Travel Mexico
El País Azteca
Tulum Overview
Turquoise water, dense jungle, ancient Mayan ruins. That’s Tulum. The free-spirited energy is what draw travelers here in the first place. Located along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Tulum offers easy access to cenotes, beaches, archaeological sites, and excursions stretching north toward Cancún.
I will be honest. Tulum also asks visitors to meet it where it is. The infrastructure is a bit uneven, and in my opinion, never was fully prepared for the boom of tourism they experienced due to social media. The roads can be rough, taxis may overcharge, and the strong smell of seasonal sargassum (seaweed) can affect the beaches. Understanding these realities and planning accordingly makes a huge difference in navigating Tulum. These are things I wish I had known about before I went. Pre-paid tours, thoughtful transportation choices, and knowing where to eat and spend time help smooth out the experience and allow the beauty, culture, and energy of Tulum to shine through.
Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
Mexico is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is generally November through April to avoid high temperatures or rainfall. If you don’t mind some rain in the afternoon, the summer months are fair game with fewer crowds and lower hotel prices.
Currency
The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for local markets, street food vendors, tips, and smaller businesses. ATMs are easy to find in cities and tourist areas.
Language
Spanish is the official language throughout Mexico. English is commonly spoken in major tourist destinations, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases goes a long way and is appreciated by locals.
Safety
Mexico is a rewarding destination, but like anywhere, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-populated areas, use reputable transportation, and research neighborhoods before you book accommodations. I also recommend sharing your itinerary with someone back home and keeping an eye on local travel advisories.
Discover Tulum
Watch the Vlog
Tulum is a great mix of beaches, jungle aesthetics, and authentic restaurants. In this vlog, I’m taking you through my experience. If you’re trying to figure out whether Tulum is “worth it,” here’s the truth.
Stay Connected
Need data as soon as you land? An eSIM lets you connect to local cellular service without swapping a physical SIM card. I recommend purchasing and installing your eSIM before your flight so you’ll have access to maps, rideshare apps, messaging, and translation tools as soon as you arrive.
Black Woman Approved: Why We Love It
Mexico continues to be a favorite destination in our community because it’s dynamic. You can visit the city or the beach. Experience incredible food everywhere and immerse yourself in history. It’s possible for every trip to be different. Visit The Group Chat to hear directly from Black women who’ve traveled many places, including Mexico, to learn more about their favorite cities, honest reviews, safety tips, recommendations, and the moments that inspire them to keep traveling the world solo.
It’s always important to know about the cuisine and good food spots when you visit somewhere new so I try to always list a few options for you. Here are five restaurants in Tulum, Mexico ranging from touristy to traditional, low cost to high cost, and small cafe vibes to beach view vibes.