Top 5 Things to do in Tulum
Each Mayan city had a specific purpose, and Tulum was no exception. This bustling seaport on the Yucatan Peninsula, trading heavily in turquoise and jade, was the only Mayan city located on the coast. Tulum is one of the best-preserved Mayan sites in Mexico and is rumored to have some of the world’s best magical energy. It remains a mystery today how these Mayans could have developed such an advanced civilization.
The main temple, El Castillo, constructed of limestone, was designed and engineered by astronomers to align perfectly with the sun on the summer solstice. It’s Tulum’s largest and most imposing structure dedicated to Venus (Kukulkán) looming 40-feet high on a rocky bluff with commanding views of the ocean. Sunrise on the solstice shines a beam of light through a series of windows in this impressive temple. What an incredible phenomenon for a place founded over 1,600 years ago without advanced astronomy techniques. One may wonder what it is they knew that we don’t.
Now that you are here (or planning on getting here) what are some activities you want to make sure you carve into your itinerary? While this list is by no means exhaustive, here are my personal Top 5 Things to do in the magical seaport town of Tulum.
1. EXPLORE TULUM RUINS
The ancient city of Tulum protects her secrets well. She was, and still remains, surrounded by sea, cliffs and imposing limestone walls. A glimpse into the world within cannot be reached without bowing, as you shuffle your way through the entrance tunnel, in reverence and honour to her wise Mayan creators.
A visit exploring the Tulum ruins is a must from anywhere in the Yucatan.
With Tulum’s meteoric rise on the tourist scene, the 13th-century ruins can get a bit crowded. So visit early in the day for the best chance to snap that envy-inducing Instagram shot without pushing your way through a crowd of visitors.
A great option for visiting the Tulum ruins is a highly rated personalized tour which includes a walking tour of the ruins, air-conditioned transport, water and snacks. Learn more here, just mention Rudy sent you! 🙂
2. WALK AROUND TULUM CENTRO
The main town or centro of Tulum is filled with cute boutique shops, cafes, ice cream palours, eateries and landmarks with a laid-back eclectic and magical vibe.
Be sure to explore Centro in the daytime and at night to capture all her beauty and energy.
3. RELAX AT A BEACH CLUB
When visiting Tulum, there are several fantastic beach clubs where visitors have access to sandy beaches, swimming pools, oceanfront restaurants, beach bars, sun loungers, water activities and more.
My top recommendation is Cinco Beach Club. *Our guests have special deals at this location.
4. EXPLORE TULUM HOTEL ZONE
Tulum’s hotel zone has a hippie vibe and is a great escape to have some ice cream and shop! Tulum is a popular shopping destination too. Boutique shops sell souvenirs, traditional Mayan clothing, and even some eclectic & bohemian Western designs.
There are many beautiful murals and artwork that encompass the energy of Tulum here. Take your time to soak it all in.
5. VISIT A CENOTE
Over 66 million years ago, an asteroid over 10 kilometers in diameter struck the Yucatan Peninsula in one of the largest impact structures recorded on earth at the Chicxulub crater.
As a result of this impact over time, several hundred, even thousands of sinkholes are formed. A “cenote” is a natural sinkhole created where a cave ceiling has collapsed, a window to this spectacular world.
You are literally surrounded by hundreds of cenotes and dozens within a 10km radius of where you will be staying. There are cave (covered) cenotes and open cenotes like Yak Kin (2km away). This cenote is my favourite place to relax, swim and nap on my lounge chair
For the best cave cenote, it is Dos Ojos, also known as Cenote Two Eyes. (2.5km away) It is a pair of connected underwater caves that are part of the Sac Actun cave system in Tulum, Mexico. It is one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world, with the deepest known underwater cave passage at a depth of 118 meters.
Enjoy snorkeling and those with their diving qualifications, may dive the cave system. Either is a beautiful experience. If you visit Tulum, make one of these cenotes a must.
Posted by:
Rudy Lim
