Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Tulum

AfarOct 6

From sunrise ruins, family-run markets, and quiet cenotes, a resident explains how to experience Mexico’s Caribbean coast on its own terms.

UNESCO World Heritage site of wetlands, mangroves, and coral reef.

15 things in this story

Sian Ka’an Biosphere ReserveSightUNESCO World Heritage site of wetlands, mangroves, and coral reef.
Olas TulumHotelIntimate beachfront home with communal dining.
CobáSightJungle-covered city connected by ancient stone causeways.
Elsewhere
Hotel EsenciaHotelRiviera Maya, MexicoOnce the private estate of an Italian duchess.
Coqui Coqui Cobá Papholchac Residence & SpaHotelCobá, MexicoTwo limestone towers with dipping pools and suites.
ZacíSightValladolid, MexicoSwimming hole ringed by limestone walls and vines.
SamuláSightDzitnup, MexicoFreshwater pool illuminated by a single shaft of light.
Chichén ItzáSightRiviera Maya, MexicoUNESCO World Heritage site, one of the largest Maya cities.
Ek’ BalamSightValladolid, MexicoMaya city with detailed stucco carvings and climbable pyramid.
Community Tours Sian Ka’anPlaceSian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, MexicoCooperative offering boat trips to spot wildlife.
Mercado 28MarketCancún, MexicoOffers family-run stalls serving cochinita pibil and papadzules.
Valladolid central marketMarketValladolid, MexicoServes some of the best regional cooking in the Yucatán.
PacchenPlaceCobá, MexicoMaya community offering ecotourism programs like zip-lining.
Frailes AtelierPlaceValladolid, MexicoShop offering beeswax candlesticks in various forms.
Coqui Coqui PerfumeriaPlaceValladolid, MexicoShop offering bath oils, hammocks, and textiles.

Lonely PlanetOct 1

Within reasonable driving distance from the dreamy beaches of Tulum lie majestic Mayan ruins, wildlife reserves, underground swimming holes and more.

oasis of coastal forests, beaches, mangroves

11 things in this story

Cenote Dos OjosSightoffers guided snorkeling tours
Gran CenoteSightopen-air cavern for swimming
Cenote AngelitaAttractionbest suited for scuba diving
Sian Ka’an Biosphere ReserveSightoasis of coastal forests, beaches, mangroves
Elsewhere
Iglesia de San ServacioSightValladolid, Mexicocolonial-era church in Valladolid
Cobá archaeological siteSightCobá, Mexicospread across several square miles
Nohuch MulSightCobá, Mexicotallest pyramid in the Maya world
El CastilloSightChichén Itzá, MexicoChichén Itzá's tallest temple
Calzada de los FrailesNeighborhoodValladolid, Mexicostreet draped in bougainvillea
TresvanbienRestaurantValladolid, Mexicocozy spot for empanadas and agua de jamaica
Templo de San BernardinoPlace of worshipValladolid, Mexicoimposing Franciscan church

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve