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Archaeological site · Tulum, Quintana Roo
Zona Arqueológica de Tulum
Walled Maya city on a cliff of about 12 meters facing the Caribbean, featuring the Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Wind God.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Zona Arqueológica de Tulum
The Tulum archaeological zone occupies the top of a cliff about 12 meters above the Caribbean Sea, roughly 3 km from the Pueblo. It was one of the last cities built by the Maya and reached its peak between the 13th and 15th centuries. It was a port linked to maritime trade along the peninsula’s coast and to Coba inland, and it was still inhabited when the Spanish passed through the region in the early 16th century.
The city is enclosed by a stone wall on three sides, with the sea on the fourth, which explains the name Tulum—meaning wall in Maya. The ancient name was Zamá, associated with dawn, because the city faces east.
The main structure is the Castillo, a temple atop the cliff that served as a landmark for navigators. The Temple of the Frescoes houses remnants of mural paintings and stone masks at the corners; the Temple of the Descending God has a façade figure of a deity with its head pointed downward. On the cliff edge to the north, the small Temple of the Wind God forms the most photographed view of the site, with the cove and turquoise sea below.
The constructions are viewed from the outside, behind ropes; you do not climb or enter them. The site has no shade, and iguanas are part of the scenery.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1½ to 2 hours.
Best time
At opening, early in the morning, before the heat and the tour buses. At midday the site becomes crowded and hot. Check entry times before going.
How to get there
It is about 3 km from Tulum Pueblo, accessible via highway 307 or the beach road. You can get there by bicycle, taxi or car; there is parking and a small train to the entrance.
Tip
Bring a hat, sunscreen and water. If you want to enter the beach below the Castillo, bring swimwear; that beach closes during certain periods.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zona Arqueológica de Tulum
Can you climb the Castillo of Tulum?
No. The structures are viewed from the outside, behind the ropes.
How long does a visit to the Tulum ruins take?
About 1½ to 2 hours, not counting the beach.
Why does Tulum have a wall?
The city was enclosed by a wall on three sides, with the sea on the fourth. Tulum means wall in Maya.