How to Travel to Tulum: The Ultimate Guide

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How to Travel to Tulum

Tulum is a small town on the Caribbean coast of Mexico that has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and cenotes (natural swimming holes). If you are planning a trip to Tulum, there are a few things you need to know.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to planning your trip to Tulum. We will cover everything from how to get there, where to stay, and what to do while you’re there. We will also give you tips on how to make the most of your trip and avoid common tourist traps.

So if you’re ready to start planning your trip to Tulum, read on!

How To Travel To Tulum? Method Cost
By Plane Fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) and take a 2-hour bus ride to Tulum $100-$150
By Car Drive from Cancun or Playa del Carmen (about 2 hours) $50-$100
By Ferry Take a ferry from Cozumel to Tulum (about 1 hour) $20-$30

Planning Your Trip to Tulum

When to Go

The best time to visit Tulum is from November to April, when the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 25C to 30C. The rainy season runs from May to October, with rain showers most common in September and October. However, even during the rainy season, it typically only rains for a few hours in the afternoon, and the weather is still warm and humid.

Where to Stay

There are a variety of accommodation options in Tulum, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts. The town center is home to a number of boutique hotels and guesthouses, while the beachfront is lined with resorts and Airbnbs.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider staying in the town center. There are a number of hostels and guesthouses that offer dorm beds or private rooms for around $20-$40 per night. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, there are a number of resorts and Airbnbs on the beachfront that offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Prices for beachfront accommodation start at around $100 per night.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Tulum is by bicycle. The town is small and compact, and the roads are mostly flat, making it easy to get around on two wheels. You can rent a bicycle from one of the many shops in the town center.

If you don’t want to bike, you can also get around by taxi or tuk-tuk. Taxis are metered, and the fare starts at around $5. Tuk-tuks are a bit cheaper than taxis, but they’re not metered, so you’ll need to agree on a price before you get in.

Things to Do

There are a number of things to do in Tulum, including visiting the ancient Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes, and exploring the jungle.

The most popular tourist attraction in Tulum is the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. The ruins are located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and they offer stunning views of the coastline. You can visit the ruins on a guided tour or explore them on your own.

Another popular activity in Tulum is swimming in cenotes. Cenotes are natural swimming holes that are formed when the roof of a cave collapses, revealing a freshwater pool. There are a number of cenotes located near Tulum, and they offer a refreshing way to cool off from the heat.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can explore the jungle. Tulum is located in the heart of the Yucatn Peninsula, and it’s home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, and crocodiles. You can explore the jungle on a guided hike or go on a horseback ride.

Budgeting

The cost of a trip to Tulum will vary depending on your budget and the activities you plan to do. A budget-friendly trip can be done for around $50 per day, while a more luxurious trip can cost upwards of $200 per day.

Here is a breakdown of some of the costs you can expect to incur on your trip to Tulum:

  • Accommodation: $20-$40 per night for a hostel dorm bed or $100+ per night for a beachfront resort
  • Food: $5-$10 for a meal at a local restaurant or $20+ for a meal at a beachfront restaurant
  • Transportation: $5 for a taxi ride or $10 for a tuk-tuk ride
  • Activities: $10-$20 for a cenote tour or $50+ for a guided hike

Getting to Tulum

By Air

The closest airport to Tulum is the Cancun International Airport (CUN). The airport is located about 60 miles from Tulum, and there are a number of direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The flight time from Los Angeles to Cancun is about 4 hours.

Once you arrive at the Cancun airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Tulum. The taxi fare is around $100, and the shuttle fare is around $50. The journey takes about 2 hours.

By Car

You can also drive to Tulum from Cancun. The drive takes about 2 hours, and the road is well-maintained. You can rent a car at the Cancun airport or in Tulum.

Staying in Tulum

Tulum is a popular tourist destination, so there are many accommodation options to choose from. Here is a breakdown of the different types of accommodation available in Tulum, along with their pros and cons:

Hotels

Hotels are a popular option for tourists staying in Tulum. They offer a variety of amenities, such as air conditioning, private bathrooms, and room service. However, hotels can be expensive, especially during peak season.

Airbnbs

Airbnbs are another popular option for tourists staying in Tulum. They offer a more affordable alternative to hotels, and they often offer more privacy and space. However, Airbnbs can be less reliable than hotels, and they may not be located in the most convenient areas.

Hostels

Hostels are a good option for budget-minded travelers. They offer shared rooms and common areas, which can be a great way to meet other travelers. However, hostels can be noisy and crowded, and they may not be the best option for travelers who want privacy.

Camping

Camping is a great option for travelers who want to experience the great outdoors. There are a few campgrounds located near Tulum, and they offer a variety of amenities, such as showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities. However, camping can be hot and humid, and it may not be the best option for travelers who want creature comforts.

Choosing the Right Accommodation

The best accommodation for you will depend on your budget, your travel style, and your desired location. If you are looking for a luxurious experience, a hotel is the best option. If you are looking for a more affordable option, an Airbnb or hostel is a good choice. If you are looking for a unique experience, camping is a great option.

Getting Around Tulum

Tulum is a small town, so it is easy to get around on foot or by bike. However, there are also a few other transportation options available, including taxis, rental cars, bikes, scooters, and public transportation.

Taxis

Taxis are a convenient way to get around Tulum. They are relatively affordable, and they can take you anywhere in town. However, taxis can be difficult to find during peak season, and they may not be the most reliable option.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are a good option for travelers who want to explore the surrounding area. They offer more flexibility than taxis, and they can be used to drive to other popular tourist destinations, such as Chichen Itza and Coba. However, rental cars can be expensive, and they can be difficult to drive in the congested streets of Tulum.

Bikes

Bikes are a great way to get around Tulum for short distances. They are affordable, and they are a fun way to explore the town. However, bikes can be difficult to use in the congested streets of Tulum, and they are not a good option for long distances.

Scooters

Scooters are a good option for travelers who want to get around Tulum quickly. They are affordable, and they are easy to use. However, scooters can be dangerous, and they are not a good option for inexperienced riders.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is a cheap and convenient way to get around Tulum. There are a few bus routes that run through the town, and they can take you to all of the major tourist destinations. However, public transportation can be crowded and slow, and it may not be the most reliable option.

Choosing the Right Transportation Option

The best transportation option for you will depend on your budget, your travel style, and your desired destination. If you are looking for a convenient and affordable option, a taxi is a good choice. If you are looking for a more flexible option, a rental car is a good choice. If you are looking for a fun and eco-friendly option, a bike is a good choice. If you are looking for a cheap and slow option, public transportation is a good choice.

Tulum is a beautiful and vibrant destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous jungle trek, or a cultural experience, Tulum has something to offer you. With its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and friendly people, Tulum is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

How do I get to Tulum?

There are a few different ways to get to Tulum, depending on your starting point.

  • By air: The closest airport to Tulum is the Cancun International Airport (CUN). From Cancun, you can take a taxi or bus to Tulum. The taxi ride takes about 2 hours and costs around $100 USD. The bus ride takes about 3 hours and costs around $20 USD.
  • By car: If you’re driving from the United States, you can take Interstate 35 to Laredo, Texas. From Laredo, you can take Highway 83 to Matamoros, Mexico. From Matamoros, you can take Highway 180 to Cancun. The drive takes about 24 hours.
  • By bus: You can also take a bus from the United States to Tulum. There are several bus companies that offer service to Tulum from major cities in the United States. The bus ride takes about 30 hours.

Where should I stay in Tulum?

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Tulum, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts.

  • Budget: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, there are a number of hostels in Tulum that offer dorm beds for around $10 USD per night. Some popular hostels include The Hostel, Selina Tulum, and Hostel Pachamama.
  • Mid-range: If you’re looking for something a little more comfortable, there are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Tulum that offer private rooms for around $50-100 USD per night. Some popular hotels and guesthouses include Casa Malca, Azulik Tulum, and Alaya Tulum.
  • Luxury: If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, there are a number of beachfront resorts in Tulum that offer private villas and suites for around $200-400 USD per night. Some popular resorts include The Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Rosewood Mayakoba, and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

What are the best things to do in Tulum?

There are a number of things to do in Tulum, including:

  • Explore the ruins of Tulum: The ancient Maya city of Tulum is located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The ruins are a popular tourist destination and offer stunning views of the coastline.
  • Snorkel or dive in the Cenotes: Cenotes are natural swimming holes that are found in deep, cave-like sinkholes. The cenotes in Tulum are some of the most beautiful in the world and offer crystal-clear water and amazing visibility.
  • Visit the beach: The beaches in Tulum are some of the most beautiful in Mexico. The white sand and turquoise water are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
  • Go hiking or biking in the jungle: The jungle surrounding Tulum is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and jaguars. There are a number of hiking and biking trails that wind through the jungle, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Visit the local markets: The markets in Tulum are a great place to buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and fresh produce. The markets are also a great place to experience the local culture and meet the people of Tulum.

What is the weather like in Tulum?

Tulum has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The average temperature ranges from 75F to 85F. The rainy season runs from June to October, with the most rain falling in September. The dry season runs from November to May, with the least rain falling in February.

Is it safe to travel to Tulum?

Tulum is generally safe to travel to, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Petty theft is a common problem in Tulum, so be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close at hand.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your hotel room: If you’re leaving your hotel room for the day, take your valuables with you or leave them in the hotel safe.
  • Don’t drink too much alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can make you more vulnerable to crime.
  • Be respectful of local culture: Tulum is a small town with a strong sense of community. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Tulum.

Tulum is a beautiful destination that offers a unique blend of ancient Mayan ruins, stunning beaches, and cenotes. It is a popular tourist destination, but it is still possible to find secluded spots to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

When planning your trip to Tulum, it is important to consider the time of year you are visiting. The dry season runs from November to April, and the rainy season runs from May to October. The weather is hot and humid year-round, so it is important to pack accordingly.

There are a few different ways to get to Tulum. You can fly into the Cancun International Airport and take a shuttle or bus to Tulum. You can also fly into the Cozumel International Airport and take a ferry to Tulum. If you are driving, you can take Highway 307 from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Once you arrive in Tulum, you will need to find a place to stay. There are a variety of hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs to choose from. You can also camp in one of the many cenotes or beaches.

There are a number of things to do in Tulum. You can explore the Mayan ruins, swim in the cenotes, go snorkeling or diving in the Caribbean Sea, or relax on the beach. There are also a number of restaurants, bars, and shops to visit.

Tulum is a beautiful and unique destination that is perfect for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous getaway. By following these tips, you can plan a trip to Tulum that is perfect for you.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.