Tulum Ruins tours offer an engaging way to explore one of Mexico’s most iconic historical sites. With their stunning coastal backdrop, the Tulum Ruins are not only historically significant but also visually unforgettable. Below you’ll find all the relevant info to decide what is the best way for you to explore this gem.
Different types of tour options to enhance your visit:
- Self-Guided Tour: Explore the ruins at your own pace with informative signs placed throughout the site. This option gives you flexibility, allowing you to spend more time in the areas that interest you most.
- Budget-Friendly Guided Tour: For a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the ruins, you can opt for a guide available at the entrance. These are relatively cheap (about 30 USD, to give an idea, but it can be anything really) but often still overpriced. There are no barriers for anyone to stand there and offer tours. We can’t recommend them as they often don’t offer the detailed insights into the site’s history or its significance in the Mayan world that you might hope for. English proficiency is often also limited. There might very well be a great guide among them, but we haven’t heard of him or her.
- Comprehensive Tour with Cenotes: Since the Tulum Ruins are not that big, it is hardly worthwhile to go only there with a professionally organized tour. That is why those are typically combined with other interesting sites in the area. Our partner for example offers a tour where you also visit some stunning cenotes near the archaeological site. This tour combines history, culture, and nature, providing a well-rounded adventure. Book this Tulum Ruins + Cenote tour here.
What to Expect on a Tulum Ruins Tour
Highlights of the Tulum Ruins
- El Castillo: Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, this iconic structure was likely used as a lighthouse by the Mayans to guide their trade canoes. It offers spectacular coastal views and is a popular spot for photos.
- Temple of the Frescoes: Known for its intricate carvings and murals, this temple showcases ancient Mayan art and symbolism. The murals here reveal insights into Mayan cosmology and religious beliefs.
- House of the Columns: This larger structure features multiple columns and open spaces, suggesting it may have served an important social or ceremonial purpose. It’s an example of the architectural sophistication of the site.
- Temple of the Wind God: Located near the edge of the cliff, this smaller temple is thought to honor the Mayan wind god. Its placement may have served as a lookout or a shrine with views of the coastline.
- The Beach Access Below the Ruins: Just below El Castillo, there’s a small beach where visitors can swim after exploring the ruins. The turquoise waters and scenic views make this a memorable addition to the tour.
Tips for Exploring on a Self-Guided Tour
- Arrive Early: The ruins open at 8 a.m., and arriving early helps you avoid the midday heat and large crowds. Morning light also makes for better photos.
- Bring Sun Protection: There’s little shade around the site, so pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water to stay comfortable.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Paths are uneven, and the terrain is rocky in some areas. Sturdy, comfortable footwear will make it easier to explore.
- Take a Swim at the Beach Below: After exploring, cool off by swimming at the nearby beach (the fee you paid to access the ruins also gives you access to this beach – if you go another day, you’ll have to pay again).
- Visit During the Dry Season: November to April is ideal, as it’s less humid and has fewer rain interruptions.
How to Visit the Tulum Ruins
The Tulum Ruins are just a short trip from Tulum’s main town (Tulum Pueblo). You can easily reach the site by bike, car, or taxi in around 10 minutes. If you’re staying in Tulum’s hotel zone, the ruins are a quick drive north (go straight at the roundabout instead of left towards downtown). Parking is available near the entrance.
If you book the Tulum Ruins + Cenote tour, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation.
Best Time to Visit the Tulum Ruins
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April when the weather is more pleasant. Peak hours are mid-morning to early afternoon, so visiting early in the day or later in the afternoon can help you avoid crowds.