The Ultimate One-Week Guide to Visiting Tulum, Mexico
The Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide
Tulum Mexico is a beautiful beach town located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Riviera Maya. With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum is the perfect destination for a week-long vacation. It’s one of my absolutely favorite tropical destinations and there’s a reason I’ve gone back so many times! note we did spend our last day in Cancun to make our trip home easier, but you could easily shorten/extend this itinerary as there are so many things to do in Tulum! Read on for more of my Tulum travel tips.
Here is an interactive map of this itinerary using Wanderlog! My favorite FREE travel planning app
How Many Days Do You Need in Tulum?
To fully experience the enchanting wonders of Tulum, I recommend planning a trip of 5-7 days. This duration allows you to savor the diverse offerings of this breathtaking destination without feeling rushed. With 5-7 days, you'll have ample time to explore the ancient Mayan ruins, relax on the pristine beaches with their turquoise waters, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Additionally, you can venture to nearby cenotes for refreshing swims, indulge in delectable local cuisine, and take part in exciting activities like snorkeling or diving the magnificent reef. The extended stay also provides the flexibility to dedicate a day for a memorable excursion to the awe-inspiring Chichén-Itzá and Cenote Saamal. Whether you choose the shorter end of the spectrum or the full week, spending 5-7 days in Tulum ensures an unforgettable vacation filled with cherished memories of this tropical paradise.
Tips to Know Before You Go to Tulum
As you embark on your unforgettable journey to Tulum, it's essential to equip yourself with practical tips that will enhance your overall experience and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. While Tulum offers a magical escape, being prepared with these simple yet invaluable tips will help you make the most of your adventure.
1. Carry Cash: While Tulum is becoming increasingly modernized, some smaller vendors, local markets, and quaint eateries may still prefer cash payments. Having cash on hand will save you the hassle of searching for an ATM and allow you to effortlessly savor the delectable street food or purchase unique souvenirs from local artisans.
2. Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate of Tulum, with its abundant sunshine and warm temperatures, makes staying hydrated crucial. Remember to carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to keep yourself energized and refreshed as you explore the wonders of Tulum.
3. Eco-Friendly Sunscreen: As you indulge in the azure waters and explore the pristine coral reefs, opt for biodegradable sunscreen to protect the local marine life. Traditional sunscreens can contain harmful chemicals that pose a threat to the delicate ecosystem, while biodegradable alternatives are kinder to the environment and its vibrant inhabitants.
4. Respect Local Customs: Embrace the rich cultural heritage of Tulum by respecting the local customs and traditions. Politeness and courtesy go a long way in creating meaningful connections with the warm-hearted locals. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will also be appreciated and will undoubtedly enrich your interactions.
5. Protect Your Valuables: While Tulum is generally safe for travelers, it's wise to exercise caution and keep your belongings secure. Use the hotel safe to store passports, extra cash, and valuable items when not needed, and carry a lock to secure your bags during excursions.
6. Sun Protection: Don't forget to shield yourself from the sun's rays with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing. These protective measures will not only keep you comfortable but also safeguard your skin from excessive sun exposure.
7. Plan for Early Mornings: Tulum's captivating beauty is best experienced during the early hours when the beaches are less crowded, and the soft morning light creates a magical ambiance. Set your alarm for sunrise to witness the stunning vistas and relish the serenity of the morning hours.
8. Responsible Travel: Adopting eco-conscious practices, such as reducing waste and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives, is essential in preserving Tulum's pristine environment and cherished culture. Be mindful of your ecological footprint and leave only footprints behind as you explore this natural paradise.
By embracing these practical tips, you'll not only enhance your travel experience but also contribute to the preservation of Tulum's natural splendor and vibrant community. Let your journey be one of discovery, connection, and responsible exploration, leaving behind a positive impact on this enchanting destination.
How to Get to Tulum
You’ll want to fly into the Cancun airport, which is about a 2 hour drive from Tulum. While there are plans to put in an airport, Cancun is currently the closest.
You can rent a car or hire a driver to get to Tulum. I’ve done both and prefer hiring a car service. You can get a roundtrip airport pickup/dropoff to and from Cancun and Tulum for around $100-$120 round trip! We booked ours through Go Tulum Travel (we also booked our private Chichen Itza tour through them as well) and highly recommend them!
You can also take the ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Tulum for about $30 round trip, but it may make more frequent stops and take a bit longer.
Where to Stay in Tulum
We love staying in Tulum town - also known as the Pueblo - when we visit. Not only is it significantly cheaper (our 2 bed, 2 bath airbnb was $700 for a full week, while hotels can run 200-500 USD a night), we found it was the perfect in between to experience the hotel zone and the town center. If you do stay in town, I recommend staying as close to the main beach road - there is only one road that takes you from town to the beach - to make biking easier. Tulum beach hotels can also be much more expensive.
The hotel zone can be crowded and it can be hard to get around, especially if you rent a car. Which is why no matter what part of town you’re in, I recommend renting a bike or a moped for your stay! A bike can be as cheap a $5-$10 USD a day and mopeds run around $20 though I’ve yet to rent one (next time!). All bikes come with locks and since so many people in Tulum bike it’s relatively safe, though you do have to be prepared for some unpaved and undeveloped roads and parts of Tulum Pueblo are still under construction as they continue to expand.
However, for those seeking a more luxurious and indulgent stay, the hotel zone is the perfect choice. Known for its stunning beachfront resorts and upscale amenities, the hotel zone offers an unparalleled sense of relaxation and opulence. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore, basking in the sun on pristine beaches, and indulging in world-class spa treatments. While it may come at a higher price point, the hotel zone promises an unforgettable stay with breathtaking views and unparalleled access to Tulum's renowned beaches. Whether you prefer the charm of Tulum town or the splendor of the hotel zone, Tulum has the ideal accommodation to cater to every traveler's preferences and desires.f Tulum Pueblo are still under construction as they continue to expand.
Where to Eat and Drink in Tulum
Here is a quick summary of my go-to places! Also shown on the embedded map as well.
Ki’Bok Coffee
Botanica Garden Cafe
Matcha Mama
Posada Margherita
Raw Love
Batey Mojito
Mayami Burger
Rossina Cafe
The Bottle Shop
Taquería Los Chachalacos
Kokoro Tulum
Casa Sofia
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
On your first day in Tulum, take some time to relax and unwind after your journey. Head to the beach and soak up the sun on one of Tulum’s stunning white sand beaches. In the evening, head to the town center and explore the local shops and restaurants. If you’re looking for great beach clubs, I personally love Ziggy's Beach Club and Papaya Playa Project.
Day 2: Visit Chichén-Itzá and Cenote Saamal
Chichén-Itzá is one of the world wonders for a reason and simply cannot be missed! As mentioned above we booked a private tour via Go Tulum Travel and it was about $100 a person, which included our van, water, entrance fee ($25 normally per person), and entrance to the Cenote with lunch ($25 value) so we thought it was a great deal! It was nice to be able to take our time as a group and we had a personal guide to Chichén-Itzá. This was my second time visiting and the first time I had a guide. I will say having a knowledgable guide makes a crazy difference and I learned so much more on my second trip than my first.
The tour ends with lunch and swimming at Cenote Saamal, which is a gorgeous open aired Cenote. They are incredibly deep so life vests are required, and the water is quite cold, but it felt nice after a few hours of walking around the ruins.
This is a great day trip activity while visiting tulum!
Day 3: Explore the Hotel Zone
Whether you’re staying in town or in the Hotel Zone, take the day to explore and soak in the photo ops! I always recommend getting up super early as many spots start getting crowded, plus then you have the rest of the day to relax! Here are some of my favorite spots to hit up on the Hotel Zone!
Matcha Mama
Follow that Dream Sign
Vagalume entrance
Escultura Ven a la Luz (statue park)
Coco Tulum
Casa Malca
Azulik
Pictured Top Row Left to Right: Matcha Mama | Follow that Dream Sign
Pictured Bottom Row Left to Right: Vagalume Entrance | Escultura Ven a la Luz (sculpture park)
Day 4: Visit the Tulum Ruins and the Gran Cenote
The Tulum ruins are a beautiful, distinctly different archeological site located only 10 mins from town (you can even walk to it depending on where you are staying!). This is also an alternative to other ruins if you don’t have access to a car or are on a shorter timeline!
After spending a few hours at the ruins, take a cab, car, or bike (though biking is a little sketchy if you’re not comfortable biking off the side of the road) to one of the most popular cenotes, Gran Cenote. At $25 it is definitely more pricey, but it is the closest Cenote to Tulum and arguably one of the prettiest. Snorkel through the cave to find a more secluded area and make sure to check out the bats!
Alternatively, you can also check out the Coba Ruins, located just a few miles furhter up the road from the Gran Cenote.
Day 5: Take some time to shop and relax
After an exhilarating day exploring the wonders of Tulum's coral reef, treat yourself to a serene and rejuvenating experience at the Leaf Spa. Nestled away near the town center, this hidden gem offers a delightful escape from the outside world. Spoil yourself with a selection of reasonably priced massages, each tailored to release tension and enhance your overall well-being. But what sets this spa apart is the enticing $50 'spa pass,' granting you hours of blissful access to a variety of water therapies, including invigorating hot tubs and refreshing cold plunges. Surrender to the soothing ambiance, where tranquility and relaxation become your companions. The Leaf Spa is a perfect retreat, especially on a rainy day, when you can unwind and indulge in the spa's serene offerings.
As you step out of the spa's oasis, venture into Tulum's vibrant downtown to embark on a shopping adventure. Exploring the local shops and markets not only presents an array of unique souvenirs but also allows you to embrace the art of bartering, a cherished tradition in this part of the world. Engage with the friendly local vendors, and don't be afraid to negotiate for that perfect handcrafted keepsake or artisanal treasure. By supporting the local economy and artisans, you become part of the vibrant tapestry that makes Tulum so special.
As your day winds down, reflect on the incredible underwater encounters and the moments of serenity at the spa, cherishing the memories you've created in this enchanting destination. Remember to carry these cherished experiences and the spirit of responsible travel with you, understanding the significance of preserving Tulum's natural beauty and vibrant culture for generations to come. With each adventure and interaction, you become a steward of this paradise, ensuring that Tulum's allure remains as captivating for future travelers as it has been for you.
Day 6: Snorkel or Dive the reef
Tulum is a great place to snorkel or dive! There are many options available in town and many types of charters depending on your experience and activity level. Snorkeling or diving in these crystal-clear waters unveils a mesmerizing realm teeming with diverse marine life. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest reef in the world, stretches along the Caribbean coast of Mexico, and Tulum offers an ideal gateway to this aquatic wonderland.
As you venture beneath the surface, be prepared to encounter an array of colorful tropical fish, graceful rays gliding through the water, and playful sea turtles gracefully swimming in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for the elusive nurse sharks and impressive barracudas that occasionally make appearances, adding an exhilarating touch of adventure to your experience.
The coral formations, shaped over centuries, create a spectacular underwater landscape, providing a safe haven for countless marine species. The reef's vibrant hues and intricate architecture make it a paradise for underwater photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Snorkelers can enjoy easy access to the shallow parts of the reef, where the kaleidoscopic beauty of the marine life unfolds just beneath the water's surface.
For more experienced divers, Tulum offers an array of diving sites, each with its unique charm. From awe-inspiring underwater caverns known as cenotes to majestic wall dives where the reef plummets dramatically into the abyss, every dive promises an unforgettable encounter with the wonders of the deep.
Whether you're a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Tulum's reef provides an extraordinary experience that will leave you in awe of nature's brilliance. It's essential to remember that preserving the health of the reef is paramount, so adhere to responsible diving and snorkeling practices to minimize your impact on this delicate ecosystem. By immersing yourself in the beauty of Tulum's underwater world, you'll gain a profound appreciation for the importance of protecting these precious marine environments for generations to come.
Day 7: Departure/stay in Cancun
On your final day in Tulum, take some time to reflect on your trip and enjoy one last breakfast on the beach. Pack up your bags and head to the airport for your journey home. Alternatively, spend a night in Cancun to make your trip to the airport easier and enjoy one last day in paradise!
Conclusion
As you conclude your unforgettable journey through Tulum, it's crucial to reflect on the lasting impact of your visit. Tulum's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage have made it a beloved destination for travelers worldwide. As you depart, take a moment to consider the significance of responsible tourism in preserving this cherished paradise for future generations. Showcasing respect for the environment by minimizing waste, using eco-friendly transportation, and supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability can collectively contribute to the conservation of Tulum's pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant marine life.
Moreover, engaging with the local community and their traditions enriches your experience and fosters mutual understanding. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the people, savor the regional delicacies, and participate in cultural events with genuine appreciation. Supporting local artisans and businesses not only bolsters the community but also allows you to take home meaningful and authentic souvenirs.
Tulum's allure lies not just in its physical beauty but also in its unique identity and history. Treat the ancient ruins and archaeological sites with reverence, mindful of their cultural significance. Be mindful of the delicate ecosystems and wildlife that make this region their home, and refrain from any activities that may harm or disturb them.
By treading lightly and embodying a responsible traveler, you can leave Tulum knowing that you've contributed positively to its preservation and the well-being of its people. Cherish the memories you've created, and let them inspire you to continue your journey as a conscious global citizen, carrying with you the spirit of Tulum's charm and the commitment to respect and protect the environments and cultures of the places you visit.