Are you looking to explore one of the most beautiful, ancient ruins in the world? Welcome to Tulum ruins! Located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and sitting atop a bluff facing the Caribbean Sea, this amazing archaeological site is truly something special. Whether you come to Tulum for the stunning coastline views or simply marvel at its well-preserved Mayan architecture, there’s no doubt that Tulum provides a unique experience like no other. In this comprehensive guide to visiting Tulum ruins, we’ll cover everything from things to do during your visit, getting around, and tips for making the most out of your trip. So what are you waiting for? Read on and discover why more travelers than ever before are flocking to these incredible relics from history!
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A Brief History
Tulum was a thriving city of the Mayan civilization that existed between the 13th and 16th centuries. The city was a significant trading hub and was home to several notable structures, including El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God. Today, Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico, attracting millions of tourists each year.
Where are the Tulum Ruins?
The beauty that sets this area apart from other beach towns in Mexico comes from the beautiful view of ancient Mayan ruins standing sentinel along the azure blue ocean. Tulum National Park encompasses the ancient Mayan ruins which are the main attraction for many visitors. The ruins are situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, providing stunning views and a sense of awe-inspiring beauty.
How to Get There?
The easiest way to get to Tulum from Cancun International Airport is by taking a hotel shuttle service or bus. At the time of writing, there was some tension between taxis and Uber drivers so we are not suggesting either of those options at this time. The journey with hotel shuttle transport takes around 90 minutes, and the cost varies depending on the hotel you choose (it may be included with your resort fee). Alternatively, you can take a bus from Cancun to Tulum, which is very affordable but takes longer.
Renting a car is also a great option, especially if you are planning on exploring more of the area on your own. You can pick up your car right at the Cancun International Airport. Return drop-off is easy as well since there is a shuttle from the car rental return to the airport departure gates.
What to See at the Tulum Ruins
The Tulum ruins are a fascinating place to explore, with many interesting structures and historical details. Some of the highlights include:
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- The Castle (El Castillo): a tall building believed to have served multiple purposes for the ancient Mayan people with a stunning view of the sea.
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- The Temple of the Frescoes: a well-preserved structure with intricate carvings of Mayan deities and their rituals.
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- The Temple of the Wind: was named because of the intricate carvings on its facade, which depict the god of the wind. The temple was possibly also used to provide early warning of upcoming storms as stronger winds rushed through the narrow window openings.
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- The House of the Columns: a large building with impressive columns is believed to have once been an important administrative center for the ancient Mayans and may have served as the residence for higher-ranking officials.
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- The beach: a beautiful stretch of sand with crystal-clear water that was easily accessible from the ruins when we visited. You just had to exit the ruins and climb down a flight of stairs.
As of our latest update, the entrance fee to the Tulum ruins for foreign visitors is 80 Mexican pesos (about 4 USD). For Mexican citizens, the entrance fee is 75 Mexican pesos. The parking fee is separate and costs an additional 100 Mexican pesos (about 5 USD). Please note that these fees may be subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the site itself for the most up-to-date information. Your best bet to buy tickets is to go up to the gate of the ruins themselves or join an official tour group. Don’t be fooled by people selling tickets outside the gates. These often are not legitimate passes for entry.
How Long Should I Stay?
Plan to stay 2 – 3 hours if you plan to include the beach. When we visited there was stair access directly from the ruins to a small beach below.
You may be wondering if it is worth it to get a guide or not – if this is your first time then I usually suggest a guide but there are so many informational signs posted across the site that you can get a strong sense of the history on your own. Sometimes guides can provide more depth and give you stories that the placards do not. But if you have Google Translate on your phone and are comfortable with the many uses of that app then you will most likely be satisfied with your experience.
What to Bring to Tulum Ruins
To make your visit to the Tulum ruins more enjoyable, it’s important to bring the following items:
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- Sunscreen: The sun can be intense in Tulum, so be sure to bring a high-SPF reef-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin.
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- Hat and sunglasses: A hat and sunglasses will help keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your face. There is not a lot of shade while exploring the ruins.
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- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
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- Water and snacks: It’s important to stay hydrated and fuel up with snacks during your visit.
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- Camera: You’ll want to capture the beautiful scenery and ancient architecture, so bring a camera or smartphone with a good camera.
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- Swimsuit: the beach is a fantastic place to cool down after all that time in the sun exploring the ruins so don’t forget your suit.
Sustainability Considerations
Tulum is crowded with tourists and if we don’t take the time to approach this environment with more care then it will eventually be lost to us. Please consider the leave no trace principles that should be honored in every national park. Respect wildlife and consider frequenting establishments that focus on sustainable hospitality practices and local contributions. Tulum is a beautiful and fragile ecosystem, and it’s important to be mindful of your impact when visiting. Here are some sustainability considerations to keep in mind:
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- Respect the ruins: The Tulum ruins are a historical treasure, so be sure to treat them with respect and follow all rules and regulations.
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- Avoid single-use plastics
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- Choose eco-friendly accommodations: Tulum is known for its eco-resorts and sustainable hotels. Choose a hotel or resort that has a green certification, uses renewable energy sources and implements water conservation and recycling programs.
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- Shop local: Tulum has many local markets and boutiques where you can find handmade souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry. Supporting local artisans and businesses helps to boost the local economy and reduces the environmental impact of shipping products from overseas.
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- Eat local and organic: Tulum has a thriving food scene, with many farm-to-table restaurants and juice bars. Look for restaurants that source their ingredients from local farms and use organic and seasonal produce. Avoid eating at chain restaurants or fast-food outlets that rely on imported ingredients.
Thanks for joining me on this journey to explore the Tulum ruins! I hope this guide has given you everything you need to know in order to have an amazing experience at this incredible archaeological site. You can also enjoy the city of Tulum itself with our detailed Tulum city guide.
If your appetite is whet for more ancient Mayan ruins, consider a visit to a more off-the-beaten-path destination like nearby Coba. Or a longer trip out to visit the iconic ruins of Chichen Itza.
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Until next time, safe travels!