If you want to accustom yourself with Tulum, don’t dive into history books. It’s a place larger than any book can ever characterize or illustrate. To know Tulum well is to roam around the whole place and find the secret pathways to its old soul.
On Friday afternoon, I met a guide and tour organizer. He informed me that Tulúm is a Yucatec Mayan word for fence or wall. These walls surrounding the place allowed Tulum fort to be protected because it serves as a defense against incursion. Tulum was protected on one side by steep limestone sea cliffs and on the landward side by a wall that averaged about three to five meters in height. The wall also was about eight meters thick and 400 meters long on the side parallel to the sea. The part of the wall that ran the width of the site was slightly shorter and only about 170 meters on both sides.
The tour guide also added that there are five narrow gateways in the wall with two each on the north and south sides and one on the west. Entrance is via one of the original five tunnels through the wall. The chief structure of Tulum, El Castillo sits on a high point of the site, facing the ocean. It is hypothesized that one of the purposes of El Castillo was to act as a lighthouse and guidance system for boats. On the Northwest and Southwest corners, there are small structures that have been identified as watch towers presenting again how well defended the city would have been. Therefore, Tulum served as a point of defense against invaders from both the land and sea.
The next day, we headed to the south of Tulum Pueblo where the famous cenotes can be found. Cenotes are sinkhole with exposed rocky edges containing groundwater which have provided freshwater to the land inhabitants. Cenotes, particularly in Quintana Roo often provide access to extensive underwater cave systems. With this, scuba divers were curiously interested to explore the said caves.
Moreover, both landscapes and seawaters seen in Tulum are extremely varied and frequently very beautiful. The highlands are sunny, warm by day but pleasantly cool and invigorating at night. Tulum’s white limestone beaches and sapphire blue Caribbean waters are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling.
The Tulum ruins carry the history of the Mayan people and most structures were actually constructed during the Post-Classic Era between 1200 and 1450. Today, parts of the Mayan ruins of Tulum have been restored for tourism purposes. Businesses in Tulum are improving with the increase number of tourist that visited everyday.
Finally, if you’re seeking for an adventure, I recommend Tulum as part of your travel destination and stay in one of eco-chic Tulum hotels. You will discover the affluent history of Mayan civilization and explore the natural beauty of Tulum.
Aside from its Mayan ruins, Tulum is known for its 10 kilometer stretch of just pure white sand, turquoise blue waters, and amazing adventure. It is also known as a Paradise. If you’re serious about fun and getting in to an ultimate island lifestyle, this is for you.
In Tulum you’ve got only three simple assignments: Explore, Unwind, and discover what this unique paradise has to offer.
If you’re ready to merge yourself to Tulum’s culture, visit its Mayan ruins. The archaeological site of Tulum is one of the most striking the Maya World that sits on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean was built during the Post-Classic Period (1000-1500 A.D.) This was once the chief commercial center. It is also third most visited historical site in all of Mexico, behind Teotihuacán and Chichen Itza.
What most tourists come for is Tulum’s fine white sand, and clean, clear blue waters. The beaches of Tulum are quiet and peaceful. It offers a pleasant escape from the busy resort scene of Cancun. No island is complete without its amazing water sports and activities. Here in Tulum you can go, diving, snorkeling, cave diving, cenote diving and the latest craze, kiteboarding. Kiteboarding is the new generation of sailing sport, born from a surprising mix of windsurfing, paragliding and wakeboarding.
The Tulum hotel zone is yet another charm for those in search of peace and tranquility has boutiques and about forty hotels lining the beautiful 10 kilometer stretch of beach. Most hotels are actually cabanas, offering varying degrees of modern comforts.
Tulum has something for everyone. You can take a tour at the Sian Ka’an Biosphere; a UNESCO listed and federally protected area which is more than 2000 square miles in size. You can also visit Hidden Worlds Cenotes Park. It offers a unique jungle adventures that suit everyone, situated on the most extensive system of underwater caves and caverns on Earth. If you want to take relaxation seriously and experience a different level of pampering, then the Mayan treatment spa is perfect.
With all the fun activities, Tulum is insanely invigorating. You can have utmost fun in Tulum without bleeding your wallet.
Located deep in the Mexican forests on the Caribbean coastline, Tulum holds some of the most awesome Mayan ruins to be seen. Mayan Ruins of Tulum are a fantastic site to behold. Its setting on the beach is a true place to declare Heaven. The stunning turquoise water and the bold black cliffs join to create an overwhelming picture. The archaeological site is one of mesmerizing exploration. . Tulum was once one of the greatest cities of Mayan civilization. It was built sometime in the 13th century when the Mayans had existed for at least a thousand years.
After visiting the ruins, there is a great deal of things to do in Tulum. There’s the beach too! This is a paradise for all beach-lovers. A lot of attractions can be found on or near the beach, from scuba diving and snorkeling to kite surfing. Tulum hosts a wide variety of water sports. Scuba divers and snorkelers are fascinated to the beautiful, clear water and the colorful coral reefs of the Caribbean Sea.
The waters of Tulum are incredibly diverse with it’s coral reef, Cenotes, underground rivers, lagoons and bays which are the reasons why there so many snorkeling opportunities. Snorkeling is definitely one of the most handy water sports. Adults and kids will be able to benefit fully from the close proximity of the coral reef of Tulum and its rich aquatic fauna. One must try the snorkeling tour of the cenotes .This might be one of your unforgettable underwater experience.
Kiteboarding or kite surfing is the latest generation of sailing sport, born from a surprising blend of windsurfing, paragliding and wakeboarding, it addicts new participants daily. Tulum and its warm gorgeous water and variety of great spots offer perfect conditions for beginners to experts. Consistent - but not overly strong - winds make Tulum an ideal location for learning kiteboarding. The top wind conditions are between December and July.
Staying in one of the Tulum hotels added the thrill. To be able to visit Tulum is very unique experience. Just a reminder, Tulum is hot in the middle of June. Bring plenty of water and good quality walking shoes. Dress light and if its okay, try to bring wide brim hats.
Located in the Quintana Roo peninsula, Tulum is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations. Tulum means “The City of Dawn” and in old times was also called Zama. This town has a distinctive character of tranquility and beauty.
Tulum is bordered by an enormous stone wall. Its height is irregular since it follows the contours of the land and it is rectangular shaped with only three sides; that which faces the sea was naturally protected. Tulum is a Pre-Columbian walled city of the Maya society.
Tulum is considered to be one of the best- conserved coastal Maya sites, with its Mayan ruins as a symbol of the town’s essence and beauty. It is also the only sea-side Mayan archeological site. Mayan Ruins that stand atop the limestone cliffs and look over the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean yield awes and spectacular scenes. One can walk right down to the white sand beaches directly below the old Mayan Ruins. Tulum’s white limestone beaches and sapphire blue Caribbean waters are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. And if you are not up for snorkeling, maybe you should try ocean kite boarding or kite surfing.
If you are planning your dream wedding on the Caribbean, a Tulum wedding is a marvelous idea. This magical place features an amazing clear beach with white sands paradise, being considered the most magical and incredible place in Mexico.
Accommodations in Tulum include charming cabanas lining the beach which provide eco chic luxury for any budget traveler in Tulum. And the price range is from budget to extravagant and everything in between.
There are numerous different activities available in Tulum. With its magical Mayan ruins, and weather that always warm and sunny, and its beautiful sandy beach, it is definitely, a great vacation destination. The setting of Tulum is just perfect.
Tulum hotels are arguably considered as among the best in the world. Tulum may be a small part of Mexico, but the hotels and resorts that are found in the area are truly world-class. Foreign and local tourists alike visit Tulum not only for its spectacular beaches, but also for the beautiful amenities that the hotels in the area can offer. Who does not want to sleep in plush beds and stay in cozy cabanas during vacation? After a long day of frolicking on the beach or trekking Mayan ruins, nothing can really beat soaking in a bathtub or sleeping in a clean bed and room that most hotels and resorts in the area offer.
Aside from beautiful rooms and accommodations, Tulum hotels usually have great restaurants and bars too. Some hotels offer local cuisine so tourists can sample Tulum delicacies, while other establishments serve foreign food, such as burgers, steaks and even Japanese, so you will not feel that you are that far from home. Although Mexican food is fantastic, there are times when nothing can beat the cuisine of your home country. That is why it is a good thing that the hotels and resorts in Tulum offer international comfort foods to their guests.
Another reason why Tulum hotels are sought after is the fact that they are affordable. Although there are some that are really high-end, you can still find beautiful resorts and accommodations in Tulum that provide world-class amenities at half the price. In a time when people are looking for ways to save on their vacations, the budget price of some of the top hotels in the area can be really attractive. Thus, it is really not surprising that many tourists flock to this place during peak (and sometimes even non-peak) season.
Of course, Tulum hotels are not the only reason why you should visit this Mexican beach paradise. Apart from beaches, there are also a lot of things you can do in Tulum. If you already had your rest and massage on the beach, you can spend your time discovering the underwater wonders of the place. There are many diving spots that feature exotic fishes and coral reefs. By visiting the Mayan ruins, you will be amazed at the fantastic architecture of this once great civilization. There are also adventure sports that you can try on the famous Tulum beaches. Aside from scuba diving and snorkeling, you can also try fishing, visiting eco parks, swimming with dolphins, and some cave diving.
Are you craving for a beachside vacation without the fuss of a typical resort? Tulum, beyond doubt will satiate your thirst for a perfect and relaxing holiday. This small Caribbean town is an ideal alternative to jam-packed resorts and heavy tourist developments, without going too far off track from the region’s popular sights.
Located at the most beautiful bay of the Mayan Riviera, about a 90-minute drive south of Cancun, Tulum is surrounded by the jungle, archaeological Mayan sites and cenotes. Tulum is one of the last spots in the Caribbean where it’s still guaranteed you will have the best of your vacation.
Tulum offers a number of activities that will keep you busy and amused.
1. The Archaeological Site
Tulum means wall, due to the wall that surrounds the site. It is also believed that its original Pre-Hispanic given name is Zama, meaning the dawn. Tulum ruins’ overlooking the sea is a spectacular site. The most symbolic structures of this spot are: The El Castillo that with its 12 meter height is the tallest construction in the place. Next is Temple of the Frescos which is filled with murals.
2. Snorkeling and Diving
Scuba diving is a must-do activity in this part of Mexico. The untainted water is teeming with marine life and coral reefs. Diving enthusiasts will find ample of dive shops and tour operators, ready to take them on excursions to the coral reef or deep into the cenotes. Tulum also offers spectacular snorkeling opportunities as well.
3. Isolated and clean beaches
Tulum hotel zone stretches on for miles and miles of white sand, framed by dense jungle. The farther south you go, the more secluded the beach you will discover. Enjoy a relaxing massage while you enjoy the beauty of warm turquoise Sea.
4. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. It is chosen to be sheltered for its rich biodiversity and unique Mayan cultures which have inhabited the peninsula for ages. It provides a home for a amazingly rich flora and a fauna comprising more than 300 species of birds, as well as a large number of the region’s characteristic terrestrial vertebrates.
5. Accommodation
There are a number of options available suited for all taste, from the most basic to rustic cabanas ,to most luxurious All inclusive resorts. Tulum hotels will surely exceed any tourist’s expectations.
Located just 78 miles south of Cancun, Tulum is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations on the Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum’s white limestone beaches and sapphire blue Caribbean waters are also perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The white sand beaches are among the best in Mexico and very rarely do you see anyone on them.
From the minute you set your feet on the grounds of Tulum, you will be encircled by a feeling of calmness. With so many chances to relax and take it easy, Tulum is the perfect vacation spot. It is a simple beauty and wonderful energy. If you are trying to get away from the tourist scene, Tulum is the destination for you. Many beach side cabanas are offered for you to stay the night in should you so desire. Relax in a hammock and watch the sunsets cross the sky, and iguanas cross the ground.
If one is enthusiastic on seeing the archaeological sites of the area, there are nearly 60 Mayan Ruins that stand atop the limestone cliffs and look over the crystal clear waters of Tulum beach. Tulum’s name translates to “wall” from the Mayan language. The city’s original name is believed to have been Zama or “place of the dawn,” in reference to its position by the sea looking eastward. Today, the Mayan ruins in Tulum rank third as Mexico’s most visited archaeological site. One can leisurely walk right down to the white sand beaches directly below the old Mayan Ruins. It is also worth your while to check out Sian Kaan Biosphere. “Sian Kaan” means “where the sky is born”. This place is a habitat for thousands of birds as well as all the terrestrial and aquatic animals to be found in the coastal area.
One can enjoy hours of swimming or learning snorkeling on the beautiful beaches available in Tulum Mexico. The place has a lot to offer for the budget traveler and family vacations as well. Finding the right budget hotel is easy. Tulum accommodations varies from charming cabanas which are simple clean rooms that sit on a beautiful stretch of beach,to stunning luxurious eco-resort hotel.Generally, Tulum hotels are sought after is the fact that they are affordable. One can still find gorgeous resorts and accommodations in Tulum that offer world-class amenities at half the price.
Tulum is never a bad pick when you visit Mexico. It is one of the most beautiful areas on the Mayan Riviera.
Tulum Real Estate is currently in the process of growing from a small village beside some ruins, into thriving real estate market. While the current town is small, and current Tulum MLS listings will show only a hand full of options for homes or condos, there are some excellent options available in the area, especially in the area of land purchases, which currently are currently available in some excellent new developments. Within the Mexico Real Estate market, Tulum properties are in special position of being near several thriving real estate areas, as well as being on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world; one web site recently ranked Tulum as one of the top 10 in the world.
Real estate in Tulum is definitely an excellent option for anyone looking for the next “up and coming” area. Tulum is just down the road from the very successful real estate areas of Playa del Carmen and Cancun, and for some time it has already been a favorite for visitors from the two areas, both tourists and residents. The town is become central in several ways; it is close to the two cities mentioned, and it also has direct highway access to to Chichen Itza and the colonial city of Merida. As tourists begin to discover the numerous Mayan pyramid sites and other attractions south of Tulum, the town provides a focal point for easy access to much of the best Yucatan has to offer visitors. For real estate buyers, this easy access is also a convenience, leaving many options open for local travel. For this reason, a new international airport is being planned for just outside of Tulum, which will help develop this new role, and serve as a convenience for real estate buyers.
In addition to these benefits, Tulum property buyers will enjoy a beachfront lifestyle on some of the best beaches the world has to offer. Like the other beachfront real estate choices in the area, the beaches stretch for miles and miles of soft, white sand, with turquoise blue water. Unlike the other areas, Tulum has the unique beauty of a Mayan Pyramid site on a cliff, overlooking these beaches. On a visit to the pyramids, you can take your time to enjoy very much in tact Mayan architecture, and directly from the main pyramid sitting a small cliff, visitors can walk down some stairs to the beach. The view is awe-inspiring, and the beaches are relaxing. As already mentioned, the beaches stretch out for miles, and are easily accessible to properties by the town center. For this reason, Tulum has been named among the top 10 beaches in the world several times. Imagine living next to one of the world’s top 10 beaches, and at a relatively affordable price!
Currently, Tulum real estate is available in several prime land developments. One example is that of Aldea Zama, a development which will include a elegant village center, and land opportunities for buyers hoping to build a home in an small town, but still modern atmosphere. Aldea Zama is only a short walk from the beachfront, and enjoys the benefit of being right next door to the future MayaZama community with upscale shopping and fine international dining. Of course, Tulum offers a variety of styles and options; if you are interested in living on one of the world’s best beaches consider buyin property in Tulum.
Happy New Year from Tulum!
Todotulum.com has for some time had the most comprehensive, most widely distributed map in Tulum. Used by almost every tourist that visits Tulum, the latest addition of the map shows just how much this small little Mayan town is growing.
The latest addition, reprinted 40,000 copies strong, clearly demonstrates the lively atmosphere that travelers have come to expect from this gem in the Rivera Maya. Exciting restaurants and shops with beautiful handicrafts and clothing can be found all over pueblo and the beach road.. And now, thanks to the latest Tulum map, visitors can tell exactly where their favorite things are.
In addition to being able to locate all of the wonderful shops, hotels and restaurants, the Todotulum.com map shows the locations of valuable services such as bike rentals and dive shops as well as pharmacies, banks, internet cafes and gas stations.
On the back side of the map there are great descriptions of some highlights around Tulum ranging from cenotes, the ruins and the beaches to help visitors know exactly what is around. There is also a very handy map of the Tulum ruins as well as a map of the Yucatan peninsula with locations and distances to popular spots in the area.
This map contains all of the information that visitors and locals need to find all of the greatest spots in Tulum. As Tulum continues to grow Todotulum.com continues to reprint latest additions of the map reflecting the vibrantly changing town.
Todotulum.com is thankful and proud to be working with so many wonderful companies around Tulum. Special thanks to Acuatic Tulum, Akiin Beach Club ,Arena Real Estate, Azafran, Café Expresso, Casa Pitusa, Casa Violeta, Coco cabanas, Cocopesa, Coldwell Banker , Confucion’s Shop, Delphinus, Divino Paraiso, Don Diego de la Playa, Don Diego de la Selva, El Captain, El Paraiso, El Tabano, Elemental, Hotel Kohunlich, Hotel Maya, Iguana Bike Shop, Jade, La Luna, La Lupita, Las Tres Palmas, Lo Nuestro , L’angoletto, L’Hotelito, Le Bistro, Luna Maya, Mexi Divers, Mixba Camping, Moloko, Ocho Tulum, Om, Oscar y Lalo, Pariso del Caribe, Pequeño Buenos Aires, Piedra Escondida, Playa Azul, Posada 06, Posada del Sol, Posada Lamar, Posada Luna del Sur, Posada Yum Kin, Punta Piedra, Rancho Tranquilo, Residencia La Mariposa , Retiro Maya, Sagrado Corazon Tattoo, Savana Travel, Silver shop, Spa Movil, Squalo Surf Shop, Sushill-out, Suwus, Tierras del Sol, Teetotum, Tulum Wedding Destination, Trece Lunas, Uolis Nah, Villa Geminis, Villa de Luna, Villas H20, Villa Matisse, Visit Sian Ka’an Tours, Xel- Ha, Xibalba Dive Center, Zafiro and Zamas.
And now, thanks to the latest addition of the Tulum map… visitors will know exactly where to find them. Pick up your copy of the newest and most comprehensive map of Tulum at any of the companies listed above.
Tulum is a Mayan archaeological site on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. It is located about one hour south of Cancun also 15 miles south of Akumal. This breathtaking place is on a cliff overlooking the brilliant turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Tulum means fence, trench or wall, and is the name given to the site in recent times because of the wall surrounding it. It was also was once called “Zama”, meaning place of the dawning. The walled Maya city of Tulum is a large post-Classic site overlooking the Caribbean in dramatic fashion. Tulum served as a trading port. It is generally accepted that Tulum was a major city in Mayan world between 1000 A.D. and 1600 A.D. Its choice spot on the shore of the Caribbean made it the center of commerce for the Mayans. Merchandise arrived by boat and was processed through Tulum before being sent onto central Mexico.
In recent years, Tulum has become a main tourist attraction in the Mayan Riviera for those who are fond of ancient architecture and craftsmanship. There are about 60 well preserved buildings on the site of Tulum today. The most significant of these have plaques with information in English, Spanish and Mayan. Mayan Ruins of Tulum are amazing site to behold. It is one of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, and the third most-visited archeological spot in Mexico. The archeological ruins at Tulum have a number of excellently well preserved structures and buildings to explore and the scenery is outstanding. One of these is The Temple of the Frescoes which is famous for housing multiple 13th century murals which picture ancient ceremonies highly regarded by the Mayans. Another is The Castillo Pyramid is known as a scenic place offering multiple breathtaking incoming sea invaders. The beach at the Tulum ruins definitely merits a mention, because it’s one of the most fine-looking beaches along the Mayan Riviera, and great for taking a swim after visiting the ruins. After hiking through the jungle and walking through the ancient stone buildings of the walled city, one is suddenly struck by the image of the shocking blue ocean against the setting of the ruins and cliffs. It will take your breath away.
Tulum has wonderful, sandy beaches and no large Tulum hotels. It’s a perfect spot for those who like to splash around in the water and lie on the beach away from the resort scene. One must try to snorkel or dive one of many crystal clear cenotes, or underwater caves. Your vacation in Tulum might be an incredible transformational experience.