Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Our experience at the ruins were great! We paid for a ride up to the ruins and back.
This is our situation. We have two small children 11 and 6. This place was nice enough to keep their attention the whole time. The iguana’s were everywhere and pretty neat touch.
The guys are pretty much worthless I wouldn’t recommend wasting hiring one. The food around the entrance isnt the greatest either.
If you have kids this would be a good half day sight seeing area. Rent a shuttle or walk to the ruins take a swim at the beach and get out because the rest is a tourist trap.
The ruins are a must see though.

This place is a little underwhelming. Although it’s fun to see these ancient ruins, the private guide we hired and where it is located makes it a tough day out with very little to really see. If you have exhausted all other touristy destinations within the location you are in here, then come here. It’s worth it if you have tons of time. However, I would not make this my primary destination as I did since I was on the ship and only had one day and rushed to see this.
It is about 40 minutes from Playa Del Carmen. There is absolutely nothing else surrounding this area except that it’s a 40 minute cab drive. The entrance fees are pretty inexpensive but the bozos that stand outside offering «private guided tours,» which was a must, weren’t as educated as you would think.
My «private guide» was supposedly college educated and an expert about these ruins. However, he seemed to know very little and since I have done my research, I had educated him on certain things that he didn’t even know. I was quite disappointed and I couldn’t believe how much money they charge.
All in all, this is a skip. It is not the pyramids in Egypt and it certainly is not Chichen Itza. I would go and visit other ruins before this set!

if you are the type of tourist that is terrified to leave the all inclusive resort, this will be your place. It’s the stereotypical place to go and it’s safe and nice. You won’t be able to climb any of the ruins and can’t get super close to the biggest ruins, but it’s by the water and beautiful.
If you are an adventure seeker, this place is NOT for you. If it’s Mayan ruins you seek, save your money and drive 40 minutes north to Coba. There it’s cheaper AND you get to climb one of the buildings.

The only existing Mayan ruin built on the seashore. Since we were staying so close, we had to go. I suggest that if you’re planning a trip to Chichen Itza as well, come here first. We opted to go the cheap route paying for entry only. Other options were the tram ride, guided tours, boat ride & snorkeling… all for far too much $$$.
Here are the things that you must absolutely take with you:
1. Deet to keep the Super Mosquitos away.
2. Sunscreen & a hat because there’s hardly any shady spots.
3. Water because it’s hot.
4. Camera, duh.
Another note…
Bathrooms by the gift shops cost 5 pesos but bathrooms by the main entrance were free.