Tulum used to be a small town, but now it has grown a lot and has transformed significantly. Its infrastructure has improved over time, and it offers a variety of multicultural restaurants, exciting nightlife options and vibrant tourism.
Tulum, formerly known as “Tuluum”, was a walled city of the Mayan culture. It is located in the state of Quintana Roo, about 132 km from Cancun. This place will surprise you with its relaxed and elegant atmosphere, its turquoise water beaches and its numerous cenotes.
How to get to Tulum?
By plane: The most common way to get to Tulum is to fly to Cancun International Airport, which is the closest airport and is approximately 120 kilometers north of Tulum. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a bus or hire a private transportation service.
By car: If you decide to rent a car, the drive from Cancun airport to Tulum is simple and direct. Just follow federal highway 307 to the south. The trip takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
By bus: Another option is to take an ADO bus, which offers regular services from Cancun airport to Tulum. The buses are comfortable and safe, and the trip takes approximately 2 hours.
Best time to visit Tulum
The best time to visit Tulum is between November and May, when temperatures are not as high as in the summer and there is less chance of rain.
One thing you should be aware of is sargassum. Although it is difficult to predict, once a year the sea and beaches can fill up with seaweed, which can affect the beauty of the place. Tulum is one of the places most affected by this phenomenon in the Riviera Maya. Sargassum usually appears in May and stays until October.
Consider the following: The least recommended months to visit Tulum are September and October due to the rains.
What to do in Tulum?
Visit the ruins of Tulum: The ruins of Tulum are a must see. Be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds and midday heat. The site opens at 8:00 a.m. and admission costs around 80 Mexican pesos.
Explore the cenotes: Tulum is known for its impressive cenotes. Some of the most popular include Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera and Cenote Dos Ojos. You can swim, snorkel or just relax in these beautiful places.
Relaxing on the beach: Take time to enjoy Tulum’s beaches. Playa Paraiso is one of the most popular, with its white sand and crystal clear waters. You can also visit Playa Pescadores and Playa Santa Fe.
Enjoy the local gastronomy: You can’t visit Tulum without trying the delicious local food. Some recommended restaurants are Hartwood, Arca and Kitchen Table. For a more authentic experience, visit the taco stands in downtown Tulum.
Best restaurants in Tulum
Hartwood: Hartwood is one of the most famous restaurants in Tulum, known for its focus on local and sustainable ingredients. The menu changes daily depending on the availability of fresh produce.
Arca: Arca offers a unique dining experience with a focus on contemporary Mexican cuisine. The ambiance is elegant and cozy, ideal for a special dinner.
Kitchen Table: This restaurant is located in the jungle and offers an immersive dining experience. The menu is based on fresh, local ingredients, prepared with traditional techniques.
Taqueria Honorio: For a more casual and authentic experience, visit Taqueria Honorio in downtown Tulum. Here you can enjoy delicious tacos and other typical dishes at very reasonable prices.
Travel tips
- Weather and Seasons: Avoid traveling during the rainy or hurricane season. The worst months are September and October. As for sargassum, it is best to avoid the months of June to September.
- Mobility: There is a lot to see in and around Tulum, so renting a car may be the best option.
- Reservations: If you plan to do tours, especially in high season, book early to secure a spot.
- Responsible Tourism: Choose tours that do not use animals and avoid water parks with dolphins, as they tend to mistreat them.
- Safety: Don’t walk on dark streets and avoid the center of town at night due to the possibility of muggings.
- Tulum Archaeological Zone: Bring cool clothes, hat, sunglasses and water for the heat. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking through the ruins.
- Snorkeling at Playa Paraíso: Do not use sunscreen, as it can damage the corals.
- Transportation: Be aware that cabs are expensive; consider renting a bicycle or using colectivos to save money.
Where to stay in Tulum?
The Occidental Tucancun Hotel by Barcelo is an excellent lodging option if you decide to stop in Cancun before visiting Tulum. This 4-star hotel offers a variety of facilities and services that will make your stay an unforgettable experience.
- Pools: It features three swimming pools, including a children’s pool and a pool overlooking the sea.
- Restaurants: The hotel offers several restaurants serving everything from international cuisine to local dishes.
- Spa: Relax and enjoy spa treatments and massages.
- Activities: They offer daily activities for all ages, from water sports to evening entertainment.
The hotel is located in Cancun’s hotel zone, just 20 minutes from the airport and close to shopping malls, restaurants and tourist attractions.
For more details about the hotel visit: hotel tucancun
Why choose the Occidental Tucancun Hotel?
Staying at Barceló’s Occidental Tucancún Hotel has many advantages. In addition to its excellent facilities and services, its location is ideal for exploring both Cancun and Tulum. The hotel offers all-inclusive packages, making it easy to plan your trip and enjoy your vacation worry-free.
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Tulum is a tourist destination not to be missed. With its combination of history, natural beauty and vibrant culture, it offers something for everyone. From exploring Mayan ruins to relaxing on paradisiacal beaches and enjoying delicious local cuisine, there are countless experiences awaiting you in Tulum. Also, consider stopping at Barceló’s Occidental Tucancún Hotel, which offers an excellent base for your Riviera Maya adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable trip and enjoy all that Tulum has to offer!
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