Tulum has become one of the most popular destinations in the Mayan Riviera, as it’s a great spot to live and vacation in. Its white sandy beaches, turquoise-blue sea, extensive vegetation, and famous archaeological site make Tulum a complete paradise. But Tulum holds even more surprises, including little-known attractions nearby that you should definitely visit on your next trip:
1. The Bacalar lagoon
The Bacalar Lagoon is one of the most beautiful places in Quintana Roo; it is known as the "Lake of the Seven Colors” or "the Blue Lagoon", because of the water's seven distinct shades of blue. Visiting from Tulum is very easy; it's an approximately two-hour drive, so you could leave early in the morning and have a full day in Bacalar.
This destination became a trending topic worldwide as a member of the Korean super group BTS, Kim Tae-hyung, was spotted there. Definitely a site worth visiting.
2. Boca Paila
If you prefer to stay closer to Tulum, why not visit Boca Paila? This destination is located south of Tulum, within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. Getting to Boca Paila will take you approximately 45 minutes, and throughout the drive you'll be able to enjoy breathtaking views, since the only way to get there is through a coastal road. Boca Paila's natural beauty will surprise you. Here you can observe the mouth of a lagoon where the greenish fresh water meets the blue sea.
3. Cenote Car Wash
If you've never visited a cenote, this is your chance to see what they're all about. Cenotes are natural freshwater ponds that connect with underground rivers, so they have different depths and shapes. The Car Wash cenote is five meters deep and is perfect for snorkeling; even better, the cavern area, 15 meters deep, is accessible to licensed divers, as long as they're accompanied by authorized guides. This cenote is located only 15 minutes from the town of Tulum by car; if you prefer, a bike ride there will take 30 minutes.
4. Kaan Luum Lagoon
Another place to visit near Tulum and the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is the Kaan Luum Lagoon, whose name is Mayan for Yellow Earth. This lagoon is surrounded by mangroves and has a peculiar feature: there is a cenote at its center, easily recognizable by the changing color of the water; the cenote appears to be a blue eye in the middle of the turquoise-green water. Kaan Luum is a 15-minute drive from Tulum, which means it is also only a 30-minute bike ride away.
5. Cobá archaeological site
When you visit Tulum, it's natural to want to visit one of its star attractions: its archaeological site. There's another, equally impressive site nearby, however: the archaeological site of Cobá, just 45 minutes away from Tulum. Here you'll find the Nohoch Mul pyramid; at 42 meters, it's the tallest in the Yucatan Peninsula. Unlike Tulum, this a more extensive site, spanning 80 square kilometers; touring it by bicycle is the best way to admire all the buildings. Rent yours within the site.
Live in Tulum and enjoy its many wonders.
Now that you're familiar with these amazing places, imagine living close to them, and visiting any time you want. At Grupo Emerita we have a wide variety of residential projects to suit your needs. Discover our developments and fall further in love with Tulum, paradise within the Mayan Riviera. Discover our real estate portfolio!
You may be interested in: Grupo Emerita: An Experienced Developer
