Tulum Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Ancient stone ruins by a coastal area with clear blue water and a distant shoreline.
A beach with a wooden staircase leading down to the shore, surrounded by rocks and palm trees.
A large stone structure with a stepped design, surrounded by a grassy area and palm trees.
Ancient stone ruins with a grassy pathway.
A weathered stone wall with ancient carvings and a small doorway.

Explore Mayan ruins, dive in natural sinkholes and relax on picturesque beaches in this enchanting Riviera Maya town.

Tulum is an enigmatic and scenic city best known for its fascinating ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Tulum’s ancient structures are among the most well-preserved Mayan ruins in the world. Learn about the Mayan people and enjoy the town’s spectacular tropical scenery.

The Tulum Ruins is a former Mayan fortress-city, which consists of several temples and castles with views of the sea. Gaze up at the magnificent El Castillo, which stands on a dramatic limestone cliff. In front of the castle is the Temple of the Frescos, which contains wall paintings depicting the Mayan’s spiritual beliefs. Head to the north side of the site to see some small altars and lovely views of El Castillo.

After exploring the archaeological site, relax on the Tulum Ruins Beach. Take photos of this beautiful cove’s white sands and sparkling waters against the backdrop of the Mayan ruins.

Swim, snorkel or go cave diving in cenotes, natural swimming holes once revered by the Maya as a source of water during dry seasons. Scuba dive through a cave system of jagged stalagmites, stalactites and other intriguing rock formations in the Gran Cenote or the Dos Ojos Cenote.

Bring the kids to the remarkable Xel-Ha Water Park. This enormous nature park, found a 15-minute drive north of Tulum National Park, features cenotes, jungles, lagoons and rivers. Snorkel among colourful fish, go kayaking and dive off the Cliffs of Courage. Get around the park by cycling or riding the convenient jungle train.

The temperature in Tulum is fairly consistent throughout the year. The months of October through December are the best times to visit, with the wettest weather occurring from July to September. Tulum is located in the state of Quintana Roo, 80 miles (130 kilometres) south along the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula from Cancún. Fly to Cancún International Airport and take one of the daily tour buses that depart for Tulum.

Find a mix of thrilling adventure and rich culture in Tulum.

Our guide on where to stay in Tulum

Find the best Tulum areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Tulum
Learn more about Tulum

Zona Hotelera

Travellers to Zona Hotelera praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Tulum Beach and Playa Paraiso.

Zama

If you're spending some time in Zama, Tulum National Park and Jaguar Park are top sights worth seeing.

La Veleta

Beaches and historical sites are notable features of La Veleta. You might consider stopping by Holistika Art Walk while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Tulum City Center

Historical sites and bars are notable features of Tulum City Center. You might consider stopping by Dos Aguas Park while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Villas Tulum

While Villas Tulum isn't home to many top sights, Cenote Calavera and Temple of Doom are some notable places to visit nearby.

Xambé

Xambé

4 out of 5
Avenida Central, Aldea Zama Tulum QROO
Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Tulum. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (118 reviews)
"Jdjdjd"

Reviewed on 20 July 2026

Xambé
Irie Tulum

Irie Tulum

4 out of 5
Av. Central Tulum QROO
Stay at this aparthotel in Tulum. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
9/10 Wonderful! (144 reviews)
"Nice clean property with a restaurant downstairs. Budget friendly option."

Reviewed on 26 July 2026

Irie Tulum
MIO Tulum Hotel Boutique

MIO Tulum Hotel Boutique

3 out of 5
Avenida Satelite Tulum QROO
Stay at this apartment in Tulum. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, airport pick-up service (surcharge) and cable TV channels. Popular attractions Tulum Mayan Ruins and Tulum ...
7.2/10 Good! (72 reviews)
"There is hair on my bed sheets that is not mine. The place is old and basic with a lot of mosquitoes and a dead cockroach. Room is dim and aircon is not cold. The link from the booking is also wrong. There is no “boutique” word on the actual site so it’s quite confusing. Oh yes, the band next door ..."

Reviewed on 27 Apr 2026

MIO Tulum Hotel Boutique
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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