How to Plan Your Tulum Ruins and Swim with Turtles in Akumal Half a Day Tour

If you are looking to experience the Mayan ruins and want to have a dip with turtles, you need to consider planning a tour to Tulum. This half-day tour is an excellent way to discover the best of Tulum, and you can plan it easily with the following steps.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

To start planning your half-day tour to Tulum, you need to book it first. You can book the Tulum Ruins and Swim with Turtles in Akumal Half a Day Tour from GetYourGuide, the world’s leading platform for booking tours and attractions. The online booking process is straightforward and secure.

Step 2: Prepare for the Tour

Once you have booked your tour, you need to prepare for it. This means making sure you have the necessary items for the tour, such as a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a bathing suit. You should also bring a camera to capture the highlights of the tour.

Step 3: Get Ready for Hotel Pick-Up

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, so you should ensure you are ready when the bus arrives. The tour operator will inform you of the pick-up time in advance, so make sure you are ready on time. Don’t forget to bring your booking confirmation with you.

Step 4: Visit the Tulum Ruins

The Tulum Ruins are the first stop on this tour. You will have a 1-hour guided tour of the archaeological zone with a certified expert guide. You will learn about the history of the Mayan civilization and the Tulum ruins. During the tour, you will visit the temples, the observatory, and the palace. You will have 30 minutes of free time to explore the ruins on your own, so make sure you take some great photos.

Step 5: Swim in a Cenote Cave

After visiting the Tulum ruins, you will be taken to a cenote cave for a refreshing swim. The cenote cave was once considered an entrance to the underworld and is unique to the Riviera Maya. The water is crystal clear, and you can see to the bottom of the cave. You can relax and enjoy the serenity of this natural wonder while swimming.

Step 6: Snorkel with Turtles in Akumal

The tour ends with snorkeling in Akumal beach, a natural habitat for sea turtles. You will have guided snorkeling gear included and start the adventure directly from the beach. You will have a chance to get close to sea turtles and other marine life. You will also have the opportunity to take amazing pictures.

Step 7: Enjoy Snacks and Drinks

The tour includes snacks and drinks, so you can have some refreshments after your swim and snorkeling. You can taste the local snacks and drinks while relaxing in a comfortable environment.

Step 8: Return to Your Hotel

At the end of the tour, you will be taken back to your hotel in Playa del Carmen or the pickup point. You will arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon, and you will have time to rest and recover from your exciting half-day tour.

Book Your Tour Now

If you plan a tour to Tulum, you will have a chance to explore the Mayan ruins and swim with turtles. You only need to follow these simple steps: book the tour, prepare for the tour, get ready for pick-up, visit the Tulum ruins, swim in a cenote cave, snorkel with turtles, enjoy snacks and drinks, and lastly, return to your hotel. This half-day tour offers everything you need to have a fantastic experience. Don’t miss this opportunity and book the tour today. You can check the availability and book the tour here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Tulum

1. What is Tulum?

Tulum is a small coastal town located on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and laid-back bohemian atmosphere. Tulum is also home to a variety of eco-resorts and sustainable tourism practices.

2. How do I get to Tulum?

The easiest way to get to Tulum is to fly into Cancun International Airport and then take a bus, taxi, or shuttle service to Tulum. The journey by bus takes approximately 2 hours and costs around $10-15 USD. There are also private transfer services available for around $75-100 USD.

3. What are the best things to do in Tulum?

There are many things to do in Tulum, including visiting the ancient Mayan ruins, exploring the cenotes, relaxing on the beaches, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine. Some of the top activities in Tulum include:

• Visiting the Tulum Archaeological Site
• Swimming in the Cenotes (natural sinkholes)
• Relaxing on the beaches
• Exploring the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
• Taking a yoga or wellness class
• Enjoying the local food and drinks

4. When is the best time to visit Tulum?

The best time to visit Tulum is during the dry season from November to April. The weather is warm and sunny, and the ocean is calm and clear. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. The rainy season is from May to October, with high humidity and occasional tropical storms.

5. What are the best beaches in Tulum?

Tulum is famous for its beautiful beaches, with white sand and crystal-clear water. Some of the best beaches in Tulum include:

• Tulum Beach
• Playa Paraíso
• Papaya Playa Project Beach
• Playa Akumal
• Xpu-Ha Beach

6. What are the best restaurants in Tulum?

Tulum has a variety of dining options, from street food to fine dining. Some of the best restaurants in Tulum include:

• Hartwood
• Azulik
• Casa Jaguar
• Gitano
• Cenzontle

7. Is Tulum safe for tourists?

Tulum is generally considered safe for tourists, but as with any destination, it is important to take common-sense safety precautions. Avoid traveling alone at night, don’t leave your belongings unattended, and be aware of your surroundings.

8. What is the currency in Tulum?

The currency in Tulum is the Mexican Peso (MXN). US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but you will likely get a better rate if you pay in pesos.

9. What is the time zone in Tulum?

Tulum is in the Eastern Standard Time (EST) zone, which is UTC-5.

10. Is it necessary to speak Spanish in Tulum?

While Spanish is the official language of Mexico, many people in Tulum speak English. However, knowing some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful for getting around and communicating with locals.

Book Your Tour Now

Hopefully, this FAQ has answered some of your questions about Tulum and helped you plan your next visit to this beautiful destination. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, Tulum has something for everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Tulum

Tulum, located in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and general laid back vibe. If you’re planning a trip to Tulum, you may be wondering how best to spend your time in this tropical paradise. In this guide, we’ll provide a detailed itinerary for a week-long trip to Tulum, including the best things to do, see, and eat.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Check-In to Your Accommodation

As soon as you arrive in Tulum, the first thing you’ll want to do is check-in to your accommodation. There are a wide variety of options in Tulum, ranging from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the top-rated options include:

• Be Tulum
• Azulik
• Coco Tulum
• La Zebra

Beach Time

After checking in, head straight to the beach for some much-needed relaxation. Tulum is famous for its long stretches of white sand beaches, crystal clear water, and swaying palm trees. Some of the best beaches to visit include:

• Playa Paraíso
• Playa Tulum
• Punta Piedra
• Playa Akumal (30 minutes drive from Tulum)

Day 2: Cenotes and Ruins

Visit a Cenote

Cenotes are natural swimming holes that are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum is home to many cenotes, ranging from small and secluded to large and bustling. Some of the best cenotes to visit include:

• Gran Cenote
• Cenote Dos Ojos
• Ik Kil Cenote (1.5-hour drive from Tulum)

Explore Tulum Ruins

The Tulum Ruins are some of the most well-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico. The ruins are located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, providing spectacular views. Some tips for visiting the Tulum Ruins include:

• Arrive early to beat the crowds
• Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is little shade
• Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and culture of the Mayans

Day 3: Adventure and Nature

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

Tulum is home to a large population of sea turtles, making it a great place to go snorkeling. Some of the best places to snorkel with sea turtles include:

• Akumal Beach
• Yal-Ku Lagoon

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses a diverse range of habitats, including beaches, coral reefs, and tropical forests. Some of the activities you can do include:

• Kayaking through the mangroves
• Swimming in a natural pool
• Spotting wildlife like crocodiles and flamingos

Day 4: Food and Drink

Visit Tulum Pueblo

Tulum Pueblo is the town center of Tulum and is home to a variety of restaurants and bars. Some of the best restaurants to try include:

• Humo
• Posada Margherita
• Tacos al Pastor at El Camello Jr
• Mateo’s Mexican Grill

Bar Hopping on the Beach Road

The Beach Road in Tulum is home to many bars and nightclubs. Some of the best places to visit include:

• Papaya Playa Project
• Casa Jaguar
• Mateos Mexican Grill

Day 5: Shopping and Souvenirs

Tulum Artisan Market

The Tulum Artisan Market is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs. The market is home to a variety of stalls selling handmade jewelry, textiles, and other crafts. Some tips for shopping at the Tulum Artisan Market include:

• Bartering is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate
• Bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards
• Be respectful of the vendors and their crafts

Day 6: Spa and Relaxation

Visit a Spa

Tulum is home to many luxury spas, offering a wide range of treatments and services. Some of the best spas to visit include:

• Yaan Wellness Energy Healing Spa
• Mayan Clay Spa
• Spa at Hotel Esencia

Beach Relaxation

Of course, no trip to Tulum would be complete without spending some time relaxing on the beach. Grab a book, a cold drink, and soak up the sun on one of Tulum’s stunning beaches.

Day 7: Departure

Breakfast on the Beach Road

On your last day, enjoy breakfast at one of the many restaurants on the Beach Road. Some of the best places to eat include:

• Sanara
• Mina
• The Real Coconut

Check-Out and Departure

After breakfast, it’s time to check-out of your accommodation and head to the airport for your flight home. Make sure to take some time to reflect on your trip and soak up the last bit of Tulum’s laid back vibe before you leave.

Final Thoughts

Tulum is a truly unique destination, offering a mix of natural beauty, ancient history, and modern luxury. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore Mayan ruins, or indulge in the local cuisine, Tulum has something to offer everyone. We hope this itinerary has provided you with some inspiration for your upcoming trip to Tulum. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and your sense of adventure!