Hello, my birds!!! Are you ready to get the very first impression of Tulum on yourselves? Let me warn you it takes a lot of space in your heart. So, please be ready to be a Tulumnati forever (Tulums Lover). Tulum for the very first time is such an incredible experience. Firstly, It introduces you to its coloury and jungly vibe then it offers you with its grace The ancient Mayan ruins. Don’t worry if you are not a history checkout guy. As I always say Tulum has something for everyone so of course, it has another site full of beaches and jungle stays. Tulum amaze you as per your priority so don’t worry about your preference it goes well with the Tulum vibe for sure.
First time in Tulum and worried about what to pack? Where to stay? How do you get around in Tulum? What to eat? Is Tulum safe for solo travellers? And the most important is travel insurance necessary for coming before Tulum quantiano roo Mexico? Then let me tell you I visited Tulum more than 4 to 5 times and I am here to represent you with the Best Tulum tour guide for the First Timmers in 2024. Let’s begin with the Table of contents:
Table of Contents
Visas & Entry Requirements for Travelling In Mexico Tulum
The Mexican government allows Visa-free entry for tourism purposes. You can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days without a visa. This policy lies for many countries’ nationality holders.
But the most important requirement for getting a tour in Mexico anywhere is a Tourist card. FMM ( Forma Migratoria Multiple) This must be asked for at the airport or any border crossing. You can apply it online in advance from this official and government website.
Carry Cash, Currency Exchange & ATMs In Mexico Tulum
Carry cash
I recommend you carry the local currency of Mexico while travelling anywhere because it’s not friendly with online payments. Its local currency is the Mexican peso. And I highly recommend you make your payments in its local currency in everywhere Mexico not in USD.
Currency Exchange
In my opinion, avoid local vendors for currency exchange instead, you should prefer currency exchange companies for it. And always check the rates of the market before doing it because it varies at different seasons in different areas.
ATMS
In my recommendation always use a secure ATM at a reputable place. Always check if there are cameras with atm or not. Prefer to use ATM in the day with At the place where guards are present around the machine. The best way to use a debit card at any of your Tours. It is safe and convenient. Always be aware of your bank about your tour so there is no difficulty in international transactions.
What should I pack for Tulum?
There are a lot of necessary things that you should pack before coming to Tulum. A list of some basics is given below:
- Firstly and most important thing that you should pack is mosquito bugs augh mosquitos are an issue in Tulum. Be careful and always apply it before going to bed in Tulum.
- Secondly, you should carry a huge bottle of sunblock because you don’t want to get suntanned for taking pitchers at the beach.
- Also a pro tip please carry a reusable water bottle beside you because Tulums fresh water isn’t drinkable.
- Multiple sets of bikinis will be needed at beach clubs and cenotes.
- You should pack some beautiful flyer frocks with some sun hates for clicking cosy pictures in then at ruins sites or around a fancy jungle dining.
- For boys pack some shorts with loose casual shirts and you are ready to chase the vibe of Tulum.
Is it safe to visit Tulum?
I visited Tulum more than 5 to 6 times but I never felt unsafe in this magical town not for even a single moment. It’s just a place to relax. And I think safety is with your own acts. If you act smartly around your surroundings and be aware of any suspicious activities that go around you. Then you will always be safe.
Travel Insurance For Tulum
If you think you are clumsy or not able to take responsibility for your acts then must go towards travel insurance. Okay, let’s take it seriously. I didn’t prefer travel insurance at that time because I am more confident and careful about my acts now. But when I started travelling I was a bit shy about taking a stand for myself. And don’t know about the out-of-the-box thinking for surviving but now I can know all the tactics. So, I ignore travel insurance things. But if you are not satisfied with the security of the place where you gonna live then choose Travel insurance. Make sure to choose the package in which you will get a personal agent to help you out on your one call.
How long To Stay In Tulum?
Tulum has a lot of variety to offer you, so if you are a first-timer, you should stay for 4,5 days at least in Tulum. These days you can enjoy a lot with completely different day and night plans. someday you will spend your whole day at beachclub some at the ruins tour, some at Xchart theme park and some at downtown Tulum tasting authentic Mexican food.
How To Get Around Tulum Mexico For First-Timers?
Tulum Airport transportation for first-timers
You will land at Cancun airport to get into Tulum after that you can book a taxi shuttle and local buses will also help you to get around.
Is it safe for first-timers to take a taxi at night in Tulum?
Yes, it’s completely safe to use a taxi at night in Tulum to get around. A taxi is the safest way to travel but sometimes it’s expensive. So must settle the price before getting in the taxi.
Is Tulum water drinkable?
I feel sad by saying this but Tulum water is not drinkable. In fact, it’s not appropriate even for brushing your teeth. Yes, you just read write please always keep a reusable water bottle with you in Tulum and refill it with filtered water. It helps you too stay hydrated all day and healthy of course.
Tulum Safest Place To Stay For First-Timers
In my opinion, Tulum is the safest place to visit and stay. But for the first Timmers, I specify the beach area or aldea zama because it hype up the vibe of Tulum.some honourable mentions are given below:
The Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club
If you are looking for the best Tulum hotel rentals with private pools for families then this is for you. It is my current most favourite resort in Tulum and there are the reasons it has the best service, the best food and of course the best architecture. Also, you got a lot of spots for your Instagram photos. One of them is Its rooftop which provides an incredible experience with shallow pools around white beds along white curtains. Trust me if you have an obsession with Instagram photos and you also wanna get a place which provides you with a completely perfect package for your family then The Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club suits you very well.
Kanan Hotel Tulum
Okay so, before starting its review let me clear a thing this hotel has a full romantic jungly vibe with a luxury touch and I am in love with it. I am not putting it on number one just because it’s too rushy or a busy place and I know some people do not feel comfortable around so many people. Besides its nice service, environment and luxuries it offers you an outstanding dinner from its rooftop and the view from here will be blown out of your mind. In short its perfect for the first timmers couple.
Ahau Tulum By Ahau Collection
Luxury resorts in Tulum with spa treatments!!! yes, you are on the right option. Ahau Tulum by Ahau collection is one of the best boutique hotels in Tulum for adults only. I recommend this to the first timers because it’s a boutique-style luxury hotel that provides fantastic service and amazing views. And don’t worry it satisfies your Instagramic soul very well. Also The iconic statue Ven a La Luz(Come to the Light) is located here and the guests of Ahau are allowed to take pictures for free. I mean just look at this, are you guys will miss this out?
Best places to eat in Tulum for first-timers
Tulum has variety in everything. So how does it hold back on food? It offers you authentic Mexican food in down town and amazing sea food on the beach site. Some mentions from my heart are given below:
Antojitos La Chiapaneca
It is not a fancy restaurant; it is a small cart, but the taste you can get here is just wow. The cost starts from $1 per taco. And it’s an amazing way for first-timers in Tulum to start exploring the Mexican vibe. Here, you can enjoy a variety of tacos with different fillings, and all are awesome. You can enjoy them at breakfast and lunch as well.
La Zebra Beach Restaurant & Bar
I personally, prefer La Zebra Beach Restaurant and Bar for experiencing the Unbeatable beachfront views, and modern Mexican cuisine with vegetarian/vegan options. It should be on the Top for first-timers list to visit places. Their service is everything. Trust me!!! this beachfront restaurant gonna be always on your favourite list.
La Negra Tomasa
Okay, if you visited Mexico and did not visit La Negra Tomasa, Is it worth it? I don’t think so. This place has the best service, the best food, and the best environment ever. Their lively environment with wonderful drinks delayed your other planes for the day. So whenever you go there you must have four hours minimum for this place. This place supports a variety of food on top of the list is seafood and vegetarian food. This palace is included in my best lunch options in Tulum Town.
In food, I highly recommend the shrimp, steak tostada and the fried tuna taco. And you never beat the affordable vegetarian tacos. In drinks, the mescal cocktail and classic margarita were great. It is basically famous for its seafood and vegetarian items.
Best tour booking company in Mexico
Mexico Kan Travellers is the best booking company in Mexico for booking tours in Mexico. I have my self experience with them they are too good. It is best for the First timers in Tulum because they are reliable and trustworthy. So you can enjoy your tours without any worries.
Best things to do in Tulum Mexico at night for first-timers
Tulum offers a vibrant nightlife experience perfect for first-time visitors. Here are some of the best things to do at night in Tulum:
Beachside Dining
Dine at beachfront restaurants like Gitano Tulum or Casa Jaguar, which often transform into lively spots with DJs and fire shows after dinner.
Party Under the Sky
Join the Papaya Playa Project’s Full Moon Party, a legendary event featuring top DJs, stunning visuals, and an unforgettable atmosphere on the beach.
Explore Tulum Pueblo’s Bars
The town centre offers a mix of bars like Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar, known for its fresh sugarcane mojitos, or Pasito Tun Tun, which has a relaxed, artsy vibe.
Enjoy Live Music
Venues like Santino Bar Tulum and Casa Banana host live music nights featuring local and international artists, adding a unique flair to your evening.
Rooftop Lounges
Head to places like Panamera Rooftop for panoramic views, cocktails, and chic vibes.
Late-Night Taco Hunt
Try local taco joints like Antojitos La Chiapaneca for an authentic, budget-friendly food experience.
Fire Dancers on the Beach
Many beach clubs and restaurants feature fire dancers and performers, creating a magical ambience by the sea.
Nighttime Cenote Swim
Some cenotes, like Cenote Zací, offer nighttime access, giving you a peaceful and mystical experience under the stars.
Eco-Chic Nightclubs
Visit Mía Tulum or Straw Hat Tulum for an upscale party scene blending jungle vibes with top-notch music.
Best Car Rental Company In Mexico
Car rental or taxi booking companies are big scams in Tulum Mexico. You should be aware of them. Online they put very low rates for full-day booking of a taxi or rental car but when you call them to confirm booking they tease you a lot for buying their insurance or something else. I found this company is some of the best services for hiring cars “Discover car hire”.
Best day trips from Tulum for First Timmers
Tulum’s strategic location makes it an excellent base for exciting day trips. Here are the best day trips for first-timers:
Cenote Adventures
Visit the nearby Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, or Dos Ojos Cenote for a day of swimming, snorkelling, and exploring crystal-clear waters surrounded by natural beauty.
Explore the Tulum Ruins
Just minutes from town, the Tulum Archaeological Zone is a must-see. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, it’s one of the most picturesque Mayan ruins.
Coba Ruins
About 45 minutes from Tulum, Coba offers a chance to climb the towering Nohoch Mul Pyramid for stunning jungle views and to learn about ancient Mayan history.
Chichen Itza
A two-hour drive takes you to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Pair your visit with a stop at Cenote Ik Kil for a refreshing swim.
Akumal for Snorkeling
Akumal, just 30 minutes away, is known for snorkelling with sea turtles in their natural habitat. Bring your gear or rent locally to enjoy this unforgettable experience.
Bacalar Lagoon
Known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” Bacalar is a three-hour drive from Tulum and worth it for its stunning turquoise waters, perfect for kayaking or swimming.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is ideal for eco-tourists. Take a guided boat tour to spot dolphins, manatees, and exotic birds in pristine wetlands.
Playa del Carmen
Spend the day shopping on Fifth Avenue, lounging at beach clubs, or enjoying the vibrant vibe of this lively coastal town. It’s about an hour from Tulum.
Valladolid
Visit this charming colonial town to stroll its colourful streets, sample traditional Yucatecan food, and check out Cenote Zací or Cenote Suytun nearby.
Muyil Ruins and Lagoon Tour
Explore the ancient Mayan site of Muyil, then take a boat tour through the Sian Ka’an lagoon for a serene float along its canals.
Each of these trips offers a blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty that showcases the best of the Yucatán Peninsula
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter if you are a first-time Tulum is a place to relax just buy a ticket and; land in Cancun to enjoy Cancun’s Best Travel Guide Of The Year. as well then move to Tulum. Here is a lot waiting for you to explore. Trust me when you invest in Tulum you will never regret it.
Have a good journey my birds.