Tulum, Quintana Roo

The Cliffs of Tulum: The ruins of Tulum perched atop the dramatic 12-meter (39 ft) cliffs, offering stunning views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea below. Captured by Bill Bell.
The Cliffs of Tulum: The ruins of Tulum perched atop the dramatic 12-meter (39 ft) cliffs, offering stunning views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea below. Captured by Bill Bell.

Tulum, Quintana Roo

Photography by Bill Bell

Tulum (Tulu’um in Modern Maya; in Spanish orthography, Tulum) is the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya walled city that served as a major port for Cobá. Situated on 12-meter (39 ft) cliffs along the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum overlooks the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. As one of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, Tulum has become a very popular destination for tourists. The site was possibly known as Zama, meaning “City of Dawn,” in ancient times. The Yucatec Maya word “Tulum” translates to “fence” or “wall,” referencing the walls that fortified the city against invasion. Tulum is notably associated with the worship of the Diving or Descending god, as depicted in its murals and artifacts.

El Castillo: The iconic Castillo of Tulum, towering over the ruins and providing a glimpse into the site's historical significance as a fortified city and major port. Photo by Bill Bell.
El Castillo: The iconic Castillo of Tulum, towering over the ruins and providing a glimpse into the site’s historical significance as a fortified city and major port. Photo by Bill Bell.

History

The city of Tulum was first mentioned by Juan Díaz, a member of Juan de Grijalva’s expedition in 1518. Detailed descriptions of the ruins were later provided by John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood in their 1843 book, “Incidents of Travel in Yucatan.” Upon their arrival by sea, they were greatly impressed by the tall building, likely the Castillo, which they sketched and mapped accurately. They discovered an early classic stela with an inscribed date of AD 564, likely brought from a nearby town. Subsequent work at Tulum was carried out by Sylvanus Morley and George P. Howe in the early 20th century, the Carnegie Institution from 1916 to 1922, Samuel Lothrop in 1924, Miguel Angel Fernandez in the late 1930s and early 1940s, William Sanders in 1955, and Arthur G. Miller in the 1970s. These investigations revealed that Tulum was occupied during the late Postclassic period, around AD 1200, and continued until the Spanish arrived in the early 16th century. The site was completely abandoned by the end of the 16th century.

Ancient Structures Against a Blue Sky: The well-preserved ruins of Tulum, Quintana Roo, standing proudly under the clear blue sky. These structures exemplify the architectural brilliance of the ancient Maya civilization. Photo by Bill Bell.
Ancient Structures Against a Blue Sky: The well-preserved ruins of Tulum, Quintana Roo, standing proudly under the clear blue sky. These structures exemplify the architectural brilliance of the ancient Maya civilization. Photo by Bill Bell.

Visiting Tulum

Weather

Tulum enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is more favorable for exploring the ruins. Expect temperatures to range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and high humidity, which can make exploring the site less pleasant.

Safety Precautions

When traveling to Tulum by car, keep the following safety tips in mind:

  • Road Conditions: Roads in Quintana Roo are generally well-maintained, but always drive cautiously and watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Security: Tulum is generally safe, but it’s always wise to remain vigilant. Avoid leaving valuables in your car and park in designated areas.
  • Crowds: Tulum is often overrun by tourists, especially during peak hours. To avoid the crowds, plan to arrive right at opening time.

What to Expect

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the stunning sight of Tulum’s ancient ruins perched atop cliffs overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The site is known for being one of the most photogenic archaeological sites in Mexico, with breathtaking views and well-preserved structures.

  • The Castillo: The tallest and most impressive structure, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
  • Temple of the Frescoes: A smaller temple adorned with murals depicting the Diving or Descending god.
  • Temple of the Wind: Positioned near the cliff edge, believed to have been used for navigational purposes.

Photography Tips

  • Lighting: Early morning provides the best natural light for photography, reducing harsh shadows and capturing the ruins in their full glory.
  • Equipment: Bring a good camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and intricate details of the ruins. A tripod can help stabilize shots in lower light conditions.

Conclusion

Tulum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Maya history and culture. Its stunning location, historical significance, and photogenic ruins make it an unforgettable experience. To make the most of your visit, arrive early, be prepared for the weather, and take your time to explore and capture the beauty of this ancient city.