Exploring Tulum Ruins
Exploring ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum
Ancient Mayan ruins are pretty amazing to see for yourself. If you’re visiting Mexico I would recommend trying this cultural excursion. It was super interesting and full of cool gems that you don’t get to see on the daily basis.
The Mayan Civilization
I spent a month in Cancun, Mexico and while I was there I decided to rent a car and take a trip to the Tulum ruins. I’m really glad I did because it was an amazing cultural experience and I got to see and learn about a pretty amazing group of people, the Mayans.
Tulum was built late in the thirteenth century, during what is known as the Mayan post-classic period.
With a little imagination and knowledge, the ruins become a giant puzzle waiting to be pieced together.
Visiting Tulum is a perfect day trip for those who tire of idly lounging around the pool. What sets the site apart from other ruins in Mexico is both the fact that it is well preserved and it boasts its own, inviting beach.
The entire site took about an hour to explore. While there you have two ways of exploring; the first being on your own, and the second way is to hire a tour guide that will guide you through the ruins and tell you all about what you’re seeing. I decided to explore on my own. They made sure to include plaques at the sites so that you could read the history of what used to be there.
The Ruins
Each Mayan city had a specific purpose, and Tulum was no exception. It was a seaport, trading mainly in turquoise and jade.
As well as being the only Mayan city built on a coast, Tulum was one of the few protected by a wall.
Made of limestone, the 784-metre wall encloses the site on three sides, is seven metres thick, and varies between three and five metres in height. No doubt this fortification helped preserve the seaport.
The entire site took about an hour to explore. While there you have two ways of exploring; the first being on your own, and the second way is to hire a tour guide that will guide you through the ruins and tell you all about what you’re seeing. I decided to explore on my own. They made sure to include plaques at the sites so that you could read the history of what used to be there.
Overall I really enjoyed this adventure and would definitely recommend visiting if you’re ever in Mexico. Be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water because it can get super hot!
Check out my video below to see some snippets of the Tulum ruins!