Three days are enough to see the essentials of Tulum without rushing. The key is starting early and grouping places that are close to each other.
Day 1 · Ruins and beach
- 8:00 · Tulum archaeological site. Arrive at opening time: it is cooler and less crowded.
- 10:30 · Playa Paraíso, right next to the ruins. Access is free.
- 14:00 · Lunch and a rest at the hotel.
- 19:00 · Dinner in Downtown Tulum, along Avenida Tulum.
Day 2 · Cenotes and Cobá
- 8:30 · Gran Cenote, about 4 km from Downtown toward Cobá.
- 10:30 · Aktun Ha (Car Wash) Cenote, on the same road.
- 12:30 · Cobá by bike. Rent a bike inside the site to ride the Maya causeways.
- 17:00 · Back to Tulum.
Day 3 · Turtles and the north coast
- 8:00 · Swim with turtles in Akumal, about 25 km north.
- 11:30 · Casa Cenote in Tankah, on the way back. You can rent a kayak.
- Afternoon · Sunset on the beach.
If you have one more day
Spend it in Sian Ka'an: boat rides through Maya canals, lagoons and birdlife. Pair it with the Muyil ruins.
Tips
- Use biodegradable sunscreen only and pack out your trash.
- Carry cash in pesos for entry fees and cenotes.
- Check sargassum and fees before heading out.
