There is no shortage of fun activities to participate in while spending four days in Tulum. Tulum’s cultural origins began as a magnificent Mayan city, but has since expanded into a modernized, travel-friendly tourist destination. Postcard-worthy, crystal clear sea water and magical cenotes are some of Tulum’s most striking features, along with relaxing yoga retreats, rich jungle wildlife, and several nightlife clubs that offer a culturally rich experience.
A trip through a 4-day itinerary will mean traveling between two sub-regions – the miles-long strip of Tulum coastline known as “Playa” and the heart of Tulum town, also known as “Pueblo.” Both sub-regions are on equal footing regarding enjoyment and variety of activity; however, each vibe is in stark contrast and requires a thorough itinerary to truly experience Tulum’s unique charm.
Here’s the 4 Days In Tulum Itinerary
Day 1
Stop 1: Playa Santa Fe Beach + Beach Club
Playa Santa Fe Beach is situated next to the internationally famous Tulum Archaeological Zone of Quintana Roo Mexico, and is recognizable for its postcard-worthy scenery. Not only is visiting here free, but public access is also easy to navigate for convenient touring. While enjoying a relatively crowd-free swim, beachgoers can visit nearby food vendors to recharge with tasty snacks and refreshing drinks.
Although Playa Santa Fe beach is slightly south of the archaeological site, rocky outcroppings block access if traveling from nearby Ruinas Beach. So instead, to access the beach, travelers can get there by turning left from outside the Archaeological Zone until reaching a sign directing to public beach access along with the Santa Fe Beach Club entrance. Following this path will lead to an extensive stretch of coastline upon turning left.
This hidden gem in Tulum provides a refreshing swim thanks to its turquoise blue waters, soft, warm white sands, and breathtaking cliffsides, with very few crowds. The Santa Fe Beach Club is a small campsite that rents lounge chairs and beach umbrellas. This club serves up phenomenal burritos, shrimp tacos, ice-cold beers, and fruity beverages to quench hunger and thirst.
Stop 2: Tulum Ruins
After a refreshing sunrise to kickstart the day, exploring Mexico’s ancient history is a great way to spend time at nearby Tulum Ruins. Dating back to the early 13th century, the remnants of these ancient ruins were once a glorious city constructed by the Mayans. This sunrise-facing city was commonly known as “Zama” or “City of Dawn” and housed over 1,000 people during its peak between the 12th and 15th centuries.
If a quiet, crowd-free morning is preferred, arriving at the Tulum Ruins by 8:00 AM is best. Additionally, with only a $4 US dollar entrance fee, it’s worth trying out nearby Salciccium Tulum, which serves an exquisite variety of Mexican and international cuisine. Tulum Ruins is a breathtaking destination for scenic photography, as it overlooks the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by tropical palm trees on a stunning cliffside. Lucky photographers may even catch a glimpse of native wildlife around the ruins, such as iguanas, monkeys, and beautiful species of birds.
Another fantastic location to enjoy the scenery is El Castillo, a breathtaking tower with the tallest structure. However, the most memorable tourist visit is the Temple of the God of Wind, a hallmark symbol of Tulum that overlooks the vast ocean expanse. Tourists with a knack for astronomy should visit the Temple of the Frescoes, which functioned as the city’s observatory and was an origin point of many famous Mayan astronomers. Temple of The Descending is another admirable hallmark around the Tulum Ruins, known for its carving depiction of a diving god with his feet in the air.
Stop 3: Tulum Cuisine Lunch
Tulum, and the Yucatan Peninsula in general, are renowned for their aromatic, zesty Mexican flavors ranging from tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. For a quick lunch on a budget, it’s hard to beat the unique, top-notch quality burritos at “Burrito Amor.” Translating to “Burrito Love” in English, the average price of a burrito wrapped in banana leaves is just $5 US dollars. This eatery is conveniently located on the southern end of the main road in Tulum.
Safari Restaurant Tulum is another cool eatery that’s known for its airstream and grill cooking. It is well known for preparing scrumptious ceviche, corn esquites (salads prepared with Mexican street corn), and shrimp mole verde tacos.
Stop 4: Playa Paraiso
There’s no question that Playa Paraiso is the prime winner of gorgeous public beaches; it’s been nominated for an award as TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice top beach in Mexico. Not only is it free to visit, but it’s also full of local vendors dishing up tortas (Mexican sandwiches) and empanadas along the coastline.
However, for the ultimate beachgoing experience, it’s worth investing an extra visit at one of its beach clubs, Villa Pescadores and El Paraiso. Offering a wide array of drinks for any budget, guests can lounge in comfortable beach chairs while taking in the Caribbean waters surrounded by coconut palm trees. After a refreshing splash in the sea, guests can enjoy a fantastic picnic under one of the shady areas found on the beach.
Additionally, for an affordable price on a day-to-day basis, tables, chairs, and umbrellas are available for convenient beach setups. Ideally, guests should rent these items as early as possible on a first-come, first-serve basis. El Paraiso Beach Club also serves as an international and Mexican cuisine restaurant. So whether travelers are in the mood for a light snack or a decadently scrumptious meal, this club caters to an array of appetites with quality freshness and taste.
Stop 5: Mojitos at Sunset
The Mojito is a hallmark symbol of Mexico that has spread its influence to the international culinary scene, thanks to some of the most innovative mixologists operating throughout Tulum’s bars. However, a real crowd-pleaser for premium mojitos is the lively and rustic Batey’s bar, which hosts live music with top-rated local musicians. The mojitos served here are expensive, starting at $5 US dollars upwards, but come with the unique experience of watching the bartender freshly press sugarcane upon ordering.
Along the main road heading towards the southern beaches is the I Scream Bar which also serves mojitos worthy of a visit. Budget-friendly and festive, indulging in a mojito from this bar is a relaxing way to enjoy a sunset. Santino Bar is another unique visit, hosting an energizing dance floor with a fantastic musical vibe and heavy-handed cocktails.
Day 2
Stop 1: Sistema Sac Actun
The thrill of adventure awaits at Sistema Sac Actun, a mysteriously elaborate underwater cave system rumored to be the largest worldwide. Two hundred fifteen miles (346 kilometers) in length, its vast expanse ensures tourists will have a blast in this maze-like natural wonder. At a moderately priced entrance fee of $22 US dollars, travelers can marvel in awe at stalactites dangling by the thousands over glistening teal water. Colonies of bats make their homes in this enclosed habitat, so claustrophobic guests should take second consideration before visiting.
Exploring this extensive cave will be hassle-free as a life jacket and snorkel masks are provided before entry. Included with the $22 entrance fee, the service of a tour guide secures the natural environment as a compulsory measure. In addition, it’s essential to avoid touching stalactites as they are prone to damage from the oils in our skin.
The ancient Mayans revered Sistema Sac Actun as a sacred site and primary source of clean water. Religious texts also depicted cenotes as underworld portals that the Mayans would open through sacrifice offerings, especially human sacrifices. Due to recent discoveries regarding its ancient history, Sistema Sac Actun is considered one of the most significant underwater archaeological sites worldwide.
Stop 2: Tulum Town
Featuring a unique fusion of authentic and modern tourist vibes, Tulum Town itself is free to visit and is home to some fantastic eateries. For example, travelers can satisfy their sweet tooth at the ice cream shop Flor De Michoacan, which machete smashes coconuts as they are made to order and invites customers in with its serene garden dining area.
The famous Tulum Sign is a memorable icon of the town region, boldly vivid and colorful, making its presence known to travelers seeking to take photos. However cheesy and childlike, snapping a few shots with this landmark is sure to be a favorite pastime for tourists.
There is nothing like shopping for Mexican glamour for a traditional yet creative experience in Tulum. Trendy boutiques specializing in Bohemian apparel make a statement on Beach Road; however, this standard of quality and artistic flare will cost a pretty penny. Mixik is worth visiting for its authentic mementos handcrafted in Mexico. Glasswork, embroidery, and jewelry are also products worth browsing here.
Stop 3: Laguna de Kaan Luum
Located five miles (8 kilometers) on the outskirts of Tulum is the magnificent lagoon known as Laguna de Kaan Luum, a hidden gem amongst locals as its central cenote is often missed by visiting tourists. Although entrance into the lagoon is free, tourists can indulge in a mudbath for $250 US dollars in this spectacular natural landmark. An enchanting array of vibrant colors bring the lagoon to life, resulting in a beautiful contrast of turquoise blue waters around the lagoon’s perimeter and the deep blue waters that lead into the mysterious cenote below.
Reaching underwater depths of about 262 feet (79 meters), Laguna de Kaan Luum is amongst the deepest cenotes around Tulum and features a wooden pier that leads tourists to the cenote’s edge. Although swimming here is not authorized without supervision, the pierre provides an incredible opportunity to admire the cenote’s displays of colors in close detail. Historically famous for its healing properties, the Mayans revered Laguna de Kaan Luum for its outstanding production of mud, which is also highly beneficial for skin exfoliation. Also located on the pierre is a standard changing room for mud bath preparation.
Alternatively, kayaking and paddling are also fun activities that can be enjoyed here, with rental equipment provided at the entrance booth nearby. Near Laguna de Kaan Luum is also a top-rated rustic restaurant amongst the locals known as El Buen, well known for its courteous staff and scrumptious cuisine that keeps its customers coming back regularly.
Stop 4: Gran Cenote
Gran Cenote is a superior hotspot for swimming in Tulum and postcard-worthy for its tropical paradise scenery. Jagged stalactites border glistening turquoise waters and jungle tree roots overhanging above. For travelers with a photography passion, Gran Cenote is a fabulous location for spectacular pictures while standing over the cenote waters on a wooden platform. Smaller cenotes make up Gran Cenote and are an ideal destination for claustrophobic travelers since underground access is only possible through a small section.
For an affordable $10 entrance fee, It’s difficult to beat the snorkeling and scuba diving experience at Gran Cenote. Since the water is as clear as glass, a snorkel mask isn’t necessary to survey underwater wildlife, such as beautiful fish and turtles. Non-swimmers and children can also simply relax in the water, thanks to a spacious shallow section of the cenote.
Just a five-minute drive from Gran Cenote is the eatery known as Cetli. Although the cuisine served here is exceptional, it’s rather expensive, so packing snacks while visiting the cenote is advisable if traveling on a budget.
Day 3
Stop 1: Yoga Class
A refreshing yet relaxing way to kickstart your morning in Tulum is taking a yoga class with several studio varieties ranging from traditional indoor settings to outdoor lessons in the coastal breeze. Not only is yoga fundamental to Tulum’s creative, down-to-earth, and fashionable vibe, but it’s also an excellent option for spontaneous tourists who can walk in for classes at several famous studios.
One of Tulum’s most desirable yoga studios, Sanara, is a resort known for its eco-friendliness and ocean view. Down to earth and small, classes here are scheduled throughout the day at 8:30 AM, 10:15 AM, and 5:00 PM. Known for its touristy vibe, Maya Tulum is another exceptional yoga destination, with $15 sessions scheduled in the morning and afternoon.
Additionally, yearly yoga retreats are a special offer at Maya Tulum and are worth considering for serious travelers. Finally, a traditional yoga studio independent of any resort hotel is Yoga Dicha, which specializes in yoga exclusively and offers 75-minute weekday classes at 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM. For weekend yoga trips, it’s important to note that Saturday and Sunday only provide morning sessions.
Stop 2: Mexican Cooking Class
After nourishing the mind and body with rejuvenating yoga, there’s no better way to nurture the spirit than with festive Mexican cuisine. Inhabited worldwide, the fresh and spicy flavors are introduced and taught in depth by Tulum natives. The perfect place to take culinary lessons is at Rivera Kitchen Tulum, where beginner cooks embark on a cultural journey with an experienced local cook. This cooking class will summarize Mexican cuisine’s history and the evolution of Mesoamerican cultures from the Mayan period through the colonial period to the modern day.
A single cooking lesson will review several popular staples of a Mexican meal, such as varieties of salsa, handmade tortillas, and fish tacos. Easy and versatile, this cooking class will provide beginner cooks with practical skillsets that they can utilize in more advanced dishes.
Stop 3: Mesoamerican Reef
After exploring Mexican cuisine in depth, the adventures can continue at Mesoamerican Reef, widely known as the second largest barrier reef worldwide. Located a few hundred feet off Tulum’s coastline, this destination is well known for its vibrant, colorful spectacle of fish, making it worth adding to any traveler’s itinerary. A guided tour will be required to visit the Mesoamerican reef, which can be arranged with one of several Playa Paraiso agencies offering affordable hour-long tours.
The most prominent visual of the reef is its striking array of colors, making the Mesoamerican reef an exceptional destination for snorkeling. Parrotfish, sergeant majors, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and barracudas are species of fish that widely inhabit this destination, and lucky tourists may see the occasional sea turtle and stingray.
Sadly, human phenomena such as pollution, climate change, and overfishing have rendered the Mesoamerican reef and many other ecosystems vulnerable, but visiting is still permitted and should be done with eco-conscious considerations in mind. In addition, tourists can take a direct approach to preserving this environment by visiting the app NEMO, where scientists can research environmental conservation efforts using photos uploaded from the reef during traveler visits.
Stop 4: Xel-Ha Park
Xel-Ha Park is an aquatic theme park and archaeological destination managed by the Xcart organization and is an excellent place for family relaxation. Snorkeling is safe and fun, thanks to shark nets securing the lagoon. Barracudas, stingrays, parrotfish, and tangs are some of the beautiful native species inhabiting this region and are sure to captivate an audience with their appearance.
Phenomenal views of the scenery are also offered with exciting ziplining, along with cycling and hiking throughout the park’s jungle terrain. Curious adventurers can also explore one of the mysterious cave systems within the area. Post-adventure downtime is also offered at Xel-Ha Park, thanks to some outstanding facilities provided for tourists. Soaking up sun rays on a lounge chair, catching hammock shut-eye, and relaxing on an air tube are incredible ways to wind down after a day filled with adventure.
Day 4
Stop 1: Vegan Breakfast at Raw Love
The health-conscious traveler can eat their hearts out at Raw Love – the ultimate vegan hotspot in Tulum. A hidden gem between lush jungle and beachfront views, Raw Love is nestled in a tranquil garden surrounded by shady palm trees.
Their menu is a gluten-free treasure trove where customers can order fresh smoothies and superfood healing shots, wake up with a coconut latte, or chill out with tasty acai bowls. Of course, the perfect pick-me-up can be ordered at Raw Love thanks to its health-focused delicacies while customers relax in the chilled-out hipster environment.
Stop 2: Follow That Dream Sign
One landmark that calls to anyone’s inner traveler is the famous “Follow That Dream” sign featured in front of Lolita Lolita Tulum, a highly desirable boutique. Known worldwide as a photographic hotspot, taking memorable shots here is incredibly easy thanks to its streetside location with the bohemian-style boutique and gorgeous jungle landscape as backdrops.
To make this photography experience extra worthwhile, the nearby Alaya Tulum hotel rents out turquoise bikes for 24 hours at an affordable $15. All that’s required in return is some form of ID as a deposit. Generally, there is no significant wait time in lines to snap photos with the sign since it’s a bit out of the way from the main Tulum beach area.
Stop 3: El Camaleón Golf Course
El Camaleón is one of the best golf courses in Tulum. Resulting of its dedication to environmental, eco-conscious values, Audubon International has certified El Camaleón as a Cooperative Sanctuary. It takes diligent steps to ensure the land, water, natural resources, and wildlife habitats are adequately preserved and sustained. In addition, beginners can familiarize themselves with golf at a course practice facility with a 350-yard driving area, ensuring practice at chipping and bunker shots on green and short session areas.
Built around the natural landscape, El Camaleón Golf Course is also a spectacle for its on-site cenote and a cavern found below ground near the opening fairway. Players can also admire the extensive scenic view of the Caribbean coastline at two ocean-facing holes. Navigating the golf course quickly has also been considered, thanks to GPS-equipped golf carts and convenient food and beverage cart vendors operating on-site.
Offering the newest golf apparel and accessories is the golf course’s pro shop. World Wide Technology Championship and Mayakoba are a few of the merchandise brands sold here. There is no need to bring an overhaul of equipment either, as the pro shop offers a wide variety of professional PXG, Callaway, and Titleist clubs for rent.
Stop 4: Cenotes Labnaha
Cenotes Labnaha is a unique cenote that also functions as an eco-conscious, theme park-based experience, offering many fun activities to keep tourists entertained throughout the day. At a mere $45 US dollars, snorkeling guides are available to assist tourists in exploring this landmark. In addition, educational safety briefs and information about the cenote are discussed in depth with a local tour guide, who’s also responsible for managing on-site activities at Cenotes Labnaha.
Three separate cenotes in one location connect through the dense jungle by paths with individual signs guiding tourists to unique or unusual plants. This lush jungle landscape isn’t limited to mere exploring either – along with the snorkeling tour at Cenote Labnaha, Cenote Sagrado features an adrenalizing zip line, while Magic Cenote is a fun kayaking and swimming adventure.
This park also adheres to the values of its traditional Mayan roots – a dedication to the natural preservation of the environment while ensuring local Mayan communities receive support. Natural security of the region’s fauna and flora is guaranteed as the park entrance fees are donated. Guests must also adhere to strict guidelines prohibiting physical contact with the rocks.
Stop 5: Ven a La Luz – Woman Sculpture of “Raw Love”
South African artist Daniel Popper is the designer behind the construction of the 33-foot (10-meters) high sculpture. Also translated to the Spanish phrase “Come to the Light,” its framework is composed of steel, wood, rope, and green plant material. The symbolism of Ven a La Luz is depicted by the woman’s exposed chest cavity, which reveals the interior of her body full of flourishing plant foliage and hanging vines. The significance of nature and its importance to human beings is represented by Ven a La Luz, meant to raise awareness of Tulum and the connecting ecosystem of the Riviera Maya.
Planning a trip to Ven a La Luz is advisable beforehand, considering road side view is mainly limited due to a high fence blockading the way. The sculpture has been relocated close to Tulum’s main strip on Calle Corazón de Jesús, close to Cenote Encantado. Up close and personal photography with the Ven a La Luz sculpture is also offered for a small fee.
Tourists should consider visiting during the “Golden Hour” of the day; this beautiful array of light peaks during the hour after sunrise and sunset. Unfortunately, the early golden hour is not an option as the attraction isn’t open in the morning, but photography during its sunset peak will still produce incredible shots.
What To Pack For 4 Days In Tulum
- Swimsuits/Swimwear: Time spent at beaches, beach clubs, or cenotes will require proper swimwear if you plan on swimming in the water. Wearing a one-piece is also suitable for comfort and quick changing while snorkeling and scuba diving. Lounging in the sun to tan would be better suited in a bikini for women and swim shorts for men.
- Swimwear Coverup Clothing: This is essential because this itinerary involves travel between swimming destinations to more public settings, such as restaurants and indoor classes where swimwear is not permitted. It’s a good rule of thumb to bring multiple sets since you’ll be visiting numerous bodies of water and want to keep your everyday clothing as clean as possible. In addition, to avoid overheating in Tulum’s tropical heat, it’s best to wear loose-fitting, flowy coverups and sweat-absorbent cotton.
- Wide-Brimmed Sunhat: Since the majority of destinations of this itinerary involve sun exposure for extended periods, protecting your head and face is essential to prevent a painful sunburn. For ease of transportation while traveling, foldable straw hats are space efficient for storage in travel bags or suitcases.
- Polarized Sunglasses: Anyone who’s frequented Tulum understands the sunlight gets harsh, especially around bodies of water where sun rays bounce off the surface, causing glare and eye strain. It’s also crucial to buy polarized sunglasses from a reliable source, as Tulum street vendors are notorious for selling knockoffs that falsely advertise having UV protection.
- Totebag: You’ll need something to carry your travel clothing, protective sun gear, towels, information pamphlets, food leftovers, etc. It’s ideal to bring a tote bag with an extra roomy main compartment for clothing, with smaller pockets to store secondary travel products.
- Sunscreen: Opt for a waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF rating if you plan on swimming in bodies of water. An eco-conscious sunscreen is also reef-safe, free of harsh chemicals that can harm coral reefs. It also works as effectively as everyday sunscreen, so different applications or more product isn’t necessary. Bringing extra sunscreen and storing it in your tote bag is advisable so it can be reapplied every few hours, especially between swims or while sweating excessively.
- First-Aid Kit: Several destinations on this itinerary, such as the cenotes and Tulum ruins, have plenty of uneven terrains, thick vegetation, and rough rocky surfaces. It’s too easy to accidentally injure yourself while focusing on the new environments around you. A first aid kid doesn’t have to be too intricate or bulky either – everyday basics such as band-aids, gauze pads, and antibiotic and antihistamine cream should suffice.
- Environmentally-Friendly Bug Spray: Insects, especially mosquitoes, are notoriously infamous in Tulum and are commonly attracted to warm, wet environments. A general bug spray or eco-friendly mosquito repellent will be a lifesaver in preventing itchy or painful bug bites. Some sprays contain natural citronella oil that acts as an effective insect repellant. Additionally, tea tree oil diluted in a spray bottle also provides relief for any bites that may occur.
- Portable Charger: The 4-day itinerary will keep you busy each day, and a portable charger will undoubtedly prove helpful in areas where plug-ins aren’t accessible. There is always the possibility of power outages in public settings or the hotel you’re staying at, so a backup power source is needed in emergencies.
To Close It Out
It’s no secret that Tulum is a grand adventure in a slight stretch of land, with something new to see around almost every corner. A proper itinerary helps manage the chaotic nature of traveling in several ways. First, it ensures travelers manage their time because they know where they’re going and can schedule accordingly. Budgeting a trip is also more accessible as it gives tourists a better sense of how much they’ll spend at each destination.
That being said, if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, don’t worry about taking opportunities as they come and alter your itinerary a bit on the fly. For example if you all agree to go snorkeling or renting a yacht instead of spending the day exploring ruins, go for it!
Want to design your own itinerary? Check out our list of things to do in Tulum for more activity ideas to add!
