Destination information
Get back to nature in one of the most magical places on earth. Around 90 minutes south of Cancun, on Mexico’s east coast, Tulum is home to some of the best preserved Mayan ruins which are uniquely set on a hill overlooking the Caribbean sea. First discovered by the modern world in the 1800s, these ancient stones have been a popular tourist attraction ever since. Despite new developments, Tulum remains a quiet town, surrounded by leafy tropical jungle, with its luxurious Hotel Zone situated on the shore of its powdery white sand beach.
Respect for the natural world and a desire to protect the treasures on their doorstep is at the heart of Tulum’s every day life. Walk barefoot along the shoreline and you’ll be enchanted by the angel fish who flock to be fed as you paddle through the warm crystal-clear waters. Take a trip a little further up the coast to nearby Akumel beach and swim with sea turtles. Enjoy the very best of both worlds and relax into a more simple pace surrounded by the sounds of the jungle with all the benefits of modern life just a short trip away.
Eats & drinks
Along the beach road in the hotel zone there’s a host of different dining options from Italian and Thai to more traditional Mexican fare and burgers. Head to Tulum Pueblo for more authentic and inexpensive food; look out for amazing regional specialities like ‘cochinita pibil’ a slow-cooked marinated pork dish that’s wrapped in banana leaves and roasted in a barbecue pit!
Getting around
The pueblo (town) of Tulum is so compact that you can easily walk around, enjoying the sights and sounds as you go. A popular alternative is hiring a bike as the roads are fairly flat. Taxis are inexpensive but as always, agree a price before you get in.
Getting there
From June 2012: Fly non-stop from London Gatwick on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service to Cancun. Flight time: 11 hours.
Pre June 2012: fly non-stop from London Heathrow on Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning service to Miami, where you conveniently connect on to your short flight to Cancun. (An overnight stay in Miami may be required). Flight time: Approx 10 hours to Miami, 1 hour 15 min from Miami to Cancun.
Please note: Only holidays beginning in June 2012 are web bookable. For holidays that start before June 2012 please call our call centre.