Great Tips For First Time Tulum Visitors

The historic Mayan Tulum Ruins are a must-see if you’re traveling to Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, or anywhere else in the Riviera Maya! The Tulum Archaeological Site, also known as Ruinas Tulum, is one of the most well-preserved Mayan civilization sites, and because of its elevated cliffside location away from powerful hurricane waves, it not only provides a significant and well-preserved window into history, but it is also set in an incredibly picturesque setting.

The trip is worthwhile, but if you have children (whose levels of comfort with heat, exercise, or history may vary), you might be better off renting a car and making the trip to the Tulum Ruins yourself. See our additional advice below, especially the sections on driving and parking, for more information.

Driving to the Ruins of Tulum (Be Prepared!)

The moment you go off the main route to go to the entrance of the Tulum Archaeology Site, a dozen salespeople will start pestering you to buy parking, tours, etc. If it’s your first time, it may be Really scary. They will bang on your windows and even try to block your car while shouting “official” orders to halt. These are independent tour companies that offer tours and parking. There is no doubt that some of them might provide excellent services or reasonable pricing, but you do not need to stop using them because they are not “official” or approved by the government.

You will be able to tell when you reach the walkway to Tulum because there will be yellow metal gates blocking the road and it will then be pedestrian only.

Parking

You can park at a sizable lot on your right for about 100 pesos, or $5, once you see the yellow gates. Tulum may be reached from the parking lot after a short hike that isn’t particularly far. The standard amount for parking in 2022 is about $5. There are additional lots nearby, but they could attempt to charge you extra or insist that you buy a tour.

Nothing should be left in the automobile.

How to Go to the Tulum Ruinas from the Parking Lot

You should just stroll up to tulum ruins parking fee front gates, in my opinion. Although it’s not very far and is paved, I believe most people will choose tennis shoes or other footwear with some support. There is no food or water there, so make sure you pack water and any snacks you might need. Although there are numerous tiny businesses next to the parking lot where you may buy water or snacks, the archeological site itself does not have a market.

Bookings for Tulum

There is a ticket line at the entry. Bring patience, it’s long and slow moving. Or reserve your Tulum tickets online prior to traveling.

ProTip: There is a desk to the left of the ticket line where you may very immediately buy a tour that includes admission. Although it was only a few dollars more per ticket, it wasn’t much, and the tour was AMAZING! We did it this way, and I suggest it!

What to Pack

When visiting the Tulum Ruins, take minimal luggage! You’ll be moving around a lot in the heat. If you have children who will require them, carry a small, lightweight backpack or bag with some food and bottles of water. You might also think about bringing a tiny handheld fan or misting water bottle (be sure to fill it with ice water!) if you’re traveling during the summer or a heat wave.

Restaurants, ice cream, and other munchies are available at some of the neighborhood stores near the base parking lot.

Remark on Tulum’s Accessibility

For the walk in and most of the walkways, sturdy strollers will work just fine. Wheelchairs will be more difficult, especially if they are manual, but I believe someone who is motivated can do it. There are speed bumps on the walkway that will make what would otherwise be an easy walk for a wheelchair much more difficult. Other pathways may also be difficult, and there are undoubtedly some spots with stairs that won’t be very accessible (if at all). I’m not an expert on wheelchair accessibility, so I’d refer you to other travel websites for wheelchair advice. If you or a family member uses a wheelchair, I strongly advise you to do some study in advance.

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