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Famed for its crystal-clear Caribbean waters, Mayan ruins and jungle vibes, Tulum has grown from a secluded tropical hide-out to one of the world’s favourite travel destinations.
Despite its newfound Instagram appeal – celebrating everything from trendy accommodation and refined restaurants to scenes of revellers dancing barefoot upon silken sands – Tulum still retains much of its quintessential alternative vibe. Perhaps it just takes a little more searching to discover the special atmosphere of Tulum’s hidden gems.
Our Pendour Picks have been selected by our Founder Linda Bell. A frequent visitor to Tulum’s sandy shores since 2016, her curated list features wave-worn, original jungle hide-outs that are not necessarily on the Instagrammers’ watchlist. Hand picked, these chosen hang-outs testify to the Tulum of yesteryear, still very much alive.
Read on (or perhaps jump in!) to discover where you can experience Tulum’s authentic, chic atmosphere with our Pendour Picks!
From where to stay to where to go,
our Pendour Picks share aspects of Tulum’s history,
recent developments and
authentic beachside spots!
WHERE IS TULUM?
Tulum is located on the eastern shore of the state of Quintana Roo on the Yucatán Peninsular in Mexico. It is about 80 miles south of Cancún and the ancient city of Cobá lies inland, around 25 miles to the north west.
How do I travel to Tulum?
Check out our post Pendour Pro-tips to Get to Tulum.
What language is spoken? What currency should I carry? When is the best time to visit Tulum?
Find answers to these questions and more on our Tulum Wanderlust Wishlist FAQ! (Coming Soon)
MAYAN MAGIC TO GLOBAL GETAWAY
There’s so much to explore now in Tulum!
Where to Stay? Where to Go? What to Pack?
If you’re thinking of heading to Tulum:
Good news – it’s always a good idea!
The main reason for going to Tulum is to savour the bo-ho atmosphere oozing with historic connectivity to the the ancient Mayan Civilisation. That’s right – no matter what you may have heard, Tulum is not just a place to take selfies in jungle bars and beach clubs! It offers SOO much more than that!
In a state of never-ending transition, Tulum has gone through many changes. It’s a place that never stands still!
In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries Tulum was a major trading hub in Mexico and the Ruins of the ancient city still remain today. In the early 1990s Tulum Pueblo, a few kilometres from the Ancient Mayan Ruins, was a small, quiet town, just a few shops and not even a bank! A handful of grass-roofed cabañas constructed in the traditional Mayan style stretched along the gorgeous beaches, all framed by the blue sky and swaying coconut groves.
Since then the population of Tulum has bloomed to about 33,000 with many more amenities for tourists and locals alike. The town is now made up of several distinct zones:
Tulum Centro – the heart of Tulum! A busy area with shops, supermarkets, hostels, rooms to rent and a few live music spots.
Tulum Zona Hotelera – A stretch of around 70 beachfront hotels, offering a mix of traditional boutique style or more controversial concrete constructions.
Aldea Zama – a completely new neighbourhood offering condos, second homes and restaurants mixing the beauty of the jungle with modern living.
La Valeta – another new development with villas and rental properties and direct access to the beaches via a brand new road.
There is also the Ancient Mayan Ruin district to the north in the National Parque del Jaguar with a variety of restaurants, hotels and resorts.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere lies to the south to the of the Zona Hotelera and is a prized area for conservation with little development.
Along with all of the recently built infrastructure – from new roads connecting La Valeta to the beaches; real estate for AirB&B rentals; the addition of a train station; supermarkets and even a (sort-of) nearby airport – have come price hikes, traffic, minimum spends and the like.
However, my most recent experience of Tulum in November 2025 suggests that steps are being taken to ensure that Tulum retains its magic as it joins the global getaway map.
ROSSEAU RUSTIC
Tulum is surrounded by lush, vibrant jungle and tropical forest life. Waking up to the sound of birdsong, the tatter of palm leaves in the breeze and the earthy scent of morning dew is intoxicating. Perhaps you’ll even be lucky enough for an unexpected glimpse of a Coati through the foliage?!
Being in Tulum can often feel a bit like being inside a Rousseau painting – even down to the snake plants!
CHECK IN & UNWIND -
AT ZAMAS HOTEL
This boutique oasis was one of the first along these jungle shores! Still family-run today, Zamas has welcomed many repeat travellers over the years and offers a flavour of that original hippy appeal. Sunrise-style décor echoes the luminous palette of dawn, an apt move considering ‘Zamas’ in the Mayan language translates to ‘sunrise’ or ‘dawn’.
Palapa crowned, low rise cabañas all integrate traditional building methods with minimal use of concrete and radiate ‘Swiss Family Robinson’ inventiveness. Zamas is a chic, family-friendly place to stay with tonnes of personality!
No trip to Tulum would be complete without a Celosa sipped in barefoot bliss on Zamas’ sand-floored restaurant – one of the last along these shores. Happy Hour is a crowd favourite from 3 – 6 pm daily.
Check out our full ‘Pendour Perfection’ review of Zamas Hotel here.
location : Zona Hotelera
prices : From $ 175 – $ 300 approx.
address : KM 5 Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum, Q. Roo 77780
phone : +52 984 145 2602
email : in**@***as.com
website : Zamas Tulum | Boutique Beach Hotel & Restaurant
promotion : book directly on Zamas’ website for an exclusive 25% discount with the code CLUBZAMAS
PEEK INTO THE PAST
Chichen Itzá, Cobá, Ek Balam. A number of ancient Mayan ruins surround Tulum so visiting at least one site is an absolute must during your stay!
These remarkable historic sites evidence the sophistication of the ancient Mayan civilisation and offer a unique opportunity to connect with the past. Whilst the Tulum ruin is located in Parque del Jaguar and accessible by bicycle, on foot or electric cart once you’re in the Park, others are further afield so you’ll have to organise transport.
The taxis in the area are about the most expensive in the world, so ideally you need organise a trip with a local guide or rent a car – either upon arrival at the airport or in Tulum Pueblo. Check out our Guide for Driving in Mexico with hints about where to rent a vehicle!
Tulum Ruins
Located on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Tulum was one of the last Mayan settlements to be abandoned. Find out more about this sacred settlement in our post Descending gods and Jaguars.
Chichen Itzá
Probably the busiest and most spectacular ruin to visit. This UNESCO world heritage site lies to the west of Valladolid and is of course a popular spot for big coach tours.
Cobá
The next closest ruin to Tulum. Coba was the centre point of a network of roads, or sacbe, indicative of its status as an economic and social nuclei. Along with well preserved ballcourts, many stelae have been discovered here.
Ek Balam
A spiritual site honouring the ‘black’ or ‘star’ jaguar. Impressive relief carvings on the Acropolis of ruler Ukit Kan L’t Tok. Climb to the top for mesmerising views of the jungle!
Most of the historic sites offer guided tours for an extra fee, or you can connect with a local guide via GoWithGuide. These friendly guides live near Tulum and can create a bespoke schedule for you, your group or partner.
Find out more about each of these sites in our Wanderlust article Day Trips from Tulum.
A GRAND DAY OUT -
AT PARQUE del JAGUAR
Don your sun hat and glasses and take to the waves in the the new Parque del Jaguar!
Tulum is one of the rare places in the world where you can swim and relax on golden sands in the presence of a major historical site. The Mayan Ruins are situated in the Parque del Jaguar atop an easterly facing cliff, basking in the sunlight and overlooking the open sea. The only way to see and experience this Mayan Magic first hand is by gaining entrance to the Park.
Parque del Jaguar is the latest development in Tulum. In an attempt to protect local wildlife, historical sites and landmarks and preserve the beauty of the surrounding beaches, there have been many changes to the Park. Once a tropical hang-out – a bit on the wild side with live music, large gatherings, local crowds and countless refreshment kiosks cradled by swaying palms – the Park has now been transformed into a salubrious attraction.
Plush new roads with night-time lighting, signage, shower and toilet facilities line the once simple track, connecting the ancient Mayan Ruins with a stylish new museum, viewing platforms and a grand entrance foyer.
The introduction of an entrance fee alongside a drastic ban on massages, music and unregistered beach bars has been quite controversial. However, the enforced ban on plastic bottles is of course very welcome!
Despite these changes, Parque del Jaguar is still integral to that all important Traditional Tulum experience. There’s something for everyone, whether learning about the ancient Mayan civilisation in the Museum, gazing in wonder at the Ruins, hiking around the lush forest, boating out to the reef or sipping cervezas from a beachside bed!
And don’t just stop at dusk – the offering of restaurants and hotels in Parque Del Jaguar provides an unrivalled experience and opportunity to enjoy the vibrant romance and magic of Tulum beneath the stars! To gain entrance after hours, bring your phone or a print out of your restaurant reservation to show to the guards at the entrance.
Entrance fee : 400 pesos (for non-Mexicans) Free on Sundays.
address : Carr. Cancún – Tulum, 77780 Tulum
PENDOUR PRO-TIP
Want to find out more about Parque Del Jaguar? Check out our post Descending gods and Jaguars for more hints and tips about organising an unforgettable day out in Tulum!
And don’t miss our special article about the new Archaeological Museum!
TAKE TO THE WAVES -
ON TULUM'S PUBLIC BEACHES
Minimum spends, beach hoarding by resorts and the entrance fee to Parque del Jaguar have all made access to the playa extremely limited in recent times. On one occasion, I couldn’t actually leave the beach! Even after buying a drink in a hotel I wasn’t allowed to pass though to return to the jungle road as I was not a paying guest! (No worries, the establishment in question clearly hasn’t made our Pendour Picks!)
Thankfully, issues such as this have now been resolved by opening up access points, linking the road to the waves and helping to reclaim what Tulum is all about!
Find public access to the beach via a dedicated, palm-lined walkway close to Orchid Beach House. There are also public toilets in a shaded shack close by.
Punta Piedra is another small public beach worth checking out. The entrance is directly opposite Potheads cafe.
REACH OUT -
TO THE REEF
Explore the colourful coral reefs of Tulum, teeming with marine life!
Tulum’s proximity to the Mesoamerican Reef – also known as the Great Mayan Reef or Great Maya Reef – means you can discover the (literally) breath taking beauty of Mexico’s underwater world during your stay. Catch sight of vibrant fish species and get up close to timid turtles. The second largest reef system in the world, the Mesoamerican Reef stretches for over 700 miles and is home to more than 650 coral species, 500 fish species, five different turtles and even the docile whale shark.
Mexi Divers
A traditional Tulum adventure! Sign up to a full PADI course, early morning dive or reef snorkelling tour at Mexi Divers, just strides away from Zamas Hotel’s crescent shaped playa. Try out ‘friendly’ fishing and watery eco-tours too!
With over twenty years of experience, the team’s passion for nature and community ensures a personalised, safe and enjoyable adventure offering for all.
Location : Zona Hotelera
prices : Two dives starting from $ 150
address : Carretera Tulúm-Boca Paila km, 5 Hotel Zamas / Zona Hotelera 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
email : in**@********rs.com
whatsapp : +52 (984) 807 8805
website : Mexidivers
Tribal Tulum
And if you’d like to connect your breath through diving and yoga, check out Tribal Tulum’s transformational Dive & Yoga Retreat. Deepen your connection to Nature and Self through a bespoke course combining cenote dives with yoga stretches in Tribal’s fully equipped studio.
Pricing starts from $1489 USD (single) and $2164 (double) including dives, yoga sessions and 6 days / 5 nights accommodation.
Location : on the road between Tulum Pueblo and Zona Hotelera
address : Avenida Coba Sur, entre Calle 7 y 9 Oriente, 77780 Tulum
email: he***@*********um.com
phone: +52 984 135 4721
website : tribaltulum.com
RELAX -
AT ZAZIL KIN
One of my favourite beach clubs in Parque del Jaguar!
A calm and welcoming spot, Zazil Kin radiates soul and simplicity. A picturesque coconut grove provides generous shade for tables and sunbeds whilst drinks flow from the old bar. The beach here is wide like a golden ribbon, leading to the tideline of aqua-licious ripples.
Zazil Kin’s original beach shack vibe ensures no minimum spend, complimenting the whole laid-back ambience! Enjoy a cerveza in the cool of the shade and stay just an hour. Or chill out all day – dip into turquoise waves between tucking into freshly prepared desayuno, lunch and cena. The food and drinks are a little cheaper here than at other beach clubs in Parque del Jaguar.
If you’re already on the beach, look out for the impressive star-like entrance portal, springing Mayan-rustic energy. Otherwise, if you are coming from the road, Zazil Kin is part of Alito Hotel, where you can park your car or bicycle. Saunter through the hotel and out towards the jazzy, sun-inspired tunnel, channelling coastal charm.
Over the years, staff known from elsewhere seem to have migrated to this tiki-inspired beach club. The service is always polite and friendly; they tend not to disturb or hassle you so you’re free to relax at your leisure!
Don’t miss a classic photo opportunity in the Zazil Kin Throne!
Location : Situated in Parque del Jaguar as part of Alito Hotel (formerly Don Amandos) Rooms in the coconut grove are available from $ 80 a night.
address : Carr. Tulum – Cancún Zona Hotelera, Tulum 77780 Mexico
PAUSE THE PACE -
AT POCNA
This Mediterranean inspired locale is another favourite in Parque del Jaguar. The chill vibe welcomes boho beaching; lounge on the beanbags or sway in the restaurant swings as cobalt waves roll in along the shore.
Boasting two restaurants, Ramon for culinary delights, and Kogure for Japanese purist-style dishes, Pocna is the perfect place for a waterside culinary journey. Delectable menu choices elevate beachside dining to a new level!
Immerse yourself in this tropical oasis. Striped towels contribute to that laissez-faire feel reminiscent of the Côte d’Azur, harmonising with Pocna’s Mexican origins. Staff are professional and dedicated – ensuring your beachside experience is as perfect as can be!
And if you’re just stopping off to take in the chill vibe for some shade, savour an alcohol-free Pina Colada to mix up your repertoire: swim:drink:swim:repeat!
Location : Parque del Jaguar
address : Carr. Tulum a, Av. Boca Paila Km. 1.5, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R.
email : in*******@***na.com
MARVELLOUS VIEWS -
AT MEZZANINE
Admire the ocean from the tranquility of this classic Tulum look-out. If al fresco dinging is your thing, then Mezzanine is a must!
Relish in the bold flavours of Thai-style cuisine, from zesty spring rolls to refreshing soups and zingy salads whilst unforgettable views of gorgeous golden sandy beaches and topaz surf unfurl around you. You may even catch sight of sting ray in the shallows, a few meters below.
Sensuous and suave, Mezzanine offers a little more of a luxe ambience, from its curries served in coconut shells to cocktails with a Thai twist. An elegant alternative to the usual Mexican fare! Just don’t feed the iguanas, cute though they may be!
The gentle trickle of a fountain echoes around the graceful pool. Cross the stepping-stone bridge in the serene presence of the buddha, framed by exotic mangrove trees. Scents of lemongrass, coconut and basil seduce. This truly sumptuous spot entices all of your senses.
If you’re out late, enjoy a romantic dinner in the welcome cool of darkness, served under the Yucatán’s stars, shining in the firmament above. It’s as close as can be to echoes of the ancient Mayan era.
And if you still can’t get enough . . . Mezzanine has several rooms where you can stay, tucked up above the restaurant, cuddled by traditional grass roofs and blessed by the ocean breeze.
note : the coffee is exceptional!
location : Parque del Jaguar
address : Carretera Tulum-Boac Paila km 1.5, 77780 Tulum
phone : +52 998 315 6396
web : Mezzanine by La Zebra
ENJOY A SUNSET DRINK -
AT DIAMONTE K
It’s a little known Tulum Tale that Diamonte K is on an ancient Mayan burial site! This undoubtedly adds an edge of mystery and richness to any overnight stay or cocktail hour.
The little art trail of sophisticated sculptures adds poignant charm to this holistic-style get away cocooned by the Jaguar Parque and embraced by verdant ferns. Turquoise waves gently lap the secret, secluded Diamonte swimming Cove – a picture perfect view.
There’s a hush. An intoxicating sense of the exotic veils this sacred place. Diamonte K is a reminder of the Ancient Mayan’s timeless influence along this jungle coastline.
A Buddha in the Restaurant emits calm and tranquilty, elevating the spiritual feel of Diamonte. With walls fashioned from wooden wagon wheels and natural stone, the Restaurant is a little dark perhaps, but welcome relief from the intense light reflected by the sand and sea.
As evening grows, so does the ambience. Soft lighting illuminates this atmospheric paradise which feels oh so from another time, an ancient world!
recommendation : Quench your thirst with a Strawberry Horchata, the taste of Diamonte’s mystical-meets-tropical aura!
location : Parque del Jaguar
address : Carretera Boca Paila Km 2.5. Tulum Ruinas. CP: 77780. Tulum, Quintana Roo, México.
email : in**@*******ek.com
phone : +52 1 998 860 0345
web : diamontek
ENJOY THE PEACE -
AT POTHEADS (AKA TUNICH)
A mellow jungle hide out offering a range of delicious breakfasts and daytime snacks. Sway in one of the swings and watch the world go by. From ginger infused wellness shots to quinoa bowls, Potheads is a great way to start your day! Mexican classics meet brunch favourites, all day, every day from 7 till 7.
Popular with locals, this family run space also boasts a happy hour on beers during the afternoon. Punta Piedra public beach is directly opposite so you can always pop in here for coffee or desayuno after an early morning dip!
Location : Zona Hotelera, jungle side
address : Carretera Tulum – Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum 77780 Mexico
phone : +52 984 191 7663
ALL YOU NEED IS PIZZA -
AT BOCCANERA
Pizza? In the jungle?
Why not! Boccanera are on to something here!
Feel transported to Naples with the crackle and pop of the wood fired oven and the aroma of gloriously fresh ingredients. Boccanera’s hand crafted pizzas with abundant toppings are sure to put a smile on any fellow traveller’s, teenager’s, child’s or date’s face!
The staff here are wonderful and like to know where you’re from. Join their regular visitors – cats and racoons – and embrace jungle living as you peace out with pizza.
The reasonable prices and wonderful alcohol free beer will mean you’ll want to come back!
recommendation : try the Yucateca for full-on Mexican-ness!
location : Zona Hotelera, jungle side
address : Carretera Tulum Ruinas Boca Paila km 4. Tulum, Q.R., México
phone : +52 984 144 7210
TONE DOWN WITH TACOS -
AT TAQUERIA LA EUFEMIA
It’s always Taco o’clock at La Eufemia!
Popular with locals, this casual yet jovial rendez-vous is spread between the circular restaurant at Maya Tulum and the beach. Grab a table and peruse the menu for your favourite flavours and pick your potion. The cocktails are pretty strong here (as I found out!) and the taco portions generous – you’ll get three of each filling which is fantastic value, but it’s easy to over-order!
The inexpensive menu and less fancy atmosphere make for a great break from the more upscale beach clubs left and right.
note : I think they also do Mexican wrestling in the trees here . . . .
PLACE YOUR ORDER -
AT ORCHID
A delightful breakfast by the waves?
Yes please at Orchid Beach House!
This intimate and rustic beach setting is the ideal base for a quiet day spent lounging on the powder-soft sand and dipping into the aquamarine surf. Escape from the crowds in this tranquil retreat. It’s an idyllic spot to take life easy!
With no minimum spend, warm hospitality such as this this can be hard to find. Decorative mirrors, swings and seats crafted from driftwood all add to the chilled atmosphere and cast-away, jungle-meets-beach aesthetic.
Dishes are beautifully presented – delicate, like an orchid! – and celebrate the fresh flavours of Mexico.
An afternoon at Orchid Beach House completely recharges the soul. Immerse yourself in the luxury of this refuge amongst the palms.
And if you can’t get enough of this boutique abode, check out their rooms featuring plunge pools and traditional Mexican detailing.
Orchid also have another boutique hotel in the jungle with an exclusive sky nest for a romantic dinner nestled up in the tree tops.
location : Zona Hotelera, beach side
address : Carretera Tulum Boca Paila Km. 8.5, Tulum Beach, 77789 Tulum
phone : +1 386-900-0553
ZONE OUT -
AT LA ZEBRA
Zee-haw! A Small Luxury Hotel of the World, this wave-front hangout is a Tulum classic. Upbeat tunes and attentive staff make this salubrious spot a Mexican Paradise. With no minimum spend, you’re welcome to lounge and enjoy a colourful cocktail or refreshing horchata in the shade of their palms or comfort of the open-sided grand palapa.
Enjoy the soupa de lima – a regional speciality. Taste the fresh flavours of tacos and even the La Zebra burger. With coffee served on a decorative slate with miniature meringues, everything is like a little performance.
Meanwhile, The Frida Kahlo style decor and mesmerising ceiling of floating hand-made angels ensure Zebra is a place you’ll love to come back to!
The swimming here is also wonderful, some really fun waves that toss and turn you. In addition to an outdoor shower, there’s eco-friendly sun-cream dotted about so you can have a good time in the sun without disturbing the reefs!
Location : Zona Hotelera, beach side
address : Carretera Tulum a Boca Paila Km 8.2, Ejido Pino Suarez,, 77780 Tulum
phone : +52 984 115 4726
Gloria de Don Pepe
Located just off a side street in Tulum’s lively Pueblo district, Gloria de Don Pepe offers an extensive range of dishes, tapas style.
Posters of Barcelona adorn the stucco walls as patrons enjoy hearty Spanish croquettas, paella (with or without the squid ink!) along with oodles of crisp wine and margheritas!
A cosy ambience adds to the Spanish flavours presented by this lindo restaurante. A little touch of Catalonia in the heart of Mexico’s jungle.
Location : Tulum Pueblo
address : Calle Orion sur 57, Esquina Andromeda Ote, 77780 Tulum
phone : +52 984 196 2822
FEEL THE BUZZ -
AT BATEY
The best mojitos are always served from a converted VW right?!
Enjoy the tropical taste of freshly crushed cane sugar in your cocktail as you take in the energetic atmosphere of this trendy music venue. Find a chair or table through the crowds to order tacos and snacks and let the jazz infused tunes drift over you. I’ve been lucky to hear some excellent groups playing here over the years, Batey never fails to impress!
It can get a tad busy, with dancers on stage and the party vibe spilling out onto the street so be prepared. As one of the few free music spots, Batey has a completely down-to-earth feel. Hands-down, this is where the REAL Tulum is at!
Location : Tulum Pueblo
address : Calle Centauro Sur 7, Entre Av. Tulum Y Andromeda Oriente, 77760 Tulum
phone : +52 984 745 4571
note : cash only!
MAKE A SPLASH! -
IN A CENOTE
Believed by the Ancient Maya to be gates to the underworld, cenotes are water-filled sinkholes and caves. It is thought there are around 10,000 cenotes dotted throughout the Yucatán Penninsula and many are connected by deep aquifers, forming the largest underground freshwater system in the world!
With their milky, inky blue tones, cenotes make wonderful alternatives for your swimming fix, especially during the months of high Sargasso in the sea.
Whilst many of these awe-inspiring pools are sometimes hidden deep in the jungle, others have evolved into popular day clubs. Each one is a little different so it’s not a case of one cenote, all cenotes!
We’re gradually compiling a list of favourite cenotes in the Tulum area and we look forward to sharing all the details with you in our forthcoming post.
PENDOUR PRO-TIP
If you’re visiting a cenote, wear only eco-friendly, reef-safe sunblock! Chemicals in usual sun cream can cause DNA damage for aquatic life (and won’t do your skin any good in the long term either!) You can purchase Kiin Sun (a personal favourite when in Tulum) in the OXXO shops for about $ 8.
Most cenotes have showers so you can wash off any pollutants before you submerge into the gloriously refreshing waters.
Or better still, invest in a Solbari which will keep your skin fully protected as you can wear it in the water after your shower.
WELLNESS WONDERMENT
Much of Tulum’s favour has been in part to its credentials as a mecca for wellness and rejuvenation. From Mezzanine’s charcoal bowls, to the bikini bootcamp, Temezcal rituals, smoothies by the roadside in La Valeta, beachside massages and countless opportunities for yoga classes or meditation retreats, your journey to revitalisation begins in Tulum’s peaceful sanctuaries
JOIN THE TRIBE -
AT TRIBAL TULUM
One of Tulum’s first purpose-built yoga studios and a classic for that all important Traditional Tulum experience!
Whether you are a dedicated Yogi or yoga first-timer, the experience of going to a class at Tribal is like no other! Boasting a spacious, well equipped studio with panoramic views of the jungle canopy, Tribal celebrates and integrates all that is necessary for a uplifting experience. Glance through the window during your class – it’s like doing vinyasa flow high up in the trees! Feel weightless and grounded.
Experienced instructors offer a range of yoga styles daily, catering for all abilities and levels. From restorative yoga to Ashtanga, the weekly schedule makes effective use of the wall ropes and hardwood floors for a truly tribal time connecting with yourself.
Combine your yoga focus with dive or writing sessions too, as Tribal also offers a variety of specialist retreats. Accommodation is provided in their upstairs studios, or at Zamas Hotel’s Casa Vallejo for a larger group!
The Studio is on the road between Tulum Pueblo and Hotelera Zona, so perfectly placed if you’re staying in the town or beachside!
YES - TO YOGA
From laughing Yoga to regenerative poses, there are so many opportunities to join classes. Here a few more suggestions along the beachfront :
Maya Tulum :
Has been offering yoga classes and on and off through the years. Classes tend to be rooted in pure principles, in palapa roofed studios – no fancy businesses here!
GROUPS & EVENTS – Maya Tulum : The Mexican Caribbean Experience
Amansala :
Slightly more adventurous classes, depending on the instructor. This is where I tried Laughing Yoga.
web : Amansala Retreat Schedule | Yoga & Wellness Retreats — Amansala
Lulas:
Enjoy a class in the purpose built studio with floor to ceiling windows offering idyllic views of the blue sea and sky! This is a favourite if you’re willing to pay a little more for the pleasure of an unforgettable class!
web : Schedule Appointment with LULA WELLNESS, SPA & RETREATS
RESPECT NATURE IN TULUM
With so many new developments in Tulum, it has never been more important to consider the environmental impact on the jungle, native wildlife, beaches and local resources. The Mayans lived in harmony with nature and it’s important to attempt to echo their sentiment during the environmental crisis of our contemporary age. Tulum lies in an area of exquisite beauty; if this is destroyed and Tulum becomes like everywhere else, then there will be no reason to visit!
Here’s a few thoughts to consider when planning your visit or enjoying your stay :
Water :
Most establishments in the Zona Hotelera and Parque del Jaguar are not connected to mains water supply. This means water for showering and bathroom use is brought in on the back of a large truck. This water is desalinated but not suitable for drinking, so it’s recommended you find accomodation that includes filtered water so you’re not purchasing plastic bottles! Why not invest in a funky bkr bottle? The spiked ones seem perfect for the jungle!
Please remember that shipping this water to each and every hotel and unloading it by a pump system is very carbon intensive, so make every effort not to waste water when showering or brushing your teeth!
WCs :
You will notice many signs asking you (in various languages!) to please not flush paper down the loo – only human waste! This is because most establishments have only septic tanks and being in the jungle there are no sewage pipes! It’s a bit strange at first but you soon get used to placing all paper in the basket provided. Don’t worry, they are emptied very regularly! As many toilet paper companies bleach their products, this also helps prevent the bleach and dyes from entering the waterways.
And on that note – the same everywhere else – do not flush wet wipes or any other toiletries during your stay. Such items will enter the waterways of sacred cenotes and won’t be good for the turquoise waters!
Rubbish and waste :
Effective waste management does not fully exist in the Yucatán, if you drive out of the tourist areas you will see locals often burn their waste, which includes plastic items.
From toothpaste tabs to organic cotton rounds, reusable and biodegradable is the only answer here! Check out our Pendour Living page for sustainable options and make every effort to take any trash such as unwanted clothing, daily contact lens blisters, back home with you, rather than using Tulum as a dump site!
Sun Cream :
Many chemicals in standard suncream and sunblock are highly toxic to aquatic life and in the long term not very good for your skin. Some chemicals found in siuncreams can stay in the human bloodstream for many moths after initial application. check out our Sun Cream article for our receommendations, coming soon!
Sign the Pledge!
If you are serious about helping to protect the natural environment of Tulum during your stay, please sign the Tulum pledge!
MAKE A JOURNEY -
TO NEARBY TOWNS
If you’re feeling adventurous there’s a whole range of towns and cities just waiting for you to discover and explore – a car or train ride away from Tulum.
Marvel at Valladolid’s stately churches and monastery, take a dip in the exquisite waters at Solomon Bay or pick up the pace with a trip to Merida, the Yucatán’s vibrant capital city.
Explore our suggestions in more detail on our separate post, Day Trips from Tulum.
We advise renting a car so you have total flexibility on your schedule and destination, take a look at the Pendour guide for driving in Mexico, coming soon!
A PENDOUR P.S.
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