2025 Tulum Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#cruiseholiday MSC Seascape Full Itinerary 【Trip Highlights】 • Exclusive experience on the private island Ocean Cay, surrounded by white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. • In-depth exploration of the gems of the Caribbean, including Ocho Rios in Jamaica, George Town in the Cayman Islands, and Cozumel in Mexico. • Visit iconic U.S. cities—New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, experiencing diverse urban landscapes and cultural vibes. • A wide range of onboard entertainment, from dazzling theater performances to luxurious spa treatments, catering to all types of travelers. 【Itinerary Overview】 • Day 1: Gather at Shanghai Pudong Airport; fly to New York via a connecting flight in Incheon. • Day 2: Explore New York — Wall Street, Charging Bull, United Nations Headquarters (exterior view), and Times Square. • Day 3: Visit Coral Gables and Little Havana in Miami, immersing yourself in rich multicultural history. • Day 4: Excursion to the Everglades National Park, featuring an exciting airboat adventure. • Day 5: Day at sea — relax and explore the ship’s facilities. • Day 6: Arrive at Ocho Rios, Jamaica — visit Dunn’s River Falls and Konoko Falls, and enjoy the local beaches. • Day 7: Discover the beautiful beaches and Turtle Centre in George Town, Cayman Islands. • Day 8: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum in Mexico. • Day 9: Another relaxing day at sea. • Day 10: Dock at MSC’s private island Ocean Cay — sunbathe, swim, and unwind. • Day 11: Return to Miami for a full day of city exploration. • Day 12: Leisure day aboard the cruise, enjoying onboard activities. • Day 13: Explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Puerto Plata. • Day 14: Visit the historic landmarks and stunning beaches of San Juan, Puerto Rico. • Day 15: Another day to enjoy the wide range of activities onboard. • Day 16: Spend a relaxing day at Nassau, the vibrant capital of the Bahamas. • Day 17: Revisit Ocean Cay, soaking in the serene island atmosphere. • Day 18: From Miami, set off to explore the unique charm of Key West.

🌍 Hey friends, March is definitely the golden time to visit Cancun! Located on the northeastern corner of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, this city boasts stunning Caribbean scenery, warm sunshine, soft sandy beaches, and a wide variety of water activities. The March weather is just right, neither too hot nor too cold, making it a perfect vacation paradise~ 🗺️ Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Cancun → Check in to hotel → Explore the hotel surroundings → Enjoy dinner Upon arrival in Cancun, check in to your hotel, drop off your luggage, and take a good rest to adjust to the time difference. There are usually some small shops and restaurants around the hotel. Take it easy on the first day, acclimate to the local atmosphere, and sample the local cuisine. Day 2: Chichen Itza → Cenote swimming In the morning, visit Chichen Itza and experience the mystical charm of the ancient Mayan civilization. In the afternoon, go for a swim in a cenote and experience the unique natural landscape. The cool water is super refreshing. Day 3: Tulum → Boulevard Kukulcan In the morning, visit the ancient city of Tulum, built on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering breathtaking coastal scenery. In the evening, return to downtown Cancun and stroll along Boulevard Kukulcan, admiring the beautiful seaside sunset. Day 4: Day trip to Isla Mujeres Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres, where you can bask in the sun on the beach and participate in water sports such as snorkeling to explore the wondrous underwater world. Day 5: Shopping and free time → Prepare for departure On the last day, you can visit Cancun's shopping malls, buy some souvenirs, pack your luggage, and prepare for your departure. 🌟 Must-See Attractions 1. Chichen Itza - Highlights: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the most outstanding representative of Mayan civilization, magnificent architecture, and the ingenious integration of astronomical calendars. - Address: Located in the central-east part of Yucatan state. - Tickets: Approx. 232 pesos. - Opening hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm. 2. Cenote (Ik Kil Cenote) - Highlights: A naturally formed giant sinkhole with crystal-clear water and surrounded by lush greenery, like a secret garden of nature. The swimming experience is superb. - Address: Not far from Chichen Itza. - Tickets: Approx. 80 pesos. - Opening hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm. 3. Tulum - Highlights: An important site of the late Mayan civilization, built on a cliff facing the sea, with picturesque scenery. Here you can experience the perfect fusion of history and nature. - Address: Located approx. 130 km south of Cancun. - Tickets: Approx. 80 pesos. - Opening hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm. 4. Boulevard Kukulcan - Highlights: One of the most bustling streets in Cancun, stretching along the coastline, with numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels. You can also enjoy the stunning Caribbean scenery, and the night view is also very charming. - Address: Runs through the Cancun Hotel Zone. - Tickets: Free. - Opening hours: 24 hrs. 5. Isla Mujeres - Highlights: A small island full of romantic atmosphere, with azure waters, soft sandy beaches, and a wide variety of water activities. You can also rent a golf cart for a tour around the island. - Address: Located northeast of Cancun. - Tickets: Round-trip ferry tickets approx. USD 20-30. - Opening hours: Ferry operating hours are usually 6:00am - 8:00pm. 6. Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) - Highlights: One of the largest underwater sculpture museums in the world. You can admire the underwater art sculptures by diving or taking a glass-bottom boat, as if entering a mysterious underwater art world. - Address: In the waters near the Cancun Hotel Zone. - Tickets: Prices vary depending on the tour, diving tours approx. USD 80-150. - Opening hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm. 7. Nichupté Lagoon - Highlights: Rich ecosystem with mangroves, wetlands, and various bird species. Here you can enjoy kayaking, bird watching, and other activities to get close to nature. - Address: Located in Cancun. - Tickets: Approx. 150 pesos. - Opening hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm. 8. Cancun Beach - Highlights: Pristine white sand, clear water, stretching for several kilometers, it is a perfect place to enjoy the sun, sand, and water sports. You can also see beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the sea. - Address: Along the Cancun Hotel Zone. - Tickets: Free. - Opening hours: 24 hrs. 🍱 Food Recommendations - Tacos: A traditional Mexican dish with a variety of fillings to choose from, such as grilled meat, seafood, and vegetables. Served with special sauces, each bite is a burst of flavor. - Fish Tacos: Fresh fish fillets are battered and fried until golden brown, sandwiched in tortillas, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, and other ingredients for a rich and crispy texture. - Guacamole: A sauce made from avocados, usually served with tortilla chips. It has a smooth texture, rich flavor, and is packed with nutrients. - Mole: A complex sauce made from a variety of spices and chocolate, often used with chicken or pork. It has a unique and layered flavor. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations - Cancun Hotel Zone: Offers a wide range of hotels, from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly resorts. It is conveniently located, with a full range of dining and entertainment facilities, and the beach is right outside your door. - Downtown: Accommodation prices are relatively lower, and you can experience more authentic local life. There are many local restaurants and markets nearby, but it is further from the beach. 📌 Tips - Book attraction tickets and hotels in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid delays. - Pay attention to sun protection. The sun is strong in Cancun, so bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. - Exchange some Mexican pesos. Although US dollars are accepted in some places, it is more convenient to use the local currency. - When participating in water activities, follow the instructor's guidance and pay attention to safety. 🌈 This March trip to Cancun was truly unforgettable. Both the ancient ruins and the beautiful beaches left a deep impression on me. I hope my guide can help you have a wonderful trip to Cancun too~

🌟🌟 Two days trip to Tulum, just a short 45-minute car ride from Playa del Carmen, was a mesmerizing adventure! Tulum effortlessly blended history and natural beauty into an unforgettable experience. 1️⃣Tulum Ruins🏯🏰: We started our day by exploring the Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The ancient Mayan architecture and the stunning backdrop of the ocean left us in awe. It was a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine the lives of the Mayan people who once inhabited this coastal wonder. 2️⃣Tulum Beaches🏖️🏖️:After our historical journey, we made our way to the pristine Tulum beaches. The powdery white sands and clear waters were postcard-perfect. Relaxing under the swaying palm trees, we took in the beauty of this coastal paradise. Swimming in the gentle waves was a refreshing way to soak up the sun. Tulum has several beautiful beaches surrounding the Ruins, each with its unique charm. Here are some of the notable ones: 🏖️🩴Tulum Beach (Playa Tulum) 🏖️🩴Paradise Beach (Playa Paraíso) 🏖️🩴Las Palmas Beach 🏖️🩴Santa Fe Beach (Playa Santa Fe) 🏖️🩴Zazil Kin Beach 3️⃣Rio Secreto Cenote🔝:The highlight of our day was the visit to Rio Secreto Cenote. This underground river system was like stepping into another world. The stalactites and stalagmites formations were otherworldly, and wading through the crystal-clear waters was an adventure we'll never forget. It was a surreal and magical experience deep beneath the Earth's surface. 🌟🌟Tulum's combination of history, natural beauty, and adventure made it a day trip to remember. It was a delightful escape from Playa del Carmen, and we left Tulum with hearts full of wonder and a camera full of breathtaking memories. #beachlife #instatravel #Mexico #yucatan #exploring #travel #summervacation #mustvisit #tripcom

🌞Our 10-day adventure exploring the Yucatan Peninsula was an absolute dream come true! 🚗Renting a car allowed us the freedom to uncover the hidden gems of this incredible region. 1️⃣🏖️ Cancun:Our first stop was the vibrant city of Cancun, known for its stunning beaches. We soaked up the sun and enjoyed the bustling nightlife before embarking on our Yucatan adventure. 2️⃣🏖️Playa del Carmen: Next up was Playa del Carmen, where the lively Fifth Avenue and beautiful beaches kept us entertained. We couldn't resist snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of this coastal gem. 3️⃣🏰Tulum: Tulum's ancient ruins perched atop the cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea were simply awe-inspiring. We spent hours exploring and taking in the breathtaking views. 4️⃣⛲Valladolid: charmed us with its colonial architecture and rich history. The cenotes were a refreshing highlight, and we learned about the culture of this charming town. 5️⃣📍Chichén Itzá:Our visit to the iconic Chichén Itzá was a history lover's dream. The intricate Mayan architecture and the El Castillo pyramid were truly remarkable. 6️⃣🟡Izamal: The "Yellow City" greeted us with its colorful buildings and charming streets. We explored the pyramid and felt the rich Mayan heritage all around. 7️⃣🔖Merida:Merida's vibrant culture and delicious cuisine won us over. We tried traditional Yucatecan dishes. 8️⃣Uman:Uman allowed us to experience the tranquility of small-town Mexico. It was a welcome break from the bustling cities and a chance to connect with the locals. 9️⃣🦩Celestun🦩: Celestun's serene beaches were the perfect backdrop for spotting flamingos and crocodiles. Our boat tour through the Celestun Biosphere Reserve was a wildlife lover's paradise. 🔟🐸Progreso: This coastal town offered relaxation and seaside dining. We enjoyed fresh seafood and the laid-back atmosphere. 1️⃣1️⃣Tizimin: Tizimin provided insight into rural Yucatan life. We explored local markets and admired the traditional way of living. 1️⃣2️⃣Rio Lagartos: was a true natural wonder. Our boat tour allowed us to see the vibrant pink hues of the salt flats and encounter crocodiles and various bird species. Our 10-day Yucatan Peninsula adventure was a perfect blend of history, nature, culture, and relaxation. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, charming towns to wildlife encounters, each city had something unique to offer. #beachlife

The next day, we met with the group at 7:00am and went to Tulum first. There was also a tour guide who led the tour in two groups according to language (Spanish and English respectively), which lasted about 20-30 minutes. After that, there was half an hour of free time, but it was enough for guidance and visits. Tulum is one of the last cities built and inhabited by Mayan civilization, and it is also one of the best-preserved coastal Mayan ruins. Looking at the Caribbean Sea along the ruins, the scenery is really beautiful, and the water is very blue and clear. Around 11 o'clock, we will go to Xeiha Water Park, which is a park suitable for parents and children. There are many paid items. When you arrive, you should have the first meal first, but don't eat too much, because you have to go into the water to play 🤣🤣The most fun thing here is the water slide, but it is also quite tiring to climb up. It is less scary than I thought because I don’t know how to swim, but when you get to the bottom, the water is also very shallow, and there will be two lifeguards. Children can also play, so don’t be afraid😅😂 In the end, I was tired from playing and had the second meal before leaving. This park is all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink, which is very suitable for us who love to drink😂😂😂 Towels are also provided. You only need to bring waterproof bags and water shoes. You can also bring go pro, but you have to put it down when playing some activities #Cancun #CancunTourism #Mexico #MexicoTravel[1 #Tulum #Maya #Cancun Group Tour #CancunX Park #Water Park #travel #cancun #tulum #cancunxeiha #mexico

Visiting the Mayan coast and not stop by a beach club for a drink or food will be a mistake for many. This one has no minimum consumption for visitors so it makes it very appealing for the ones who are in a budget or just don't want to spend too much money. Go with your partner or friends and surely you'll enjoy it Address Carretera Tulum Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum Beach, 77760 Tulum, Q.R. #valentinescape #resort #beachlife #tulum #mytripvlog #mexico #maya #beach #tripblazers #budget #budgettrip

One of the most amazing experiences in my life was climbing the pyramid at Coba in Mexico. Though there are quite a few Mayan pyramids left in Mexico, most of them cannot be climbed. But here in Coba you still can. Coba is easily accessible by bus from Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum. The bus will drop you off right outside the archeological area. So there is no need to pay for an expensive day tour. Once you have paid the entrance fee, you will find yourself in middle of a giant forest. Dotted throughout the forest are all kinds of smaller ancient Mayan structures. The actual pyramid is a little far away, so instead of walking there yo#historicplaces can also rent a bicycle. Entrance fee: 80 mxn (4 usd) Opening times: Daily from 09:00 to 17:00 #historicplaces

Went there on a Wednesday. Lorenzo was our guide, he even spoke Mayan and gave us some lessons. The water is not as cold as I remembered from other Cenotes, It was certainly one of the best cenotes. it is very large and mainly covered. We had a great time it took almost an hour of great fun. Bring a good camera or those pockets to take nice pictures from your cellphone. No need to bring the entire snorkel we end up swimming an opening our eyes underwater and carrying all the time. #themepark#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

We booked the Sian Ka'an Reef Snorkel & Mayan Canal tour in July 2021. We saw one crocodile at a very large distance, a couple of manatees, some birds and a few common fish. We could not snorkel due to the water condition. This is not a complaint though, as we understand that Nature has its own schedule, which does not always suit our plans. On the bright side, we´ve been to a beautiful lagoon and a secluded beach, travelled through mangrove canals and floated down the Mayan canal. The place is incredibly beautiful and Aldo, our guide, was knowledgeable and friendly. The only thing that prevented this experience from being perfect was that, contrary to the ad, the boat did not have a canopy or any sort of shade. According to Aldo, it had been damaged or something like that, and he provided a piece of cloth to cover ourselves. Considering that the wind made it hard to keep the cloth on and that we spent over 5 hours under the midday sun without any sunscreen, as instructed, probably the decision to go on with the tour in a boat without any shade was not a good one. Still, my recommendation is that you do not miss this incredible tour, but make sure your boat has a canopy and you have some biodegradable sunscreen at hand. #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

I booked this stand boarding cruise for my boyfriend and I after reading the online reviews - and it was much better than expected! Mauricio is a great teacher, patient and funny, and made sure we were all comfortable during the lessons (both of us had never done SUP before). The water was gorgeous and absolutely crystal clear the day we went, making for a snorkelling experience too. We will definitely do this again the next time we visit Tulum. #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

#国外游 Located in an exhibition area of ​​the Azulik Hotel in Tulum, Mexico, it is called IK Lab. When you go in, you can see many special handmade decorations. The environment inside is great and suitable for taking pictures. It feels like an artificially created natural feeling, and the experience is great. #Overseas Travel

One of my fav pictures of 2019 taken at my fav place in Mexico, Tulum. So many good memories from those days w my best friend

The hidden gems you can find in #tulum are priceless 🤤 do you know what a cenote is? There are thousands of these in the south east of #Mexico . Who would you take here?

Wow this is the view during my stay at Papaya Playa! Couldnt be anymore greatful to be in this paradise for the next week!

There are several luxury houses that are daring to enter the drug lords. Tulum Hotels Recommended Melbourum Tulum is a seaside town an hour's drive from Cancun, now the hot red resort. Originally for the Azulik hotel, I did not expect this temporary casa malca to surprise me. Casa Malca Tulum, once the home of the big drug lord Escobaba, was transformed into a luxury design hotel by Design Hotel a few years later. The contemporary art displayed in the store is from the famous New York collector Lio Malca. From the lobby, the restaurant to the room, the contemporary art is interesting and harmoniously displayed everywhere. For girls who like to take pictures, it is a paradise, a proper fashion ins. The beach in front of the hotel is also the best in Tulum, with fine white sand and azure Caribbean, all outside the hotel. Transportation: We are self-driving, directly navigate the address of the hotel, but there is no signboard at the hotel door. If you navigate to the question, it will be OK, so you can find it. Price: Our two girls will set the garden view room 2500, the hotel is not big, take the ten steps to the beach. The price of the sea view room is between 3800-6000. Tips: If you don't stay in the hotel, you have to go in and take pictures to take photos. Otherwise, you have to charge the photo separately. The hotel restaurant is very delicious. The average meal is about 400 per person. The taste is very good.

Today, we will take you to visit the 7 wonders of the world in Mexico. They are pyramids in the southern part of Mexico, built by the Mayan tribe. The pyramid of Chichen Itza, a Mayan cathedral filled with the charm of history, ancient civilization, beliefs, rituals, and amazing architecture that is still a mystery✨ Just standing in front of the pyramid, I feel a mysterious energy that is hard to explain. It is a dream destination that travelers must visit at least once in their lives! #TravelMexico #TravelAbroad

If you're dreaming of a Caribbean beach that combines historical charm with bohemian vibes, Tulum in Mexico is undoubtedly your ideal destination! This paradise offers not only crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands but also a unique Mayan city perched on cliffs—every snapshot here is postcard-worthy. [Highlights of the Trip] Tulum Archaeological Zone: The only Mayan city built by the sea. It's best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the scorching sun, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the awe of ancient civilization. Don’t forget your swimsuit—after exploring, you can head down the stairs from the cliff to the beach for a swim! Cenote Adventures: Tulum is surrounded by thousands of mysterious cenotes (natural sinkholes). We visited the popular Gran Cenote, where the water is crystal-clear and glows like a gemstone under the sunlight. The stalactite formations inside the caves are breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling. Playa Paraíso: Dubbed "Paradise Beach," Playa Paraíso lives up to its name. We spent an entire afternoon lounging on beach chairs, sipping chilled Corona beers, and soaking in the Caribbean sun and breeze—it was pure bliss. [Accommodation Recommendation] We stayed at La Zebra a Colibri Boutique Hotel, located in the hotel zone. This boutique hotel boasts a private beach, tropical-inspired room designs, and impeccable service, making it perfect for travelers seeking a refined vacation experience. [Food Guide] For dinner, we visited the renowned jungle restaurant Hartwood. This restaurant operates without electricity, relying entirely on wood-fired cooking. The menu changes daily, transforming the freshest local ingredients into stunning dishes. Be sure to book in advance, as it's highly sought after! Tulum is a place full of charm and surprises, blending adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights. It’s definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list!

[Gran Cenote | A dreamlike cave spring surrounded by mysterious light and water] — A spectacular spot with crystal clear emerald blue water and a fantastic cave space — A popular spot that is easily accessible from Tulum by car or bicycle. A beautiful natural adventure where you can see the light shining through the large opening, the blue-green water surface, and even the fish and sea turtles swimming in the cave.  ⸻ 📍【Location】 Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, about 5km north from the center of Tulum, along the Cancun-Coba road 🕰【Opening hours & fees】 8:00-16:45, entrance fee about 300MXN (cash only), lockers, goggles and life jackets can be rented  ⸻ ✨【Recommended points】 Snorkeling is the best in crystal clear water (you can meet fish and sea turtles) The contrast of light between the cave and the open area is mysterious Safe with a full range of facilities (changing rooms, lockers, showers, parking, snacks for sale) 🎒【Tips】 If you go first thing in the morning, there will be fewer people and you can play at your leisure If you go on a buffet or tour, make sure to reserve your seat early When taking underwater photos, make sure your smartphone is waterproof, have a light, and aim for fish and caves 📸 Using biodegradable sunscreen helps protect the water quality ◎  ⸻ #GranCenote #Tulum #Mexico #AbsolutelyFreeTrip

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip There are many cenotes, or "natural springs," on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Of these, Gran Cenote is particularly popular for its clarity. To be honest, even if you can't swim like me, it's a waste of time because you have to pay the entrance fee. You won't be able to experience the true beauty of the place.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip The Tulum ruins are located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It's rare to find a spot where you can see such beautiful sea and ruins at the same time. After touring the ruins, you can go down to the beach. The town of Tulum is nearby, so it's a good idea to use it as a base for sightseeing.

היינו בשתי סנוטות יפות - סיטון ואוקסמן! שתיהן יפות. אך אוקסמו הרבה יותר! ממש מליצים#travel #Oxman !

📅 Itinerary Day1： Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations we had yummiest dinner at taboo tulum. Its a lovely greek restaurant. Very good for lunch or if you are having party with your friends or simple dinner only. Very iconic. 📌 its better to hire a bike to go around. Taxis are costly or kind of pointless for short distance. #travel #tulum #Taboo

Arts exhibition are very interesting way to see how beauty are in other peoples eyes.

Tulum’s beaches are often affected by sargassum seaweed, especially between April and October. It can pile up on the shore, giving off a strong odor as it decomposes and making swimming less appealing. While some hotels and locals clean it daily, it can still be unpredictable and limit beach enjoyment. However, the issue varies by day and location—some areas stay relatively clear. If you’re planning a trip mainly for the beach, it’s smart to check live beach cams or local updates before going.

Tulum in Mexico has become very dead during off season hot season, and overpriced, losing much of its original charm. Infrastructure struggles to keep up with the influx of tourists, and sargassum seaweed often covers the beaches, making them less enjoyable. Positive: Despite the of the hot weather, Tulum still offers stunning cenotes and a magical mix of jungle and sea that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Cancún is the final stop of my Mexico trip. This coastal city is filled with numerous resorts and is a popular vacation destination for Europeans and Americans. Before even catching a glimpse of the Caribbean Sea, I hurried off to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Following local customs, entering the Mayan territory required undergoing a ritual performed by a priest, involving a mysterious and smoky ceremony. After the ritual, we visited a cenote. The Yucatán Peninsula lacks rivers, making these cenotes vital water sources for the ancient people. The Mayans believed these cenotes, which connect to the underground water system of the region, were gateways to another world. In the past, they even conducted sacrificial ceremonies here. Nowadays, these cenotes have transformed into refreshing "swimming pools" for tourists. Chichén Itzá is a pre-Columbian archaeological site located in the northern part of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico's Yucatán state. It is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The site still retains traces of ancient ball courts, observatories, temples, palaces, and baths. The main structure is a pyramid-like building known as the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo), which is said to function as a Mayan calendar. The inner, older pyramid was designed based on the lunar calendar, while the outer, newer pyramid follows the solar calendar. "In ancient Mesoamerican cities, it was customary to build larger and more magnificent pyramids over older ones, and the Temple of Kukulcán is a prime example. Archaeologists discovered an entrance on the northern staircase of the pyramid leading to a tunnel. Inside the tunnel, one can climb the steps of the older pyramid hidden within and see a red-painted, jade-studded jaguar throne representing the Feathered Serpent deity." However, this area is no longer open to visitors. To the northwest of the pyramid lies the largest ball court in ancient Mesoamerica. The court features stone panels depicting players, and it is said that the captain of the losing team (or, according to some accounts, the winning team) would be decapitated as a sacrifice. The design of the court is ingenious; the guide demonstrated the echo effect by clapping near the stone walls, producing a resonant sound that evokes the grandeur of ancient games. Another archaeological site, Tulum, is one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Mayans. Located on the cliffs of the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is a bit far from Cancún, making a one-day tour quite rushed. However, among archaeological sites, Tulum boasts the most stunning scenery, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and its endless coastline. Many animals casually wander around, unafraid of humans. 🎈 Long trips can sometimes be challenging when there's no place to do laundry. I had to take my clothes to a local laundromat, which turned out to be great—affordable and clean. 🎈 Chinese buffet (10-12 pesos for two to three dishes with rice). Many locals dine here, and the food is quite authentic. 🎈 The hostel offers bookings for various one-day and half-day tours. The staff honestly mentioned that these tours are the same as those offered on the streets, though slightly pricier when booked through the hostel. 🎈 Free shuttle buses are available within the airport. 🎈 Shared taxi services are also available upon arrival.

If you want to feel the magic of Tulum, there are two golden hours that truly bring it to life — early morning and late afternoon. But which one is best? Depends on your vibe 🌞🌅 🕰️ Early morning is perfect if you want peace and pictures. Arrive at the Tulum ruins as they open (8:00 AM) and wander the ancient walled city perched over turquoise waters with almost no crowds. The morning light is soft, the Caribbean Sea sparkles, and the breeze is still fresh. You can even head to the beach below the ruins for a quiet swim right after 🐚📸 🌇 Late afternoon, especially just before sunset, is for dreamy golden hues and a romantic walk by the cliffs. The site glows, the heat softens, and the sky starts painting its pastel canvas. It is a magical moment for reflection and relaxed exploration — just be sure to arrive with enough time, as the ruins usually close by 5 PM 🌺🍃 🎒 Insider tip: Whichever time you choose, bring water, a hat, and your swimsuit. Pair the visit with a stop at Playa Paraíso for a perfect beach day or enjoy lunch at a jungle café nearby after a morning visit. Tulum is history, nature, and beauty — all wrapped into one unforgettable view.

#summervacay Tulum was an absolute vibe. Mornings began with yoga and cold-pressed juice at a beachfront cabana, followed by dreamy swims in crystal-clear cenotes like Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote. Afternoons were for exploring — I biked to the ancient Mayan ruins perched above the Caribbean Sea, with iguanas sunbathing beside me. The beach was the perfect place to wind down, toes in the sand with a fresh coconut and a reggae playlist in the background. And the food? From vegan tacos to spicy ceviche, every bite tasted like summer. Tulum balances rustic jungle energy with luxury relaxation — 10/10 would go again.