Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Tulum

Vanessa Z

Enjoy the outdoors safely: Always carry sunblock and water with you, as well as insect repellent for the mosquitoes. Wear comfortable shoes, boots, or trainers and light clothing, a swimsuit, and hat. To avoid crowded trips, plan your excursions on weekdays before 3pm — the earlier the better!

Ivette C

If you are staying at the Hotel Zone of Tulum, it is a good idea to rent a car to explore the area easily. Have a map on hand to calculate distances and know exactly where the interesting places are. If you are thinking about getting around by taxi, be sure to establish a rate for the day with your driver.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Ivette C

Tulúm is a little place that has a real magical charm all of its own. Surrounded by lush jungles, the best beaches, as well as plenty of intimate, romantic dining spots, and nice places to stay, it has all the right ingredients for a romantic vacation together.

Fernanda C

Tulum is one of the most beautiful and most laid back places in the world. Not only because of its great beaches and rich biodiversity, but also because of the town's overall eco-friendly concept. To me, Tulum is a magical place, surrounded by mystery, and I hope you'll experience plenty of this in the three days you spend here.

Vanessa Z

From the famous Mayan ruins — considered an outdoor museum of the INAH (National institute of Anthropology and History) — to the beautiful beaches and incredible cenotes; Tulum is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. Combine sunbathing with ancient archaeological sights in this unique destination, on the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Cancun International Airport serves Tulum and the wider Yucatan region. It’s around a 1.5-hour drive away.

Bus:

Buses from popular Yucatan destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Laguna Bacalar, and Merida all arrive into the main ADO bus station in the town centre. There’s also an ADO terminal close to the ruins.

Driving:

If arriving by car, travelers usually approach Tulum from the Carretera Cancun-Tulum/Chetumal road.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Tulum from overseas, see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Tulum is between October and December, when the weather is warm but not oppressively hot and hurricane season is over. Average daily temperatures this time of year are highs of 30 C/87 F and lows around 19 C/67 F.

Peak tourist season is January through March, and the rainiest months in Tulum are June, September and October.

Bicycle

Bicycles are a popular way to explore Tulum and are available to rent from plenty of places on the main drag. Avoid cycling during the peak hours of sunshine.

Taxis

Taxis are available to hail from the street or at two dedicated taxi stands in the town center, from which fares are fixed.

Colectivo

Colectivos are shared taxis that run frequently between the town centre and the beach. Jump into a cost-effective colectivo at the stop between Venus Oriente and Orion Sur.