A black and white logo for viking travel with a plane flying over the globe.
  • A row of chairs on a beach with a view of the ocean at papaya playa beach club in Tulum, Mexico.

    Sands of Time

    Stark beauty of desolate dunes
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  • A woman in a swimsuit is sitting on a rock in a cave at Gran Cenote in Tulum, Mexico.

    Beyond Boundaries

    Visual odyssey across continents
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  • There is a bench in the middle of a concrete sculpture at Azulik Sfer Ik museum in Tulum, Mexico.
  • A grocery store filled with lots of fruits and vegetables in Tulum Pueblo in Mexico.

    Nature's Symphony

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  • Tulum Travel Guide

    By Novali Hanley | 11.30.2024

    Where to Stay

    Tulum's stunning coastline is dotted with eco-friendly boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Areas like the Tulum Beach Zone, especially near the South Beach, are popular for their boho-chic ambiance, with options ranging from minimalist cabanas to upscale villas. Staying here offers direct access to pristine beaches and proximity to popular beach clubs like Nomade and Papaya Playa Project. For those seeking a serene and immersive experience, the jungle area around Tulum offers eco-lodges and glamping sites. These accommodations emphasize sustainability and blend luxury with nature, providing a unique way to experience Tulum's lush environment.

    Keep in mind

    Currency

    The currency in Tulum is the Mexican Peso (MXN), but U.S. dollars are also commonly accepted in tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are widely used, though it's good to carry pesos. Currency exchange services are readily available throughout the city.

    When to go

    With fall being Tulum hurricane season, the ideal time to visit Tulum is from December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. This period is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower rates, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May and November, though be mindful of the possibility of rain.

    Food & Water

    It is widely known not to drink the tap water in Mexico. When consuming beverages, ensure they are made with bottled or purified water along with checking that bottles you buy are sealed. Additionally, avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it’s made from purified water along with fresh fruit (which is typically rinsed with tap water.).

    Safety

    Stay aware of your surroundings in Tulum, secure valuables, and avoid walking alone at night. Follow safety guidelines when swimming or exploring cenotes, and drive cautiously if renting bikes or scooters. Drink responsibly and stay vigilant in crowded areas.

    Things to do

    More Things to Do

    Transportation

    Taxis

    Taxis are the ideal way to get around Tulum. While it is extremely easy to haul one yourself it's always a better idea to have your hotel call one for you due to a common fake taxi scam. You can also call a taxi service yourself and contact them via WhatsApp. 


    Depending on how far you are going taxis will typically cost you around $10 to $25 USD. It is a good idea to have pesos when getting a taxi because drivers do not always have change for USD.


    TIP - Always set your price with the driver before you leave to avoid hearing a higher price then you expected once you arrive at your destination. 

    Private Transfer

    If you don't like the idea of public transportation and want a more custom and private way to get around, do not worry! 


    Most hotels offer a private transfer service or you can even book one with an alternate company in advance prior to your tip!  This 

    Renting a car

    Due to the public transport available, there isn't much need to rent a car, especially if you are only planning on staying in the hotel zone. The only reason to get a rental is if you are planning on traveling long distances. 


    Parking is very hard to find at most places and traffic police target rental cars to give a nice ticket too. 


    If you do plan on renting a car make sure to inspect the vehicle and agreement before pursuing it. Tulum's rental companies are known for scams and will charge you way more then what they made it seem. 

    What to eat

    Sopa de Lima

    Sopa de Lima is a traditional Mexican soup from the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its refreshing and tangy flavors. Made with shredded chicken or turkey, the broth is seasoned with lime juice, garlic, onions, and aromatic spices like oregano. The dish is typically garnished with crispy tortilla strips and fresh lime slices, giving it a distinctive citrusy aroma. 

    Cochinita Pibil

    Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish , made with slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices. The meat is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground, which makes it incredibly tender and flavorful. Typically served with pickled red onions and tortillas.

    Salbutes

    Salbutes are a popular street food from the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. They are deep-fried corn tortillas that puff up when cooked, creating a light and crispy base. Topped with shredded chicken or turkey, lettuce, pickled red onions, avocado slices, and a touch of salsa.

    Common Scams to Avoid


    ATMS - While most private owned ATMs already have an extremely high fee and  poor exchange rate, they are also known to be easily tampered with to skim your card for confidential information. When possible, always go to an ATM inside of a respected bank.


    Taxis - If hailing your own taxi, always make sure the license plate number starts with and A or B. Also make sure the drivers ID is on display and matches the person behind the wheel.


    Credit Cards - Always make sure when handing off your card that it is being swiped in front of you.


    Nightlife

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    Full moon party at Papaya Playa

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    Gitana Club

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    Bagatelle Club

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    RosaNegra Club

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