Far South on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, you will find one of the world’s most spectacular beach destinations, Tulum, boasting ancient Mayan archeological sites, amazing crystal clear blue waters and a Bohemian- Chic, carefree atmosphere. Once a sleepy Caribbean village, Tulum, Mexico, has recently become a top travel destination, recommended by tourists from all over the world.
There are a number of reasons why Tulum has grown in popularity over the last few years. With its many yoga-wellness options and peaceful jungle/beach boutique hotels, Tulum attracts neo-hippies in search of relaxation, spirituality, culture, contact with nature and fun. Souvenir hunters in Tulum will find stylish and unique gifts and handcrafts that can easily be carried home and shared with family and friends. Tulum’s international flair influences the wide variety of cuisines and dining options, from traditional Mexican and Yucatecan to Italian, to Argentine and Thai.
Now that you have learned some of the main reasons to visit Tulum, it’s important to choose the best time to visit.
HERE ARE SOME RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT TULUM BASED ON THE WEATHER AND YOUR TRAVEL STYLE:
- Those who prefer to travel in the off season, but don’t like super hot weather will find that the best time to visit Tulum is between October and early December, to take advantage of the sea breezes and good weather, while avoiding most of the rainy season and the hotter summer temperatures. This is also a great time to enjoy uncrowded beaches, lower season hotel rates, and interesting activities like Day of the Dead Ceremonies and the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival which has been taking place in November since 2003. Artists like Gino Vannelli, Herbie Hancock, John McLaughlin, The Manhatten Transfer, Al Jarreau, Al di Meola and Incognito are only a few of those who have played at Mamita’s Beach Club in Playa del Carmen in past years’ editions.
- If you can only travel during regular vacation periods, don’t mind crowds and enjoy having fun with many travelers, book one of the Tulum Hotels between mid-December and April. This is considered peak season in Tulum and the entire Riviera Maya as winter weather has an average daily high temperature below 84°F, being January the coldest month of the year, with a highest of 82°F and lowest of 64°F. Enjoy the many archaeological sites, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, swim and snorkel at Mayan natural sinkholes and shop for a variety of souvenirs sold in the downtown area as well as in the eclectic boutiques scattered by the hotel zone. Don’t forget to enjoy the renowned Spa treatments, yoga sessions and Mayan sweat lodges at Tulum Hotels. One note to take into account – Tulum holds a techno dance festival from December 29th to mid-January, so if you are not into parties, avoid these dates. Not many hotels host them, but unfortunately the music, noise and traffic reach everyone.
- Booking a Tulum Hotel during the “rainy season,” which is roughly from May through September, will afford you the lowest hotel rates of the year. Visitors during this time get to enjoy super hot temperatures with an average of 85F with sporadic bursts of cooling rain. Since there are no mountains in Tulum, the wind usually blows the storms away, which last only an hour or two, then the sunny skies return. Mexico’s Independence Day is celebrated in September, when locals take the streets to shout their allegiance to their amazing country in the famous “Grito” ceremony before midnight on September 15.
- You should consider booking Tulum Hotels through their websites. Advance booking (at least 9 months in advance) is recommended if you prefer to travel during the peak season from mid-December to April as there are many repetitive guests that enjoy this time of year and boutique hotels have a limited number of rooms. Plus, if you book direct, most hotels will guarantee any special request.
Now you can decide what is the best time to visit Tulum, and start booking your vacation.
