Tulum – Iconic Maya Ruins in Mexico (2025 Travel Guide)

Tulum is one of the most famous and visited ancient Mayan archaeological sites on the Yucatán Peninsula, second only to Chichén Itzá.

Located on the eastern coast of the peninsula, along the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is part of the state of Quintana Roo. It sits just a short distance from the popular tourist areas of Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya

It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and stands out not just for its history but for its stunning location by the sea, which was unusual for its time and offers a beautiful view today.

While the structures at Tulum aren’t as large or impressive as those at Chichén Itzá or Uxmal, the coastal setting makes the site uniquely picturesque.

Tulum's strategic location made it an important trading center for the Maya, which is why it was protected by a well-developed defense system, including a wall over 700 meters long.

This wall, which gave the city its name (Tulum means "wall" in the Mayan language), was designed to protect the inhabitants from potential attacks. Although the city once contained many small dwellings, only the remains of the walls can still be seen today.

El Castillo

El Castillo is one of the most iconic structures, located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This pyramid-like temple was used by the ancient Maya as a navigational point for seafarers, acting as a lighthouse of sorts to guide them along the coast.

The structure’s alignment with the sun during the equinoxes suggests it had astronomical and ceremonial significance. With its stunning ocean views, El Castillo is a must-see, offering visitors a glimpse into the Maya’s connection with both the land and sea.

There is a wooden staircase leading directly down to a beautiful bay. You can lie on the beach or swim in the sea and have an extraordinary view of the buildings. Tulum is now a vacation resort with many hotels and has long been fully developed for tourism.

House of the High Priest

The House of the High Priest in Tulum is one of the most important structures in the ancient Mayan city. It is believed to have been the residence of the high priest, who played a central role in the religious and ceremonial life of the community.

Temple or Ceremonial Center

The following building was likely used as a temple or ceremonial center. It stands out due to its architectural design, with a rectangular shape and a series of columns.

The structure’s purpose remains debated, but it is thought to have served a religious or observatory function, aligned with the Mayan cosmology.

World of Archaeology

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to an incredible array of Mayan archaeological sites, offering a fascinating look into the ancient civilization’s complex history and culture.

The region was once the heart of the Mayan world, with large cities, impressive temples, and sophisticated systems of governance and trade.

Many of these sites showcase the Mayans' advanced knowledge of astronomy, engineering, and agriculture, with stunning stone structures and intricate carvings still visible today.

Pueblos Mágicos

Tulum is one of the many places in Mexico recognized as a "Pueblo Mágico" by SECTUR (Secretariat of Tourism), an honor given to towns with exceptional culture, history, or natural beauty.

This title was first introduced in 2001, with Tulum being one of the prominent towns selected for its rich heritage. On the Yucatán Peninsula, you'll find fourteen such places, each providing an insight into the heart of Mexican tradition and scenery.

The 14 Pueblos Magicós on the Yucatán Peninsula are (as of 2025):

• Quintana Roo: Bacalar, Isla Mujeres, Tulum and Cozumel

• Yucatán: Izamal, Maní, Sisal, Valladolid, Espita, Motul and Tekax

• Campeche: Isla Aguada, Palizada and Candelaria

In the Surrounding Region

There are also several other great archaeological sites to visit in the surrounding region of Tulum. Two recommended destinations are for example the Coba ruins and Ek' Balam.

Tips for Visiting

Here are some tips for visiting the Tulum Maya site:

1. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the heat, especially during peak hours.

2. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking on uneven paths around the site.

3. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun while exploring the ruins.

4. Bring your your camera, the views of the ruins and the Caribbean Sea are stunning.

5. Stay hydrated, as it can get very hot, especially in the afternoon.

We have more background information and travel tips on Mayan archaeological sites.

How to Get to Tulum from Mérida?

Tulum is easily accessible from Mérida, with various transportation options available. You can travel by bus, taxi, or car, and there are plenty of tour operators offering organized trips as well.

The ADO bus company runs regular services between Mérida and Tulum, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Whether you prefer public transport or private options, getting to Tulum from Mérida is straightforward.