Tulum in January: Weather and Festival Info 2024

Visiting Tulum in January offers a perfect escape from winter’s chill. Here’s our guide on what to expect on a January trip to Tulum.

As the New Year dawns and resolutions are made, there’s one decision you won’t regret: booking a trip to Tulum in January. While many are scraping ice off their windshields and commiserating about the terrible weather, you’ll be basking in the tropical paradise of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

January is a fantastic time to visit Tulum: the holiday crowds have faded, prices have dropped slightly and music festivals are in full swing. From sargassum-free beaches to EDM parties, Tulum knows how to entertain in January. Here’s what to expect when you travel to Tulum in January.

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Tulum Weather in January 

January is one of the coldest months of the year in Tulum but it’s still pleasantly sunny and warm: temperatures can go from 21°C (69°F) to 28°C (82°F) with humidity ranging at 78%. Temperatures rarely exceed 30°C (86°F) and it doesn’t get too hot. The evenings are nice and balmy, with temperatures dropping to around 20°C (68°F).

In January, the waters of Tulum (both cenotes and the Caribbean) average 79°F (27°C), the perfect temperature for swimming. At this time of the year, there are also lower chances of finding seaweed by the shore.

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Is There Rain in Tulum in January?

Tulum’s rainy season typically runs from June to November. However, due to Tulum’s tropical climate, rain can occur at any time of year. In January, rainfall is typically minimal, with only about 35mm spread over an average of six days. So, you can expect largely clear skies and pleasant weather during your visit.

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When is the Hurricane Season in Tulum? 

The hurricane season in Tulum runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is more humid and there is a higher chance of rain. Don’t be put off by the weather forecast though (it’s never accurate); even if it rains, it never lasts too long and chances are the sun will come out right after the rain. This fall for instance has been mostly sunny with very few rainy days.

If you do decide to visit Tulum during the hurricane season, there are plenty of things to do in Tulum that dosn’t involve going to the beach. You can hit the shops in town, chill in the many vegan cafes or visit the ruins and cenotes (where there’s shade).

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Is Tulum Safe During the Hurricane?

Yes, Tulum is generally safe during hurricanes, though precautions should still be taken. When a hurricane approaches, there will always be warnings and announcements on the news. Keep yourself informed about weather updates and heed any evacuation warnings issued by local authorities.

That said, the likelihood of Tulum experiencing significant devastation from a hurricane is quite low. When a hurricane or tropical storm hits, the power goes off frequently and the roads can get flooded, but other than that, there are usually no serious consequences. Having lived in the area for two years, I have experienced a hurricane or two but have never found them too dangerous.

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Best Things to Do in Tulum on Rainy Days

When the skies open up, head indoors to explore the town’s other diverse offerings. Tulum has so much to offer besides dreamy beaches and history-clad ruins. Here are some of the best things to do in Tulum on a rainy day;

Snorkel or Dive in a Cenote

Cenotes are natural swimming holes dotted all over the Yucatan Peninsula, and they provide for a unique experience. Cenote Dos Ojos, named for its two interconnected cenotes that resemble a pair of eyes, is the gateway to an extensive 82-kilometer submerged cave system. Consider booking this half-day tour to experience the wonders of Cenotes Dos Ojos and Casa Cenote.

Cenote El Pit offers a completely different experience. Its considerable depth, reaching 35-40 meters, reveals fascinating layers as you descend. Diving in these cenotes on rainy days feels like stepping into an otherworldly realm, making the adventure all the more thrilling. Reserve this tour if you are a certified diver.

Join a Food Tour in Tulum

There’s no better way to embrace the cold weather than by joining a food tour. Despite being a small, beach town, Tulum has quite the culinary scene, headlined by seafood restaurants, vegan cafes and gastrobars. Before embarking on the food tour, I suggest reading my guides on popular Mexican foods, including traditional Mexican antojitos (street food) and delightful Mexican desserts.

I went on this Mexican Cooking and Mezcal Tasting tour last year and highly recommend it! Under the guidance of our host, we learned a lot about traditional Mayan ingredients and cooking styles, and prepared a three-course meal together; a main course, and a dessert, all accompanied by salsa and freshly pressed tortillas.

Take a Yoga Class

On those rare rainy days in Tulum, joining a yoga class is the perfect way to embrace the tranquil vibe while staying dry. Many studios offer classes that cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced yogis, often in open-air settings that let you stay connected to nature.

Here are my two top recommendations;

• Holistika
• Om Collective Tulum

Wander Around SFER IK Art Museum

When the tropical showers hit Tulum, I recommend heading to the SFER IK museum for an immersive experience into the world of contemporary art. Constructed mainly from bejuco wood with traditional Maya artisan techniques, this building was designed specifically to blend in to the backdrop of the Tulum jungle.

Wander barefoot through the weaving corridor and bridges made of knotted vine-like wood and take in the permanent art collection created by world-renowned artists such as Ernesto Neto and Artur Lescher. There are also sacred Mayan plants and traditional masks on display. Entry: 200 MXN or US$10 (be sure to remove shoes at the entrance).

Visit a Mayan Village

Not many people know that Tulum actually lies in the heart of the Zona Maya. There’s a substantial Mayan population in Tulum, and many of them still speak their native tongue.

Consider a full-day Maya village tour to visit local communities who will share their customs and lifestyle with you. It will certainly give you a peek into the past and a greater understanding of the local people.

Experience a Temazcal Ceremony

Tulum is a great place to try the Temazcal, an ancient Mayan ceremony that involves cleansing negative energy from your body. Temazcal translates to ‘house of heat’. The ceremony is conducted in a hut where volcanic rocks are heated until the hut replicates a sauna.

Sit back surrounded by aromatic herbs, medicinal plants, and candles, and soak in the varying heat levels. It’s a spiritual and physical purification process traditionally performed by shamans. Book this authentic Temazcal session in Tulum.

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Tulum Holidays & Festivals in January

New Year’s Day 

The first day of the year can be a slow day since most Mexican families prefer to spend the day together and relax at home. Many businesses are closed on this day. However, there are several restaurants and bars across Tulum where you can soak in the New Year experience. On New Year’s Eve, expect fireworks on the beach. Casa Jaguar Tulum is a great spot to usher in the New Year.

Día de los Reyes 

One of the biggest Mexican holidays is Dia de los Reyes, celebrated on January 6th. It signifies the end of Christmas in Mexico. Most kids will receive candy and presents. You can also taste the “Rosca de Reyes”, a special dessert served to celebrate this day (there are small figures inside the cake, and if you get one, you’ll have to bring tamales to the next party).

Zamna

Tulum is famous for its musical festivals, raves, and parties, and Zamna is perhaps one of the most popular ones. Launched at the end of 2017, the concept-brand festival takes place annually in Tulum. 

It features performances by renowned artists such as Bedouin, Tale of Us, and Grammy Award-winning Black Coffee. One of the festival’s standout attractions is the “Afterlife” multi-sensory show. Admission prices for Zamna range from US$80 for early bird tickets to $1,996 for backstage passes.

Day Zero 

Inaugurated to mark the end of the Mayan calendar in 2012, Day Zero has since evolved into one of the world’s most transformative events. Held annually in the mystical jungles of Tulum, this festival merges the natural, mythical, and euphoric. 

Day Zero brings unique storytelling through powerful performances and stunning productions. Lasers pierce through ancient canopies and futuristic alien creatures blend with ancient Mayan themes. The captivating atmosphere encourages partygoers to experience space and time in novel ways. 

Tulum Cenote Festival 3.0

This festival is the epitome of electrifying celebration, a fusion of Tulum’s vibrant spirit and the pulsating beats of EDM. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Buuts Ha Cenote, Tulum Cenote Festival 3.0 lets you immerse in music, dance, and pure euphoria. It’s a defiant call to embrace the moment and indulge in the ultimate party experience amidst the mystical allure of cenotes. 

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Is There Seaweed in Tulum in January? 

No, Tulum seaweed season typically aligns with the humid, rainy months. January is a dry and cold month making it less ideal for seaweed to grow. But the seaweed season can be unpredictable, and sometimes you’ll find seaweed accumulated on Tulum beaches even outside of the seaweed season.

Known as sargassum, this brown algae originates from the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt. Seaweed floats on the ocean in large isolated formations without attaching to the ocean floor. Sargassum thrives in the warm waters of the Caribbean.

The algae possess buoyant ‘bladders’ that keep it afloat, preventing it from sinking and allowing it to form expansive mats on the water.

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When is the Tulum Seaweed Season?

The Tulum seaweed season typically spans from April to October. During this period, seaweed converges on Tulum’s beaches. However, the peak season usually occurs during the humid and rainy months between May and October, although the exact season varies from year to year.

But the sargasso season can be unpredictable: you can find sargassum sometimes even in October or March. Some months will see the beach completely covered in foul-smelling seaweed and the water turn a shade of brown; but some months the water returns to its original crystal clear condition.

Seaweed typically converges on Tulum’s coastline at the start of April. But in 2023, seaweed came as early as February forcing concerned parties to rethink their strategies towards the growing issue.

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Best Things to Do in Tulum in Seaweed Season

Seaweed season in Tulum may scare away many but if you’re the adventurous type, there are still plenty to do. Beyond its beaches, Tulum compensates with history-clad destinations and natural wonders. Here are the other things to do in Tulum in seaweed season;

1. Visit Mayan Ruins

The Mayan Ruins offer a chance to time travel, back to the ancient civilizations that used to exist here in Mexico. As you wander through these archaeological sites, marvel at the intricate stone structures that have existed for centuries. Here are the must-see ruins in Tulum:

Tulum Ruins

Found on rugged cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, these ancient Mayan ruins offer a glimpse into a civilization that thrived centuries ago. From the towering Castillo to the beautiful Temple of Frescoes, the structures here make you feel like you’re on sacred ground. The panoramic views of the turquoise waters below provide a stunning backdrop to this archaeological wonder. Read more about the ruins here.

Ek Balam

Unlike Tulum Ruins, Ek Balam offers a quieter experience, where you can immerse in the rich history and breathtaking beauty of ancient Mayan civilization without crowds. Ek Balam is home to well-preserved structures that date back over centuries. Among these, the towering Acropolis stands out, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle canopy. Read about Ek Balam ruins.

Coba Ruins

Unlike the Tulum Ruins, Coba retains an air of mystery and tranquility, with fewer crowds. At Coba, you will encounter temples, ball courts, and ceremonial plazas, with each step taking you back to an era when the Maya walked the grounds. Climbing the Nohoch Mul pyramid, one of the tallest in the region, was the highlight for me here. Read my guide to the Coba ruins.

2. Swim in Cenotes

Swimming in the cenotes of Tulum during seaweed season is a unique experience not to be missed; there are over 6,000 cenotes (underground natural sinkholes) dotted all over the Yucatan Peninsula, with many of them concentrated around Tulum. Regardless of the time of the year, the waters in the cenotes remain crystal clear.

Each cenote has a unique charm, from expansive open lagoons to intricate cavernous systems winding through the underground. The limestone cliffs surrounding these cenotes filter the water, ensuring unparalleled clarity year-round. Here are some of the best cenotes in Tulum;

Cenote Calavera

Just a brief 15-minute drive away from Tulum centro, you will find the enchanting Cenote Calavera. The sinkhole is found deep within the verdant jungle, offering a serene escape from the urban clamor. A part of the extensive Sac Aktun cave system, which spans an impressive 230.8 kilometers (143.4 miles), Sac Actun stands as the world’s longest underwater cave system.

What sets Cenote Calavera apart is its crystal-clear waters. While the option to descend via the wooden ladder is available, the real adventure lies in taking the exhilarating leap from the ledge. With depths plunging to 50 feet (15 meters), it is one of Tulum’s deepest cenotes.

Cenote Jardin del Eden

As one of the largest cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula and possibly all of Mexico, Cenote Jardin del Eden offers a remarkable underwater adventure. Its extensive underwater cave system makes it one of the few cenotes where scuba diving is possible.

Living up to its name, the cenote is a true Garden of Eden, featuring crystal clear, spearmint fresh water surrounded by thick, lush jungle. I highly recommend including Cenote Jardin del Eden in your Tulum itinerary for its unparalleled natural beauty and unique diving opportunities.

Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul, with its shimmering aqua blue waters and expansive shallow freshwater pools, is my favorite cenote in Tulum. Unlike the typical enclosed cenote, Cenote Azul features a collapsed cave ceiling, creating large, shallow pools that serve as excellent natural playgrounds.

Visitors can also explore short hiking trails around the area and discover tiny cenotes scattered throughout the jungle. For those looking to experience the wilder side of Tulum, Cenote Azul is a must-visit.

3. See Tulum Pueblo on Two Wheels

Tulum is divided in two main areas; the beach and the town (Pueblo). The two are separated by a scenic road winding through lush jungle. Tulum Pueblo is filled with boutique hotels, craft shops, restaurants, and yoga studios, all at pocket-friendly prices.

Touring Tulum Pueblo on a bicycle is an adventure in itself. There’s a dedicated cycling lane to keep you safe from the bustling traffic. Just keep an eye out for the occasional scooter or ATV whizzing by. You can also access the beach easily by taking the paved path along Avenida Cobá.

4. Watch Sunset at Kin Toh

Arguably the best spot for sunset in Tulum is at the legendary Kin Toh, AZULIK’s in-house restaurant made famous by their photogenic jungle views, large lounging net and treetop nest tables. Perched above the jungle canopy along the beach, these nests reveal unbelievable views of both the beach and jungle. AZULIK is one of the coolest treehouses in Tulum with waterfront location and rustic setting.

The food of course is the star of the show. Kin Toh is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jaime Coll, who specializes in Mayan-Mexican avant garde cuisine using local and organic ingredients. You can go for the 5-course tasting menu (about $135 per person); but if the menu is out of your budget, opt for the Sunset Experience at US$50 per person which includes one drink.

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Tracking the Seaweed Levels

There are several Facebook pages and groups dedicated to keeping travelers informed on the current status of Tulum sargassum. The seaweed situation changes now and then.

So, getting regular updates will help you avoid areas plagued with seaweed and ultimately keep an upbeat on your vacation. Here are some of the sites I continually check for these updates;

• Red de Monitoreo del Sargazo de Quintana Roo (this is a page so you don’t have to join it to see its updates.)
•  Sargasso Seaweed Updates Riviera Maya (This is a group, you must join before getting updates.)
• Sargassum Seaweed Updates (Cancun, PDC, Tulum) (Also a group.)

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Tulum Travel Tips to Beat the Heat

Despite being one of the coldest months, it can still get really hot at noon. If you’re not well prepared, a delightful trip outside can turn into a sweltering tango with the sun. Luckily, I have a couple of tips to help you beat the afternoon heat;

Hydrate Regularly

First things first: Hydration is key to a wonderful day of scouring the town. Tulum’s heat can sneak up on you especially if you aren’t used to it. Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere. This will ensure you have fluids ready anytime you need them.

A reusable water bottle is also good for the environment. I have been using the Philips GoZero Everyday water bottle for the last two years and it has served me right. The BPA-free, straw water bottle is my companion while outside on a hot day.

Note: Mexico’s tap water isn’t safe for drinking. Most hotels provide large jugs of water for you to fill up your bottle.

Wear Breathable Layers

On a hot day, fabric choice is key. Ditch synthetic materials like leather and opt for light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Lightweight fabrics offer a cooling embrace that synthetics simply can’t match. Their natural fibers allow air to circulate freely, wicking away moisture and keeping you comfortably dry, while also preventing that dreaded sticky feeling.

Do Water Activities

Tulum is blessed with an abundance of natural cooling spots on a hot day. Spend your afternoons swimming in the cenotes – these magical freshwater sinkholes are refreshing on a hot day. Tulum has several sinkholes where you can go for a swim or snorkeling. There are plenty of choices, but one to consider is this tour with lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off in Tulum.

If you prefer the ocean, Tulum has countless beaches with modern amenities and resort staff ready to train and guide you on your snorkeling adventure. Tulum’s beaches in January are largely sargasso-free, so you should be able to swim without worrying about skin irritation or stench. If you’re wondering where to stay with amazing beach views, check out my list of best beachfront hotels in Tulum.

Use Modern Gadgets

To help keep me cool during those sweltering afternoon walks, I rely on the TriPole Misting Fan. The portable fan is rechargeable and has a 40ml water tank for the misting function. Its functionality and portability make it a reliable gadget.

Plan Your Day Wisely

Lastly, plan your activities wisely. Visit the ruins of Tulum in the morning, as early as 8 am, when temperatures are milder. Not only will you beat the heat, but you’ll also avoid the tourist rush and score some incredible photo ops with softer, golden-hour lighting. Hit the beach early morning or late afternoon for a dip in the sea when exposure to the sun isn’t as severe.

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Traveling to Tulum in January: FAQ

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Packing for Tulum in January

Packing for Tulum in January is all about versatility and simplicity. To seamlessly transition from exploring cenotes to fine dining experiences, your packing strategy needs to be tip-top. Given Tulum’s perpetually warm climate, you should pack light, focusing on essentials that prioritize comfort and style.

From breezy beachwear to chic evening attire suitable for dancing under the stars, this ultimate Tulum packing list ensures you’re prepared for every adventure. Here’s what to pack for Tulum in January;

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Straw bag for the beach
• Mosquito repellent
• Snorkel mask and fins
• UPF50+ rash guard swim shirt
• Water-resistant dry bag
• Quick-dry towels
• KEEN covered sandals
• GoPro for waterproof photos/videos
• Quick-dry t-shirts

Be sure to read my guide on what to pack for Mexico for more details.

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Further Reading on Tulum

I hope you’ve found this guide on Tulum in January to be useful. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions.

For those who are planning to see more of the town, check out other articles I’ve written on Tulum:

• Best Time to Visit Tulum
• Tulum Itinerary Ideas
• How to Avoid the Tulum Seaweed Problem
• My Guide to Kaan Luum Lagoon
• My Guide to Ek Balam Ruins
• My Guide to Coba Ruins
• My Guide to Cenote Calavera
• My Guide to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
• How to Get from Cancun to Tulum

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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