Tulum Itinerary: How to Spend 3 to 7 Days in Tulum
Planning a short trip to Tulum? Here’s the perfect Tulum itinerary, whether you’re spending 3, 5 or 7 days in Tulum.
Having first visited Tulum in 2008, I have seen it grown from a fishing village into a boho beach destination popular with hippies, yogis and digital nomads alike. Tulum may no longer be that quaint pueblo, but it has retained a jungly setting, with large swathes of wilderness surrounding it. Besides the beach, there’s a multitude of interesting spots to explore in and around Tulum: mysterious cenotes, secluded lagoons, and Mayan ruins that have been tumbled and shaped by time.
For those who are visiting Tulum for the first time, I’ve designed this Tulum itinerary for you to experience the beach town in its entirety. In this guide, I’ve included recommendations on where to stay, the best Tulum restaurants, and the best things to do in Tulum in 3 to 7 days.
Table of Contents
- The Ultimate Tulum Itinerary
- Our 3-Day Tulum Itinerary
- Our 5-Day Tulum Itinerary
- Our 7-Day Tulum Itinerary
- Tulum Travel Guide
The Ultimate Tulum Itinerary
How Many Days in Tulum?
Many people assume that a trip to Tulum revolves around the beach. That’s true, only to a certain extent. There are so many things to do in Tulum beyond the beach – such as swimming in hidden lagoons, exploring ancient Mayan ruins and snorkeling in pristine cenotes – that you’ll need at least a week in Tulum to experience the highlights.
For those who are short on time, I have designed a 3-day Tulum itinerary that will give you a taste of what the beach town has to offer. I have also included a 5-day Tulum itinerary that includes day trips to Coba and Akumal, and a 7-day itinerary that will bring you further afield to the famous Chichen Itza.
Tulum Town vs Beach
Tulum is split into two main areas: Tulum Beach and Tulum Pueblo (town); and it takes approximately 10 minutes to get from one area to the other. There are two main roads that link the beach and town – Avenida Coba and Avenida Kukulcan – both of which you can easily navigate on bicycle or car. If you’re worried about safety in Tulum, I would suggest staying on the beach.
While Tulum Beach has become overpriced (with pretentious vibes), Tulum Pueblo has largely remained local with taquerias and artisan shops lining the main avenue. The pueblo might not be the most attractive place, but it is definitely much more budget-friendly than the beach. I recommend staying in Tulum pueblo if you’re on a tight budget, but if you’re looking to splurge on cool places with beach views, check out my guide to the best beachfront hotels in Tulum.
Our 3-Day Tulum Itinerary
- Day 1: Tulum Beach + SFER IK
- Day 2: Tulum Ruins + Cenotes
- Day 3: Kaan Luum Lagoon + Holistika
Download my Tulum itinerary on Google Maps.
How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.
Tulum Itinerary Day 1: Tulum Beach
After a long journey, spend your first day in Tulum relaxing on the beach. I’ve been living in Mexico since 2021 and can safely say that Tulum beaches are some of the best in the Riviera Maya. Beaches in Tulum are gloriously wide, with powdery fine sand and spearmint turquoise water (and even pretty big waves sometimes). They’re not usually overcrowded like in Playa del Carmen or taken up by massive all-inclusive resorts like in Cancun.
According to Mexican law, all beaches in Mexico are public; but many of beach hotels in Tulum charge exorbitant fees to use their lounge chairs. Most beach clubs require a min consumption of US$25-50 per person on food/drinks. It’s ridiculous how overpriced Tulum beach has become, so I suggest bringing your own mat and snacks and heading to one of these free public beaches instead. The most popular stretch of beach in Tulum is Playa Paraiso, a hot favorite among locals and visitors alike.
NOTE: Depending on when you’re visiting, there may be sargasso seaweed on the beach. Since 2011, masses of sargassum seaweed have washed up on the Caribbean coastlines. Scientists chalk it up to increased runoff of agricultural inputs and sewage from the Amazon River in Brazil as well as warming water temperatures. Read about the Tulum seaweed problem.
Explore SFER IK TULUM
After chilling on the beach, head to the SFER IK contemporary art museum, located along the beach road, to admire some truly unique modern artwork. 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). They’ve also opened up another SFER IK in the village of Francisco Uh May, 45 minutes from Tulum Beach. The venue is bigger and more innovative than ever, and best of all, it’s never crowded.
Visit the Ahau Sculpture Park
Further down the beach road is the Ahau Tulum Sculpture Park, recently built to give a better home to the hugely popular Ven a la Luz sculpture. The 10m-tall giant wooden sculpture, depicting a woman, was first created by the South African artist Daniel Popper in 2018 as part of a festival. Today, it’s become an icon of Tulum and has definitely gained Insta-fame. Find out where the top Instagram spots in Tulum are.
Previously, visitors had to line up for hours to take a photo here; so it was moved to its current location in the Ahau Tulum Sculpture Park. Ven a la Luz is the centerpiece in this sculpture garden, but more art installations are slowly being added. They are all made with wood and other natural materials, representing human’s delicate relationship with nature. The park is actually on the beach at the Ahau Tulum Resort.
Enjoy Streetside Tacos in Town
As the sun sets, head to Tulum pueblo to enjoy some streetside tacos. The streets of Tulum pueblo come alive in the evening, and it’s great for strolling around and stopping for street tacos and cheap local food. Head to the intersection of Avenida Satélite and Avenida Tulum (the main drag) that’s always bustling with activity.
Of all the competing food trucks lined up on the curbside, Aca Tacos de Canasta draws in the longest lines. This simple stall, sporting a bright yellow banner, is known for its tacos de canasta (steamed tacos) topped with huevos revueltos (scrambled eggs), chicken mole (a rich savory sauce), or chicarron (pork marinated in adobo). As they steam, the tortillas absorb the flavors and colors of the fillings.
There are also some excellent spots in town to enjoy fresh seafood tacos at an affordable price. Ola Taco is my favorite place in town for fresh seafood tacos! With playful turquoise interiors and a palapa-roofed garden, this casual, simple taqueria serves the best seafood tacos in Tulum in my humble opinion. You get to feast on fresh Baja style shrimps, char-grilled octopus and Marlin fish al pastor style on warm handmade black-corn tortillas.
Tulum Itinerary Day 2: Explore Tulum Ruins
Start day 2 of your Tulum itinerary bright and early at the Tulum Mayan ruins. This ancient site is considered one of the most important Mayan ruins in Mexico as it has the rare advantage of a waterfront location. It sits high above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, with different shades of blue as its backdrop.
Thanks to its strategic location, Tulum proved to be one of the most powerful city-states during the 13th and 14th centuries. However, shortly after the Spaniards began their occupation of Mexico, the ancient Mayas who once called this majestic site their home abandoned it.
Read my guide to the Tulum ruins for more tips and info.
💡 Entry: 85 MXN (US$4.25); Gates open at 8 AM, but the lines can be long so I recommend arriving an hour earlier. You can also join a guided tour.
Wander around Mystika Tulum
Right by the Tulum ruins is the new museum, Mystika Tulum. It’s a one-of-a-kind sensory experience, designed to take you on a journey through large-format photographs and multi-sensory installations. This spectacular venue has behind the brilliant mind of its founder Pepe Soho, one of the most recognized Mexican photographers. The place is small and the entrance fee is higher than local museums, but those traveling with kids would love it.
💸 Entry: 450 MXN (US$22.5) for adults, 270 MXN ($13.5) for kids under 12. Mon-Sun 9am-6pm
Cool off at Gran Cenote
After a sweaty day at the ruins, it’s time to cool off at a cenote (natural sinkhole)!
When a deadly asteroid slammed into the sea floor off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula 66 million years ago, it created over 6,000 fresh water sinkholes and caves called cenotes. The ancient Mayans used these groundwater pools as sacred wells and performed offerings and spiritual rituals here. Today, these cenotes are open to the public for exploring, swimming, and scuba diving.
The most popular cenote in Tulum (also my favorite) is the Gran Cenote, a gorgeous sinkhole filled with clear turquoise-colored waters, partly open to the sky and partly under a cave. But as it’s so popular, it can get crowded here. Entry is 500 MXN (US$25) and includes use of snorkeling gear and life vest.
💸 Entry: 500 MXN (US$25) for adults, 250 MXN ($12.5) for kids under 12. Mon-Sun 9am-6pm
Make a Splash at Cenote Calavera
Closer to the Tulum pueblo is Cenote Calavera, a fun spot where you can do cliff-jumping! At 50-feet (15 m) deep, this is one of the deepest cenotes in Tulum. Cenote Calavera translates to mean “Skull Cenote” and it gets its name from how it looks like from above: a skull! The cenote has three openings: a big one where most people jump into the waters from (representing the mouth), and two smaller ones above it (representing the eyes). From above, the three openings together form the shape of a skull.
It’s said that the ancient Mayans used Cenote Calavera as a cemetery, where remains of more than 100 bodies have been found — earning it the nickname, Temple of Doom. Cenote Calavera has long shed that past identity and its water has been cleaned up thoroughly; so don’t worry, you won’t be swimming amongst human bodies!
💸 Entry: 300 MXN (US$15) for adults, 150 MXN ($7.5) for kids under 12. Only cash is accepted! Mon-Sun 9am-6pm
Catch Sunset from a Nest 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. [Check out AZULIK here.]
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 only one drink.
Tulum Itinerary Day 3: Go Off the Beaten Path
Swim at Kaan Luum Lagoon
I’ve saved my favorite spot for your last day in Tulum! Just a 15-minute drive from Tulum pueblo is one of the best kept secrets of Tulum. Kaan Luum is a stunning circular lagoon with shimmering waters that alternate between baby blue and dark indigo. This little-known spot has shallow swimming areas (great for those traveling with kids!), sparkling clean waters and mud that’s known to have healing powers.
Come before 12pm – mid day seems to be the time when locals pour in – and you’ll have the place to yourself! Swing on the rainbow-colored hammocks and climb the lookout tower to get a picture-perfect view from above – it’s a slice of Tulum that you’ll want to keep to yourself. Read my guide to Kaan Luum Lagoon. Also, you can join this intimate Kaan Luum and Cenote tour, where you’ll explore Kaan Luum and two stunning cenotes. Enjoy a traditional Mayan meal and convenient round-trip transportation from Cancun. This extended tour also offers leisure time at Playa Paraiso in Tulum, with pickup and drop-off in Cancun included.
💸 Entry: 300 MXN (US$15), 100 MXN ($5) for kids under 12, and extra 100 MXN (US$5) for drones.
Do the Art Walk at Holistika
On the drive back to Tulum town, make a stop at Holistika in La Veleta. A wonderful stress-free zone in the jungle, Holistika is a magical retreat center with breathtaking architectural designs. One step through the portal at Holistka and you feel like you’ve entered a new dimension. Its jungly space is dotted with amazing treehouses, art sculptures, workshops and yoga studios.
Holistika offers a free art walk in the jungle. Wander through a curated collection of clay sculptures and surrealist paintings commissioned by Holistika and Tulum Art Club, all gracefully integrated among the trees. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate creativity and delve into the boho-chic ambiance of La Veleta.
Join a Mezcal Tasting Dinner
On your last night, book a mezcal tasting dinner and end your Tulum trip with a blast! (Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave, similar to tequila but it’s got a smoky taste that I love.) Airbnb has this interesting mezcal tasting dinner party experience that you can book and enjoy in a private jungle home in Tulum. It includes a 3-course dinner cooked on the fire paired with tastings of five artisanal mezcals.
For a simpler (and cheaper) alternative, check out this mezcal experience hosted by one of Mexico’s all-star craft cocktail experts. You’ll learn the basics of mixology, including some useful principles of making agave-based cocktails. Then, you’ll get hands on and creative with the ingredients, making your mezcal cocktail following a suggested recipe.
Our 5-Day Tulum Itinerary
If you have more time, I highly recommend planning 5 days in Tulum so you get to experience the less-visited ruins and cenotes that are more atmospheric and authentic. You’ll also get to have more time to wander around Tulum pueblo in the evenings, eating street food, checking out bougie restaurants or experiencing Tulum nightlife.
- Day 1: Tulum Beach + SFER IK
- Day 2: Tulum Ruins + Cenotes
- Day 3: Kaan Luum Lagoon + Holistika
- Day 4: Coba Ruins + Cenotes
- Day 5: Akumal
Download my Tulum itinerary on Google Maps.
How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.
Tulum Itinerary Day 4: Coba Ruins
The next day of this Tulum itinerary will bring you to the lesser-known but equally impressive Coba ruins. Located a short 45-minute drive inland from Tulum, Coba ruins receive far fewer tourists than Chichen Itza and has pyramids that can be climbed. Towering over the thick foliage, Nohoch Mul is the tallest pyramid in the entire state of Quintana Roo.
Only partially complete in its excavation, Coba remains a rugged structure that peaks above the emerald trees to reveal the true remoteness of its setting. Scientists believe that more than 90 percent of the Mayan ruins in the Yucatan remain hidden. Make sure you wear a good pair of shoes, as it’s a steep climb up (120 steps) to the top of the pyramid!
As the Coba ruins cover a huge area, we recommend either renting a bicycle to cycle around the archaeological site yourself or hiring a bicitaxi (tricycle) with a driver to bring you around. You’ll find both rental options within the archaeological site itself. The bicycle rental costs 40 MXN ($2) for an hour and the bicitaxi rental costs 120-190 MXN ($5-10) depending on route. Consider booking the Tulum & Coba Ruins with Cenote Swim tour from Playa del Carmen.
💸 Entry: 120 MXN (US$6) per person and 60 MXN ($3) for kids under 12; parking costs 50 MXN ($2.5) for the day.
Swim at Nearby Cenotes
No visit to Coba would be complete without swimming in the refreshing cenotes nearby. Just a mere 10-minute journey from the ruins lie three exhilarating cenotes:
All three cenotes are cave cenotes, entirely enclosed caves with a ground-level entrance. The crystalline waters below teem with vibrant fish, while above, the echo of bat wings adds a touch of mystique. Entrance to any of these three wonders will only set you back 100 MXN, a small price to pay for a glimpse into Mayan lore.
Party at Papaya Playa Project
In the evening, head to the Papaya Playa Project, one of best beach clubs in Tulum where you can dance the night away with sand between your feet and firedancers and electronic music in the backdrop. The beach club features famous DJs and great music – and it stays open until 3-4 AM. Once a month is the legendary full moon party, which is the biggest of its kind in Tulum.
Gitano is another sexy spot for mezcal cocktails under the stars. Set under a thatched canopy in a stylish jungle-like venue, Gitano attracts a more laidback and mature crowd. Read our Tulum nightlife guide for more ideas on where to party in Tulum.
Tulum Itinerary Day 5: Akumal
On the last day of your Tulum itinerary, drive 15 minutes north of Tulum to the quiet beach town of Akumal, where you can actually swim with turtles just off the beach. All year round, loggerhead and green sea turtles can be seen swimming and feeding in the bay. As it’s protected by the reef, Akumal Bay boasts calm waters and plenty of sea grass that keep the turtles coming.
Unfortunately, it’s no longer possible to go snorkeling on your own (trust me, we tried) at Akumal. It’s mandatory to join a snorkel tour to see the turtles and it costs around 500 MXN (US$25) per person. A guide will take you in small groups to snorkel off the beach and into the reserve (part of the sea that has been cordoned off). Sightings of turtles are almost always guaranteed. Here, you can book a Private Snorkeling experience with sea turtles at Akumal Beach.
Visit the Akumal Ecology Center
To learn more about Akumal’s fragile ecosystem, plan a visit to Centro Ecologico Akumal. It is a non-governmental organization that focuses on sustainability issues and improving the ecosystem in Akumal. They do research, education and protection of the sea turtles.
The center has several exhibits on reef and turtle ecology. They offer a four-week volunteer program focused on protection, conservation, and research of female sea turtles, their nests and hatchlings.
Snorkel in the Unique Yal-Ku Lagoon
Right by Akumal town is Yal-Ku Lagoon, a unique inlet from the ocean that has some of the best snorkeling in the Riviera Maya. What makes it special is that it contains a mixture of fresh and salt water and is home to an impressive variety of marine life including sea turtles, tropical fish and manta rays. It’s the best snorkeling I’ve experienced along the Riviera Maya coast! Here, you can book a private experience featuring an encounter with Akumal’s sea turtles and snorkeling in the colorful fish-filled waters of Yal-kú Lagoon. Enjoy a personalized adventure exploring these stunning natural wonders.
Most of the lagoon is 5 to 15 feet deep and there are rocks where you climb on and rest. Look out for starfish, parrot fish, blue tangs and queen trigger fish, among other Caribbean species. Surrounding the lagoon is a sculpture garden with bronze statues that you can explore.
💸 Entry: 270 MXN (US$13.5) per person and 200 MXN ($10) for kids; life vests are mandatory. 50% off if you book tickets 21 days in advance.
Enjoy the Food Truck Park
After a busy day in the water, spend your evening chilling at the lively food truck park, Palma Central just off Avenida Tulum. A popular and lively gathering spot for locals, Palma Central is a hive of activity and surprisingly untourist – there’s always something going on here, whether it’s Salsa Tuesdays (where you can learn and dance salsa for free), live music or DJ spinning. On weekends, you’ll also find artisans selling jewelry and handicraft. This is one of our favorite spots in Tulum to hang out as a family!
There are around 15 food trucks here serving street grub from around the world. The Asian food is not the most authentic, but it’s pretty affordable and curbs my cravings. The burgers and pizzas here are really good and you can get giant Micheladas (beer with tomato, Worcestershire sauce and lime) at a good price too. Read Tulum food truck reviews.
Our 7-Day Tulum Itinerary
If you’re planning a week in Tulum, prepare to venture further to explore the wilder side of Tulum. You’ll also have the chance to visit the world-famous Chichen Itza ruins.
- Day 1: Tulum Beach
- Day 2: Tulum Ruins + Cenotes
- Day 3: Kaan Luum Lagoon + Holistika
- Day 4: Coba Ruins + Cenotes
- Day 5: Akumal
- Day 6: Sian Ka’an
- Day 7: Day Trip to Chichen Itza
Download my Tulum itinerary on Google Maps.
How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.
Tulum Itinerary Day 6: Sian Ka’an Biosphere
Day 6 of this Tulum itinerary will take you into the wild and untamed Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Wildlife lovers and those who seek adventure and go off the beaten path will love this place! Because of how remote it is, not many people venture to this spot, as we promise you it’s worth it.
At just a 45-minute drive from Tulum center, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Mexico. Covering an extensive area of approximately 5,280 square kilometers (2,040 square miles), the massive reserve is made up of a huge array of ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to mangroves and marshes. It serves as the habitat for a diverse array of species, including the rare black-handed spider monkey and the West Indian manatee. If you’d prefer to avoid the hassle of planning logistics, booking a day tour to Sian Ka’an from Tulum is definitely a worthwhile option.
Explore Muyil Ruins
To get to Sian Ka’an, you’ll first need to drive or take a bus to the little-known Muyil ruins. This site doesn’t receive even a quarter of the visitors that the Tulum ruins receives; in fact, most people have never heard of the Muyil Ruins. But it’s worth a visit, especially if you like the whole Indiana Jones experience of exploring Mayan ruins that have been hidden under layers of foliage and not a single person in sight.
If you don’t have your own transport, book the Tulum Sian Ka’an Muyil Ruins Boat Eco Tour: a 6-hour small-group experience starting with a self-guided tour of Muyil ruins and a boat ride through Sian Ka’an’s scenic lagoon.
Float in the Sian Ka’an Canal
At the Muyil ruins, you’ll need to follow the boardwalk to reach the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. The scenic hike on the boardwalk takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, if you go leisurely. Halfway through the 500-meter boardwalk stands an observation tower. This somewhat precarious tower offers a bird’s eye view above the jungle canopy, but please be cautious when climbing it.
Continuing on the trail, you’ll eventually reach the docks when you can catch the boat into the Sian Ka’an canals. The boat journey navigates through two picturesque lagoons and ventures into a narrow canal, where the gentle current allows you to float along crystal-clear and stunning turquoise waters. This experience is relaxing and refreshing, especially after a brief yet perspiration-inducing trek through the hot and humid jungle.
Please note that this boat excursion through Sian Ka’an is not a guided tour, don’t expect the boatman to talk to you about the sites along the way. You can of course ask questions and they’re usually to answer them. We highly recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel to see the fish and crabs living among the mangroves. For a full-day adventure (with a certified guide), book this boat tour.
Tulum Itinerary Day 7: Chichen Itza
We’ve saved the best for the last! Today will be a long day, so start bright and early. If you leave Tulum at 7am or even earlier, you might reach before the tourist buses arrive and experience Chichen Itza without the crowds. Alternatively, book this Chichen Itza & Yaxunah Early-Access Tour, that will make sure you’re the first at Chichen Itza and see it before others enter.
Chichen Itza is one of the country’s most celebrated Mayan archaeological sites. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular sites in the Yucatan. The pre-Hispanic city was one of the most important cities of its kind — and it’s easy to see why, from its impressive pyramids and intricate carvings.
About a 2-hour drive from Tulum, Chichen Itza is located inland in the state of Yucatan. The massive archaeological site is surrounded by thick jungle, without any hotels or towns nearby. Around 2.5 million people visit it each year, so prepare to jostle with the crowd. I recommend hiring a guide at the entrance, so you’ll get detailed explanations of each structure and get a better idea of how Chichen Itza was like during its heydays. Consider booking this affordable 1.5-hour guided walking tour if you’re short on time.
Wander around Valladolid
After a sweaty day at Chichen Itza, I recommend heading to the nearest town, Valladolid for some respite from the sun and a hearty lunch. Listed as one of Mexico’s pueblos mágicos (magical towns), Valladolid is lined with cobblestoned streets, pastel colored houses and old colonial buildings converted into art galleries or indie boutiques. It also has a large Mayan population — you’ll see plenty of locals walking around in traditional dress and lots of the restaurants serving typical Mayan dishes.
For a proper meal, head to the hugely popular Meson del Marques (a favorite among locals and visitors). Overlooking the main square, this restaurant is a fixture in Valladolid’s culinary scene. It’s a great spot to try Yucatan regional dishes like panuchos de cochinita (fried tortilla with pulled pork). Read more reviews here.
One of the best things to do in Valladolid is to wander around town aimlessly. It’s such a pleasure strolling along the streets, admiring the pastel colored houses and wondering what surprise is in store around each corner. The most photogenic street in Valladolid is the Calzada de los Frailes, which has been tastefully restored with indie boutiques, museums, and small cafes. Be sure to stop at Idilio Folklore Cervecero, a stylish restaurant that offers a small museum and beer tasting sessions.
Tulum Travel Guide
How to Get to Tulum
By Air
The new Tulum airport is now open, along with the Mayan Train. Currently only Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus fly there from other parts of Mexico, but in 2025 several international airlines will start running their services from the US to Tulum.
Cancun airport is the second closest airport to Tulum and it’s only a 1.5-hour hour drive away (or 73 miles/ 118 km away). Flying into Cancun from the US is really affordable. You can fly from New York to Cancun for as little as $300 return (4.5-hour flight). Flights from Los Angeles to Cancun are slightly more expensive around US$350 return (4.5-hour flight).
Flying from Europe to Mexico is also affordable, especially from London and Madrid. We took a direct, one-way flight from Madrid to Cancun on Iberojet for just $350. You can get really cheap deals off season.
By Rental Car
If you want to explore Tulum and the nearby cenotes and ruins, it’s best to rent a car. Having a car allows you to explore freely at your own pace and do several day trips from Tulum.
Driving in Tulum is convenient and it’s relatively affordable; the average price ranges from 600-800 MXN (US$30-40) per day, including insurance and taxes. I always use DiscoverCars.com for car rentals worldwide, as they’ve consistently given me the cheaper rates and best services.
Search for car rentals in Tulum!
By Shuttle
Tulum is just a 1.5-hour drive from Cancun airport; read our guide on how to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum. I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportations. They are reliable, responsive, and provide door-to-door service.
If you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, you can easily split the cost: US$110 one-way.Shared shuttle services to Tulum are a good option for solo travelers who don’t want to spend a lot yet seek a convenient service. You can pre-book your ride in a shared shuttle vehicle for 740 MXN (US$37) per person one-way. Whenever I travel alone, I always book a seat in a shared shuttle with Cancun Shuttles.
By Bus
Taking a bus is the cheapest option. ADO has regular departures from Cancun Airport to Tulum throughout the day. I’ve traveled in ADO buses many times and can safely say the bus company is top notch. Their buses are clean, safe, and air-conditioned. Book your bus tickets here for 340 MXN (US$17) each way.
Best Time to Visit Tulum
The best time to visit Tulum is during the dry season between December and April, when there is virtually no rain. I recommend visiting Tulum at the start of the season (November to early December) when prices are lower.
The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast is also affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Try to avoid Mexican holidays as surcharges are common around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.
Where to Stay in Tulum
Hotels in Tulum Beach are definitely much more expensive than those in Tulum Pueblo. If you really want to stay on the beach, prepare to fork out at least $200/night for the eco-chic hotels. Please make sure to book only responsible properties (my suggestions are below).
Budget travelers should base themselves in Tulum Pueblo, which is packed with backpackers hostels. There’s no shortage of modern, affordable apartments for digital nomads and families in La Veleta and Aldea Zamara areas.
Check out my complete guide on where to stay in Tulum.
Budget: Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins
The super stylish and rustic bungalows at the 4-star Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins are great for those on a budget. In this secluded spot, you’ll stay in rattan cottages and sleep under mosquito nets, or cuddle with your loved one in a geodesic dome and stare at the stars by night. Check rates here.
Midrange: Huaya Camp
Escape into tropical foliage and get out into nature without ever leaving Tulum’s downtown. This cute Camp is on the edge of Tulum Centro and has a lush setting and gorgeous design of the Tulum beach hotels – at half the price. Check rates here.
Luxury: The Beach
If you’re looking to spoil yourself, this stunning eco-hotel impresses with lavish boho-chic decor and the beach is on your doorstep. Side note, yogis will love it here as there are free yoga classes in the morning! Check rates here.
BONUS: Azulik Tulum
The most famous hotel in Tulum Beach has to be Azulik. This one-of-a-kind beach resort was a pioneer in creating Tulum-style architecture with nature-inspired design. The adults-only hotel features tree houses made from Mexican royal ebony, Khatalosh, and an open-concept providing views of the lush jungle and the Caribbean Sea. Check rates here.
How to Get Around Tulum
By Car
Most of the best things to do in Tulum are outside of town, so I recommend renting a car. Traffic along the beach road can be bad at times, but having a car allows you to do several day trips from Tulum on your own.
Driving in Tulum is convenient and it’s relatively affordable; the average price ranges from 600-800 MXN (US$30-40) per day, including insurance and taxes. I always use DiscoverCars.com for car rentals worldwide, as they’ve consistently given me the cheaper rates and best services. Search for car rentals in Tulum here!
By Colectivo
Budget travelers can also catch colectivos (shared minibus or minivan-like vehicles). The colectivo fares are cheap (less than US$1), and you just need to flag them down along when you see one. Be sure to have Mexican pesos in hand to pay the fare.
By Taxi
Sadly, Uber isn’t available in Tulum. Taxis are everywhere though, and prices are affordable. They are the white cars with red numbers, and you can easily flag them down on the main road. It usually costs around 120 pesos from Tulum town to the beach, ruins and nearby cenotes each way (per car).
By Bike
Tulum is big on bikes, and they’re cheap to hire in town or from your resort. It’s the best way to move around if you’re staying on the beach, as the dusty beach road often gets clogged with traffic. You can rent one of the ubiquitous turquoise bikes for just 150 MXN (US$7) per day from Ola Bike on Avenida Coba.
If you’re not sure about safety and prefer doing it with a guide, this bike tour takes you through quiet roads, hidden paths and through the pueblo to a variety of natural, cultural, historic and culinary attractions that Tulum has to offer.
Traveling Tulum with Kids
We have always traveled Tulum with our daughter (and lived for two years in Playa del Carmen, just an hour from Tulum) and we found it an excellent spot for kids! While many of the high-profile hotels like Kanan and Azulik are adults-only, there are still lots of other beach clubs and resorts that are kid-friendly.
Tulum Beach sometimes can have big swirls that aren’t necessarily safe for small kids, but there’s a host of cenotes and lagoons where kids can frolic in and stay safe. Cenote Yax-Kin, for instance, has shallow and completely calm waters that are fantastic for the little ones. Kaan Luum Lagoon, just a 15-minute drive from Tulum centro, is out of this world – with spearmint water and swings, perfect for families.
Most cafes and restaurants in Tulum are also child-friendly, with kids’ meals on their menu and high chairs available. Tulum’s signature acai bowls and fruit smoothies are usually a big hit with kids. For the fussy eaters, Tulum has a slew of international restaurants that will curb their craving – such as Palma Central (food truck park with affordable Asian food) and Foro Hydra (where you can have oven-baked pizza and watch a movie in the jungle).
Best Places to Eat in Tulum
There is a surprisingly good selection of street tacos and cheap local food in Tulum pueblo, and the restaurants there are much more authentic and cheaper than near the beach. The nearest area to eat is La Veleta, where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Tulum.
Here are the top places to eat in Tulum:
- Avenida Satelite – In the evening, you’ll find the street lined with food carts selling tacos, marquesitas (crepe) and burritos at the best prices!
- Antojitos la Chiapaneca – This popular joint is a local’s favorite, and is known to have the best tacos in town! It’s located along the highway, Avenida Tulum.
- Burrito Amor – A personal favorite, this hip yet casual spot serves up the best burritos I’ve ever had and deliciously spicy sauces made in-house.
- La Hoja Verde – If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend this place for cheap vegan options.
- Raw Love Cafe – Known for their gorgeous smoothie bowls that not only look good but also taste good. Their vegan chocolate cakes are the best cakes I’ve ever had!
- Matcha Mama – A photogenic spot with Matcha-based smoothies, kombuchas, and juices. They’ve got these swings that make for great shots.
- Restaurante Estrada – Best spot for affordable seafood; the grilled octopus is a must-try!
- El Camello – Another popular joint for seafood, this place is the go-to for the best ceviche in town.
How to Stay Connected in Tulum
Internet in Mexico is pretty fast and reliable, and you can get WiFi in most hotels and guesthouses. To get internet on the go, I recommend getting an eSIM before traveling. With a Mexico eSIM (digital SIM card), you can toss out your physical cards and simply activate it on your phone through an app. I have bought many eSIMs on Airalo and they have all worked perfectly. Check out Airalo’s Mexican eSIMs.
You can also get a SIM card at the airport upon arrival or at any OXXO shop in Mexico. A SIM card itself costs between 29 and 149 pesos (around $1-6 USD). You can get 3GB of data valid for 30 days on the sin limite plan (unlimited) for 200 pesos (~8 USD.) That will also give you unlimited calls, texts, and most social media within North America. Read my guide on how to get a SIM card in Mexico.
Planning A Trip around Tulum?
Thanks for reading! I hope our Tulum itinerary will help you plan your trip. Feel free to bookmark this page or print out the article to bring along with you on your trip. Please share with us in the comments field below!
Please check out my other articles about hotels below;
- Where to Stay in Tulum
- Unique Places to Stay in Mexico
- Is Tulum Safe to Visit?
- Best Time to Visit Tulum
- 20 Day Trips from Tulum
- 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
- How to Get from Cancun to Tulum
- How to Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere
- My Guide to Punta Allen
- Tulum Travel Guide
- How to Visit the Tulum Mayan Ruins
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