Tulum Pixabay Public Domain
Tulum
Located on the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya walled city, Tulum is utter perfection. Situated along the Caribbean sea on the Riviera Maya, Tulum combines relaxation with adventure from the sugar white sands and turquoise water to the jungle forests and limestone cave systems. See everything and experience everything in this beautiful city in the Quintana Roo region of the Yucatan peninsula.
The largest landmark in Tulum is the Maya ruins. Tulum was one of the last inhabited Maya cities and was an important port connecting Mexico to Central America. The some 10,000 supposed inhabitants plied their trade of clothing, textiles, honey, and other agricultural items between regions. Until the city was destroyed by Spanish invaders in the early 16th century, Tulum was a major commercial port. Today you can tour the site and see the ceremonial buildings that remain standing such as El Castillo, a religious house of worship devoted to the god Kukulkan. Other buildings include El Palacio, Casa de las Columnas (The House of Columns), El Torreon, and more.
One of the defining natural features of the Yucatan, and of Tulum, are cenotes - water holes set within the jungle created by erosion and the collapse of internal cave systems. Also sites of Mayan worship, cenotes were believed to be a way to communicate with the gods through the mouth-like chasms. Several of Tulum’s cenotes stand out as incredible attractions for natural adventures including Cenote Calavera, also known as the Temple of Doom. Though the name may sound frightening, it is a popular destination for certified scuba divers for the amazing underwater architecture, clear waters, and - seen from below - the trio skylights which form the appearance of a skull. For less experienced divers, head to Cenote Escondido, a less crowded area where you can swim freely with hundreds of friendly fish.
Tulum is a destination where civilizations of the past have grown back into the natural surroundings, creating an incredible and unique vision of a tranquil paradise. Relax on the beaches, view wildlife at the Aktun Chen Nature Park or those that freely roam the landscapes, and relax in inspirational pools deep in the sonorous rainforest. Lull yourself into the serenity of your surroundings in Tulum.
