Top 10 things you need to know before visiting Tulum

A TRAVEL GUIDE TO TULUM, MEXICO [PART 1|4]

last updated: November 2023

Tulum has exploded in popularity in the last several years, and there is a lot of information out there about it. However, in true APOPLOUS style, I have gathered and summarised the no-frills, essential-only information, as personally experienced by yours truly, about the things you need to know before visiting Tulum. Here we go. 

No 1: Don’t stay in a bog-standard hotel

There are so many hotels in Tulum with unique ambience, design and a local feel. Do not stay in a hotel that can be found anywhere in the world!

Have a look at my two unique hotel stays, one in town, in Jungle Keva and one on the beach, in Habitas. Coqui Coqui in lake Coba is another truly exceptional resort, off-the-beaten track.

No 2: If you can’t decide between staying on the beach or the town, stay in both

I discuss all about this dilemma (and how to solve it) here. 

No 3: Don’t underestimate the amount of activities & sights there are nearby (and you don’t want to miss them -trust me!) 

Have a look at my itinerary, my top 5 experiences & sights and my cenotes guide to help organise your perfect trip. 

No 4: Read about the local climate before booking

The tropical climate of the Caribbean ensures hot, sunny and humid days for much of the year (with an average of about 27-30°C / 81-86°F). Temperatures are a bit lower from November through February or March. These months comprise the high season with increased accommodation prices.

We visited in April (shoulder season) and got perfect sunshine and 29°C / 84°F with the exception of one afternoon of rain. Reductions in accommodation pricing are also most likely during shoulder season.

During the rainy (low) season, which runs from May through October, you can expect heavy rains for an hour or two mostly in the afternoons. The hurricane season lasts from June to November, with most of the activity from mid-August to mid-September. 

For more detailed information, refer to climate-data.org.

No 5: Don’t be too nervous about personal safety or the language barrier

I would not compare Tulum with some of the big Mexican cities. Tourist destinations are generally safe in Mexico. All you need to do is use your street smarts and the general precautions while on holiday in a foreign country: avoid getting (too) drunk, do not leave valuables lying around and do not flash valuable jewellery or tons of cash. 

Also, most people in the tourism industry speak a good level of English. Nevertheless, in my experience, it’s always appreciated when one greets people in their native language! Why not learn a few phrases of one of the most beautiful (and useful) languages in the world?

No 6: Don’t be tempted to pay in US dollars (but in Mexican pesos) & always have some cash on you

You are likely to get charged more if paying in US dollars. Most hotels and international restaurants accept cards, smaller establishments may only accept cash. 

No 7: Don’t drink tap water

Make sure you only drink bottled water. Thankfully most of the restaurants and hotels offer purified rainwater in glass bottles so it is a bit less wasteful. Have ice only on reputable establishments that cater to foreigners (as the locals have immunity and may not understand why you would not drink from the tap). I would also recommend opting for cooked vegetables (rather than fresh) and fruit that you peel (or they will be washed with the same water that you are trying to avoid).  

No 8: Use mosquito repellent religiously

Seriously. I do not think I have been bitten more in my life than when I was in the Yucatan Peninsula. Use mosquito repellent first thing in the morning (yeap, I learnt this the hard way) and after sunset. 

No 9: The food is outstanding and quite sensibly priced

Enjoy (but don’t forget advice No7)!

No 10: Get excited! You are about to visit an amazing and unique destination!

For more things to know before visiting Tulum, make sure you check out the rest of my travel guides to Tulum!