Discover Tulum on a Weekend Trip

Tulum is a stunning blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it the ideal destination for a weekend trip. In early 2024, I visited Tulum for the Tomorrowland Core Music Festival, turning the experience into a chance to explore cenotes, beaches, and Tulum’s unique charm. If you’re planning a weekend trip to Tulum, this guide covers everything you need, from transportation and accommodation to must-see attractions and local tips.

How to Get to Tulum

The most common way to reach Tulum is via Cancún International Airport. From there, you can take an ADO bus, a comfortable and affordable option.

• Journey Time: 2-2.5 hours.
• Cost: Around $15 USD one way.
• Booking: Tickets can be purchased online at the ADO website or directly at the station. Popular routes sell out quickly, so booking ahead is advisable.
• Frequency: Buses run hourly from early morning to late evening.

For budget travelers, colectivos (shared vans) are another option. From Cancún, take a colectivo to Playa del Carmen and transfer to one heading to Tulum. This option is cheaper, costing around $5-6 USD, but may take longer due to stops.

Where to Stay in Tulum

Selina Tulum is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. Located on the beachfront, this hostel offers dormitory beds for $25-30 USD per night and private rooms for $80 USD. Amenities like coworking spaces and yoga classes make it ideal for digital nomads or social travelers.

During my stay, I made lifelong friends, including a group from Puebla, Mexico. Staying in hostels like Selina enhances your trip with opportunities to connect with people from around the world.

Day 1: Explore Tulum Beach and Local Cuisine

Start your weekend trip to Tulum with a visit to the Tulum Archaeological Zone.

• Entrance Fee: $90 MXN (around $5 USD).
• Highlights: Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Historically, this site served as a vital trading hub and religious center.
• Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and wear comfortable walking shoes.

After exploring the ruins, head down to Playa Ruinas, the public beach below. It offers free access and incredible views of the ancient structures. Bring your swimsuit and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment.For lunch, enjoy authentic Yucatecan dishes at Taqueria Honorio, known for its cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork).

Day 2: Dive into Cenote Dos Ojos

No weekend trip to Tulum is complete without visiting a cenote, and Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the best.

• Entrance Fee: $350 MXN (about $21 USD).
• Activities: Snorkeling and exploring underwater caves. Snorkel gear is available for rent.
• Getting There: Take a colectivo heading north towards Playa del Carmen, and ask to stop at Cenote Dos Ojos. The fare is $2 USD, with a 30-minute walk from the highway drop-off to the entrance.

Mayan Mythology: Cenotes are sacred in Mayan culture, believed to be home to aluxes, mischievous spirits that protect nature. Be respectful when visiting these sacred sites.

Day 3: Morning at Tulum Ruins, Departure

If you didn’t explore the ruins on Day 1, dedicate your final morning to them. Plan to spend 2-3 hours immersing yourself in the history and scenery before heading back to Cancún. The ADO bus is the easiest option for your return journey.

Optional Bonus Activities

For travelers extending their weekend trip to Tulum, consider these activities:

• Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering diverse ecosystems, from mangroves to coral reefs.
• Coba Ruins: Less crowded than Tulum’s ruins, Coba features ancient pyramids and jungle paths.

Typical Foods to Try

Tulum offers delicious regional cuisine you shouldn’t miss:

• Cochinita Pibil: Slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus and spices.
• Sopa de Lima: A tangy lime soup with chicken and crispy tortilla strips.
• Tikin Xic: Grilled fish marinated with achiote and sour orange.

For breakfast, try DelCielo, and for dinner, Hartwood offers a farm-to-table dining experience with fresh, local ingredients.

Essential Spanish Phrases

Knowing basic Spanish phrases will help you connect with locals:

• “¿Cuánto cuesta?” – How much does it cost?
• “¿Dónde está el baño?” – Where is the bathroom?
• “¿Cómo llego a…?” – How do I get to…?
• “Me gustaría…” – I would like…
• “Gracias.” – Thank you.
• “¿Aceptan tarjetas?” – Do you accept cards?

Final Thoughts

Tulum combines history, natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it perfect for a short escape. Whether you’re lounging at Playa Ruinas or snorkeling in Cenote Dos Ojos, Tulum offers unforgettable experiences. Plan your weekend trip to Tulum and discover the magic of this tropical paradise!

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