Visiting the Mayan ruins is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the history and grandeur of an ancient civilization. Touring the ruins on your own is our favorite option, as it offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace and connect with the serene beauty of the surroundings.

1. GETTING THERE: For the journey, renting a bike is an optimal choice, especially on a hot day. This option will get you between Parque del Jaguar and entrance to the Mayan Ruins with ease. While bicycles aren’t allowed within the ruins themselves, the winding paths leading to the entrance are a joy to navigate, offering a refreshing breeze as you pedal through the lush greenery. The ride provides a glimpse of the surrounding jungle, enhancing the sense of adventure before reaching the awe-inspiring structures.

2. TICKETS: To start, visitors must first stop at the Jaguar Park entrance (Parque del Jaguar) to obtain a wristband. The general fee is about 58 pesos, which can be paid via cash or credit card. Once this is sorted, head to the main ruins entrance, where tickets cost 90 pesos, payable in cash only make sure to carry smaller bills as they do not accept larger denominations.

3. ENJOY Once inside, take your time marveling at the towering temples, ball courts, and intricate carvings that have withstood centuries.

4. BY GUIDE If you prefer a more structured experience, guided tours are also available. These tours provide expert insights into the history, significance, and cultural context of the ruins, bringing the stories of the Mayan civilization to life. Whether you choose to explore on your own or with a guide, visiting the Mayan ruins is a journey into the past that offers both inspiration and wonder.

History of the Mayan Ruins Tulum

The Mayan ruins in Tulum are among the most iconic archaeological sites in Mexico, celebrated for their stunning location overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Tulum, originally known as Zama—meaning "City of Dawn" in the Mayan language—was a bustling port and trade hub during its peak in the late Postclassic period (circa 1200–1500 AD). The city's strategic placement on a cliff offered both defensive advantages and a prime position for maritime commerce. It was an important center for trading goods like obsidian, jade, textiles, and food between Central America and other parts of the Yucatán Peninsula.

The ruins at Tulum are notable for their relatively small size compared to other Mayan cities like Chichén Itzá or Uxmal, but they stand out for their well-preserved coastal fortifications and unique architectural features. The site includes several significant structures, such as El Castillo (The Castle), a pyramid perched dramatically on the cliff edge, and the Temple of the Frescoes, adorned with intricate murals and carvings. These buildings reflect the Mayan's deep understanding of astronomy and their devotion to deities like the Descending God, whose image is prominently depicted in the ruins.

Honey and Mayan Cultural Significance

Archaeologists have discovered ancient jars of honey at Mayan sites, including around the Tulum ruins. Honey played a significant role in Mayan culture, not only as a food source but also as a key ingredient in medicinal preparations and rituals. The Mayans used the honey of the Melipona beecheii, a stingless bee native to the region, which they cultivated extensively.

These jars are remarkable for their preservation, sometimes containing traces of honey that are hundreds of years old. Such finds provide insight into the sophisticated agricultural practices of the Mayans and the central role honey played in their daily lives and economy. The discovery of honey jars, along with other artifacts, emphasizes the interconnectedness of Mayan life, blending spirituality, sustenance, and trade into their advanced civilization.

Iguanas and Mayan Cultural Significance

The Mayan ruins in Tulum are famous not only for their historical significance but also for the large number of iguanas that call the site home. These reptiles, commonly seen basking on the ancient stone structures, have become an iconic part of the visitor experience. They are primarily black spiny-tailed iguanas (Ctenosaura pectinata), which thrive in the warm, rocky environment of the ruins.

In Mayan culture, iguanas and other reptiles may have held symbolic significance, often associated with the natural world, cycles of life, and their connection to the sun. The iguanas’ habit of basking in sunlight could have been seen as an alignment with celestial elements, which were central to Mayan spirituality and astronomy. While there is no definitive evidence that iguanas were directly revered in Tulum, their presence would have been a natural part of the ecosystem and could have played a role in the Mayans’ understanding of their environment.

Today, the iguanas at Tulum are an enduring reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and history. While they are not actively part of the ruins’ historical narrative, they add to the charm and vibrancy of this unique archaeological site, offering visitors a glimpse into the thriving biodiversity of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Mayans, and it remained occupied well after the Spanish conquest began in the 16th century, though its prominence declined over time. Today, the ruins are a symbol of the ingenuity and resilience of the Mayan civilization and a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.