If you are visiting Tulum for the first time, the Mayan Ruins are a place you must check out. The ruins are located 1.5 hours away from Cancun International Airport, and approximately 40 minutes from Playa del Carmen; right in the middle of Tulum on the beach. The entrance fee into the ruins is $70 pesos or around $4.00 USD per person.
The Ruins are open everyday from 8:00 am-5:00 pm. The last entrance of the day being is at 4:30 pm. We recommend arriving earlier than 4:30 pm because there is a lot of ruins to see and learn about. Some people spend hours upon hours looking around and learning about the Mayan history. It is interesting to visit because it was the only Mayan walled city built on the coast.
The Mayan Ruins in Tulum overlook that picturesque view of the turquoise water and white sandy beach. We are sure you have seen it before on the Internet. You can also swim at this beach for free if you would like to. Just bring your swimsuit and a towel for afterwards. You will want to see this beach on a calm day to experience the different tones of blue and to capture that picture that is circling the Internet.
Don’t forget to bring your camera and something to keep the sun beating down on you – like a sunhat. There is not much shade when you are walking around the ruins, so it is always good to come prepared. Packing a water bottle to stay hydrated is a smart idea too!
This place is truly magical, and the history is unbelievable
Knowing that Mayans used to live in this ‘city’ will completely amaze you. We also recommend hiring a guide to explain to you everything you would ever want to know about the ruins and the history of the Mayans. These guides are well educated and will be able to answer you questions. You can hire a guide at the entrance of the ruins at a negotiable price, depending on the season and the demand. If you do not want to hire a guide, there are boards with useful information you can read all along the ruins.
In regards to staying close to the Mayan Ruins, there are many beautiful boutique hotels that are walking distance to the ruins. They are located along the south beach of Tulum. Booking ahead of time will secure you a preferable place. Tulum does get busy; so don’t wait till the last minute. Although there is always room for everyone, it will just take some time to find a place.
Get ready to be in total awe of the Mayan culture and all the uniqueness that Tulum has to offer. There is never a bad day to visit Tulum, so whenever you decide to go, spend as much time as you need.