CENOTES
You must experience the cenotes (or to the Maya ‘wells’) of the Yucatan. It is difficult to imagine something so magical being the only source of fresh water on the entire Yucatan Peninsula. Cenotes never get old and each cenote is unique. Around Tulum and beyond, you will find cenotes that are large and small. Cenotes that are built up for tourism and others that seem more like a literal hole in the ground. Some cenotes are located in deep cavernous environments while others are above ground pools. Some are surrounded by stalactites/mites. If you are an adventure seeker, look for opportunities to scuba through underground/water tunnels. Here are some notes and tips when visiting cenotes:
– most cenotes provide life jackets- some even enforce mandatory use of them; you will be able to find child size life jackets
– for less ‘touristy/built up’ cenotes, plan on bringing your own snorkeling gear while more built up cenotes will have wet suits and snorkeling gear for rent
– the more built up, the more money ($20 per person for example at Dos Ojos); the less it is built up, the less money ($2-3 per person at Cenote Aktun)
– try not to wear sunscreen while you are in cenotes as to protect the natural environment
– bring your own towels
– bring your own food/snacks to smaller/less developed cenotes; support local restaurants and eat on-site at bigger cenotes
– like most touristy activities, cenotes are more popular mid-day; early entrance usually means you do not have to share your magical experience
– we have never been to a ‘bad’ cenote- give them a try
More resources on cenotes and cenotes around Tulum:
https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/mexico-s-cenotes-hidden-gems-of-the-yucatan/
https://www.everysteph.com/cenotes-tulum/
https://castawaywithcrystal.com/best-cenotes-tulum/
LA CASA DEL ALUX: “Pronounced ah-loosh, it is said that these gnome-like forest dwellers were a gift given to earth by the Lord of the Corn. When it comes time to sow their crops, Mayan farmers form a figurine out of clay, with a heart made of honey. The landowner then seeks a spiritual permit from Mother Nature to bring the child-sized figure to life. If the famer possesses integrity, the four elements of wind, sun, rain and earth and will align in his favor.”
https://www.bricrental.com/the-legendary-alux-does-this-mayan-mythological-creature-really-exist.htm
RUINS
When you come to the Yucatan, another must see/do is to pay homage to Mayan culture and history. Below, you can access a link to the closest ruins to the Tulum area. As tourism increases, many of the larger ruins have bikes for rent. Ruins can get hot and busy and the best times to visit are early in the morning. You will be swept away and and in ‘awe’ as you visit the still standing structures. If you have limited time, know that the ruins of Tulum are only about a 10 minute drive from #casamuralestulum! While you soak in the history and culture of the Mayan people, also know that this unique park has direct access to the beach to cool off. Wear your swimsuits, bring towels and pack water as a walk among any ruins can get hot!
Ruins near Tulum:
https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/the-best-ruins-to-visit-near-tulum/
-Tulum Ruins
-Coba Ruins
-Chichen Itza
-Ek Balam
-Xel-Ha
Take some time to learn about the Maya before you start your adventure: https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-americas/maya
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/why-did-the-mayan-civilization-collapse-a-new-study-points-to-deforestation-and-climate-change-30863026/
casa murales tulum 