The ancient Tulum Mayan Ruins are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. The ruins are located on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, about an hour south of Cancun.
Tulum was a major trading port for the Mayan civilization and was one of the last cities to be abandoned before the Spanish Conquest.
Today, the ruins are a major archaeological site and draw visitors from all over the world.
Table of Contents
- 1 About Tulum Ruins: The Heritage of History and Culture of the Ancient Maya
- 2 Tulum Ruins Travel Guide: Your Travel Guide to Visit Tulum Mayan Ruins
About Tulum Ruins: The Heritage of History and Culture of the Ancient Maya
The Tulum Ruins are a popular tourist destination in Mexico. The ruins are the remains of a Mayan city that was once a major trading port.
The city was built on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and it is believed to have been inhabited from the late 13th century to the early 16th century.
The Tulum Ruins are one of the few remaining examples of Mayan architecture, and they offer visitors a glimpse into the culture and history of the Maya people.
As the remains of a pre-Columbian Maya walled city, this place is located on the southeastern coast of Mexico.
The site is noted for its picturesque setting on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The ruins are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico and attract more than 2 million visitors each year.
The Tulum Ruins date back to the late Postclassic Period (AD 1200-1521), when the city was inhabited by the Maya people.
The site was first settled by farmers from nearby Coba (also read: Coba Ruins), who built a small village near the coast. Around AD 800, the village began to grow and soon became an important trading center for salt and obsidian.
By AD 1200, Tulum had emerged as a major power in the region, controlling trade routes between Coba and Cozumel.
Tulum Ruins Travel Guide: Your Travel Guide to Visit Tulum Mayan Ruins
The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum in Mexico are a popular tourist destination. Here’s how to visit the ruins and learn about the history and culture of the ancient Maya.
When to Visit
The best time to visit the Tulum Ruins is from December to April when the weather is cooler and drier. Avoid visiting during the summer months when it is hot and humid.
Getting There
How to get to Tulum?
Transportation
The easiest way to get to the Tulum Ruins is by car. You can also take a bus or taxi from nearby places such as Cancun that will take (131 km with ETA 1 hr 45 min) or Playa del Carmen (64 km with ETA 45 min).
If you’re looking for the cheapest option to visit Tulum Mayan Ruins, you can use Colectivo which you can hop in with other travelers going to the same direction as you.
Purchase a Ticket
The first step to visiting the Tulum ruins is to purchase a ticket. Tickets can be bought at the entrance to the site or in advance from many tour companies.
The cost of a ticket is around $3.50 USD at the cheapest to $15 USD at the most expensive. Once you have your ticket, you can explore the ruins at your own pace.
There are many guides available for hire at the site, who can provide information about the history and culture of the Maya people. Guides typically charge around $30 USD for their services.
If you want to learn more about the Maya people and their culture, there are several museums in Tulum that offer exhibits on Maya life and history.
Opening Hours For Tulum Ruins
The Tulum Ruins are open every day of the week, from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
What to Bring
Make sure to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of water as there is limited shade at the ruins.
You should also wear a pair of comfortable shoes to make it more easy exploring the ruins.
What to Explore: Things to do in Tulum Mayan Ruins
The Castle of El Castillo
Tulum was a major port city for the Maya civilization and one of the last cities to be built by the Maya. Construction of El Castillo, the main structure at Tulum, began around 1200 AD. The city reached its peak around 1400 AD before being abandoned shortly thereafter.
Today, El Castillo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mexico. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid for stunning views of the surrounding area. Be sure to add a visit to El Castillo during your next trip to Mexico!
Temple Of The Frescoes
The Temple of the Frescoes is one of the most well-preserved buildings at the site. It gets its name from the brightly-colored murals that adorn its walls.
The Temple of the Frescoes was built around 1200 AD, during the height of the Mayan civilization. It was used as a place of worship and for important ceremonies. The murals inside depict scenes from Mayan mythology and everyday life.
The Temple of the Frescoes is a must-see for anyone visiting the Tulum Ruins. It’s a beautiful example of Mayan art and architecture, and it’s a great way to learn more about this fascinating civilization.
House Of The Columns
If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of the Tulum Ruins, look no further than the House of the Columns.
This structure is one of the best-preserved buildings at the Tulum Mayan Ruins, and it’s easy to see why.
The columns that line the front of the building are an impressive sight, and they offer a great view of the surrounding area.
The House of the Columns was built around 1200 AD and was used as a ceremonial space for important events.
It’s thought that only nobility would have been allowed inside, making it a pretty exclusive club. Today, anyone can enter the House of the Columns and enjoy its beauty.
House Of The Halach Uinic
Nestled on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Tulum Ruins are a stunning example of Mayan architecture.
The House of the Halach Uinic, or “Ruler’s House”, is one of the most well-preserved buildings in the complex. Built around 1200 AD, it was used as a residence for Maya royalty.
The House of the Halach Uinic is located on the north side of the Tulum Ruins complex. It consists of two structures – a two-story main building and a smaller single-story structure attached to it.
The main building is decorated with intricate carvings and stucco reliefs, and its second story has beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
The smaller attached structure was likely used as a kitchen or storage room. It has a small door that leads to an outdoor patio area.
Enjoy Swimming on the Secret Beach
Just south of the well-known Tulum Ruins, there is a hidden beach that is perfect for swimming. This secluded spot is surrounded by cliffs and accessible only by climbing down a ladder.
The water at this beach is crystal clear and the perfect temperature for swimming. The sand is soft and white, and there are plenty of shady spots to relax in.
This secret beach is the perfect place to escape the crowds at the Tulum Ruins. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Where to Stay in Tulum
Here are some of our top picks for hotels to stay in Mexico near the Tulum Ruins:
- Tubo Tulum Hostel
- Azucar Hotel Tulum
- Nomade Tulum
Travel to Tulum Ruins? Take a note of these Tips and Advices
- It is important to arrive early in the morning as soon as the gate is open (starting from 8 – 9 AM) as it can get very hot later in the day.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as there is a lot of walking involved
- Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks. It can get quite hot at the ruins, so make sure you stay hydrated by bringing along water and snacks.
- Also be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Ready to visit Tulum Ruins?