What to do in Tulum if it rains

Here is an important fact to know about the rain in the Riviera Maya, which applies to all destinations: Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and Holbox. If it’s raining in one location it does not necessarily mean it’s raining past a 5-mile radius. Since the Yucatán peninsula is flat, there are no mountains to withhold the clouds, so when a storm arrives the winds from the ocean will most likely blow the clouds away into the jungle and rain does not last long. Rainfall is usually short and intense, followed by sunshine and breathtaking sunsets. So if it rains in Tulum, drive somewhere else and enjoy a sunny day.

It could also happen that you might be caught in Tulum during a tropical rainstorm; if this is the case, what you can do is accept reality and flow. Drink, eat, take naps, read books, take some yoga classes, make new friends with other people that are in the same situation as you are, play board games, chess, laugh, create memories and take wonderful pictures.

The rainy season in Tulum lasts between June and October, with August and September being the most likely months, but rain doesn’t stop you from enjoying this amazing destination.

Here are some activities you can do if it is raining in Tulum:

1. Rio Secreto: This is a fun and unique tour, an intricate system of caves and caverns with underground rivers the entire family can enjoy. The entrance is on Highway 307, about a 50 minute drive north of Tulum and it’s completely worth it. Access prices start at $79 usd and include a specialized tour guide, lockers, wetsuit, life jacket, helmet with lamp, towels, regional buffet, non-alcoholic drinks. Duration is approx. 3.5 hours. No swimming skills required.
2. Cenote Diving or Snorkeling: According to Trip Advisor, the most popular cenotes are: Cenote Carwash or Aktun-Ha, Casa Cenote, Cenote Zacil Ha, Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Encantado, Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera. Most cenotes (natural fresh water sinkholes) are located under huge limestone caverns that will protect you from the rain, but not from getting wet in their crystal clear water. They are all very close to Tulum, so perfect for a quick visit in case you want to rush back to the beach!
3. Tulum Archaeological site: One of the most impressive archeological sites of the Mayan world is Tulum. You have probably seen pictures of this amazing construction built right on a cliff and overlooking the Caribbean sea. The best weather to visit any archaeological site in the hot Yucatan peninsula is definitely when it’s cloudy, it will be less crowded and you will take amazing pictures. Have your cameras ready for breathtaking photos of the ruins and its inhabitants – iguanas!
4. Yoga lessons: There is no best way to enjoy the sound of raindrops falling on the evergreen jungle, than remaining in silence and reconnecting with yourself. Book a Yoga class, relax, stretch and inhale the humid and cool mist the tropical rain always brings. Hatha, Vinyasa, Power Flow are all available in Tulum.
5. Hit the road:
   If it seems like it will rain for the entire day, the best thing you can do is get out of Tulum and explore. Take a tour or rent a car and visit the cities near you.
   45-minutes north of Tulum you can find Playa del Carmen. Stroll on 5^th Avenue paved with boutiques, coffee shops, ice cream parlors, duty free stores and sit at one of their many delicious restaurants as you people watch and do some shopping. You can also choose to book a tour to the amazing Chichen Itza or take a bus to Valladolid, about a 1.5 hour drive inland from Tulum. Valladolid is a beautiful, small colonial town with a laid back atmosphere and centennial traditions. Roam through its colorful streets, visit local handicraft shops and have lunch at one of its many local restaurants, like La Casona de Valladolid, for some real local flavor. End your visit at one of Valladolid’s cenotes before heading back to Tulum for drinks on the beach!