Embark on a journey to the heart of the Riviera Maya with our essential Tulum Travel Tips, where every step is a story waiting to unfold. Tulum is nestled along the Caribbean Coast of Mexico and can be termed as a beautiful paradise anyone would want to experience. This growing international tourist hotspot is stunning in every sense of the word; expect nothing but a relaxing, laid-back experience. The main attraction here is the beach area also known as Zona Hotelera. It is undoubtedly the perfect spot for those wishing to soak up the sun, enjoy the refreshing crystal-clear water, and relax. The luxury hotels, restaurants offering authentic Mexican cuisine, and boutique shops line up the beach area making it possible to get everything you need without leaving.
If you are a keen traveler, encountering the true spirit, original spaces, and hidden gems of Tulum will be very easy. All you need is a few Tulum travel tips and you will take home a life-changing experience. Below are some of the best tips you can use when headed to this destination.
Tip 1 – Know the seasons and choose your suitable time of travel
The choice of season to travel applies to all destinations and you must do this also when heading to Tulum. The destination has three periods to choose from depending on the kind of experience you want to enjoy.
December to April makes the high season in Tulum because the temperatures are very nice. The days are not too hot, the nights are breezy, and the waters are turquoise and inviting. This is also the liveliest season as the area comes alive with festivals, especially around New Year. It is, however, also the most expensive season to be in Tulum and the most crowded. If you are a spontaneous outgoing person, this is the season for you.
May to July makes the mid-season and the weather is warmest during these months. It is humid and relatively quiet as most people stay hidden indoors. It is also the season when a large quantity of seaweed is experienced on the sea shore bringing tourism prices lower. The beach may not be as friendly because of the seaweed but you still have other water spots to explore. The mid-season makes the perfect choice for budget travelers who still want to experience Tulum.
October to November is the low season as the temperatures drop. It cannot be termed as cold but the nights can be chilly as the tropical season ends. The beaches during this season are quiet and clean; the visitors are fewer and the prices may drop too as a result. If you are the kind of traveler who doesn’t like crowds and loves tropical landscapes, by all means travel during this season.
Tip 2 – Choose accommodation that works for you
It doesn’t matter how many days you will be staying in Tulum; you need to make accommodation plans in advance to ensure you are as comfortable as can. Factors such as location, size of the facility, amenities offered, and prices are easy guides to the best for you. The good thing about Tulum is that there are plenty of accommodation options whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, or with family or friends.
Aldea Zama has some of the best condos and villas. You will also love the shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants in this area. It makes the best spot for long stays. There is also La Veleta area which hosts affordable apartments and impressive villas. The atmosphere here is lively, but you can still choose to hide away in a quiet villa in the jungle. Restaurants, bars, and trendy cafes are reliable and open regularly. The Zona Hotelera is the other area you can choose to find accommodation in. It is most popular with tourists who love the beach and is usually crowded during high season. The beachfront hotels here are your major options and even though they can be pricey, they are worth every penny. Try out Zona Arqueologica with its beach clubs and gorgeous hotels with fewer crowds.
Tip 3 – Think about how you will get around Tulum
Renting a car or using a taxi is what most people settle for when thinking about getting around a destination. What you should know about Tulum is that the taxis can be very expensive and the traffic jams can be frustrating. The situation is especially bad during the high season so you would need to rethink. The roads here are also not as good and in some areas they don’t even exist. Renting a car can be a nightmare if you do not know which parts to avoid to avoid the frustrating potholes.
How about you consider renting a bicycle or scooter while in Tulum? Bicycles and scooters are not only eco-friendly but they are also cheaper and cover short distances conveniently. However, not many roads have cycling lanes and the hot sun can be unbearable depending on the season. At the end of the day, you will need to make a choice because you don’t plan to stay in one place all through. If you choose to rent a car, get one in Playa del Carmen as compared to the Cancun airport; the prices are way cheaper.
Tip 4 – Exchange your money before traveling
Whereas it is not advisable to exchange a huge amount of money in your home country when traveling, it is one of the best travel tips for Tulum Mexico if you want to get good rates. Converting your currency into pesos before traveling gives you enough time to find the best rates. Comparing currency exchange offices while already in Tulum can be time-wasting which means you might end up taking whatever offers you find. The city however still has safe reliable exchange offices with good rates. You can find the best rates at Avenida Coba or Avenida Tulum as compared to the hotel zone. It is more convenient to have some Pesos when you arrive so you can pay for meals and transport considering that most exchanges close around 2 pm.
Tip 5 – Pack the right items for the stay
Packing the right items when traveling ensures you remain as comfortable as possible when exploring your preferred destination. When you know what to pack, you are also able to avoid unnecessary luggage that can be inconvenient. When headed to Tulum, you should pack for adventure and chic occasions too. Flat shoes come in handy as the roads are unpolished and unfriendly to heels. You will be mostly on dirt roads and sandy areas hence the flats still make the best.
When it comes to clothes, the season you choose to travel should be a guide. From May to August, Tulum is extremely warm and humid so keep off long-sleeved outfits, choose swimsuits and breathable clothes instead. From November to February, the nights can be chilly so consider throwing in a jacket for outdoor evenings. The style in Tulum is Boho-chic so you can bring along your funky sunglasses, hats, jewelry, kimonos, flowing beachwear, and neutral tones. The atmosphere here is quite relaxed so no need for formal wear. Whatever you do, do not forget your mosquito spray! The mosquitoes are nasty and can easily ruin your time in Tulum. If possible, consider having a relief cream at hand too.
Tip 6 – See and do as much as your time allows
Tulum Mexico travel tips cannot be complete without mentioning the must-see places and the must-do activities. Any traveler knows that engaging with local attractions is the only way to say you really experienced the authentic feel of a destination. Tulum has endless possibilities that only your willingness and time will be against you.
If natural beauty appeals most to you, activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea or Cenotes’ fresh waters should be considered. Cenotes are natural water pools that form as a result of collapsed bedrock limestone and offer refreshing swimming experiences. The Mayan Runs, mangrove forests, coral reefs, and lagoons are the other must-experience things for nature lovers. You should also enjoy some kayaking and wildlife watching to complete your adventure in Tulum.
For the history lovers, Coba and Chichen Itza ancient cities are a must-visit to experience the true Mexican cultural heritage. The holistic wellness centers and beach clubs on the other hand are perfect for those seeking entertainment and relaxation in Tulum. You cannot miss out on the yoga classes, sound healing, and above all Temazcal which is a ceremony inspired by traditional rituals. There is so much you can do and enjoy in this Mexican town, check out your options and create an itinerary that covers everything you are interested in.
Tip 7 – Enjoy Tulum but don’t compromise your safety
Safety is one very important aspect of any travel and you are probably wondering whether Tulum is a safe place to visit. As long as you are a smart tourist, the destination is very safe. You will love the police presence in the area doing patrols on the streets armed. The heavy police presence has a way of making even the locals feel safe. This does not however mean that you can wander recklessly or engage in behaviors that put you in harm’s way. Avoid walking at night alone or drinking too much leaving yourself vulnerable. It is also a good idea to avoid being too flashy or carrying huge amounts of money for all to see. Let your belongings stay close to you and carry only what you need for the day. A pocket infinity scarf can be a priceless accessory in keeping your valuables hidden.
Tip 8 – Beware of seaweed on the beaches
Tips for travelling to Tulum Mexico are meant to give you a sneak peek on the good and the bad. Sargassum seaweed on Tulum beaches is a downside that needs to be mentioned to avoid frustrations. During some seasons, the seaweed combines with garbage leaving the beaches unpleasant, especially for those who would rather enjoy the sand and cool waters. The seaweed is actually ruining the beaches and the authorities are yet to find a solution. The situation seems to be worse from May to around October so beware when travelling during these months. However, with so many other spots, you can still have the time of your life and avoid the seaweed even when you travel when the situation is bad. The cenotes for instance still make very refreshing water spots to keep you cool and happy.
Tip 9 – Be careful with your toilet flushes
The plumbing in Tulum, and generally most places in Mexico is not reliable. Flushing down even a simple toilet paper can lead to clogs. You must get used to throwing your used toilet paper and sanitary items in trash cans provided in toilets. The plumbing here can’t take anything extra so just go with the flow to avoid nasty situations.
Tip 10 – Do not drink tap water in Tulum
This travel tip is as important as the plumbing tip and cannot be ignored. The tap water in Tulum and most other Mexican cities is not safe for drinking; you cannot even use it to brush your teeth. The contamination levels are high and you need filtered or bottled water even when brushing your teeth. The situation is brought under control by purifying systems available even in accommodation facilities. If your room doesn’t have a purified water jug, ask whether they have a water purifying system before using tap water. With this in mind, you cannot afford to leave your reusable water bottle so you can refill every chance you get. Nothing can be worse than falling ill miles and miles away from home or in a foreign land so take this tip with the seriousness it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the dark side of Tulum about?
The Dark Side of Tulum is an independent documentary that explores both the beauty and betrayal of Tulum in Mexico. It particularly highlights pollution that plagues the city and what it means to its future. The good thing about this documentary is that it also touches on what can be done to change things around for the better.
How many days are enough for Tulum?
To get the best of what Tulum has to offer, you should spend between 3 to 5 days. These days are enough to indulge in the beauty, history, and culture of the city without feeling like you rushed through. Ideally, if you have the possibility of spending longer than 5 days, a week here should be most rewarding. Organize your days in such a way that you cover what interests you the most in a fulfilling manner.
Can you drink tap water in Tulum?
No, you can’t! Tap water in Tulum should be avoided even when you need it to brush your teeth. Tap water in Mexico is highly contaminated and nobody drinks straight from the taps. Tiny microscopic organisms can leave you feeling ill, how then will you enjoy your stay in Tulum sick? Whereas the tap water situation is not unique to Mexico, you must keep off the water because you can’t be sure what the unfamiliar microorganisms could lead to when introduced into your system.
What should I be careful of in Tulum?
Besides the tap water, avoid wandering at night especially alone. Most crimes in Tulum are drug-related and you might find yourself amid gang-on-gang violence. It is also just as important to be careful when frequenting bars in Tulum. It helps to be aware of your surroundings because even though the violence may not be aimed at you, it could leave you in a risky situation.
What are the crimes against tourists in Tulum?
Petty theft is common in Tulum as is in other tourist destinations across the world. You need to be alert and take necessary safety precautions to avoid being a target. Do not make the mistake of leaving your belongings unattended or publicly displaying your money and other valuables.
Is it cheaper to stay in Tulum or Cancun?
Cancun is generally cheaper compared to Tulum. This is probably because Cancun is not as intimate and extra as Tulum hence most tourists choose the latter. If you are on a budget, you can always choose Cancun, or still enjoy a lavish stay in Tulum by looking for deals and taking advantage of the seasons.
What is the best month in Tulum?
November and early December are the best months to be in Tulum. The weather during this time is very pleasant and the crowds are not as thick. Later in December to around April the conditions are beautiful but the crowds increase. The season buzzes with fun activities and festivals making it worthwhile.
What is the cheapest month to go to Tulum?
October to November is the low season as the temperatures drop. It cannot be termed as cold but the nights can be chilly as the tropical season ends. The beaches during this season are quiet and clean; the visitors are fewer and the prices may drop too as a result. Peruse the Tulum travel tips so you know what to expect when you travel at specific times
What cartel runs Tulum?
The infamous Sinaloa cartel controls the beach and deals in drugs everywhere in Tulum. The cartel presence can be worrisome especially because the dealers conduct the business confidently, but as a tourist, you are generally safe.
Are mosquitoes bad in Tulum?
Mosquito activity risks are high in Tulum, especially near the jungle. Pants and long–sleeved shirts can be helpful when visiting infested areas. It is also a very good idea to bring with you mosquito repellent and relief cream regardless of the season you choose to travel. Apart from being a nuisance, mosquitoes carry diseases like dengue fever so stay safe.
Is Tulum safer than Cancun?
It is true to say that both cities are generally safe. The only difference is that holidaymakers in Cancun love all-inclusive hotel stays, whereas those in Tulum are outgoing and all over the place exposing them a little more.
What is the big deal about Tulum?
The lush jungles, stunning beaches, crystal clear water cenotes, Mayan ruins, and vibrant nightlife are some of the things that make Tulum popular with tourists. It perfectly combines entertainment, nature, and history which are the major things travelers look forward to enjoying.
Is it safe to walk in Tulum at night?
Tulum is safe to walk at night as long as you stick to the tourist district. It is however a bad idea to wander off at night in some areas, especially lonely streets. If you must go party at night, then get a taxi instead of walking.
What is the significance of the Tulum ruins?
Tulum Ruins is the greatest attraction probably because it is the only Maya settlement that sits on Caribbean beaches. It was once a hub for international trade and the views here are described as spectacular thus attracting a large number of tourists.
What is the spiritual side of Tulum?
Tulum is said to be an energy vortex that amplifies nature’s energy by its electromagnetic field. Visitors coming here attest to the fact that the high-energy field here helps attain maximum human potential by releasing old traumas and healing old wounds. Taking a spiritual retreat here has transformed many especially when combined with holistic healing, natural beauty, and other spiritual practices.
The tips for travelling to Tulum highlighted above are some of the best you can use especially if you are visiting the destination for the first time. It has so much to offer easily accommodating all kinds of visitors. Although you do not need to be vaccinated to enter Mexico, you might be required to fill out a health declaration. But since rules and regulations change from time to time, double check everything and ensure your documents are to avoid inconveniences. When everything is right from the beginning, a rewarding stay in Tulum is what you will get.
