Tulum : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 20 Jun, 2023
- |
Tulum is an ancient Mayan site situated along the Caribbean coastline in Mexico. It not only offers some of the most stunning coastal settings in the world, but is one of the best places to explore fascinating Mayan ruins and learn about the rich culture and history of the area. In addition to its incredible ruins, Tulum offers visitors stunning natural beauty and a host of great activities, from snorkeling and diving, to shopping and dining. In this blog post, we’ll dive into some of the most interesting facts about Tulum and provide a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan the perfect vacation. So, start packing and get ready to explore all that Tulum has to offer!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Tulum
1. Tulum was once a major port for the Mayan Empire.
2. The Tulum ruins were the last Mayan port of trade.
3. There were at least four cities near the Tulum ruins.
4. The Spaniards considered the area to be the province of “Rio de los Lacs,” or “River of Lagoons.”
5. In 1895, a lighthouse was built on top of the ruins of Tulum.
6. In 1934, the Mexican government declared the ruins at Tulum a historic monument.
7. Tulum was the only Mayan City located on the coastline.
8. Tulum was home to a variety of migrating birds, including hummingbirds, parrots and ibis.
9. The area near Tulum is renowned for its learning institutions dedicated to the preservation and teaching of Mayan language, history and culture.
10. The Mayans believed that the nearby Grand Cenote (Blue Hole) in Tulum was a portal to the underworld.
History & Information About Tulum
Tulum is an ancient Mayan city located on the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is the third-largest Maya site and the best-preserved coastal Maya site in the region. It dates back to the Late Postclassic period of Mesoamerican chronology (AD 1200 to 1521).
Tulum was home to one of the largest port cities in the Mayan civilization. It was an important regional center of trade, as evidenced by a series of stone structures, such as the Castillo and Templo de Dios, which archaeologists have identified as docks.
Tulum was also known as the walled city of the Mayans and was one of the few surviving Mayan cities and the only fortified city built on the Caribbean coast. In its heyday, it was the home of the Mayan God of Wind, Huracan.
Tulum is home to several interesting ruins including El Castillo, the largest structure within the walled city, and the Temple of the Frescoes, which features intricate hieroglyphics. Tulum is also home to the Tulum National Park, which protects 3,000 hectares (7,400 acres) of tropical rainforest, cenotes, and coastal wetlands.
Tulum remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, with an increasingly popular beach club scene. Along with ancient ruins, natural beauty, and a modern host of amenities, tourists who visit Tulum find a uniquely Mexican experience that’s hard to beat.
Travel Guide For Visiting Tulum
Tulum is one of the most beautiful places in the Mexican Caribbean. With its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and fascinating Mayan ruins, it is a popular tourist destination. To help you make the most of your visit, here is a travel guide for visiting Tulum, Quintana Roo.
Where to Stay:
The small town of Tulum is full of hotels, boutique resorts and holiday rentals, all offering beachfront or wild jungle settings. If you’re looking for luxury, check out the chic Viceroy, Mezzanine, Be Tulum or Ahau resorts. For something more affordable, stay at the Posada Margherita guest house or one of the beachside cabanas in the town centre.
What to Do:
The Mayan ruins at Tulum are a must-see. The ancient structure perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, with its surrounding wall paintings and artifacts, is a truly spectacular sight. The prehistoric Temple of the Frescoes and the Casa de las Piedras Sagradas are also recommended. Rent a bicycle or take a tour to explore the area. Enjoy the sunshine and the beach at the nearby cenotes, rivers and lagoons.
Where to Eat:
The vibrant gastronomic scene in Tulum includes rustic taquerías, family-run restaurants and fine dining venues. Don Cafeto and Los Aguachiles are great options for seafood, while the Hartwood and Sanara restaurants are some of the best in the area. For an unforgettable experience, have dinner at the Casa Jaguar or Coqui Coqui’s Palapa restaurant, both offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Nightlife:
Tulum’s nightlife is perfect for those seeking an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Check out the Las Estrellas Beach Club, Zazil Kin, Papaya Playa Project and the bar at the Viceroy Hotel. If you’re looking for a livelier night, head to the Speakeasy or the All New Baby Ocean. There are also plenty of live music venues and beach parties.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tulum
Q: What kind of activities are there to do in Tulum?
A: Tulum offers many activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you want to explore ancient Mayan ruins, sunbathe on one of the white sand beaches, explore the local cenotes, or take a nature tour, there is something for everyone. Other activities include kayaking, scuba diving, swimming, horseback riding, and shopping in the local markets.
Q: How do I get to Tulum from Cancun?
A: The two destinations are just over an hour apart by car and nearly two hours apart by bus. You can drive yourself, rent a car, or take a bus from Cancun to Tulum. There are also direct flights available from some domestic airports to Tulum.
Q: What is the local currency in Tulum?
A: The local currency in Tulum is the Mexican peso (MXN). You can get Mexican pesos at almost any bank, exchange bureau, or ATM in the city. It is recommended to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.