Photo Credit: SL-Photography/Shutterstock

The travelers are seeking one-of-a-kind experiences in destinations that allow them to genuinely connect with the location and engage with local culture. What better place to do so than in Tulum, Mexico, which offers white-sand beaches, tropical jungles, and bustling nightlife—right alongside the Caribbean Sea.

Travelers can voyage through the local crystal-clear waters of Mexican cenotes, explore the ruins of the last great city inhabited by the Mayans, or embark on a spiritual journey with an ancient Temazcal ceremony. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, history buff or tequila connoisseur, Tulum offers rich cultural history and unparalleled opportunities for adventure.

Ancient Adventures

Cenote in Tulum - Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

Tulum is renowned for its scenic cenotes, naturally formed caverns encapsulated in limestone and filled with majestic waters. Once considered a passageway to the underworld by the ancient Mayan people, cenotes are now a relaxing haven to swim, dive and partake in spiritual healing. 

Visitors can wander through the Gran Cenote of Tulum, a series of cenotes interconnected throughout the verdant jungle. Snorkel in the shallow, sandy pools at the cave’s entrance or, for more advanced underwater exploration, take a dive in the larger cave surrounded by breathtaking stalactite formations.

For those looking to step back into history, explore the Tulum Archaeological Zone, which boasts the best-preserved ruins this ancient city and much of the Yucatan has to offer. The impressive coastal architecture was once a fortress for significant trading and religious ceremonies in the 11th and 16th centuries. 

Spiritual Healing Rituals

Temazcal ceremony at Hilton Playa Del Carmen, An All-Inclusive Adult Resort

Tulum is also home to several sanctuaries dedicated to meditation, sound healing and spiritualistic rituals that stretch your mind and body. Known as one of the most common healing services in Tulum and an ancient tradition of the Mayan and Aztec people, Temazcal ceremonies offered at local spas will detoxify you of your inner obstacles in a stone sweat lodge accompanied by a Copal cleansing ritual and sacred herb brew.

Harmonize your chakras with sound healing rituals that use special instruments to take your body on an acoustic sound journey through five elements: earth, water, fire, air and ether. Clear away any negative energy through a rejuvenating sacred cacao ceremony that uses ancestral medicine to focus on healing the heart and spirit.  

A Day in the Life

Live life like a local during your time in Tulum and explore the stylish city center, home to numerous shops, restaurants and activities. Main streets like Avenida Tulum and Calle Centauro Sur of Tulum Centro are lined with dozens of boutique shops that sell home décor, handmade clothing and jewelry. 

Art lovers can venture into studios to find local artisans’ work as well as classes teaching ancient Mayan clay techniques for pottery. Music lovers will enjoy the wide variety of live music found across the area, as well as Tulum’s growing music festival scene. 

You can also indulge in the best, bold flavors that Mexico has to offer with authentic gastronomic experiences with menus featuring locally grown organic vegetables and herbs and an array of tropical-themed cocktails. Sip on a pepino verde concocted with limón Tequila, pepino, xcatic dulce and lime, or pair your favorite mezcals with chorizo de coliflor, chorizo-spiced cauliflower with grapefruit and almond cream. 

Motto by Hilton Tulum

Travelers looking for a stay that puts them right in the middle of distinctive experiences and local adventure should look no further than Motto by Hilton Tulum, located inside the Hunab Lifestyle Center. Situated just 10 minutes from staples like the Gran Cenote and Tulum Centro, Motto by Hilton Tulum provides an authentic and curated experience that encourages guests to interact with Tulum’s community and culture. 

Featuring an eco-friendly design with locally sustained elements that blend into Tulum’s natural surroundings, the hotel offers 115 guest rooms surrounded by lush jungle scenery, pristine beaches and ancient ruins teeming with Mayan culture and history. Satisfy your inner foodie with an authentic dining experience at Bistro Coba, offering a thoughtfully curated, regionally inspired menu, including continental breakfast and fresh-pressed beverages. 

Motto by Hilton Tulum

Wind down from an exhilarating day of exploration at a private cabana at one of the hotel’s two rooftop infinity pools, or sample cocktails and lite bites with a modern twist at Coba Bar, the hotel’s lively rooftop restaurant bar and lounge. The hotel also provides mezcal tastings for guests and visitors alike.

Motto by Hilton Tulum - Guest Room

Motto Hosts are available onsite to help curate special experiences for every guest’s needs and interests as they explore the neighborhood and connect with the local scene. Just ask and they can arrange a romantic sunset dinner on the hotel’s rooftop set against a breathtaking jungle backdrop and featuring a traditional Mayan ceremony or organize a premium mezcal tasting for you and your newfound friends.  

No matter what you see and do in Tulum, you’ll leave the Yucatan with a sense of wonderment, having uncovered one of the area’s best destinations.