If you are one of those who love outdoor activities without so many tourists, these SECRET places in Tulum are perfect for a getaway and enjoy incredible landscapes. You will surely have many options for kayaking, swimming in crystal clear waters or long walks while admiring the natural beauties of one of the most famous places in Mexico. Remember that they are secret and not very crowded, ideal to share with your loved one.
SIAN KA’AN RESERVE
Located on the Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, this place is a dream come true; its turquoise blue waters and the biodiversity of the area made it be declared a protected area and World Heritage Site in 1987. Its name means ‘place where the sky is born’ in Mayan. You can practice different water sports, rent a Jeep and tour the mangroves with a guide, or simply snorkel. They also offer tours to Punta Allen where you can swim with dolphins and turtles, or just enjoy nature.
ADDRESS: FELIPE CARRILLO PUERTO QUINTANA ROO
WEBSITE: WHC.UNESCO.ORG
ANGELITA CENOTE
If you like to dive, this place should be on your list. This cenote is one of the least known and is 17 km south of Tulum. What makes this place special is that two rivers meet here; this is due to the difference between saline and fresh water, a very rare phenomenon called halocline. This place is recommended for people with experience in diving, since you have to go down to more than 60 meters to see the wonders that this place hides. It is recommended to go with the company of a guide as it is a very uncrowded area.
ZACIL HA CENOTE
For those who do not know how to swim or are afraid of the depths, this place in Tulum is perfect to spend a quiet afternoon, enjoying the crystal clear waters of the cenote or just sunbathing. It has a depth of three meters and is a place visited by locals, so you can find nearby places to eat, stay or take a tour of the area. It is also perfect for ziplining and instagrammable pictures. Remember to always consult the guides for the best options during your stay.
ADDRESS: COBA KM 8, QUINTANA ROO
NOPALITOS LAGOON
This hidden treasure is located in the municipality of Tulum, and is an area that is currently open to the public, access is very cheap and the only thing that is asked is to respect the natural areas. Being an eye of water, this space was almost nonexistent for tourists, however, little by little it is becoming known. You can swim in its crystalline waters or snorkel, since it does not have much depth in certain areas. If you wish, you can walk around it, since the water will barely cover your feet.
EK BALAM RUINS
The ancient Mayan city preserves the beauty of its ruins in the jungle; the remains of each building show the greatness of the city; from the place of the ball game, to the oval pyramid. To visit the ruins you need a guide and access varies in price depending on the season. It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes, a cap or hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. As it is a protected area, you must abide by the rules of the place regarding food and free spaces to take pictures.
ADDRESS: EK BALAM YUCATAN
WEBSITE: YUCATAN.GOB.MX
SKULL CENOTE
Kilometers away from the archaeological zone of Tulum is one of the most spectacular cenotes in the area. To enter you need to know the basics of diving if you will only be on the surface or no more than 3 meters deep, however, for expert divers are allowed to enter the caves and go down to 19 meters. It gets its name because when you are inside the cenote and look up the light reflections make the entrance look like a skull.
ADDRESS: TULUM 109 QUINTANA ROO
