10 Best Excursions in Tulum, Mexico | Sian Ka’an

August 4, 2025
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Excursions in Tulum bring you face to face with ancient history, lush jungles, and crystal-clear waters. From our eco-chic villa at Casa Nalum, every adventure begins just steps from your private pool and beachfront terrace. With a personalized concierge, you can explore Mayan ruins, dive into hidden cenotes, snorkel with sea turtles, and more. Staying at Casa Nalum means you will have the best starting point to discover the wonders of Sian Ka’an and the Riviera Maya.

Get ready to dive into our top 10 excursions in Tulum that will make your vacation truly unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Top 10 Excursions in Tulum from Casa Nalum

1. Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid Day Trip

Step back in time at Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and marvel at the Kukulcan Pyramid and its rich Mayan history. After your guided tour, cool off in a sacred cenote and enjoy a buffet lunch before strolling the colonial streets of Valladolid.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Mid-range

  • 📍 Location: 97751 Yucatan

  • ⏰ Duration: Full day, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Learn more about Chichen Itza

landmark photography of Chichen Itza, Mexico

2. Tulum Ruins & Turtle Bay Snorkeling

Explore the famous Tulum archaeological site perched on a cliff above the Caribbean Sea. Then, snorkel at Turtle Bay to swim among colorful fish and sea turtles in the calm reef-protected waters.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Mid-range

  • 📍 Location: Zona Hotelera Tulum, 77765 Tulum, Q.R.

  • ⏰ Duration: Half day, 8:30 AM–1:00 PM

Learn more about Tulum ruins and cenote tours

3. Sian Ka’an Biosphere & Muyil Ruins

Drift down ancient Mayan canals by boat after a guided walk through the lesser-known Muyil ruins. Keep an eye out for howler monkeys and osprey as you float through mangrove forests.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Mid-range

  • 📍 Location: Chunyaxché, 77710 Q.R.

  • ⏰ Duration: Half day, 8:00 AM–1:00 PM

Book this eco tour through our Casa Nalum Excursions page.

Casa Nalum | Eco Chic Villa 5BR Ocean‑Lagoon Haven

4. Gran Cenote, Calavera & Carwash Cenote Circuit

Dive into three of Tulum’s most stunning cenotes on a guided circuit. Float past stalactites in Calavera, snorkel among turtles in Gran Cenote, and cliff jump into Cenote Carwash.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.3/5 (Gran Cenote)

  • 💵 Price Level: Budget to mid-range

  • 📍 Locations: 77796 & Carretera Tulum–Coba Km 1.7

  • ⏰ Duration: 4–5 hours

5. Ek Balam & Cenote Saamal Adventure

Climb the restored pyramid of Ek Balam for panoramic jungle views. Then cool off at Cenote Saamal for crystal-clear swimming and snorkeling.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Budget

  • 📍 Location: Ek Balam, Yucatán

  • ⏰ Duration: Full day, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

6. Jungle Adventure: Ziplining, ATV & Cenote Swim

Feel the rush as you zipline over the jungle canopy, roar through rainforest trails on an ATV, and end with a refreshing swim in a hidden cenote oasis.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Mid-range

  • 📍 Location: Various jungle parks near Tulum

  • ⏰ Duration: Half to full day options

7. Akumal Bay Sea Turtle Snorkel

Swim with green and loggerhead sea turtles in Akumal. A protected bay with calm waters makes it easy for families to float among these gentle giants.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Budget

  • 📍 Location: Yodzonot

  • ⏰ Duration: 2–3 hours

Captivating image of a sea turtle gliding underwater alongside a diver capturing the serene marine environment.

8. Luxury Catamaran & Snorkeling Sunset Cruise

Set sail on a luxury catamaran along the Riviera Maya. Enjoy an open bar, snorkeling gear, and a stunning Caribbean sunset on this half-day adventure.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Luxury

  • 📍 Departure: Tulum Beach Club

  • ⏰ Duration: 4 hours (3:00 PM–7:00 PM)

9. Temazcal & Floating Breakfast at Casa Nalum Partner

Start with a nourishing floating breakfast on a private platform. Then, take part in a traditional Temazcal sweat lodge ceremony led by a Mayan shaman for deep relaxation.

  • 💵 Price Level: Mid-range

  • 📍 Location: Casa Nalum partner retreat, Sian Ka’an

  • ⏰ Duration: Morning session, 7:00 AM–10:00 AM

10. Eco Maya Bootcamp: Horseback, Birdwatching & Kayak

Combine a horseback ride along the beach, guided birdwatching in the biosphere, and a kayak tour through mangrove channels in one full-day eco-bootcamp.

  • ⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5

  • 💵 Price Level: Mid-range

  • 📍 Location: Sian Ka’an, near Casa Nalum

  • ⏰ Duration: Full day, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

blue and brown kingfisher on tree twig near river during daytime

Tips & Tricks from Casa Nalum

  • 🌅 Book early-morning tours to avoid crowds and capture the best light.

  • 💧 Stay hydrated – we refill your reusable bottles daily.

  • 🏊 Pack water shoes and quick-dry clothes for cenote and snorkeling trips.

  • ☀️ Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs and marine life.

  • 📞 Let our concierge arrange private transfers and custom tours via Contact us.

Conclusion

From towering pyramids and sacred cenotes to secret mangrove canals and sea turtle coves, Tulum offers endless excursions that blend culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Staying at Casa Nalum means you start each day in your own eco-chic villa on the edge of the UNESCO Sian Ka’an Biosphere. Our private pool, beachfront views, and dedicated concierge ensure that every excursion in Tulum is just a quick, comfortable ride away.

Ready to plan your next Sian Ka’an adventure? Book your stay now at Casa Nalum and let us guide you to the trip of a lifetime.

Casa Nalum Beachfront Villa

What excursions are in Tulum?
Tulum offers many excursions including visits to Chichen Itza, the Tulum Ruins, snorkeling in Akumal, jungle ATV rides, ziplining, and eco-tours in Sian Ka’an. Each trip can be booked through our concierge at Casa Nalum for a seamless experience.

Where do celebrities stay in Tulum?
Celebrities often choose private beachfront villas like Casa Nalum our luxury eco-home in Tulum with total privacy and luxury, away from crowded resorts.

What is unique to buy in Tulum?
Explore local artisan markets in Tulum Centro for traditional textiles, handmade jewelry, huipiles, hammocks, and Mayan pottery—perfect souvenirs that support local artisans.

Can you visit Tulum ruins without a tour?
Yes, you can visit the Tulum archaeological site on your own, but a guided tour provides rich history and insider tips. Our concierge can arrange private guides for you.

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