11 tourist sites in Tulum that you must visit

12 November 2024

Lifestyle

Tulum is a unique destination in the Riviera Maya , where history and nature intertwine to offer unforgettable experiences. It is the ideal place for those seeking adventure and relaxation.

In this article we will take you to 11 must-see tourist attractions in Tulum.

Read on to find out why this Mexican paradise is a favorite of travelers from all over the world, and how you can make the most of your visit - get ready to be inspired!

This list of tourist attractions in Tulum has been taken from Tripadvisor, based on updated data provided by the platform.

The rankings are based on the opinions and ratings of travelers, the number of views of each page and the user's location.

This ensures that the recommended sites are truly popular and valued by visitors from all over the world.

1. Tulum Archaeological Zone

The Tulum Archaeological Zone is one of the most emblematic sites of the Mayan culture .

Located on a cliff facing the Caribbean Sea , this walled city was an important commercial port during the post-classical period.

Tulum played a crucial role in the exchange routes for products such as jade, obsidian and salt, connecting the Maya with other Mesoamerican civilizations.

As you tour the area, you will come across several structures of great historical significance, such as:

El Castillo: The most imposing building, used both as a lighthouse for Mayan navigators and as a religious temple.
The Temple of the Frescoes: This building houses colorful murals depicting Mayan deities.
The Temple of the Descending God: A structure in honor of a divine figure who appears in various depictions in the city.

Visiting hours for the Tulum Archaeological Zone are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and it is advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds and the heat.

Don't forget to bring biodegradable sunscreen and plenty of water, as much of the tour is outdoors.

2. Cenote Dos Ojos

The cenote s are natural freshwater wells formed by the collapse of limestone rock, creating entrances to subway river systems.

For the Maya, the cenote s were sacred, as they represented gateways to the underworld and essential sources of water.

The Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the most impressive in the region, known for its large system of underwater caverns. This cenote is perfect for activities such as:

Diving: Attractive for those who are certified divers, as it allows you to explore its depths.
Snorkeling: Ideal for those who prefer to observe marine life on the surface.

Entrance to cenote costs approximately $350 MXN, and is located about 22 km north of Tulum, accessible by car or guided tours.

3. Playa Akumal

Located about 30 minutes from Tulum, Plage d'Akumal is famous for being home to several species of sea turtles. Akumal, which in Mayan means "place of the turtles", offers a unique experience to swim with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

This beach is characterized by its calm and shallow waters, which makes it perfect for families.

To take care of turtles and their environment, it is recommended:

Do not touch or disturb them while swimming.
Use biodegradable sunscreen to avoid damaging the ecosystem.

4. Laguna Yal-Kú

If you visit Akumal Beach, then it is almost mandatory to go to Laguna Yal-Kú , located near Akumal and a few kilometers from Tulum, is one of the most peaceful and picturesque destinations in the region.

This place is a unique blend of fresh and salt water, making it a sanctuary for a variety of marine life, such as tropical fish and rays.

Yal-Kú is the perfect place for those looking for a relaxed snorkeling experience in crystal clear waters, without the hustle and bustle of crowded beaches.

At Yal-Kú , you can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as:

Snorkeling: The lagoon offers shallow, clear waters, ideal for beginners and families.
Swimming: Thanks to its peaceful environment, it is a perfect place to swim surrounded by nature.
Hiking: There are trails that allow you to walk around the area and enjoy breathtaking views.

The entrance fee is approximately $300 MXN, and it is advisable to arrive early to enjoy the calmness of the place.

5. Aktun Chen

Aktun Chen Park is a perfect destination for those who wish to explore the subway wonders of Tulum.

With its impressive cave system and subway rivers, this park offers a unique experience where nature and adventure meet.

Aktun Chen is located 30 minutes from Tulum and is an excellent place for those looking for a more active and less conventional experience.

In Aktun Chen, you can enjoy of activities such as:

Speleology: Exploration of caves full of stalactites and stalagmites.
Ziplining: For those looking for a touch of adrenaline while flying over the jungle.

Wildlife observation: Including local species such as monkeys, birds and reptiles.

6. Playa Paraíso

Named among the best beaches in the world, Playa Paraiso is the perfect destination for those looking to relax in an idyllic setting.

Its turquoise waters and white sand make it an ideal place to rest, swim or simply enjoy the Caribbean sun.

It is famous for its proximity to the Tulum Archaeological Zone , which makes it a popular stop for tourists.

Among the most outstanding activities at Playa Paraiso are:

Water sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, among others.
Hiking: Ideal for walking along the beach and enjoying nature.

7. Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote is one of the most accessible and family friendly in Tulum.

This cenote offers shallow crystalline waters, making it an ideal option for families with small children or for those who prefer a quieter experience.

It also has platforms to jump into the water and trails around to walk and enjoy nature.

Available activities include:

Snorkeling: Suitable for all ages.
Swimming: Ideal for cooling off in a natural environment surrounded by impressive rock formations.

The entrance fee is approximately $200 MXN, and it is located only 5 km from Tulum, which makes it easily accessible for those staying in the center.

8. Cenotes Sac Actun

The Sac Actun cave system, of which the cenote s are a part, is the largest known in the world, with more than 350 km of subway passages explored.

Sac Actun is much more than a cenote ; it is an intricate system of tunnels and caves that offer a unique experience for those who love underwater adventure.

The tour of Sac Actun includes:

Cavern diving: Activity that requires advanced certification.
Aquatic speleology: For those who are looking for a unique experience in the depths of the earth.

This cenote is a little farther away, and the tours have a cost that varies between $500 and $1000 MXN depending on the activities included and the duration of the tour.

9. Akumal Monkey Sanctuary & Rescued Animals

The Akumal Monkey Sanctuary is a sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of animals, mainly monkeys and other local species.

This refuge provides a safe home for animals that have been victims of illegal trade or mistreatment, and offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the importance of conservation and protection of local wildlife.

Activities include:

Controlled interaction with monkeys.
Educational tours to learn about conservation efforts in the region.

10. Reserve of Sian Ka 'an

Located south of Tulum, Sian Ka'an is one of the largest natural protected areas in Mexico and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Its name means "place where the sky is born" in Mayan, which reflects the deep connection that the Mayan culture had with this natural paradise.

Recommended activities include:

Boat tours through the mangrove channels.
Bird watching: The reserve is home to more than 300 species of birds.
Snorkeling in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef: One of the largest coral formations in the world.

It is important to mention that Sian Ka'an is committed to conservation and sustainable tourism, so visits are made in small groups and respectful of the environment.

11. Coba Archaeological Zone

The Coba Archaeological Zone is one of the most impressive sites of the Mayan culture and is located about 45 minutes from Tulum.

Cobá was a powerful Maya city, which flourished between the 6th and 9th centuries, and is famous for its vast network of sacbés (stone roads) that connected the city with other Maya settlements.

One of the main attractions of Cobá is the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, which, with its 42 meters high , is the tallest structure in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Other points of interest include:

The Group of Paintings: Structures decorated with frescoes depicting daily life and Mayan rituals.
The Sacbés : Ancient roads that connect Cobá with other sites, some of which can be traveled on foot or by bicycle.

The archaeological site of Cobá is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the best way to explore it is by bicycle or on the rental tricycles with a guide.

Cenote Gardens: the perfect place to live in Tulum

Cenote Gardens is an exceptional residential development that combines sustainability, exclusivity and a deep connection with nature, making it the ideal place for those who wish to settle in the paradise of Tulum.

Below, we explore the reasons why Tulum and Cenote Gardens are the perfect destination to live.

1. Privileged location: the best of both worlds

Within minutes, you'll have access to world-class restaurants, exclusive boutiques, art galleries and a lively nightlife, all without sacrificing the peace and privacy of living in the middle of nature.

Location advantages:

Proximity to downtown Tulum and the beaches.
Quick connection to the main tourist attractions of the Riviera Maya .
Access to services and cultural activities without losing the tranquility of the jungle.

2. A private cenote to reconnect with nature.

At the heart of Cenote Gardens is a private natural cenote , one of the jewels of the development.

Benefits of cenote private:

An ideal place to relax and refresh in crystal clear waters.
Direct connection with nature in a reserved and private environment.
A natural space that promotes physical and mental well-being.

3. Spacious residential lots with panoramic views

Cenote Gardens offers a wide range of residential lots designed to take full advantage of the panoramic views of the Mayan jungle.

With surface areas ranging from 130 m² to over 545 m², each lot is a perfect space to build your dream home, with the possibility of designing a modern villa, a traditional Mexican home or a unique architectural project.

4. Exclusive amenities and sustainability

Exclusive amenities are designed to provide an exceptional living experience while preserving the natural beauty of Tulum.

Jungle Spa: A wellness sanctuary surrounded by nature, with treatments inspired by the local flora.
Community garden: A space where residents can grow organic food, promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
Traditional Temazcal: An ancestral experience of purification and renewal, guided by local experts.
Co-working area: Spaces to work or study in a productive environment surrounded by nature.
Palapa Club: A social space for community events or moments of relaxation.
Wellness spaces: Areas for yoga, meditation and outdoor exercise.
Cenote Club: A private space for residents with outdoor showers, gazebo and pickleball court.

5. Commitment to sustainability

More than 70% of the development is preserved as green areas, which protects the biodiversity of the Mayan jungle and minimizes environmental impact.

In addition, the development promotes green building through the use of local materials and eco-construction techniques, ensuring that the homes are efficient and environmentally friendly.

Low building density to preserve local flora and fauna.
Eco-construction with sustainable materials and low environmental impact.
Private ecological drainage system for efficient water use and waste reduction.

Tulum: the perfect destination to live

Tulum has evolved from a renowned tourist destination to a coveted place to live.

The proximity to cenote s, Mayan ruins and the rainforest provides an environment that promotes physical and mental well-being, making every day an opportunity to reconnect with nature.

Cenote Gardens is the perfect place for those who wish to live in this paradise, offering an exclusive, sustainable lifestyle in harmony with the natural environment.

If you are interested in learning more about life in Tulum, we recommend you to read our other articles: