A First-time Visitor’s Guide to Tulum
If you’re interested in a holiday that combines warm, sandy beaches, historic ruins, natural cenotes and flavourful food, then Tulum should definitely be on your travel list. Just a simple image search will already have you reaching for your wallet; the natural beauty alone is worth the trip, with stunning clear waters surrounded by lush jungle greenery. Spider monkeys, iguanas and brightly coloured birds flit across the landscape, entrancing children and adults alike.
If you prefer your holidays to focus on wellness and retail therapy, you’ll still be spoilt for choice. Tulum is known for having spiritual and healing energy, thanks to its historic role as a place of study in Ancient Mayan culture. There’s also plenty of local boutiques with handmade crafts for sale, making it easy to while away an afternoon without really noticing the time passing.
Those who have been to Tulum will surely return, but what if it’s your first time in the area? In this guide, we give you a quick overview of where to stay, what to see and what to eat, to help you get the most out of this beautiful part of Mexico.
Where to stay
Your accommodation location is an important part of your trip – it will determine the vibe of your surroundings and your access to local attractions. Travelers visiting Tulum can choose to stay in the town area or the beach area, both of which come with pros and cons depending on what sort of experience you’re looking for.
Of course, the beach zone is where you’ll get to walk out straight onto those amazing vistas that the area is so famous for, as well as enjoying a relaxed, casual atmosphere. The hotels here are incredibly popular, meaning that you’ll be surrounded by plenty of other tourists if you’re looking for an international feel to your vacation. However, all these benefits come with a cost – it’s the most expensive area of Tulum, and there are fewer restaurants and bars compared to the town, which can make it feel crowded at peak times.
In comparison, the town area is full of shops, restaurants, yoga studios and nightlife, with cheaper accommodation, making it a better choice for visitors on a budget. However, you’ll need to choose your hotel or villa carefully to make sure that you feel safe, as there are a few areas that are considered less appealing. You’ll also need to be prepared to fork out for transportation if you want to visit those famous beaches.
Top places to visit
Tulum Ruins
One of the most-visited sites in Mexico, Tulum Ruins are almost too paradisiacal to be true. Sat high on a cliff overlooking a white sandy beach and turquoise waters, flanked by trees and plants clinging to the rock, it’s a dive straight back into the past. Whilst the ruins aren’t expansive, they will definitely capture your imagination, and are well worth a visit, even if it’s just for the view.
Once you’ve spent a few hours wandering around the stone structures, head down to one of the two beaches below the ruins and cool off with a swim. If you want to make sure you get a slice of paradise to yourself, make sure to set your alarm clock – it’s busy by late morning.
Beaches and cenotes
No trip to Tulum would be complete without at least one beach day. If you simply want to laze on the sand, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Playa Paraíso, Playa Ruinas, and Playa Las Palmas all offer the photo-worthy views you’re looking for just a short distance from your accommodation.
If you’re looking for something different to do on your day on the sand, you need to be more choosy. Akumal beach is a little way out of the center of Tulum, but you’ll be rewarded with an abundance of green turtles. Grab your snorkeling gear and glide alongside them – just be sure to respect their space and their habitat, as this is a turtle sanctuary. If you’d rather admire them from the land, the beach has a range of bars, restaurants and beach umbrellas, making it the perfect place to spend the day.
For a truly unique experience, make sure that you swim in a cenote at least once during your stay. These underwater sinkhole pools allow you to float surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, giving an otherworldly feel to your swim.
Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka’an
One of the most biodiverse places on the planet, this nature reserve is made up of everything from coral reefs to mangroves and savannahs, as well as the beaches and tropical forests that you’d expect. The result is something truly extraordinary: a home for crocodiles, jaguars, sea turtles, giant land crabs, manatees and more than 330 birds and 400 fish species. It’s like a modern version of Eden, with all sorts of creatures living together in harmony.
The area is so important that it has been recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage list, with more than half of the biosphere protected and off-limits to everyone except scientists. The remote nature makes it feel like you’ve stepped out of bustling Tulum all together. To get the most out of your visit, make sure to book on a guided tour, and let the experts and locals who know it best show off all its beauty.
Food to Try
Mexican food has gained a reputation worldwide, and so you’ll definitely want to make some room for foodie experiences on your trip to Tulum. Unlike other areas of Mexico, Tulum is generally good at offering both vegetarian and vegan options, so it’s easier to find food that suits your whole party.
Try out panuchos (refried tortilla stuffed with beans, chicken or turkey and topped with onion, avocado, cabbage and jalapeño) or cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus juice). Or, head to a street stall and grab a marquesita, a crepe that is rolled and stuffed with fillings such as caramel, custard chocolate or cheese. Every corner of Tulum offers a new culinary experience, so whilst it’s tempting to book an all-inclusive break, for a foodie, having at least one meal out per day is a must-do.
Dive into Mexico
Follow the tips in this guide to ensure you have a truly magical experience, and note down must-visit spots before your adventure. This might be your first trip to Tulum, but we’re sure you’ll be back for more.
