.
The dazzling white beaches, blue turquoise waters, cities, and towns filled with ancient and magnificent ruins testify to a pre-Hispanic time. We do not even need to mention those delicious Mexican dishes you could try while traveling; after all, Mexican cuisine has acquired a worldwide appreciation.
There are numerous Mexican cities and towns where you could enjoy all of this. However, today we want to introduce you to a town that maybe some of you have heard about but perhaps do not know that well. Not far from Cancun, within the Yucatan Peninsula, in Quintana Roo, rises Tulum, a beautiful and picturesque small Mexican municipality known for its gorgeous beaches and well-preserved Mayan ruins, facing the Caribbean Sea.
Tulum is not just another location to visit where you spend the entire day on the beach, drinking coconut water and sipping cocktails. This is a town that provides much more. The area has cenotes, historic ruins, yoga classes, luxurious and stylish hotels, resorts, bars, and restaurants.
If you are looking for a lively atmosphere where ancient history combines with the surrounding natural beauty to create an exotic location, then Tulum is the place for you. Here, you’ll feel like you’re walking through the garden of Eden. Numerous are the types of activities to enjoy while in Tulum, that’s why we are here to introduce you to some of the must-do activities to experience while exploring this pearl on the Caribbean Sea.
1. Visit the ancient Mayan ruins
The recent growth in the number of tourists that choose to come to Tulum is, in part, because of the magnificent and historical Mayan ruins. The archaeological dig location allows for a gorgeous view of the ocean and the white, sandy beach. The magnificent and well-preserved state of these ancient buildings creates significant appeal for visitors.
These are some of the reasons for the long queue of travelers eager to start their visit. In the past, this site used to be a major crossroads and an important point of transition for the goods coming and going between South and North America throughout central America. Today these ruins provide a place where people can walk, explore and imagine what life used to be like within one of the most fascinating ancient civilizations that our world has ever seen.
What makes these ruins different from any others scattered in the country is their location. Since the complex faces the Caribbean Sea, tourists can climb down a staircase made of wood to reach the beach after visiting the ruins. Just imagine what it would feel like to swim in one of the most gorgeous locations while admiring the ruins. You could use one single word to describe this moment: unforgettable.
2. Get up close with the Mayan culture
Many would think that the Mayan culture and traditions were lost with the decline of their civilization. However, in Tulum, people can still have a personal experience with the indigenous people who continue to practice their ancestors’ values and morals. Being in the middle of the Zona Maya allows you to have easy access to Mayan language classes.
You can also experience a Temazcal ceremony. In this ritual, participants sit within a traditional sweat lodge. Here, a shaman guides you on a path towards cleansing your spirit. This ceremony is the perfect combination of spirituality with traditional and ancient Mayan elements. This is truly a testimony of how, after all these years, an ancient ritual used by the Mayas continues to hold meaning and importance.
3. Visit the Cenotes
Driving to and exploring a cenote is one of the best activities to do in Tulum. Enjoy a swim in what could only be described as a mystical place. For those not familiar with the term, a cenote is a natural deep-water well. Cenotes are filled with rain which passes through the soil or underground rivers born within the heart of the Earth. These are a must-see natural treasure within the Yucatan Peninsula.
While in Tulum, you cannot miss visiting Dos Ojos, the most famous cenote in Tulum. The name “Two Eyes” refers to the shape of the two sinkholes that are linked in a passageway. The best time to visit is in the early morning. Not only will you have the entire place to yourself, but you’ll be able to appreciate the bright colors of the water from the morning light reflecting inside. This cenote is also the best one for diving.
Here, magnificent underwater scenery is waiting to be explored. There is a vast array of cenotes, such as Gran Cenote, which is very popular between swimmers and snorkelers. Or, the Cenote Carwash, an open-air well near a swimming area that is very popular with families. What makes them all interesting is that no matter how many cenotes you visit in the area, no two are the same.
All of them stem from mother nature’s doing, a process that took years and years and continues to this day. In ancient times, the cenotes were not only used as a reserve of water, but they were seen as highly spiritual places. Many artifacts have been found underneath the water, proving Mayans gave offerings to honor their Gods.
4. Head to the beaches
While staying in Tulum, of course, you’ll want to visit the beaches every day. We bet many of you have decided to book your hotel after seeing online pictures of the gorgeous white beaches found here. Staying in Tulum can only be defined as a paradise on Earth. In Tulum, there are different beaches you can check out. In some cases, beach availability is linked to your accommodations.
Private beaches, for example, are located in the most expensive area of the town and are connected to the more higher end hotels. Besides booking accommodations with direct beach access, you can also pay a fee to bars and restaurants for access. For a more local vibe, staying near the town will give you access to this side of the beach. This is the perfect spot for those looking for a nice place to stay.
You’ll also be able to taste some delicious local cuisine while immersing yourself in Mexican culture. Public beaches are another great option. They are the perfect place for a mix of high-level stays as you will be near many resorts but still have access to the traditional local culture.
No matter where you decide to stay, you will see stunning locations with jaw-dropping beaches. Tulum offers many different beach choices to pick from, each contributing to making your time spent here unique and filled with memories.
5. Swim alongside sea turtles
Sea turtles hold a special place in our hearts, and if you love them as much as we do, you’ll see this as a must-do activity. From May to October, turtles come to the beach to nest. You can only imagine how many of these extraordinary species will be along the coast. To experience swimming with sea turtles, visitors can drive to the nearby protected bay of Akumal.
Many tours offer this activity and will provide you with the necessary equipment. Do not worry if you feel a bit intimidated at first. An experienced guide will be with you to assist you and make sure you have a wonderful experience. Do not forget to bring a waterproof case for your camera! You won’t want to miss the opportunity to snap some epic pictures of this unforgettable adventure.
6. Exploring Sian Kan’an Biosphere
If swimming with sea turtles is a must for nature lovers, then spending some time exploring the Sian Kan’an Biosphere is something that cannot be missed. UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, this area can be declared as the second reason Tulum is well-known.
Other than being the largest protected area of this kind within the Mexican Caribbean, this place is home to numerous plants and animals, making it a unique place to visit. Even the name “Where the Sky is Born” not only creates a high level of curiosity but the certainty that a trip to this biosphere will be a surge of intense emotions that only nature can create in us.
7. Practice Yoga
We know those passionate about yoga are aware of Tulum being one of the top destinations to practice yoga. For those who have never thought about doing yoga before, this is the ultimate spot to start. Just pick the place and the type of course and have at it.
While in Tulum, you will be amazed by the numerous yoga studios and available yoga classes advertised at hotels and when walking around the town. Hotels and resorts also have their private courses, allowing guests to choose when to attend.
While walking along the beach, you will find many groups practicing this activity. Imagine yourself while on a white beach, partaking in yoga. You will come back with a new awakened and more relaxed spirit solely due to the surrounding view!
8. Spend time in the water
With so many water sports and activities available in Tulum, we have enough information for an entire post. Nevertheless, we have narrowed down these exciting activities to choose from so that you can have the time of your life. Kiteboarding is an extreme sport, and here in Tulum is the perfect place to practice it.
Want to explore the underwater regions of the Caribbean Sea? Choose between diving and snorkeling! Are you passionate about fishing? Book a fishing trip where you can spend 4 to 8 hours putting your fishing skills to use. These are just some of the activities you can participate in while in Tulum.
There is no need to book everything in advance as you can check in with your hotel or resort on the available water activities they offer to their guests. They can set you up with the best trainers, guides and even courses. You’ll never have a dull moment in Tulum.
These are just some of the activities which travelers can enjoy while in Tulum. Any time spent in this gorgeous location will be the highlight of your trip, regardless of how many days are spent here during your next vacation in Mexico.
