10 Things to Do in Tulum

Since tourism began to develop in the Riviera Maya, Tulum has become one of the region's favourite destinations for visitors, thanks to its white sandy 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 visiting the ruins of the walled city, discovering the Gran Cenote, visiting Xel-Há Park, exploring the Jungla Maya Native Park, and discovering the Muyil Archaeological Zone, one of the Riviera Maya's best-kept secrets.

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

If you choose to buy tickets to visit Tulum, you can explore several iconic structures, the most prominent being El Castillo. This temple, which stands on a cliff, not only served as a lighthouse for sailors but also as a ceremonial site. Other important buildings include the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God, which features 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 the Mayan ruins and the vibrant blue colour of the Caribbean Sea creates a visually stunning scene that attracts thousands of tourists every 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 its archaeological value and tourist appeal make the Ruins of Tulum a must-see attraction for those visiting 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 Great Cenote is famous for its crystal-clear waters and natural beauty, but also because it is part of a Mayan underground river system and offers visitors the opportunity to swim, dive and explore a unique ecosystem.

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

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

Booking an excursion to the cenotes of the Riviera Maya, including the Gran Cenote, offers a number of physical and mental benefits. Swimming in its cool, pure waters can be revitalising and can help reduce stress.

If you want to visit one of the most iconic and renowned archaeological sites of the Mayan civilisation, then you cannot miss an excursion to Chichén Itzá. Founded around 600 AD, this site became a political, economic and religious centre, and the city reached its peak serving as a meeting point for various Mesoamerican cultures.

At Chichén Itzá, you can visit the structures and monuments that reflect the architectural skill of this ancient civilisation. One of the iconic sites is the Kukulcán pyramid, which stands about 30 metres 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.

During the tour, you can also admire the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory and the Sacred Cenote, which bear witness to the advanced Mayan astronomy. This is why Chichén Itzá is not only a place of historical interest, but also a site of great cultural importance. Today, this site is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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

At Xel-Há, you will find a variety of attractions and activities that will satisfy both adventurers and families. One of the most popular experiences is snorkelling in the cove, where visitors can observe colourful tropical fish and marine life in a safe and protected 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 programmes for visitors of all ages, making it a good alternative if you plan to visit Tulum with children.

Booking tickets for the Jungla Maya Native Park will allow you to discover a unique destination located in the heart of the Riviera Maya and designed to offer visitors an interactive experience of the region's rich biodiversity and culture. This ecological park covers 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 walks, where you can observe a wide 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 Mayan culture and traditional medicine in immersive workshops.

The history of the Jungla Maya Native Park is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of the Mayan civilisation, as this site was conceived with the aim of preserving and sharing the history of the local peoples and their relationship with nature. Through informative tours, you can learn how the ancient Mayans used jungle plants 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 blends perfectly with the tranquillity 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. There are many activities to enjoy, including nature trail walks, kayak trips through the mangrove channels and bird watching excursions. Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts can also enjoy the beauty of the Sian Ka'an reef system.

It is also worth noting that the reserve is home to many endangered species, such as manatees, jaguars and American crocodiles, highlighting the importance of conservation in this ecosystem. Sian Ka'an has been the subject of conservation and restoration programmes, making it a favourite destination for ecotourism enthusiasts.

The Muyil Archaeological Zone is a fascinating remnant of Mayan civilisation, located south of Tulum. This ancient settlement was an important commercial and religious centre 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 trees". The site has been the subject of research that has revealed its role in the trade of products such as salt and honey.

During your visit to Muyil, you can explore a variety of Mayan structures and monuments. Among the most notable are the pyramids, such as the structure known as El Castillo, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding jungle. You can also see temples decorated with reliefs and sculptures representing Mayan deities. These sites are perfect for appreciating the sophistication of Mayan architecture.

One of the most fascinating features of Muyil is its connection to 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 with 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 peaceful atmosphere that is less crowded 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 country's culinary culture.

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

During these culinary experiences, you will learn about a variety of iconic Mexican dishes. Among the specialities you can learn to cook are classic tacos filled with roast beef, chicken or pork. You will also learn how to make fresh sauces 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 flavours and colours.

In addition to main dishes, many cooking classes in Tulum include the preparation of delicious traditional desserts, such as flan, tres leches cake, or buñuelos. Chefs will often share tips on how to use local and fresh ingredients, such as chillies, herbs, and spices, to bring out the authentic flavours of each dish.

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 bike excursion through the Tulum jungle, where you can ride along winding trails and discover hidden corners of this impressive ecosystem. During these tours, you will have the opportunity to visit several iconic sites such as the Gran Cenote, the Calavera cenote and trails that offer panoramic views of hidden beaches.

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

Las Palmas Beach is a true paradise on Mexico's Caribbean coast. This beach is characterised by its fine white sand, turquoise waters and peaceful, 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 Las Palmas Beach 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 spot for both beginners and more experienced surfers. Several surf schools and local guides offer lessons and equipment hire.

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 Paraíso, famous for its scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere, and Playa Akumal, known for its crystal-clear waters and the chance to swim with sea turtles.