How to Visit the Tulum Mayan Ruins

Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Caribbean coast, the Tulum Mayan ruins are some of the most unique ruins in Mexico. Here’s our comprehensive guide.

The Tulum ruins, perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, represent a captivating chapter in the history of the ancient Maya civilization. This ancient site is considered one of the most important Mayan ruins in Mexico, as it has the rare advantage of a waterfront location. Sitting high above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, the kings that ruled Tulum must have had a particularly privileged vantage point.

With the influx of tourists to this part of the Riviera Maya, Tulum has become one of the most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico (alongside Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan) and it can get rather crowded. In this article, I’ll share my tips on when best to visit to avoid the crowds and take you on a step-by-step walkthrough of the archaeological site.  

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Why Visit the Tulum Mayan Ruins?

Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, the ruins offer unparalleled views of the coast. Unlike most Mayan sites which are tucked deep in the jungle, getting to Tulum is easy; the Tulum ruins are located along the main highway and 10 minutes from town. Since the new Tulum Airport opened in December 2023, Tulum has become all the more accessible. 

Also, Tulum is one of the few archaeological sites that is wheelchair-friendly, accommodating visitors with mobility issues or families with strollers. The Tulum Ruins also allow access to the beaches that form part of the protected Tulum National Park, so you can easily cool off with a swim in the crystalline waters after exploring the Tulum ruins. If you’re interested in history, then you definitely should add the ruins to your Tulum itinerary.

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Tulum Mayan Ruins Facts

Initially known as Zamá which means “City of Dawn,” the Tulum Mayan ruins were constructed between 1200 and 1500 CE. Situated on the Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum thrived as a bustling capital and a vital trading hub. Its accessibility to both land and water trade routes is why it thrived.

It was located between the Caribbean Sea and a dense jungle which afforded it natural defenses, making it pivotal for trade with Chitzen Itza. By the time the Spanish arrived in 1518, Tulum had a population of around 500 within its fortified walls. About 10,000 lived in its surrounding vicinity.

The arrival of the Europeans spelled doom for the flourishing city. Its population was decimated by diseases brought by the Spanish. Subsequently abandoned and reclaimed by the jungle, Tulum remained hidden until its rediscovery in 1840. It was then named “Tulum” which means “wall” in the Yucatec language, referring to the large barricade that surrounds the settlement.

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Best Time to Visit Tulum Mayan Ruins

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 public holiday as surcharges are common around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

The Yucatan Peninsula celebrates many Mexican holidays, including Carnaval in February, Semana Santa (Easter) in April , and Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in October. But it does get really crowded in Tulum during these festivals.

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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.

Book Flights to Tulum

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.

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How to Get to Tulum Ruins From Town

The ruins are located just 10 minutes to the east of Tulum pueblo (town). If you rent a car, it’s an easy, straightforward drive along Highway 307, the main road that passes through the town. There’s a massive carpark at the main entrance of Tulum ruins that charges a fixed rate of 150 MXN (US$9) for a whole day of parking.

Taxis are easily accessible from any part of Tulum and cost about 100 pesos (US$6) each way. Make sure to confirm the price before you get in. For budget travelers, a colectivo is the cheapest way to get to the Tulum ruins. A ride to the ruins costs only 20 MXN (US$1). These shared vans can be found along Highway 307, and they’re easy to spot, particularly when you’re in the main center of Tulum or the hotel zone.

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Tulum Mayan Ruins Fees

Recently, they have added quite a few additional admission fees at Tulum ruins and you have to pay these fees at separate booths. There are lots of signs everywhere and guards making sure you paid all the fees.

NOTE: Make sure to bring the exact amount of cash in Mexican pesos; they often don’t have change. They did not use to accept credit cards, but on my recent visit (May 2024), credit cards were accepted.

Here’s a breakdown of the fees:

• 95 MXN (US$6) per person for Tulum ruins entrance fees, free for less than 12yo.
• 60 MXN (US$4) per person for the Tulum National Park CONAP bracelet (mandatory to access the ruins), free for less than 12yo.
• 50 MXN (US$3) per person for the shuttle from the carpark to the entrance if you don’t want to walk 10 minutes (available as of 9am), free for less than 6 yo.
• 40 MXN (US$2.50) for a camera pass if you have a big SLR camera.

*For Mexican residents or locals, entrance to all archaeological sites are FREE on Sundays!

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Tulum Mayan Ruins Hours

The Tulum Ruins are open every day of the week from 8 am to 5 pm. The Tulum Ruins can get extremely crowded with daytrippers from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. You’ll see tour groups arriving in big buses by around 10am; if you go before that, you’ll be able to see the ruins without the crowd. Alternatively, you can plan your trip in the afternoon after most group tours have left. The last admission is at 3.30pm.

If you’d rather visit an archaeological site that’s less touristy, consider exploring Coba Mayan ruins instead, which are just a 45-minute drive from Tulum.

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How Much Time to Visit Tulum?

You can easily spend a whole day at the Tulum ruins, but if you’re short on time, I would plan at least 3 hours. Tulum ruins aren’t that big but there are lots of lookout points with glorious views of the coast. If you’re planning to hire a guide, it would also take around 3 hours.

It usually gets very hot at the Tulum Mayan ruins in the afternoon, so if you want to swim at the beach by the ruins, plan to be there for at least 5 hours. There are also lots of restaurants and shops at the main entrance, so you can easily have lunch and drinks here too.

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Do You Need a Tour?

I always prefer to travel independently as I get to explore at my own pace and go with the flow. That said, exploring the Tulum ruins without a guide can get boring as there’s not a lot of information available and it’s hard to understand what you’re looking at. A good guide can make a big difference. Book your guided tour in advance here.

At the entrance of Tulum ruins, you have the option of hiring a guide for an in-depth tour. The Maya guide associations offer private, two-hour tours in English for 1300 MXN (US$65) starting at the main entrance. For a Spanish-speaking guide, the price is around 800 MXN (US$40) depending on group size. 

Best Tulum Mayan Tours

There are all kinds of day tours to Tulum ruins available; if you book online, almost all the tours provide transport to/from your hotel anyway along the Riviera Maya. Most of them include a cenote visit or swimming with turtles in Akumal. This tour has the best reviews and include both activities, as well as transport from/to your hotel.

The only downside to taking a guided tour is the strict pre-defined schedule. You have a limited time at any given place. However, you can always circle back alone if you need more time at any given location.

Here are some of the best-reviewed Tulum day tours:

• Tulum ruins + turtles at Akumal
• Tulum ruins + ATV + ziplining jungle adventure
• Tulum ruins + cenote + horseback riding

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Facilities at Tulum Ruins

New amenities have been constructed at the Tulum ruins; there are now brand new bathrooms that are clean and spacious. There are also now lockers right by the bathrooms and a small souvenir store. You’ll also see a few more signs in both English and Spanish.

Throughout the archaeological site, you’ll find shade and a few benches. There are still no snacks or water available near the ruins; you’ll need to get them in the shops by the main entrance.

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Understanding the Structures at Tulum Ruins

Tulum is a compact archaeological zone, contained entirely within its enormous stone walls. The entrance is on the north side. Start with the oceanfront structures and walking clockwise through the site. The exit is through the south wall.

Let me take you on a walkthrough of the Tulum archaeological site. You can follow my descriptions to understand what each building/structure is used for and what they represent.

El Castillo

Sitting on a dramatic bluff, El Castillo is the tallest (7.5m) and most imposing structure in Tulum. Built in several phases, it served as a lighthouse, with a shrine at the top doubling as a beacon to lead canoes to the beach landing. As you approach the imposing structure, you can just imagine how this architectural marvel guided sailors through the treacherous waters. One of the most striking features is the carving of the plumed serpents hugging the pyramid’s corners, a reflection of regional influence of the Toltecs.

El Palacio

This expansive complex was once the prestigious residence of Mayan leaders and portrays their architectural prowess and societal sophistication. The sheer scale of the structure is staggering, with its three towering stories resting upon a colossal foundation measuring 279 by 115 feet.

Templo del Dios de Viento

The most photographed structure in Tulum ruins is Templo del Dios de Viento, a small temple perched on a rocky outcrop, backdropped by the Caribbean waters. The temple was used for religious purposes long after the fall of the Maya civilization (up to 1924).

The structure’s circular base is associated with the god of wind, Ehécatl. There is a small altar inside facing the sea. It’s believed that the roof had a special opening that would whistle when hurricanes approached to warn Tulum’s residents.

Templo de Dios Descendente

Templo del Dios Descendente is named after the relief figure of a descending god above the building’s door. The image, perhaps the most iconic of Tulum, is associated with the highly revered god of bees. At the spring equinox, a ray of sunlight shines through the temple, aligning perfectly under the image.

The deity is portrayed in a sculpture above the door, a celestial figure with wings and a headdress, descending from the heavens. Even after centuries, the temple’s walls and door remain inclined, another example of the architectural ingenuity of the Mayans.

Temple de las Pinturas

The two-story structure was an observatory used to track the movements of the sun. The temple’s well-preserved frescoes, adorned with intricate murals, sculptures, and decorations, offer a glimpse into Mayan’s knowledge in astronomy and religious practices.

The first floor contains two rooms and 4 monolithic columns that make up the entrance. It also has 3 figures representing the descending god. The murals depicted intertwined snakes, offerings to the gods, and divine male and female deities. The second floor is a single room filled with red-colored handprints.

The Wall

Encircling the ancient city on three sides, the limestone wall was a formidable guardian, safeguarding Tulum’s rich cultural heritage and delineating its boundaries. Named the “walled city,” Tulum derives its identity from this majestic barrier.

In fact, “tulum” translates to “wall” in the Mayan language. As you walk along the perimeter, a sense of reverence washes over, evoking imagination of the bustling city life that once thrived within these confines.

House of Halach Uinic

As the supreme leader of the Kuchkabal, the Halach Uinic wielded unrivaled authority over the Yucatán Peninsula. This was his official residence during the era. The grandeur of this residence reflects the opulence and prestige of the position. The house was the epicenter of political and social life in ancient Tulum.

The Ruins Beach

Tulum is one of the very few Maya ruins in Mexico with a beach. Add to that the seaside cliffs and the impossibly blue waters – swimming at the ruins beach makes for an extraordinary experience. The main beach is beneath El Castillo, at the bottom of a steep wood staircase. Sadly these stairs have been cordoned off for awhile now.

However, if you continue walking back to the exit, there’s a trail that leads to another beach. This access is brand new and not many people know about it, so expect to have the beach to yourself. As this is part of the Tulum National Park, there are no beach bars or restaurants on the beach.

Visit 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 (*It is temporarily closed, and the reopening date is unknown.)

Where to Eat in Tulum

There are a few local eateries and restaurants at the main entrance of the Tulum ruins, but prices here are jacked up for tourists. I suggest heading back to Tulum town for more reasonably priced food. There is a surprisingly good selection of street tacos and cheap local food in Tulum pueblo, and the restaurants here are much more authentic and cheaper than near the beach.

Here are a few good places to eat. For more details, read my selection of the best restaurants in Tulum.

Here are the top places to eat in Tulum:

• Mocambo – Located across the road from the Tulum ruins, this seafood place is fun and lively, with excellent seafood tostadas at reasonable prices.
• 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!

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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 but still want to stay in a cool treehouse in Tulum. The adults-only property is a stone’s throw away from Tulum Beach, which you can get to in less than 2 minutes by foot.

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. The rustic design and uber style decor makes this glamping at its best. Check rates here.

Mid Range: 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!

We stayed at one of their divine thatched cottages – a plunge pool and hammocks come included! But don’t worry about missing out if you get a standard room, there are lots of pools hidden amongst the hotel’s gardens. Check rates here.

Luxury: 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 the coolest tree houses in Tulum, made from Mexican royal ebony, Khatalosh, and an open-concept providing views of the lush jungle and the Caribbean Sea.

The rooms are free of TV, phone or electricity so you can relax and reconnect with nature. Each tree house also has a unique Mayan mosaic bath tub, where you can have a bath in rich mineralized cenote’s water, considered sacred within Mayan culture. Azulik offers a magical, back-to-basic experience, at a hefty price of course. Check rates here.

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Visiting Tulum With Kids

The Tulum ruins provide an engaging opportunity for children to delve into Mayan history firsthand. I have brought my kid here four times and she’s enjoyed the Tulum ruins every single time. While Tulum is not a massive site, there’s still quite a bit of walking involved. Some parts of the walking trails meander along the cliff edge, so parents need to keep a vigilant eye on little adventurers.

If you are traveling with toddlers or babies, it’s best to carry a baby sling or hiking carrier. It’ll be very hard to push a stroller on the rocky trails. Also, pack plenty of water, hats, and an umbrella to shield their sensitive skin from the sun’s rays.

The nearby ocean is a playground for kids to splash. But as always, keeping a watchful eye and carrying floaters is essential for their safety. The restaurants and hotels in Tulum are kid-friendly, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your little one.

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What to Pack for Tulum

The weather in Tulum can get very hot and humid. So, don’t forget to bring a water bottle, insect repellent, a hat, and sunscreen for your day of exploring the ruins. For a whole day of exploring and walking, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. 

Walking across the ruins isn’t too difficult as it’s mostly flat. You won’t need hiking boots. I wore my Teva sandals for the whole day and they were fine. I have crafted a few suggestions on what to bring along on your Tulum trip;

• Teva sandals 
• Hiking t-shirt
• Hiking shorts
• Lightweight daypack
• Power bank
• Sunscreen – SFP50+ if possible
• Wide-rimmed hat 
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle (2 liters)
• Camera

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Rules at Tulum Mayan Ruins

The Tulum Mayan ruins are protected by INAH (Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History), they are still integral to the country’s history. Here are some of dos and don’ts while at the ruins: 

• Do not smoke within the park.
• Do not pet the wildlife.
• Do not pluck or cut the vegetation.
• Do not graffiti, touch, lean, or sit on any archaeological monument.
• Swimming at the beach is allowed.
• Do not litter in the park.
• Stay within the designated areas and entering the restricted areas is not allowed.

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Final Tips for Visiting Tulum

• Arrive just as gates open at 8 am to avoid the crowds.

• Take plenty of water and snacks with you. Otherwise, there are several cafes and shops selling snacks and drinks at the main entrance of the Tulum ruins.

• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes – it gets hot!

• You will need cash for the entrance fees, so make sure to bring some Mexican Pesos with you.

• Visitors are not allowed to climb on or enter most the structures in order to protect them from erosion. Respect the barriers and “do not enter” signs.

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Enjoy Your Trip to Tulum Mayan Ruins!

Thank you for reading this far. If you have any questions on the Tulum Mayan ruins, please leave them in the comments below and I will be happy to reply to any questions you have.

Read my articles on Tulum and other parts of Mexico below:

• 15 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico
• My Guide to Muyil Ruins
• My Guide to Ek Balam Ruins
• My Guide to Coba Mayan Ruins
• Tulum Itinerary Ideas
• Best Places to Eat in Tulum
• 20 Day Trips from Tulum
• Best Time to Visit Tulum
• Where to Stay in Tulum
• Monte Alban: My Guide to the Oaxaca Pyramids
• Visiting Teotihuacan: Mexico City Pyramids

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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