La Fortaleza - San Cristóbal de las Casas

The coastal town of Tulum is one of Mexico’s most iconic backpacker hubs, offering Mayan ruins, cenotes, and jungle adventures. Yet Tulum draws mixed reviews — some travellers love its energy, while others find it a bit commercialised.

The highlight of Tulum is the cliffside Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically above the Caribbean Sea. From here you can explore the ancient temples, then head inland to the Coba ruins or swim with tropical fish at Akamal. If you are checking off the best centoes, I highyl reccomend spending a day at Cenote Azul where you can find a bit of space for yourself and experience fish nibbling the dead skin on your feet. Another Cenote is Gran Cenote which is highly praised for its beauty but receives more people. Travelling on a budget, you’ll most likely stay downtown rather than on the beach. With long transport times and beach clubs charging entry fees, many backpackers never actually set foot on Tulum’s beaches.

Did you know:

El Castillo shows the significant role Tulum played in Mayan life. Flourishing between the 13th and 15th centuries, this temple served both as a fortress and a lighthouse guiding Mayan merchants along the coast.

The “Boho Jungle” Story

As Tulum transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a global destination, its mix of jungle cabanas, boutique hostels, and beachfront yoga gave rise to a playful identity locals call the “boho jungle.” It’s a blend of ancient roots and modern creativity — a place where ruins, cenotes, and Caribbean waves meet art, music, and imagination.