Tulum - Review 2025

A few hours south of Chichen Itza, built along the stunning emerald waters and white sandy beaches of Riviera Maya, sits another impressive Mayan temple complex: Tulum. The name Tulum is now most famous for the trendy boho-chic resorts and wellness retreats located in the village of Tulum. But hundreds of years ago, it was these oceanfront stone ruins that were the most glamorous pieces of real estate.

The Tulum ruins, which are located just a few miles from the cluster of high-end beachfront resorts, were once the home for the upper-echelon of society, as well as a trading hub along the busy oceanic trading route.

What stands out about these ruins is their location. No other impressive Mayan ruins are located this close to the ocean. These temples, located atop imposing limestone cliffs, have an almost cinematic allure and are a real joy to explore.

It is best to come to the Tulum ruins when they first open to avoid crowds as well as the afternoon heat. You can easily visit these ruins without a guide, and the price is much less than Chichen Itza. It is worth splurging on a guide, especially if you are traveling in a small group and able to split the cost.

While exploring this temple complex with a guide is helpful, even without a guide, there is lots to take in, including some paintings that still remain in the Temple Of The Fresos, as well as countless iguanas that sunbathe on the ancient stone structures.