Tulum Introduction
Nestled between the white sands of the Caribbean Sea and the lush tropical jungle lives and breathes one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Mayan port cities: Tulum.
In southeastern Mexico, alongside the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka’an and settled on the
Caribbean coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula, lies an opportunity for endless exploration.
The coastal area lined with mangroves and pristine, crystal-blue waters attracts travelers
from around the world. With hundreds of natural limestone swimming holes, historical
sites, unique gastronomy, and ethereal beauty all around, Tulum is the tropical paradise
that awaits every voyager and welcomes them home.
MEZE
Tucked inside the jungle of Tulum Beach and
located inside a gorgeous white hacienda, your
first steps inside Meze Tulum will allude to the
exquisite beauty of the Aegean Islands. Come
prepared to share not only delicious foods
cooked in their open-concept kitchen, but the
most memorable moments with friends and
family in an intimate dining setting.
Choose to attend one of their lively events or
opt for a private dining room to enjoy fresh,
seasonal, and local ingredients of the day.
Must-haves included executive Chef
Alexandros Gkoutsi’s family recipes, included
“Yaiyai’s Cake,” as well as all signature Meze
plates and cocktails (including the notable
Nopal Marg
HARTWOOD
Each visit to Hartwood is unique as the menu
changes daily, based on the collection of both
sea and land’s daily local harvests. New and
exciting tastes are discovered in each meal, as
every plate is served with fresh ingredients
also found in Yucatan markets and farms.
Cooked by open fire on the grill or within their
handmade wooden oven, each sea-to-table
delicacy is an upscale culinary experience in a
private and entertaining atmosphere.
Hartwood is proudly vegetarian/vegan friendly
and relies entirely on solar power energy and
sustainable fishing methods to support
healthy aquatic life. All waste is regenerated
into organic compost used to revive local
mangroves and interior farming
GITANO
Nestled in the Tulum jungle, Gitano Tulum is certain to arouse all of your senses. With 50+
Oaxacan Mezcals to choose from and hand-pressed juices concocted with local seasonal
fruits and herbs, every mixed drink reminds you that you’re in paradise. Gitano’s party on
Friday nights is a must for those looking for a good time. And don’t forget their must-try
signature cocktails: Jungle Fever, Kisses in the Car, and the Gitano Margarita.
Gitano Beach is a hidden gem located in a private beach cove. Cool off with a dip into the
turquoise waters between drinks or bathe under the sun in the pristine white sands of the
Riviera Maya, and stay long enough to let the musical entertainment of the night take you
away along with the rhythm of the palm trees and the intimacy of the sea
CHECKPOINT
The best pizza in Tulum lives at Checkpoint, where chef Alexandros Gkoutsi (co-founder of Meze)
pours his love for the culinary arts and his talent into every creation.
As great pizza should be accompanied by great drinks, make sure to select an Aperol Spritz or
another delectable cocktail from their selection—or, choose from the selection of Italian wines
that pair perfectly with each meal. Live music mixed on vinyl, and sourdough pizzas grilled in an
authentic Italian oven combine for the simple, mouth-watering delight.
ARCA
Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza at Arca is known to create some of the most progressive and
gastronomic plates in all of Tulum. Open wood-fired cooking is at the heart of the menu,
where every meal is prepared with seasonal ingredients and based on the roots and
traditions of the bold Mexican flavors. Each plate is crafted to be shared —a way of eating
that no culture knows better than Mexico.
BURRITO AMOR
With an extensive burrito menu, gourmet salads, and all kinds of delicious breakfast options,
Burrito Amor aims to craft the best clean eating experience in all of Tulum. Their superfoodpacked menu is not only Paleo, vegan, gluten/dairy/grain/egg-free friendly, but aims to share
their true love for real food and to honor the way it should always be served: fresh, healthy, and
full of flavor.
Take-away burritos are served in banana leaves and all packaging is recyclable and biodegradable, reducing their environmental impact as close to neutral as possible. It’s located downtown and is a great option if you’re staying in an Airbnb.
Take-away burritos are served in banana leaves and all packaging is recyclable and biodegradable, reducing their environmental impact as close to neutral as possible. It’s located downtown and is a great option if you’re staying in an Airbnb.
ASIAN BODEGA
Asian Bodega is located in Palma Central—an
elevated food truck park that is a short walk
from the heart of Tulum Pueblo (downtown).
Choose from a menu of exceptionally fresh
Thai-inspired fusion cuisine that you can
enjoy in a relaxed, unpretentious
atmosphere. With ample parking nearby,
music, a playground for kids, and lots of
room to sit and hang out, a good time for all
is guaranteed.
RAW LOVE
Indulge in acaï bowls, healing elixirs, and an
abundance of gourmet raw superfoods all
while enjoying a serene beachfront view.
Located on the grounds of the Ahau hotel,
Raw’s entire menu is gluten-free, sugar-free,
and vegan.
Enjoy delicious vegan eats made to maximize
the nutritious value of each ingredient and
take a moment to appreciate the colorful,
cozy decor accentuated by lush greenery,
hammocks, and wooden accents. Make sure
to experience La Ven a la Luz upon your visit!
KITCHEN TABLE
After its establishment in 2015, this contemporary and entirely locally-sourced restaurant
(located on the jungle side of Tulum’s hotel strip) quickly rose its claim to fame as one of the
most authentic Tulum restaurants. Its natural jungle charm makes it the perfect venue for those
who desire an intimate experience and for the foodies who appreciate a creatively crafted menu
that relies on the seasonal availability of ingredients.
Choose between a wide selection of contemporary Mexican plates with a hint of Portuguese
influences— following a culinary directive similar to that of Hartwood—alongside several vegan
and gluten-free options.
DEL CIELO
A healthy, tropical breakfast heaven awaits at
Del Cielo Tulum. Between their homemade
granola, fresh sandwiches, tartines, raw
vegan cakes, organic coffee, and juices, as
well as an array of gluten-free products, their
selection is guaranteed to please all. Located
in downtown Tulum with stable WiFi, Del Cielo
is also a great place to sit down with a coffee
and catch up on some work.
TAQUERIA HONORIO
The breakfast tacos one yearns for in their
dreams can be found at just about 10 driving
minutes from the Hotel Zone at Taquería
Honorio. Only open until 1:30 pm (and often
selling out before), this coveted yet simplified
breakfast location offers an incredible variety
of pork and beef tacos, as well as their
reputable Cochinita pibil, a braised pork dish
that originates from the Yucatán. Honorio is
widely regarded as the best authentic tacos in
Tulum, and also featured on Netflix !
NEGRO HUITLACOXE
Negro Huitlacoxe is born from the love for small details, which with dedication become
something big.
The restaurant is the culinary experience of chefs Carolina Noya and Alonso Lara who honors the roots of traditional Mexican cuisine, reminding locals and foreigners alike of the delicacies that this country has to offer using traditional nutritive ingredients like Corn and Huitlacoxe
This is a small place located in Tulum Downtown but harmonious and with a mix of traditional and original recipes such as quesabirrias, round tamales with tomato chicken or rajas poblanas, rib quesadilla, birria or Huitlacoxe taco that you can enjoy with authentic drinks such as horchata water created in its corn version, tepaches or tejuino. You won’t be disappointed to discover this small space full of culture.
The restaurant is the culinary experience of chefs Carolina Noya and Alonso Lara who honors the roots of traditional Mexican cuisine, reminding locals and foreigners alike of the delicacies that this country has to offer using traditional nutritive ingredients like Corn and Huitlacoxe
This is a small place located in Tulum Downtown but harmonious and with a mix of traditional and original recipes such as quesabirrias, round tamales with tomato chicken or rajas poblanas, rib quesadilla, birria or Huitlacoxe taco that you can enjoy with authentic drinks such as horchata water created in its corn version, tepaches or tejuino. You won’t be disappointed to discover this small space full of culture.
LA BRASA
La Brasa is a unique place located in the center of Tulum where you can find signature cocktails
and a wide menu full of grilled options for everyone! Only open for dinner from 5:00 pm to
1:00am.
From Guacamole to rib eye everything is grilled. If you are in Tulum, this is a great place to meet your friends and enjoy the atmosphere and food.
From Guacamole to rib eye everything is grilled. If you are in Tulum, this is a great place to meet your friends and enjoy the atmosphere and food.
Tulum is famous for lots of its different aspects but also for
gastronomy surfing on the Mexican/Contemporean style.
Dare to try as many places as possible and surprise yourself
with this one of a kind cuisine.
SFER IK AT AZULIK
Inspiration comes to those who seek, and
at Sfer Ik, it can be found.
Explore this multifaceted creative space
designed for innovative art inside of
AZULIK Uh May (located at a short
distance from the world-renowned Tulum
hotel, AZULIK). Inside, discover some of
the world’s most creative visual artists
and their interdisciplinary expositions
that have created a unique way to
experience modern art.
Words do no justice to the meditative and
breathtaking experience that comes
from the unique architecture you will
find inside Sfer Ik. Walk barefoot across
the different floor textures and admire
the beauty of the natural
materials our world has to offer. It’s an
experience that will leave you in pure
awe.
ART WALK IN HOLISTIKA
Schedule an art walk at Holistika and step into a world of infinite artistic possibilities that are
sure to inspire. Let your creative mind flow as you walk through the jungle of art structures,
inspiring murals, and appreciate the organic sounds of nature.
Created in collaboration with the Tulum Art Club, Holistika aims to generate awareness for the
environment and the interconnectedness of the jungle with the very air that we breathe. While
you’re on-site, take a moment to explore the range of wellness and fitness activities they offer,
such as yoga and therapeutic sound healing
LA VEN A LA LUZ
Built by South African artist Daniel Popper, La Ven a la Luz (translating into ‘come into the
light’) eloquently contrasts both nature and architecture as the elegant sculpture invites
visitors to marvel at her beauty of both human and nature-inspired forms.
Popper, renowned worldwide for his massive figurative sculptures, crafts his work with
wood, steel, and rope. This piece is no different, as her hands elegantly open her heart
space leading into an archway filled with lush green plants (illuminated on the inside at
night) for onlookers to walk through.
Originally built as an inaugural celebration for one of the most popular arts and culture
festivals in Mexico, Art With Me.
SUNSET NESTS AT AZULIK
Unplug, unwind, and experience the magic
of Tulum’s most coveted sunset
destination: AZULIK Kin Toh. Experience a
new world where electricity is replaced by
candlelight and the digital realm is out of
reach.
Designed in 2003 for the environmentally
conscious traveler and known as one of
the most remarkable hotels worldwide, the
surreal aesthetics and mesmerizing
architecture of the modern treehouse
restaurant, Kin Toh, are only half of the
magic. Reserve a private nest for an
intimate night out and enjoy the best spot
across the Tulum strip to enjoy the sunset
and dine under the starlit sky.
These circular nests are built with
transparent flooring above the trees.
VISIT THE RUINS
The 13th and 14th centuries were times of great power for the Mayans who once resided in
Tulum. When the occupation of the Spaniards led them to abandon their majestic homes,
the 784-meter wall made of limestone that overlooks the Caribbean sea and encloses the
site on three sides—serving once as fortification for the town —was left to ruin. While
Chichén Itzà is a renowned architectural sight of its own, if time is of an essence and you
would like to have a lightened version of the history, then the Tulum ruins (located slightly
north of the Hotel Zone) offer an incredible historical experience. Reserve about 2 hours
for a full, guided visit.
THE HAND AT HOTEL HUN
Float over the jungle at Hun Tulum and cross over the architectural masterpiece known as “The
Hand,”; a vast wooden structure shaped intricately into an outreaching arm and open palm.
Hotel Hun is an eco-luxury boutique hotel located on the jungle side of the hotel strip in Tulum,
with beach access just across the street. The Hand is the perfect location for drinks, enjoying a
sunset, and simply indulging in memorable moments. Non-hotel guests are welcome to reserve
their visit in advance.
CASA MALCA
Famously known to have been once owned by Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, this hotel
is known for its impressive art and daydream-worthy location. Bought in 2012 by renowned
New York art collector and gallery owner Lio Malca, the mansion has since been transformed
into a boutique hotel and filled with valuable pieces from his Malca’s personal collections,
including works from Keith Haring, KAWS, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Marion Peck.
Day visits are permitted even if overnight reservations are not in your immediate plans. The
art across the hotel is frequently rotated to encourage guests to return and enjoy various
creative works.
Tulum has plenty of activities and awesome places to see, unique sculptures and
decorations inspired in nature and created for your enjoyment.
SPEND THE DAY AT GITANO BEACH
Unplug, unwind, and experience the magic
of Tulum’s most coveted sunset
destination: AZULIK Kin Toh. Experience a
new world where electricity is replaced by
candlelight and the digital realm is out of
reach. Designed in 2003 for the
environmentally conscious traveler and
known as one of the most remarkable
hotels worldwide, the surreal aesthetics
and mesmerizing architecture of the
modern treehouse restaurant, Kin Toh, are
only half of the magic. Reserve a private
nest for an intimate night out and enjoy
the best spot across the Tulum strip to
enjoy the sunset and dine under the starlit
sky. These circular nests are built with
transparent flooring above the trees.
SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS
Expanding your comfort zone is made accessible to everyone through the Ko’ox shark
diving experience. Whale sharks are extremely intelligent animals who favor warmer
areas and tropical waters, hence their presence in the Yucatán peninsula.
Through an experience that will open your mind to the crucial balance these animals hold
within the ecosystem, one quickly learns these gentle giants don’t present any danger to
humans.
Tours happen every day from June to September: full equipment rental is provided, with
the option of requesting private and personalized tours.
GET SCUBA CERTIFIED
Explore the depth of some of the world’s most impressive cenote formations and marvel at the
beams of sunlight that pour in from above. Ko’ox also offers open water freediving, technical
deep-sea training, cave diving, and more. The natural beauties along the Caribbean coast of
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, including Tulum, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, and Cozumel, are
the perfect conditions for beginners and advanced divers alike.
All packages include location entrance fees, transportation costs, full equipment, and even
GoPro rentals for epic underwater footage.
PARTAKE IN A TEMAZCAL
One of the most popular ceremonies in
Tulum is to experience a traditional
Temazcal—an ancient Mayan ritual
designed to eliminate toxins from the
body through steam.
The rebirth ceremony is held in a small
dome and led by a temazcalero, who
pours water onto hot volcanic coals
centered in the sweat lodge until the
desired healing temperature is reached.
A shaman animates the ceremony with
ancient prayers and chants, leading to
close with silent, individual meditation.
The Spanish conquest led to the
destruction of most temazcal structures,
but a few were preserved by the natives
who continue to honor this Mayan
culture.
VOLUNTEER WITH MAKERS GLOBAL
Of all valuable things one can do with their time, few take enough of it to make a difference.
Leaving Tulum better than you found it is made easier with Makers: a non-profit organization
with teams based in multiple locations around the globe, including Tulum, Cancun, and Playa
del Carmen.
With the objective of influencing society to take on the positive changes that humanity needs, Makers Tulum organizes beach cleanups, reforestation initiatives and donates relief efforts to local causes—including community kitchens providing meals to those rendered jobless following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the objective of influencing society to take on the positive changes that humanity needs, Makers Tulum organizes beach cleanups, reforestation initiatives and donates relief efforts to local causes—including community kitchens providing meals to those rendered jobless following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
YOGA AT SANARA
The luxurious beachfront Sanará Studio is designed to redefine your yoga experience.
Talented teachers from all over the world provide exceptional teachings and nearly every
mode of yoga, movement, and sound healing therapies are offered daily.Make sure to
benefit from the use of complementary studio props, freshly juiced elixir shots, and
filtered water to rehydrate and rebalance after your session. Private sessions, SUP yoga
paddling, and private sound healing sessions are also accessible to guests and visitors of
all ages alike.
EXPLORE THE CENOTES
Pronounced “say-no-tey”, a cenote is an
underground cave resulting from the
collapse of limestone bedrock that causes
the exposition of natural groundwater. In
other words: a natural sinkhole where the
ceiling of the cave has collapsed.
Cenotes hold a valuable spiritual
significance as they were commonly used
for water supplies by the ancient Maya, who
also believed they were passages to the
underworld. Cenotes are the most coveted
attractions when visiting Tulum for
activities ranging from swimming,
snorkeling, freediving, picnicking, and
more. It is important to remember that you
are required to shower before your arrival
as to limit the contamination of the natural
water that fills the bedrock.
CENOTE CALAVERA
As one of the closest cenotes to Tulum town, a dip at Cenote Calavera does not disappoint.
Unlike many cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula, Calavera is unique because it’s not
covered, making it an incredible swimming experience for those who appreciate basking
in the sunlight.
Three holes provide access to the natural water, including the main entry as well as two smaller holes in the rock which are wide enough to allow one person at a time to reach the water. A great location for freedivers, snorkelers and tourists alike, who will discover from underneath that the 3 holes together appear to form the shape of a skull (or a calavera, in Spanish).
Three holes provide access to the natural water, including the main entry as well as two smaller holes in the rock which are wide enough to allow one person at a time to reach the water. A great location for freedivers, snorkelers and tourists alike, who will discover from underneath that the 3 holes together appear to form the shape of a skull (or a calavera, in Spanish).
DOS OJOS CENOTE
As one of the preferred locations for divers and snorkelers, Dos Ojos is dubbed as the
underwater haven and located only slightly north of Tulum. The crystal waters and tranquil
beauty are bound to leave you breathless. The natural formations of the stalactites (icicleshaped mineral formations that hang from the ceiling) elevate the bedrock’s natural beauty and
make an incredibly unique ecosystem for bats, fish, iguanas, and other jungle creatures.
Exclusive sections require tour guidance, so do not hesitate to reserve one upon your arrival for
the full experience.
Tulum is famous for having thousands of kilometers of
underground rivers all connected together. Every day
new cenotes are discovered, just try to find the one you
like the most
BE TULUM
Be Tulum is a beachfront, adults-only luxury
property with an excellent location near the
end of the Tulum Beach Hotel Zone. The
design-conscious boutique hotel is inspired
by natural materials and offers 64 luxurious
suites, including private pools,
outdoor/indoor showers, and personal
hammocks so that you can experience
ultimate relaxation tucked between the
jungle and white sands by the sea.
Modern comforts include air-conditioning,
wifi, and 24-hour electricity (which is not
always a given in this area). Guests can also
enjoy a dip in the infinity pool, beachside
yoga, delicious local foods at the restaurant
(accompanied by a raw bar and grill), a wide
mezcal selection, and an upscale spa across
the street.
NOMADE
Also a beachfront luxury hotel, Nomade is located in the Hotel Zone next to Be Tulum and
promises one of the most down-to-earth, connected experiences in all of Tulum.
Nomade’s weekly offerings of sacred fire rituals, cacao ceremonies, sound healing events,
and ancient Mayan healing treatments will help you create memorable moments with the
special people you’re traveling with. Choose between spacious, elevated boho-chic tents,
rooms, suites, private villas, or even treehouses that best suit your relaxation needs and
benefit from A/C and 24h electricity connection. Nomade also makes a viable effort to
cover their carbon emission with reforestation activities alongside local initiatives to
encourage sustainable forest management.
CASA MALCA
Step inside the lobby to one-of-a-kind paintings, contemporary sculptures, and luxury furniture
belonging to some of the most renowned artists and designers. Once known worldwide as Pablo
Escobar’s mansion, Casa Malca now offers 71 rooms for those seeking a unique beachfront stay
embedded in art culture and history.
AIRBNB IN ALDEA ZAMA
If you’re looking to rent an Airbnb, Aldea
Zama is likely your best bet. Located in
between Tulum Town and the beach,
Aldea Zama offers quicker access to the
beach road than any other neighborhood.
It’s upscale development, safety and
proximity to the beach make it a great
option for anyone looking for an
alternative to beachfront hotels.
AIRBNB IN TANKAH
Unique and only place where you can find a beach front apartment or house in Tulum.
Tankah bay is located 20 minutes away from the hotel zone of Tulum and offers peace,
exclusivity and amazing ocean views on the Caribbean with a gorgeous reef.
This is the perfect place for a luxury vacation on the beach in Tulum but in a quieter area.
AIRBNB IN LA VELETA AND REGION 15
While Tulum’s Hotel Zone is always in high
demand, opting for an Airbnb or other rental
location in La Veleta or Region 15 is ideal for
those seeking the local experience.
Situated about a kilometer southwest from
Tulum Pueblo (downtown), a variety of
accommodations can be found at your
fingertips and at more reasonable prices
than Aldea Zama. Car, ATV or scooter rentals
are the recommended options for
transportation to the beach.
RADHOO
Lush, mystique luxury are the three words
that best describe Radhoo Tulum’s 14
suites, each enveloped by nature and
juxtaposed around a dream-worthy tropical
pool. Complimentary yoga classes every
Friday, massage treatments, a poolside
bar, 24h A/C, and a sultry decor makes the
Radhoo property the ideal adult-only
location for those seeking ultimate
serenity on the jungle side of the Hotel
Zone.
AIRBNB IN HOLISTIKA
If you are more into a Yoga/Holistic way of life
you would love Tulum in general but specifically
the Holistika area. Known for its famous hotel
called as the name of the area where you can
practice yoga and get through the art walk in
the middle of the jungle.
Located in west Tulum Town, Holistika is a
peaceful place for digital nomads to stay and
enjoy their freedom, with plenty of coffee shops
and coworking places. You’ll find plenty of
wellness options in this area and get connected
to nature.
HABITAS
Inspiration flows freely at Habitas Tulum where art, wellness, music, and interconnected
moments are at the heart of every detail. A luxury, bohemian-inspired beachside hotel
with upscale tents that are either facing the ocean’s sunrise or nestled in the jungle are
designed to immerse you into the beauty on both sides of Tulum’s nature. Enjoy locallysourced dining, live music events, reliable electricity, an oceanfront pool, and incredible
beachfront sunsets night after night, all with close access to Tulum’s main strip.
PANAMERA
This oceanfront property is the answer for
those who seek an experience as equally
welcoming as it is intimate and meaningful.
Panamera is a lifestyle boutique hotel also
located along Tulum beach, hosting 14 rooms
as well as a large restaurant and beach club.
The Distrito Panamera—the district
encompassing both sister hotel Lamat and a
second restaurant—hosts regular culinary
events, DJ disco nights as well as yoga and
meditation classes.
LA VALISE
Also tucked between the luscious jungle trees
and the beach’s white sands, La Valise hosts 11
exceptional rooms and an intimate atmosphere
that is unmatched across Tulum. Each spacious
suite is exotically furnished, equipped with
luxury linens, decorated with uniquely curated
works from local artisans, and gives barefoot
access to either a breathtaking infinity pool or
the Caribbean Sea.
Approximately a kilometer north of the Sian
Kaan natural biosphere, this location is highly
desired by couples and those seeking an
exceptional getaway.
This is only a taste of Tulum wonders of locations to
stay, there is an extensive choice for everyone, don
‘t
hesitate to get lost on Airbnb and you will find the
perfect magical location!
BATEY MOJITO
As one of the oldest mojito bars in Tulum,
Batey’s leaves its mark in the jungle
nightlife scene with its innovative
cocktails and incredible live music.
Sugarcane juices are pressed to order in
the iconic Volkswagen bug that sits on
site and is renowned across all of the
Tulum.
THURSDAY AT CASA JAGUAR
Reputed as the best Thursday nightlife experience in all of Tulum, Jungle Parties at Casa
Jaguar are the audiophile’s dream. DJs from around the world visit the multi-faceted
bohemian venue weekly and turn Thursday dinner soirées into jungle parties under the
stars.
FRIDAY AT GITANO
Gypsy Disco Fridays at Gitano
are for indulging in deep sounds,
cherished connections, and
memorable eats. Enjoy
signature cocktails and
delicacies from the menu—each
inspired by the freshest colors
and textures of Mexican culture
—before stepping under the
disco ball lights.
SATURDAY AT PAPAYA PLAYA
Experience jungle parties at
their finest every Saturday at
Papaya Playa Project. Every full
moon, the luxury beachside
resort holds one of the largest
and world-renowned nightlife
experiences. Amazing guest
artists and DJs animate your
dancefloor encounters and
create unforgettable memories.
Everyday in Tulum is a vibe,
many famous places gather Tulum
people around to have a great moment around a party, live
music, shows and plenty of experiences you can enjoy while
staying here
VALLADOLID
A small and charming city right in the heart
of the Yucatán peninsula, Valladolid is a
popular destination for those desiring to
visit some of the major nearby ruins
(including Chichén Itzá, Ekʼ Balam, as well
as Cenote Ik Kil).
While we’d recommend renting a car for
the drive to the town, local bicycle rentals
will allow you to explore the many coffee
shops and restaurants lining the quaint
cobblestone streets. A plethora of cenotes
are also located nearby, including the
sunlit and picturesque Cenote Suytun as
well as Cenote Xcanche (located inside the
grounds of Ek’ Balam).
CHICHEN ITZA
Chichén Itzá is a historical complex of preserved ruins located about two driving hours
outside of Tulum. While ranked as one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico
today, it is also a sacred site in Mayan history.
The most popular attraction, the Kukulkan pyramid, gained worldwide attraction following its nomination as one of the 7 Wonders of the World (alongside the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, and the Colosseum, amongst others).
From the ancient stone carvings to even the number of steps in the pyramid, all of its details have great significance in Mayan culture and are sure to astonish—especially if you stay long enough to catch the evening light show.
The most popular attraction, the Kukulkan pyramid, gained worldwide attraction following its nomination as one of the 7 Wonders of the World (alongside the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, and the Colosseum, amongst others).
From the ancient stone carvings to even the number of steps in the pyramid, all of its details have great significance in Mayan culture and are sure to astonish—especially if you stay long enough to catch the evening light show.
BACALAR
Quiet, tranquil, and authentically local Yucatán vibes sit just to the south of Tulum. While the
heavy touristic presence, artisanal boutiques, and nightlife activities are near non-existent,
Bacalar offers an unmatched romantic serenity.
Though the nearest beach is far, Bacalar is best-known for the Laguna de Siete Colores (or Laguna Bacalar, also known as the Lake of Seven Colors)—a clear-watered lagoon that reflects in numerous shades of blue. Choose your means of exploration ranging between stand-up paddle, kayak, or horseback riding and take the time to enjoy what the unplugged life, tucked away in the jungle, truly has to offer.
Though the nearest beach is far, Bacalar is best-known for the Laguna de Siete Colores (or Laguna Bacalar, also known as the Lake of Seven Colors)—a clear-watered lagoon that reflects in numerous shades of blue. Choose your means of exploration ranging between stand-up paddle, kayak, or horseback riding and take the time to enjoy what the unplugged life, tucked away in the jungle, truly has to offer.
AZULIK UH MAY
Discover how art, nature, and architecture coexist in
a space that cultivates creativity like no other. In the
heart of the Mayan Jungle, AZULIK Uh May offers an
unmatched meditative experience, charming
visitors on the regular with ethereal artwork
expositions and architecture.
The environmentalist and self-taught architect Jorge
Eduardo Neira Sterkel (known simply as Roth)
incorporates renowned artists in the stunning art
gallery. The space also includes a fashion and design
lab, an arts and crafts school, and a recording studio.
Those who observe closely will notice how not a
single tree was removed during construction but
rather embedded into the structure. Visits are
barefoot and require a reservation.
COBA
Coba is an important archeological Mayan site located just about 30 minutes away from Tulum
taking the Avenida Coba that leads all the way to Coba and the ruins from the Hotel Zone in
Tulum. Coba means ‘waters stirred by the wind’ in Mayan language, that’s due to the ruins
surrounded by two large lagoons. You can visit the complex by renting a bicycle for the day and
hang around this marvelous site and learn about its history.
It is partly unexcavated so it keeps the site authentic and surrounded by nature and plenty of
structures to discover.
Tulum is surrounded by plenty of archeological sites and small
towns to visit. From Lagoons to wonders of the world such as
Chichén-Itzá you
’ll never get enough of it and will need to
come back to follow on your trip to discover this magical
culture and places.
