| Tulum is the largest Maya
construction built on the coast. Today it is Mexico's most visited pre-Hispanic site.
Tulum was a very important center of commerce and a place of pilgrimage in the past. This
royal city, perched on limestone cliffs, is worth a visit because of the magnificent view
and the charm of its buildings. Only 131 km (78 miles)
south of Cancun, the walled city of Tulum was the first Mayan community reportedly sighted
by the Spanish in the 16th century. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, it is
Quintana Roo's most famous and well - restored site. Of the 60 structures that dot this PostClassic archeological park (900 - 1521
A.D.), El Castillo is the most important. Located on a 40 - foot bluff, it commands a
breathtaking view of the coastline. At one time it functioned as a lighthouse guiding
ships through the treacherous reefs that lie offshore. Another interesting structure at
Tulum is the Temple of the Frescoes with its friezes on which the original pigment used to
stain the carved figures can still be seen. |
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Tulum is the only walled grouping of ruins
discovered on the coast to date. Archaeologist believe that the city was one of the ports
scattered along the coast of the Yucatan used by Mayan traders.
TULÚM
Tulm is about a 45 minute ride (by bus, taxi, or rental car) south of Playa del Carmen.
The only Mayan city built directly on the sea, Tulum is thought to date from 400-900A.D.
After exploring the ruins and enjoying the spectacular view from atop EL CASTILLO.
you can take a refreshing dip in the Caribbean from the pristine beach in front of the
site. Tulum, in Quintana Roo near the town of El Crucero, is the place to go for
ruins on the beach. It is the most visited Maya ruin and is the biggest attraction
on the coast. It was the only Maya city built on the coast, possibly having housed
2000 people and once functioned as a trade center...
This port city was never conquered by
the Spaniards and was one of the last Maya outposts left standing during their revolt
against Mexican rule in the War of the Castes during the 1840's. There is no
question why Tulum holds great significance to the Mayans. An impressive sight at Tulum is
an imposing castle standing on the edge of a 12 meter cliff at the top of the ruins.
Visitors may wish to bring a swim suit to cool off in a cove at the bottom of the site but
there are no facilities. The area prime trekking ground for those who want to experience
jungle wildlife living amidst pristine rain forest and unrestored Mayan ruins.
Surrounding Area
Natural Reserve
The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, which begins just outside
our gate is a protected natural area with miles of empty beaches, unspoiled rainforest and
vast lagoons. The second largest protected area in Mexico, Sian Ka'an (which means
"where the sky is born" in Mayan) is home to hundreds of species, birds,
peccaries, tapirs, alligators, manatees, iguanas, fish and sea turtles.. Approximately 345
species of birds including more than a million migratory ones live here.
Mexico's Caribbean
 The Caribbean sea
with its warm, crystal clear, turquoise colored water is the area's greatest attraction.
Enjoy it swimming, snorkeling the nearby reef (an underwater paradise of colored fish,
coral and other marine life), diving, sailing, fishing or just floating in our little
protected bay (with no waves, ideal for the small ones). The pristine beaches have very
fine white sand and they extend for miles. Something really splendid.
Turtles
From May through August, the enormous Caguama turtles make
the arduous trek up the deserted beaches to lay their eggs in the sand. You may be
fortunate enough to see them in the night while taking a stroll. If you wish, you may
participate in our turtle conservation program during the reproduction season.
Boat Trips
Spend a day on board a fully equipped 36 feet catamaran yacht
exploring the areas shorelines. Choosing between a sunset cruise, a day of deep sea
fishing or snorkeling or simply relaxing to the gentle movement of the waves. The local
captains and his crews will take care of you and provide drinks while you enjoy the sun,
the sea and the wind.
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