Tulum: a perfect synergy between natural landscapes and Mayan ruins
Tulum is known for having one of the best beaches in the world, and has become one of the trendiest spots to visit. Here you will enjoy large stretches of white sandy beaches, turquoise Caribbean water, impressive Mayan archaeological sites and encounter nature at it’s best. These are only some of the reasons why Tulum is a perfect synergy between natural landscapes and Mayan ruins.
Tulum is located 130 km (about 80 miles) south of Cancun’s International Airport, it will take a drive of about an hour and a half to get to paradise.
Tulum City is divided into three main areas:
- Tulum town: Or as the locals call it, “el pueblo”, is located about 3 miles from the beach. Here you can find a large variety of small hotels, restaurants, boutiques and shops. Like any growing town, you will find real estate developments, banks and ATM’s, pharmacies; bike, scooter and car rental, doctors, gas stations, supermarkets and convenience stores. The “pueblo” has it’s own eclectic flavor and the best time to visit it is when the sun has gone down.
- Tulum’s Archaeological site: This is the most visited attraction in Tulum and for a good reason. This amazing archaeological site was built on a cliff and is the only one facing the Caribbean Sea. “The castle” is the name of the main building, it was built closest to the sea and was originally covered in red painted stucco. In front of “The castle” is one of the most well preserved buildings which houses impressive murals. You will be amazed by the spectacular views and the ancient history laying still on each and every stone.
- The Tulum beach strip: This is a narrow but lengthy road that runs along the coast line and leads you to the arch, which is the access to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This strip has a very relaxed, bohemian feel. Almost everything is walking distance, and you will easily locate bicycles available for rent. You can find exclusive boutique hotels, as well as glamping spots or basic camping areas.
You will encounter plenty of options while looking for restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and bars.
If you love nature, you must visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It measures half a million hectares and covers all possible scenarios: beaches, coral reefs, rainforest, jungle, mangroves, dunes and natural sink holes or “cenotes”.
It’s and incredible natural paradise that houses on of the most diverse fauna and flora of the world. Kayaking and jungle tours are some of the most popular activities in the area.
Tulum is also known for kite boarding, fishing, diving at the Mayan reef barrier or enjoying any of the beautiful “cenotes” (fresh water sinkholes) while cavern diving or snorkeling, or you could also other amazing archeological sites worth visiting in the area, like Cobá and Muyil and learn more about the Mayan culture.
These are only a few reasons why you should visit Tulum; you will find your own reasons to come back. The Beach Tulum is the perfect spot to start your adventure and experience all the above!