Description
DISCOVER THE RUINS AND RICHES OF TULUM
Offered through our archaeological partners in Playa del Carmen, this excursion promises to be educational, refreshing and delicious. This jam-packed tour includes a walking tour of the ruins of Tulum, a stop at two notable cenotes, a trip to the beach, and a mouth-watering lunch.
FIRST STOP: TULUM
Tulum is, no doubt, a major tourist attraction—so we like to get you there way before the massive tour groups arrive. This early arrival pays big dividends, because you’ll be able to explore without having to peer over people’s shoulders and well ahead of the often oppressive heat of the midday sun.
The Tulum ruins are impressive enough, but they are also perched atop a small cliff, against a backdrop of the dramatic and beautiful Caribbean sea. Take a moment to soak in the view, and then prepare to be awed by the ruins of Tulum.
You will be guided through this ancient city by a certified expert in Mayan history, and he or she will share their insight into the lifestyle, architecture, and religious practices of this remarkable place and the people who lived here.
BELOW THE SURFACE: THE CENOTES
Your next stop is the Gran Cenote. The Yucatan is famed for its vast number of cenotes, which were thought to be entries into the underworld and therefore used for spiritual rituals. In contemporary Yucatan, cenotes are referred to as subterrain river systems, opening into lengthy caverns and caves. Gran Cenote is truly awe-inspiring with its stalactites and stalagmites towering above and below the surface of the water. You’ll also note the crystal-clear water—a result of being filtered naturally through abundant limestone. Snorkeling in this epic habitat will give you an unforgettable memory that can only be experienced first-hand. You may continue to snorkel or swim for as long as the group enjoys it.
THE BEACH AND A BITE
Tulum is word renowned for its unspoiled beaches and endless views. Deemed by Conde Nast to be one of the top 10 beaches to visit, this particular stretch of coastline where you will lunch is simply stunning. Your catered picnic will be set up on the edge of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Nature Reserve. It is as secluded as it is pristine—and the shady palm trees plus a soft and sandy beach make it an ideal spot for eating, swimming, tossing a Frisbee® or strolling along the water’s edge. There’s no rush, so enjoy the sun, surf, and serenity. After all, you’re on vacation!
NATURE’S JUNGLE IS CALLING
As your tour group makes its way back to Playa del Carmen, there is one last spot we want you to experience. We’ll take you to a small little cenote that has one big distinction: it sits in the middle of a jungle that is teeming with tropical freshwater fish, fossils, and even a towering rock wall. If you have a wild side, you can take a jump off the cliff. Of course, you are also welcome to simply float around, swim a bit, snorkel or sit back and take it all in. Your tour is also timed perfectly for a little birdwatching—with the sun slowly beginning to set, there’s a good chance you’ll see some of the tropical residents that call this cenote home.
TOUR DETAILS:
Duration: 9 hours
Tour Type: Shared or private
Price: $126 (adults); $114 (children < 12 yrs)
Private prices: $110-$390 usd per person, depending on group size
When: Thursdays, Saturdays
