What to do in Tulum
Visit a Cenote
Tulum is known for having some of the best Cenotes in Mexico. This is a must during your trip. If you're wondering what a cenote is- it's a "natural sinkhole" filled with clear water and surrounded by caves. Tulum has many different options when it comes to cenotes, but I went to Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera. They are two very different cenotes.
​
​
Gran Cenote is very large and has lots to do from swimming through a tunnel cave, snorkeling or even diving if you're certified. They have a large grassy area that you can hang out with your friends at and enjoy the day there. This cenote is one of the more popular ones and gets packed fast, so I would recommend going early. It is a short drive from the center of town or you can bike there as well. As of 2022, the entrance fee is $25USD.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Next is Cenote Calavara - this is very close to the center of town and I decided to ride my bike there. It took about 10 minutes and the ground was flat, but you will be on a main road for a short while. It isn't very busy, but just be careful if you decide to bike there. This cenote is pretty small, but the property is nice. They have colorful Mexican decor as you walk back to the cenote, hammocks and picnic tables as well. Around the cenote, you'll find lounge chairs to hang out on and take in the view. You can either jump in or walk down the later they have and once you're down there- there is a swing to take pictures on or just enjoy the moment. At this cenote, you will also find a tiny hole that you can jump into that drops you into the cenote, if you're brave - try it out. As of 2022, the price of entry is $12USD.
There are tons more beautiful cenotes around Tulum to visit- I will list a few of them, but I can not personally say how great or bad they are as I haven't visited.
Cenote Escondido- 10 minute drive from Tulum Center
Cenote Zacil- Ha- 11 minute drive from Tulum Center
Dos Ojos Cenote- 26 minute drive from Tulum Center
​
Rent a Bike
Almost all of Tulum is flat and perfect for bike riding. There are many places to rent bikes from daily, weekly and monthly in town, but I would recommend asking your hotel if they have bike rentals. Most of the hotels do offer them for a daily fee and some may even offer them for free. While I was there, I rented a bike from the place I was staying and rode everywhere! The beach is about a 15 minute ride from the center of town and they have a bike path so you're out of the way of traffic. Once you get down to the end of the road, you can either go left or right- going right will take you to the more expensive area with tons of beach clubs, restaurants and hotels. Going to the left- you will find restaurants and hotels that are equally as great, but a lot less money. (for the most part).
​
Tulum Archaeological Zone
If you are into history or would just like to learn more about the place you're visiting- I would definitely recommend checking out the Tulum Archaeological Zone. Here you will find the 13th century Mayan archaeological site- you can explore “El Castillo” (The Castle), The Temple of the Descending God and The House of the Columns, go down the the beach in front and take a swim or just enjoy being in such a beautifully preserved piece of history. When heading to the ruins, there will be a lot of people who will tell you they'll get you in or to take their tour. I would recommend just purchasing the entry at the site itself. (85 pesos as of 2022) There is an additional charge for photography here- so be prepared for this if you plan on taking photos.
​
