Visit the Mayan Ruins in Tulum
Tulum, Mexico
Description
Added by Tori Marsh
Built on a bluff, this site is the only Mayan settlement on the Caribbean Sea. Spend the day walking around the ruins that one of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean!
About a two hour drive from Cancun, these Mayan ruins are one of the most visited in the Yucatan Peninsula. Although it is accessible to the public, most people go with tour companies! Although this isn't the most adventurous way to go, tour guides can really make this experience awesome. Most guides have an attachment to the ruins and are passionate about the history and the meaning of the structures. Popular tour groups include Adventuras Mayas and Experiencias Xcaret. If you feel like adventuring there alone, most taxies will bring you, and if you have a car - parking is very easy!
Historians believe that this Mayan site held 1,000 people, and ruins of their homes can be seen on the grounds! The most well known structure is El Castillo, or the lighthouse. This structure sits on a bluff overlooking the ocean and the rugged coast, and is the most photographed structure on the site.
As you might expect, this site has become extremely touristy. Expect large crowds, small children, and loads of venders. This isn't the most tranquil spot, but the history behind it is truly spectacular!
The ruins are open 7 days a week, 8am to 5pm. Entrance is $35-40 pesos per person, with an additional $30 pesos if you bring a video camera. Visitors can chose to walk the 1km journey from the parking lot to the ruins, or take a train for $10 pesos!
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Reviews
Absolutely beautiful ruins, it is a busy area but a great day trip for a picnic and a casual walk around a gorgeous area. We didn’t venture down to the beach because it was too busy, but we still loved the afternoon hours we spent sight-seeing! Worth a check out!
5.0
I'd definitely do this. The shoreline is beautiful and its a great opportunity to learn about Mayan history. We had a guide for this and were so glad we did!
5.0
I suggest going here wanting to learn about Mayan history. Finding a good guide or doing some research before hand is recommended. The beach has INCREDIBLE views, but the tides are a bit rough.
5.0
We took an ADO bus from Cancun, about 2 hrs ( 140 pesos) took a taxi to ruins from bus stop(60 pesos). Spent about 45 min admiring the ruins and reading the information about the history of the Mayans. The Tulum village was an important trade capital as other villages wanted sea products such as fish and coral. They built their temples on top of fresh water cenotes on a beautiful cliff above the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. After the ruins we rented an AirBnB for the night, crazy beautiful night life in Tulum after dark, you should stay for at least one night in this safe and fun small Mexican town of friendly people!
5.0
Situated on a bluff like the description says, but that’s about it. Good for families, older people that prefer paved trails and wheelchair access. Not need to spend more than 45min then just head to the beach
3.0
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