Tulum Ruins

The Mayan ruins of Tulum have been bringing tourists to this small piece of paradise for years. As a result of the world’s growing intrigue and interest in the Mayan civilization and culture the Tulum ruins and thus Tulum Town have enjoyed a large increase in popularity. Tulum, meaning wall in Mayan, was named such after the ruins were discovered and explored in the 1800’s. The wall that led to Tulum’s name is 5 meters (about 16 feet) thick to as many as 8 meter (about 26 feet) thick in some areas and surrounds the entire site. This fortified Mayan city had its height in Post classic period around 1200-1450 CE. The site remained occupied until the late 16th century when it was finally abandoned after the arrival of the Spanish.

Originally thought to be called Zama, Mayan for dawn, this ancient walled city was, in its time, a thriving civilization. As a major crossroads for trade, Tulum saw import and export from both land and sea and from all over the Yucatan and as far away as Honduras.

Tulum is one of the best preserved costal sites in all of Mexico as is the 3rd most visited archeological site in Mexico. As one of the only fortified Mayan cities, the wall that surrounds Tulum provided the perfect protection for the Mayan people that lived here.


The most common depiction that can be found in the ruins of Tulum is that of the diving god or descending god. Depicted as an upside down figure, it is seen above many doorways through out the Tulum ruins. The waters around Tulum, mostly cenotes, were believed by the ancient Mayan to be the entrance to the underworld. And the long standing relationship that existed between the people of Tulum and the water world that flowed beneath them continues to this day.

Probably the most recognized building within the ruins is El Castillo. This breathtaking structure sits atop a 12 meter (about 39 foot) cliff and is one of the most photographed sites in the Rivera Maya. Templo del Dios Descendente, or Temple of the Descending God, is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful temples in Tulum. Having with stood the test of time, this structure is in remarkable condition and is named such from a sculpture that depicts a god of human form descending from the heavens. The best preserved structure within the ruins is the Templo de los Frescoes or Temple of the Frescoes. This 2 story building was named such for the brightly colored murals that adorned the interior walls. Although significantly faded, the brightly colored murals that decorated the exterior walls can still be seen by visitors today.


Getting in and around the Tulum ruins is quick and easy. To get to the site by car simply drive North (from Tulum town) on the main road of 307 or South if coming from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. The entrance is just a few km North of Tulum pueblo and is on the east side. Once making the turn off the main road simply follow the signs and park your car. If you do not want to worry about a car the ruins are easily reachable by both the collectives (shared vans that run the length of 307 between Playa and Tulum that can be waived down at any point on the road) as well as by taxi.

The main courtyard area has restaurants and shops as well as talented performers ready to dazzle you and pose for photos. These performers, like so many others in the Tulum area survive on tips so please… if you are dazzled… show them your appreciation. This is also where you can purchase tickets for the shuttle that will take the 400 meters to the entrance of the ruins. The ticket for the shuttle is 20 pesos and is round trip. Once at the entrance of the ruins themselves, the entrance price is around 50 pesos per person and is free for Mexican citizens on Sundays. There is also a 40 peso video recorder fee if you want use your video recorder.


There are a few things that you will want to keep in mind when visiting the ruins. The first is that you will want to make sure to wear sunscreen. The entire site is exposed to the sun and there is very little shade. You will also want to make sure to bring plenty of water. If you have your swimsuit you will be able to take advantage of the beautiful stretch of beach that sits at the base of the ruins and is available only for the guests of the ruins and provides an incredible view of El Castillo. A trip to the Tulum ruins can be a bit strenuous on a child and might not be as well enjoyed by younger visitors. If you are looking for babysitting service, we here at Tulum Living know of many quality babysitters that speak both English as well as Spanish.