Tulum, Mexico: Mayan Ruins, Cenotes & Travel Guide
Tulum is the Riviera Maya's most stylish destination — a clifftop Maya ruin over the Caribbean, boho-chic beach hotels, world-class cenotes and the Sian Ka'an biosphere nearby.
Why visit Tulum?
Tulum is the Riviera Maya's most stylish destination — a clifftop Maya ruin overlooking the Caribbean, a long beach of boho-chic hotels, world-class cenotes, and the vast Sian Ka'an biosphere nearby. It is more design-driven and laid-back than Cancún, popular with couples and wellness travelers.
How to get to Tulum from the US
The new Tulum International Airport (TQO) opened in late 2023 and now has some direct US flights; many travelers still fly into Cancún (CUN) and drive about 1.5–2 hours south by shuttle, ADO bus or private transfer.
Best time to visit
December to April is the dry, sunny peak. Hurricane season runs June to November, and sargassum seaweed can affect the beach, usually worst from spring into summer.
Top things to do in Tulum
Visit the Tulum archaeological site, a walled Maya city above the sea; swim in cenotes like Dos Ojos and the Gran Cenote; relax on the beach; and explore the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. The ruins of Cobá are a short drive inland.
Where to stay
Tulum Pueblo (the town) is the affordable, central option; the Hotel Zone along the beach road is the famous boho-chic strip of beachfront hotels (pricier, often cash-based and off-grid).
Is Tulum safe for tourists?
Quintana Roo carries a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory, the same level as most of Mexico's main tourist destinations. Tulum is a major tourist destination; most visitors stay along the beach and town and use registered transport. Use normal travel precautions and check the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before your trip.
Nearby Destinations on the Mexican Caribbean
Tulum is part of the Riviera Maya, one of the most visited tourist corridors in Mexico. Just 37 miles to the north is Playa del Carmen, with its lively Fifth Avenue and a wide range of hotels. Further north, Cancún is the region's main air hub and home to dozens of all-inclusive resorts. For a quieter escape, Bacalar and its stunning Lake of Seven Colors are about 3 hours south. You can also combine your trip with a visit to Chichén Itzá, the most famous Mayan site in the world. Check out our vacation packages and travel information guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Tulum?
On the Caribbean coast in the state of Quintana Roo, about 130 km south of Cancún.
How do I get to Tulum from the US?
The new Tulum International Airport (TQO) has some direct US flights; many travelers still fly into Cancún (CUN) and drive about 1.5–2 hours south.
What is there to do in Tulum?
Visit the clifftop Maya ruins, swim in cenotes like Dos Ojos and the Gran Cenote, relax on the beach, and explore the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.
When is the best time to visit Tulum?
December to April for dry, sunny weather. Hurricane season runs June to November, and sargassum seaweed can affect the beach, often worst in spring and summer.
Is Tulum safe for tourists?
Quintana Roo carries a Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ advisory, the same as most top destinations. Use normal precautions, use registered transport, and check the current US advisory.