Undoubtedly, Tulum is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Riviera Maya which embodies the perfect blend of beaches and a culture rich archaeological site. The town is only about two and a half hour drive from Cancum for its located eighty one miles from the south and two and a half miles south of ancient Mayan ruins. Both the town and the archaeological site are called Tulum. Here are places you must check out while in Tulum
Ancient Mayan walled city in the Yucatan Peninsula
The archaeological site is the only ancient walled city and is believed to have been built to protect them against outside invasion and to separate the Mayan ruling class, who lived inside the fortress from the working class, who lived outside its walls. This charming town can be visited in just a few hours or for the whole day and at night, you can see site when the moon lights up the town. (Image by : Joanna Etshokin)
Mayan Ruins
The Mayan ruins of Tulum are fascinating to explore as it was a home to laborers, astrologers, farmers, and nobility. There were three walls to protect the city from outsiders and to separate the royal class from the working class. The archaeological site also contains the remains of several house-like structures, burial sites for kings, a tall pyramid, and two structures on each corner of the wall to guide the planting of crops.
Swimming and sunbathing is allowed at the beautiful, white-sand beach down a long staircase below the ruins. There are several places on the cliff above the sea to enjoy beautiful views and picturesque. After visiting the ruins, there are many booths and shops containing traditional Mexican handicrafts and souvenirs, plus several smaller food and drink vendors. To fully enjoy the Mayan ruins, plan to spend three hours at the site.
Cenotes
These are cave-like sinkholes with natural wells fed by underground rivers and are spread across the Yucatan Peninsula. They have been essential to the development of local jungles and sustain of Mayan civilization. The Mayans built their cities near cenotes which were their source of water year round and they believed that these were portals to the afterlife, so they would perform ceremonial rituals near them.
These natural wells have crystal clear, blue pools of natural clear cool water with colorful fish which makes them popular place for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and are surrounded by cave-like walls therefore natural beauty.
Gran Cenote
This is the most famous cenote in the Riviera Maya and most popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Gran cenote is located three and a half kilometers on the highway leading to the Mayan ruins of Coba, just outside the small town.
Restaurants & Nightclubs
The small town is more of a quiet, free-spirited area in which the upscale, trendy bars of Playa del Carmen aren’t the norm. In its case, there are some very nice casual cafes and clubs such as Zebra, which is a great place for salsa dancing on Thursday through Sunday nights. (image by : Vittorio Ubertone)
Beaches
Tulum town has the most beautiful beaches which most people come to, from all over the world. The beach town received the World Travel Award for leading in tourist visit in Mexico and Central America.
Enjoy with your family and kids maximum from this Tulum town and archaeological site. They will definitely have loads of fun besides acquiring some knowledge.
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Related post : 4 GREAT BEACHES IN SOUTH GOA
Feature image by : Steve Grundy
