Tulum Mayan Ruins & Xel-Ha Park

Explore the ruins of Tulum, the only Mayan city-state on the sea, and then enjoy a delicious lunch at an aquatic park built on a natural inlet where the Mayas once gathered.

After a 45-minute ferry ride to the mainland, settle in for a relaxing drive to the Mayan ruins at Tulum, which sit atop a small cliff overlooking the sea. Although not the largest or most elaborate archaeological site on the Yucatan peninsula, Tulum may be the most beautiful.

The Maya built the walled city of Tulum in the 11th century to control maritime commerce, and the city-state’s excavated temples and buildings are spectacular. The most prominent is El Castillo, a tower at the edge of a cliff that probably served as a landmark for sailors.

As you meander about, you will see the Temple of Frescoes, which was an observatory used to track the sun’s movements. The frescoes inside the temple represent various gods and supernatural serpents. The building was once painted red and you can still see remnants of that hue. The carving over the doorway of the adjacent Temple of the Descending God is worth a look, as well.

Continuing on, you will soon arrive at Xel-Ha, which means “where the water is born” in the Mayan language. Although the inlet of Xel-ha has been developed into an aquatic theme park, it has retained the natural beauty that attracted the Mayans centuries ago. You will have 2 hours to enjoy lunch and explore as much as you can of the park. Ask your guide for quick recommendations to make the most out of this leisure time.