Parque Nacional Tulum
Explore ancient Mayan ruins perched above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, surrounded by lush jungle and vibrant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Parque Nacional Tulum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Mayan ruins perched above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, surrounded by lush jungle and vibrant wildlife.
"An amazing archaeological site with tons of history and beautiful views!"
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential!
Mosquitoes can be vicious, especially in the jungle areas. Pack plenty of repellent!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tulum Archaeological Zone
Coastal cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea
Iconic Mayan ruins perched dramatically above turquoise waters. A must-see for history and stunning views.
Parque Nacional Tulum
Coastal area surrounding the ruins
Explore lush jungle, diverse wildlife, and access to pristine beaches within this protected ecological reserve.
Sfer Ik Jungle Art Museum
Deep within the Tulum jungle
An immersive, barefoot art experience set amidst the jungle's tranquility.
Cenote Exploration
Various locations around Tulum
Dive into crystal-clear cenotes for swimming and snorkeling in breathtaking natural sinkholes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Navigating Tulum's New Park System
Understanding the layout via Google Maps can help you navigate efficiently. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential!
Mosquitoes can be vicious, especially in the jungle areas. Pack plenty of repellent!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
The heat is intense. Carry your own reusable water bottle as plastic bottles are often not allowed.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen are a must to shield yourself from the strong sun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential!
Mosquitoes can be vicious, especially in the jungle areas. Pack plenty of repellent!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Bring Water & Stay Hydrated
The heat is intense. Carry your own reusable water bottle as plastic bottles are often not allowed.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen are a must to shield yourself from the strong sun.
💰 Be Aware of Extra Fees
Taxes and park entry fees can add up. Factor these into your budget.
📸 Camera Policy Check
Some art installations, like Sfer Ik, may charge extra for professional photography.
🚗 Consider Bike Rentals
Renting a bike is a popular and affordable way to explore the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Parque Nacional Tulum for its stunning Mayan ruins and beautiful coastal views, noting the well-restored structures and less seaweed compared to other areas. The opportunity for guided tours and spotting wildlife is a highlight, though some mention the intense heat and persistent mosquitoes. The recent implementation of the Parque del Jaguar system has introduced new entry procedures and fees.
"Pretty nice national park. The ruins have been restored pretty well and look very nice, the ocean is beautiful with less seaweed compared to other places in the Cancun area. At the beach you can pay for a boat tour with a very small fee to go swim with turtles and stingray in the coral reef. The coral reef is pretty much nonexistent since it looks like it died 20 years ago and all thats left is dust with tiny hunks of coral, but some parts of the reef are restored (only a tiny bit). Highly recommend"
Dallin Lew
"Beautiful experience- there is a 9 year age gap between my kids and both enjoyed this visit. We had a tour guide who was extremely engaging and informative.
Taxes were an extra $35/pp on top of the ticket. Make sure you put a ton of bug spray on before you go because the mosquitoes were vicious here!"
KM Phelps
"Very nice place. I really recommend to visit it. I saw a lot of iguanas and very nice vegetation. You get a ride to the park main entrance so you save a lot of walking. It is hot. Bring water."
Diana Paguaga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Parque Nacional Tulum by car, taxi, or public transport. Many visitors rent bikes to explore the area once inside or nearby. If arriving by car, be aware of new park entry fees.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times. The new Parque del Jaguar system may also affect parking access and fees.
Yes, local buses and colectivos (shared vans) frequently run along the main highway and can drop you off near the park entrance.
The park is quite spread out. You can walk, rent a bike, or utilize the shuttle service offered within the park to reach different areas.
Yes, many tours offer round-trip transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya. Alternatively, you can take a bus or rent a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can vary. Be prepared for potential taxes and separate charges for different areas or activities within the park, including the new Parque del Jaguar.
While not always mandatory, booking guided tours or tickets in advance can save time and help you avoid long queues, especially during busy periods.
Yes, Mexican citizens with valid IDs (student, teacher, Inapam) often receive significant discounts on entry fees.
The park typically opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to check the official hours closer to your visit as they can change.
No, plastic bottles are generally not permitted to minimize environmental impact. Bring a reusable water bottle instead.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park includes the famous Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, lush jungle trails, and access to cenotes.
Some tours offer opportunities to swim with turtles near the coral reef, though the reef itself may be in a degraded state.
Many visitors highly recommend a guided tour for deeper historical context and to understand the significance of the ruins.
You can spot iguanas, various birds, and other jungle creatures in the park's natural habitat.
There's a significant amount of walking, especially from the entrance to the main ruins and down to the beach. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the heat.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tulum ruins overlooking the Caribbean are iconic. Sfer Ik offers unique jungle art shots, and the beaches provide stunning backdrops.
While personal phone photography is usually allowed, professional camera equipment might require special permits or additional fees, especially at art installations like Sfer Ik.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the ruins and beaches.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and archaeological sites to protect wildlife and preserve the historical integrity. Check local regulations.
The 'Ven a la Luz' sculpture is located at the entrance to the Ahau Tulum hotel, not directly within the national park itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families include bringing plenty of water and snacks, as well as ample bug spray and sun protection.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' is perfect for dramatic shots of the ruins and beaches.
Remember to check any specific photography regulations for certain sites to avoid issues.🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the main ruins, the Parque Nacional Tulum itself is a testament to the region's natural and historical significance. Understanding the context of these structures within the broader Mayan civilization adds depth to the visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Parque del Jaguar
+1 It's a significant addition to Tulum's eco-conscious tourism efforts, offering visitors a chance to connect with the region's natural heritage. Access to the ruins and Playa Paraíso is now integrated with this new park system. Whether arriving by car or bicycle, an entry fee is required.
This initiative underscores Tulum's commitment to conservation while providing new avenues for exploration within the protected area. Visitors can expect to find a more organized approach to accessing key sites, with the park serving as a gateway. It's a place to appreciate the biodiversity and the ongoing efforts to preserve Tulum's unique environment.
+1Navigating Tulum's Layout
This division helps in orienting yourself, whether you're heading to the archaeological zone, the beach, or the jungle attractions like the Sfer Ik art museum.
When considering accommodation or activities, knowing which zone you'll be in can significantly impact travel times and accessibility. For instance, staying in the hotel zone offers direct beach access, while staying in town might be more budget-friendly.
Budget-Friendly Tulum
Many travelers suggest taking advantage of hotel amenities like complimentary breakfast, yoga sessions, or bike rentals if offered.
Consider visiting cenotes that are less commercialized or opting for a guided tour that bundles multiple attractions, which can sometimes be more cost-effective than booking individually.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit