The Mayan ruins at Tulum might not be the best along the Mexican Riviera. But there’s no denying that it has the most lovely.
The ruins at Tulum continue to astound me after having spent several weeks visiting some of the top Ancient Mayan cities in existence. They have water views, something none of the others do!
Going to Tulum
I arrive at the tulum ruins hours not long after the gates have opened and shortly after daybreak. I arrived early for two reasons: first, to take advantage of the early light for my photographs, and second, to avoid the throng.
This big cloud prevents me from achieving my first goal (although it clears after about 30 mins and I still get some nice sunny photos).
For the second, though, I am successful. There aren’t many people here, so I can explore certain locations alone and take in some gorgeous sights without anyone getting in the way.
It’s not typically like this, and within an hour, it has already begun to fill up (and, from what I understand, will only become worse over the day).
And that comes as no surprise given that Tulum is one of Mexico’s most easily accessible Mayan ruins.
A popular destination along the Mexican Riviera’s shore is the town of Tulum and the opulent luxury hotels that surround it. The Tulum Ruins are a simple choice for tourists looking for some culture to go with their margaritas and pool time.
The Tulum Ruins are simpler to get than Chichen Itza, even for those vacationing in Playa del Carmen, an hour up the coast (you can simply board a colectivo that will take you directly here to Tulum for less than $50 (US$2.60)).
I can understand why those who are pressed for time or patience might decide to go with the ruins at Tulum despite the fact that Chichen Itza is a lot more significant historical site, has much more impressive buildings, and is a better way to learn about the Mayan civilisation. These are magnificent, as I’ve already said.
Mayan Ruins near Tulum
Compared to many of the other well-known Mayan ruins in Mexico, the Mayan city of Tulum reached its height considerably later.
If you are familiar with the history of the Mayan civilization, this should come as no huge surprise. Many of the jungle city-states experienced droughts and were forced to flee their bases, as I covered in my narrative about the Mayan Discovery. They eventually relocated further north, to this area.
But, this was more than just a way out for environmental exiles. Tulum was a significant and prosperous city for one very straightforward reason: trade!
This region of the shore served as a natural intersection for land-based and maritime commerce routes. It implied that the Tulum kings may organize a gathering area for traders and charge a fee for it.
This describes where the Tulum Mayan Ruins are as well. It made sense for ships at sea to be able to see the city so they would dock and conduct business there.
Even without being told, I can tell that many of the buildings have more of a commercial than a religious purpose as I wander around the site and take in the architecture.
It is not to suggest that the ancient Maya did not continue to worship their gods; it just means that some of the big structures also had to convey a feeling of riches and power. Additionally, they had to provide the functional framework required for a local market.
Ruins of Tulum beach
By the time I’ve completed most of the site’s exploration, the morning cloud has effectively left, and Tulum’s ruins are now bathed in dazzling sunshine.
With the sun rising, it is clear why the beach at the Tulum Ruins is one of the most visited parts of the site.
I didn’t pack my swimsuits, but I can see that others did, and they are now prepared to dive into the sea. I still proceed to the sand and dunk my feet in the cool water.
This is distinctive for a Mayan ruin site, as far as my travels have taken me. Most of my encounters have entailed perspiring in humid forests or on top of pyramids in the relentless sun.
One of the things that makes visiting the Tulum Mayan Ruins such an amazing experience for tourists is the beach. I understand that the site’s popularity isn’t simply due to its position and scenic views, but also to the opportunity to go swimming.
Visit the Tulum Ruins
When I depart, the location is becoming packed. I notice a lengthy line of people waiting to buy tickets as I exit. Other sizable tour groups are in their way as I return down the path to the main road. Besides, it is only 9:30 in the morning.
Absolutely, I advise you to arrive early. It is worthwhile to arrive at 8:00 when the Tulum Ruins open. You’ll stay away from the crowds, enjoy better vistas, and the weather will be more agreeable.
Of course, traveling in a tour group is an additional choice. The benefits of doing this include eliminating the trouble of transportation, saving time by skipping the admission line, and receiving a guide who will provide in-depth explanations of the place.
There are some solid options available here if you’re interested in that.
Try to see some other Mayan sites in Mexico, which is the only other piece of advice I can offer. Tulum is lovely, and you won’t be dissatisfied. But, there are other, more effective ways to get knowledge about the Mayan culture.
