Tulum Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & Arrival
1. Is Tulum still worth it in 2026? Yes, but only if you manage expectations. It is no longer a “hidden gem” and is now quite expensive and commercialized.
2. Which airport should I fly into? Fly into Tulum (TQO) if possible; it’s much closer (40 mins) than Cancun (CUN), which is a 2-hour drive.
3. Is the new Tulum Airport (TQO) expensive to get out of? Yes, airport transfers are pricey. Pre-book a shuttle to save money; “mafia” taxi pricing starts as soon as you land.
4. Do I need a visa for Mexico? Most Western travelers (US, Canada, UK) do not need a visa for stays under 180 days, but always check your local consulate.
5. What is the best month to visit? November to January is peak season for weather and the lowest chance of seaweed.
6. When is the “Sargassum” (seaweed) season? Typically April through August, though it’s unpredictable year to year.
7. Can I bring a vape? No. Mexican customs are strictly confiscating vapes at TQO and CUN; you may face fines.
8. Should I stay at the Beach or in Town (Centro)? Beach is for the “vibes” and convenience; Centro/La Veleta/Aldea Zama are better for your budget and local food.
9. What is Aldea Zama? An upscale, modern residential neighborhood between the town and the beach. It’s safer and quieter than the Hotel Zone.
10. Is the water safe to drink? No. Not even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
Transportation & Logistics
11. Are taxis really that expensive? Yes. A 15-minute ride can cost $30–$100 USD. Negotiate before you get in.
12. Is there Uber in Tulum? No. The taxi unions have blocked it. Use the “InDrive” app as an alternative to see fair pricing.
13. Should I rent a car? Recommended for day trips (Coba, Chichén Itzá), but parking at the beach is a nightmare.
14. Do I need Mexican car insurance? Yes, it is legally required. Your credit card insurance usually only covers the car, not third-party liability.
15. Is it safe to bike to the beach? Yes, via the Avenida Coba path. Avoid biking on the beach road at night as it’s dark and narrow.
16. Are scooters a good idea? Yes, they are the best way to bypass traffic, but be wary of potholes and aggressive drivers.
17. Do I need an International Driving Permit? Usually no; a valid US/EU license is typically accepted by rental agencies.
18. How do I avoid the “Gas Station Scam”? Ensure the pump starts at zero and always count your cash out loud when paying.
19. Is the Tren Maya (Mayan Train) running? Yes, it connects Tulum to Cancun and Playa del Carmen, though the schedule can be irregular.
20. Can I walk from the town to the beach? It’s a 45–60 minute walk in high heat. Not recommended.
Money & Costs
21. Should I use Pesos or USD? Always Pesos. Paying in USD will result in a terrible exchange rate at restaurants.
22. Which ATMs are safest? Use ATMs inside banks (like Santander or HSBC) in Centro. Avoid random “Beach ATMs” due to skimming risks.
23. Is Tulum more expensive than the US? The Hotel Zone is comparable to NYC or LA prices. Centro is much cheaper.
24. What is the standard tipping rate? 10–15% is standard. Check your bill for “Propina”—some places add it automatically (which is technically illegal).
25. Are credit cards widely accepted? In the Hotel Zone and major restaurants, yes. In Centro and for street food, carry cash.
26. Why is there a “Service Charge” and a tip line? It’s often a tourist trap. If “Servicio” is included, you don’t need to tip extra.
27. How much is a beer? $3–$5 in town; $12–$18 at a beach club.
28. How much are beach club minimum spends? Usually $50 to $150 USD per person.
29. Can I visit the beach for free? Yes, via public access points like Playa Paraiso, but most of the beach is blocked by hotels.
30. Is there a “Beach Tax”? Technically no, but many hotels charge a “consumption fee” to use their furniture/space.
Safety & Health
31. Is Tulum safe for solo female travelers? Generally yes, but stick to well-lit areas at night and don’t leave drinks unattended.
32. What about the police? Police “shakedowns” for bribes are common. If stopped while driving, ask for a written ticket to be paid at the station.
33. Is there cartel violence? It exists but rarely targets tourists. Stay away from the drug trade to minimize risk.
34. What should I do if I get “Tulum Belly”? Stay hydrated with Electrolit (sold at OXXO) and visit a local “Farmacia Similares” for quick advice.
35. Are there mosquitoes? Yes, especially in the jungle areas. Bring biodegradable repellent.
36. Is the beach road safe at night? It’s very dark. Walk with a friend or take a taxi.
37. Can I use my phone’s GPS? Yes, but download offline maps; signal is spotty in the jungle and south beach zone.
38. Are there sharks? Rarely. The reef keeps the big ones far out.
39. Should I worry about crocodiles? Only in the mangroves and certain lagoons (like Kaan Luum). Stay in designated swimming areas.
40. Are the “Spiritual Ceremonies” safe? Research the Shaman/Host beforehand. Some are authentic; others are just expensive “performances.”
Activities & Sightseeing
41. When should I visit the Tulum Ruins? 8:00 AM. It gets incredibly hot and crowded by 10:30 AM.
42. Can you still climb the Coba ruins? No, climbing the main pyramid has been restricted recently to preserve the structure.
43. Which cenote is the “best”? Gran Cenote for turtles; Dos Ojos for diving; Cenote Calavera for “the jump.”
44. What is a “Cenote”? A natural limestone sinkhole filled with fresh groundwater.
45. Do I need to wear a life jacket in cenotes? Most commercial cenotes require them for safety and to protect the water.
46. Can I use sunscreen in cenotes? Only biodegradable, but many places ask you to shower first to remove all oils.
47. Is Sian Ka’an worth the long drive? Yes, for nature lovers. It’s a UNESCO biosphere with wild dolphins and manatees.
48. What is the “Follow That Dream” sign? A famous photo spot in front of the Lolita Lolita shop. Expect a line.
49. Can I see turtles in Akumal? Yes, but you must hire a guide and wear a life vest to enter the protected turtle area.
50. Is Chichén Itzá a day trip from Tulum? Yes, it’s about 2–2.5 hours away. Go early!
Beach Clubs & Nightlife
51. Which beach clubs are the most “Instagrammable”? Azulik, Nomade, and Ahau (where the giant wooden sculpture is).
52. Is there a dress code? “Boho-chic” (linen, swimwear with cover-ups). Most places are casual-luxe.
53. Where is the best nightlife? The jungle parties (like Zamna) are famous but expensive. For town vibes, try Batey Mojito Bar.
54. What is the “Zamna” festival? A massive electronic music festival held in the jungle, usually around New Year’s.
55. Are drugs common at parties? Yes, but be extremely careful. Cartel presence is heavy at festivals, and lacing is a risk.
56. Does the music play all night? In the Hotel Zone, yes. If you want sleep, don’t stay right next to a beach club.
57. What is “Full Moon” party? Papaya Playa Project hosts famous full moon parties with international DJs.
58. Are there cover charges for bars? Usually not in town, but beach clubs often have them or a “minimum spend.”
59. Can I bring my own drinks to the beach? To the public beaches (Playa Paraiso), yes. To beach clubs, no.
60. Where can I find live music? Batey in town has great live jazz and salsa.
Food & Dining
61. Where is the best street food? The food carts in the “Parque Dos Aguas” (the main square) in town.
62. What are “Marquesitas”? Crispy crepes filled with Nutella and cheese—a must-try Yucatan street snack.
63. Is Arca worth the price? Many Redditors say yes—it’s often cited as the best high-end meal in Tulum.
64. Where can I get good tacos? Taqueria Honorio (breakfast/lunch) and El Carboncito (dinner) are local legends.
65. Is there “Vegan” food? Tulum is a vegan paradise. Try Raw Love or The Real Coconut.
66. What is “Cochinita Pibil”? Slow-roasted pork, a regional specialty. Don’t leave without trying it.
67. Can I find cheap eats? Yes, in Centro. Look for “Comida Corrida” signs for fixed-price lunch deals.
68. Do I need dinner reservations? For popular spots like Hartwood or Arca, yes—weeks in advance.
69. What is “Mezcal”? A smoky agave spirit. Many bars offer mezcal tastings.
70. Is the coffee good? Yes, check out Ki’Bok or Botanica Garden Cafe.
Accommodations
71. Are there All-Inclusive resorts in Tulum? A few (like Dreams or Hilton), but most are boutique hotels.
72. Do Airbnbs have power outages? Tulum’s infrastructure is struggling; occasional blackouts happen, especially in La Veleta.
73. Is there good Wi-Fi? It’s improving, but “jungle” hotels often rely on satellite which can be spotty during rain.
74. What is a “Treehouse” hotel? Hotels like Azulik offer rooms built into the canopy, often with no electricity or AC.
75. Is it better to stay near the “South” or “North” beach? North is quieter and near the ruins; South is the heart of the party and boutiques.
76. Should I stay in a hostel? Tulum has great hostels (like Selina or Mayan Monkey) for social solo travelers.
77. Is air conditioning standard? In town, yes. On the beach, many “eco-hotels” only run AC at night or not at all.
78. Are there laundry services? Yes, look for “Lavanderia” signs in town. They charge by weight and are very cheap.
79. Can I stay in a “Glamping” tent? Yes, many spots offer luxury tents, but they can get very hot during the day.
80. Is it noisy at night? In the Hotel Zone and Centro, expect music. For peace, stay in the “Region 15” or “Jungle” areas.
Essentials & Packing
81. What kind of power outlets do they use? Same as the US/Canada (Type A and B).
82. Should I bring a hairdryer? Many eco-hotels don’t allow them because they draw too much power. Check first.
83. Is there a “Tulum Style” of dress? Think “luxury castaway.” Natural fabrics, wide-brim hats, and sandals.
84. Do I need a rain jacket? In the rainy season (June–Oct), yes. Tropical downpours are brief but intense.
85. Should I bring snorkeling gear? If you plan to visit many cenotes, it saves money on rentals.
86. Is there a pharmacy nearby? Yes, “Farmacia” shops are everywhere and sell most things over-the-counter.
87. Can I buy sunscreen there? Yes, but it is much more expensive than in the US.
88. Is there a Walmart? There is a “Chedraui” which is a massive grocery/department store—best place for supplies.
89. Should I bring a flashlight? Yes! Many streets lack lights, and it’s essential for walking at night.
90. How is the cell service? Strong in town; weak to non-existent on certain stretches of the beach road.
Culture & Etiquette
91. Is it okay to take photos of locals? Always ask first, especially with Indigenous Mayan people.
92. Do I need to speak Spanish? Most people in tourism speak English, but “Por favor” and “Gracias” go a long way.
93. What is a “Temazcal”? A traditional Mayan sweat lodge ceremony used for purification.
94. Can I buy “Mayan” crafts? Yes, but look for authentic artisans rather than mass-produced “souvenirs.”
95. Is the “Tulum Vibe” real? It’s a mix of genuine spirituality and “wellness-themed” marketing. You’ll find both.
96. What is the “Mayan Calendar” hype? Mostly a tourist gimmick now, but the history behind it is fascinating—visit the ruins for the real story.
97. Are there many stray dogs? Yes. “Tulum Dogs” is a local charity if you want to help. Most strays are friendly.
98. Can I use a drone? Restrictions are tight around the ruins and Sian Ka’an. Check local laws before flying.
99. Is it rude to haggle? It’s expected at markets, but not in high-end boutiques or restaurants.
100. What is the number one tip for Tulum? Relax and go with the flow. Things might be late, the power might go out, or a taxi might overcharge you—don’t let the small stuff ruin the magic of the jungle.