Tulum is an active town known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Tulum, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Tulum?
You should plan to spend around $121 (MX$2,443) per day on your vacation in Tulum. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $49 (MX$989) on meals
- $23 (MX$468) on local transportation
- $98 (MX$1,986) on hotels
A one week trip to Tulum for two people costs, on average, $1,695 (MX$34,202). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$848
MX$17,101
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,695
MX$34,202
-
One Month
Per person
$3,632
MX$73,290
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,695
MX$34,202
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$3,390
MX$68,404
-
One Month
For a couple
$7,265
MX$146,580
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Tulum cost?
A one week trip to Tulum usually costs around $848 (MX$17,101) for one person and $1,695 (MX$34,202) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Tulum on average costs around $1,695 (MX$34,202) for one person and $3,390 (MX$68,404) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Tulum will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Tulum on average costs around $3,632 (MX$73,290) for one person and $7,265 (MX$146,580) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Tulum expensive to visit?
Tulum is a popular town that attracts plenty of visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Tulum can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $46 (MX$915) per day, mid-range travelers spend $123 (MX$2,443) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $352 (MX$6,991) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Tulum.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Tulum is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Tulum Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Tulum?
The average Tulum trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Tulum travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Tulum cost?
Tulum on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$18
(MX$359)
|
$49
(MX$993)
|
$148
(MX$2,995)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$9
(MX$177)
|
$23
(MX$468)
|
$64
(MX$1,293)
|
|
Food 2
|
$19
(MX$380)
|
$49
(MX$989)
|
$132
(MX$2,660)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$10
(MX$198)
|
$26
(MX$527)
|
$74
(MX$1,486)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-12
(MX$78-235)
|
$10-31
(MX$211-634)
|
$30-91
(MX$610-1,829)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Tulum without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $46 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Luckily, Tulum offers plenty of hostels, including Che Tulum Hostel & Bar, Mama's Home, and Mayan Monkey Tulum. Staying at hostels like these means you can enjoy affordable dorm accommodation along with a lively social vibe, though amenities might be minimal. Food is a standout attraction for all visitors to Tulum, but those on a budget might rely on street food or cook in their hostels, which could mean less exposure to the fantastic local dishes.
So, are you average?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Most visitors to Tulum will want to visit the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $123 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Tulum. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Don Diego de la Selva is a good kid-friendly option, and Villas H2O is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Tulum here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $352 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the town, a luxury budget will be necessary. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Tour - The best Cenotes in Yucatan - Suytun & Oxman - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Tulum
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Tulum can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Tulum in the off-season is $151, but in the peak winter or spring travel season it will average around $282. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Tulum to range from $55 to $745. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Tulum for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $98 (MX$1,986). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $49 (MX$993) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Tulum? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Tulum include:
- Biwa Tulum starting at $70
- Naay Boutique Hotel starting at $90
- Elements Tulum Boutique Hotel starting at $53
- Mereva Tulum by Blue Sky starting at $207
- Cielo Maya Beach Tulum starting at $114
With Tulum's good public transit system, you can stay further out of the town and save on accommodations, though commuting could take more time and cost you more in transit fees.
Tulum is a very family friendly town. If you're traveling with kids, you'll likely want to find an apartment or accommodation with more space.
This town has a number of resorts to choose from. You might be able to find a place that includes meals, or at least breakfast, and many resorts have onsite restaurants.
Many visitors spend up to a week in Tulum. If you're staying for an extended period of time, a vacation rental with a kitchen could be a great option that would allow you to prepare your own meals.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid winter or spring), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.
Many people like to explore Tulum on foot, so you'll want to stay in an area that is at the center of everything. This can come at a higher price though.
Transportation Budget in Tulum
Tulum has a good public transit system that reaches some of the major sights. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline. If you want to save money and get around quickly, the public transit is the way to go if it's conveniently located to where you're going. Also, you'll find taxis and rideshare services around town.
Walking enthusiasts will have a wonderful experience during their visit. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $23 (MX$468) per person, per day, on local transportation in Tulum. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Tulum is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$23
MX$468
If you're driving, make sure your hotel has convenient parking.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Tulum to Cancún Airport (CUN) - Private Departure Transfer for $69 details
- Tulum to Playa del Carmen - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing for $108 details
- Tulum to Bacalar - Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing for $179 details
How much does it cost to go to Tulum? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Tulum will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Typical prices for transit in Tulum are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Tulum. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
Food Budget in Tulum
Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Tulum by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Tulum can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Tulum is $49 (MX$989) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$49
MX$989
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Tulum is around $50 (MX$989) per person, with previous travelers spending from $19 to $134. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Tulum are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $15
- Lunch: $7 to $20
- Dinner: $15 to $35
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
Given that this area caters very much to the tourists visiting the ruins, there is every type of food you could crave. While a pizza may look appetizing, try to sample the tastes of Mexico while you're there. Try a tamale from a street stand or some chicken and rice for dinner. It's also advised that if you want to keep your meal under your budget, avoid the beachside resorts. If you do find yourself beachside, find a restaurant in Tulum, or visit one of the two big supermarkets to pack your own cooler for a day in the sand.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.
You can save money and enjoy the scenery if you make a picnic. Find a local grocery store or market, get some fresh food, and find a nice park or scenic spot to enjoy your meal.
Take a water bottle along instead of purchasing drinks constantly. This is also an eco-conscious choice.
When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Tulum, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Tulum Local Walking Food Tour for $73 details
- Private transfer for 5 hours (go dinner,cenotes, shopping and more) for $299 details
- Tulum Seafood Tour and Local Beer for $85 details
Typical prices for food in Tulum are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Tulum. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Tulum
It's no wonder that tourists flock to Tulum, as it is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Tulum typically cost an average of $26 (MX$527) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$26
MX$527
Once you've visited the ruins of Tulum, there are other things to see and do in this area. For example, the Coba Ruins are not far. These ruins may not be as cleaned up as Tulum, but it is home to "El Castillo," the tallest Mayan ruin. Climb to the top of this ruin just above the treetops of the jungle for a magnificent view. So as you can see, Tulum is only one of several archaeological sites in the region, and you can see a comparison of Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan here.
Another good place to visit, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere offers acres of wetlands and swamps which can be visited on a tour. You'll see some of the native flora and fauna. Ask about a guided tour of the area, which is especially good later in the afternoon.
It's not difficult to find your typical Caribbean activities in Tulum - snorkeling, kite surfing, sunbathing, jet skiing, etc. - but a popular activity in this area involves cenotes. As rainwater collects in underground caves and tunnels, it reaches the surface and forms what is known as a cenote. Take a dip or a dive in one of these freshwater pools for a close up look at fish, turtles and even bats. With some more open surfaces and others under the rock covering, there's a cenote for every level of adventure. Some of the more popular cenotes in Tulum include El Gran Cenote, Casa Cenote, Cenote Calavera, Cenotes Cristal and Escondido, Dos Ojos Cenote and Zacil-Ha. Plus, if you'd rather not dive under the rock formations, there are diving, snorkeling and eco tours available around the coast of Tulum.
Museums and Attractions:
Museums and landmarks are a major reason why Tulum attracts so many visitors. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
Scuba diving in Tulum is one of the most popular activities. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.
Beaches:
Countless visitors arrive in Tulum to chill out by the beach. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.
Hiking:
The hiking around Tulum is terrific. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.
Shopping:
Shopping here is something you definitely shouldn't overlook. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.
A nice way to explore destinations in Tulum is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Tulum Private Tour VIP for $200 details
- Tulum Ruins & Cenote guided private tour from Tulum and Riviera Maya. For $295 details
- Coba Ruins and Punta Laguna Monkey Reserve Day Tour from Tulum for $220 details
Nightlife Budget in Tulum
The nightlife scene in Tulum is world-class, and visitors come from around the world to experience it. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $21 (MX$423) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Tulum per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$21
MX$423
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Be vigilant if you're out at night, especially if alcohol is involved. Thieves often target distracted individuals, so it's smart to stay with trusted friends and avoid going off by yourself.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Tulum. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Tulum Beer Tasting and Brewery Tour with Bites Tasting for $71 details
- Wine Tasting at Pan y Vino Tulum for $49 details
Traveling in Tulum
The beach of Tulum, Mexico
When you think of ancient ruins you probably picture dusty archaeological digs surrounded by sand and professors in khaki shorts. What if I told you there is a way to see ancient ruins and visit a tropical beach? That's exactly what you find in Tulum, Mexico.
Built near the end of Mayan era, the ruins of Tulum served as a port before the arrival of the Spanish. It may have been called Zama, meaning City of Dawn, given that these ruins face the sunrise. Because of Tulum's access to both land and sea routes, this spot was an important hub for the trade industry. It may have had another claim to fame, too. According to some murals and other works around the site, it seems this spot was an important site for the worship of the Diving or Descending God. Today, the area is the third most visited archaeological site in all of Mexico with daily tour buses dropping off visitors.
This area is usually packed with people looking to get a glimpse of the seaside ruins. To avoid crowds and capture the best view of the day, try to arrive as early as possible.
Neighborhoods & Around
Before visiting travelers should know that there are actually three different sections of Tulum. The Tulum Pueblo, also known as "El Pueblo" to the locals, is where most of the workers and stores are located. Here is where you'll find the bus stations, hotels and hostels. Don't expect to find much local culture, as this section of town feels like it only exists to serve the tourists.
The Tulum Playa is for those seeking a more chic getaway. It's nestled right along the coastline of white Caribbean beaches, and includes the fancier boutiques in town. This is also a great area to find places to stay, such as a great Airbnb in Tulum.
The Tulum Ruinas is the archaeological site where the actual ruins are. There are a handful of hotels, restaurants, a small bus station and one huge parking lot.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.