Welcome to the Tulum Ruins Self-guided Walking Audio Tour
Explore the most picturesque Mayan ruins in Mexico! Tulum perches on a cliff overlooking dazzlingly blue waters and features jaw-dropping ancient structures like the Temple of the Descending God. Discover the rich history of this walled city and find out what it can tell us about the incredibly advanced Mayan civilization, all accompanied by stunning ocean views. Even better, you’ll do it all on your own schedule, at your own pace, and without hassle.
About the Tour
Your Tulum tour begins on the outskirts of this unique archaeological site. Once you enter, you’ll start learning about the fascinating, complicated history of Mayan society, the mysteries surrounding the hieroglyphics they left behind, and more.
The first significant structure you’ll see will be the House of the Cenote, from which the city’s residents once got their water. Here, you’ll have a great view of the city walls and the watchtower which once guarded Tulum against attackers.
The Temple of the Wind is up next. This was once a shrine built to honor the wind god. Here, you’ll learn the fundamentals of the complex Mayan religion and the significance of their many temples.
After that comes the Palace of the Great Lord, an intimidating structure once occupied by the city’s rulers. Then you’ll continue on to the Temple of the Descending God. Not only is this one of the tallest buildings on the site, but it’s also one of the most detailed, with countless etchings to decipher.
Next on the Tulum tour, you’ll see the Castle, which is pretty hard to miss. This imposing building is the largest in the Tulum Ruins and looms over all the rest from atop a bluff. It even has a platform out front once dedicated for use by dancers!
The House of Columns comes next, thought by scholars to have once been a sort of administrative building. As you pass this, you’ll learn the Mayan Calendar’s details, like it’s two calendars!
Then you’ll reach the Temple of Frescoes, bedecked in so much ancient artwork you’ll be glad you have a tour guide to unpack it all for you! After that are the House of Chultun and the Temple of the Initial Series. These two structures are some of the best examples you’ll ever find of ancient Mayan architecture.
As you continue toward the conclusion, you’ll learn about the high-stakes ball games played by the Mayans and find out where the Mayans are today. It might surprise you!
Hello, Hola – Discover the Tulum Ruins in English, Spanish!
All languages are available to you when you purchase the tour.
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- Mayan Ruins Tour: Explore 4 self-guided walking tours for $16.99 per person and save 57%.
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Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: Letras rojas Tulum
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are not yet supported. We are working with Apple for a resolution.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Civilization
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History
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Spanish Conquest
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The Ticket booth
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Architecture
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Hieroglyphics
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The Watchtower
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North Gate
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Casa Cenote Entrance
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The House of the Cenote
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Tulum Walls
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Temple of the Wind
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Religion
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Palace of the Great Lord
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Temple of the Descending God
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The Castle
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Dancing Platform
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The House of Columns
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Calendar
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Temple of the Frescoes
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House of Chultun
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Temple of the Initial Series
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Port and Nesting Turtles
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Beach
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Mayan Ballgame
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Temple
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Today
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The town of Tulum used to be known as Zamá, a Mayan name that means Place of Dawning Sun, because it faces the sunrise.
Most tourists will agree that November through April are the ideal conditions for sightseeing. The truth is, Tulum is amazing no matter when you go. All that preserved history is available for you to discover any day of the year using our self-guided tour.
This tour of Tulum takes about one to two hours. But don’t let the small size of the site fool you – – there’s a TON of historical ground to cover. Read our comprehensive guide for more information on the length of the tulum tour.
Tulum is the site of some fantastic and well-preserved Mayan ruins.The ancient walled city of Tulum is the best-preserved of all the Mayan coastal settlements.Tulum’s unique cultural history is waiting to be discovered. How come everyone knows about Tulum is available in our blog post of: Why is Tulum famous?
The Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico, are a must-see for anybody visiting the breathtaking Riviera Maya. The ancient city, built as a seaside fortification with steep cliffs and limestone walls, is one of Mexico’s best-preserved coastal Maya ruins.
The Tulum Ruins are open every day of the week from 8 AM – 5 PM.
The ruins are located on the Mayan Riviera in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, just 3 kilometres (1.8 miles) from Tulum Town. It may take twice as long if you are coming from Tulum Beach’s hotel zone.
Climbing is prohibited at the ruins of Tulum. Due to the age and instability of the remains, the central structures such as Pyramid El Castillo and Temple of the Frescoes have been cordoned off. Visitors must remain on the authorised walking pathways.
No doubt Chichen Itza is crazy popular but many people prefer tulum as it is less crowded & serene. For a detailed comparison (and more confusion), you can read our blog post on: Which is better to visit: Chichen Itza or Tulum?
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
