In recent years, Tulum has risen in popularity as Mexico’s bohemian beach oasis. Yet it was a center for commerce and spirituality centuries before the sound healing ceremonies and nightclubs arrived. Visitors don’t have to imagine it—they can explore Tulum’s Maya ruins in person!
Place of the Dawning Sun
The Maya city of Tulum rose to prominence in the thirteenth century. Its stunning location perched above coast inspired the name “Zamá,” meaning “place of the dawning sun.” Located in modern Quintana Roo on the Yucatán Peninsula, the city was an important center for trading turquoise, jade, and obsidian. It was also a religious site, as evidenced by several surviving temples.
To protect this critical site, the Maya built a massive limestone wall on three sides and used the natural barrier of the ocean cliffs. After the Spanish arrived in the 16th Century, the city was eventually abandoned and reclaimed by nature for centuries.
In the Footsteps of the Maya
Today, visitors can step back in time and imagine what life was like inside Tulum’s city walls. After you squeeze through one of five doorways in the wall, you step into a sunny landscape surrounded by remnants of the Maya civilization.
Exploring the archeological site, you can admire Mayan works like El Castillo. This castle-like structure is perched along the cliff and was likely used as a lookout post. Get a glimpse into Maya belief systems by admiring the art at religious sites like the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God
After all that exploring in the sun, you might be ready for a dip. Tulum was the only Mayan city built on the coast, so be sure to pack your swimsuit and take advantage of the secret beach below.
How to Visit the Maya Ruins of Tulum
Anyone can visit the Tulum Archaeological Site on their own, but I recommend booking with a guide for the most impactful experience. It’s difficult for the untrained eye to distinguish between the various stone structures, but an experienced guide can bring your visit to life by sharing the stories behind each structure and the part it played in Maya life. There’s a lot of history here, so it’s helpful to have a guide show you the highlights.
I booked a guide through my hotel, and most hotels in the region offer a similar group excursion that includes guests from various hotels. If you prefer a private tour, you can book a half-day tour of the Maya site including transportation or a full-day tour that includes the Maya ruins, snorkeling, and exploring nearby cenotes with transportation.
Where to Stay Near the Tulum Archaeological Zone
There are endless lodging options in Mexico’s Riviera Maya and most are less than a two-hour drive (depending on traffic) to the Tulum Archaeological Zone. If you prefer high-end accommodations, I recommend checking out Luxury Latin America’s detailed reviews of Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels and resorts.
Tulum Archaeological Site
Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307
Tulum 77780 Mexico
Sources
- “Quintana Roo.” Visit Mexico, Mexico Tourism Board, https://visitmexico.com/eng/quintana-roo-2.
- “Tulum.” Tulum Ruins, https://tulumruins.net/.
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger,’ and she has contributed to several travel guidebooks. Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
