Tulum

The 3-Day Luxury Tulum Itinerary

Sun-Drenched Jungle, Secret Rivers & Barefoot Glamour

Where to Stay: Luxe Accommodations

Before we dive into your daily adventures, choose your Tulum home base wisely. For the perfect blend of eco-luxury, wellness, and seclusion:

Azulik Tulum – A dreamy adults-only retreat with thatched villas suspended in the jungle canopy, no WiFi, no TVs – just you and the elements in elevated rustic glamour. Private decks, candlelit paths, and overwater hammocks make this a sensory escape.
La Valise Tulum – Beachfront serenity with seamless indoor-outdoor living and a level of service that whispers understated luxury.
Habitas Tulum – For a community vibe with high-end touches, wellness rituals, and beachfront sunsets framed by boho-chic design.
The Conrad Tulum - For the ultimate in resort immersion, The Conrad offers indulgence for your every whim, with no need to venture beyond this immaculate property with its restaurants and opportunities for pampering.

Day 1: Ancient Mystique & Beachfront Indulgence

Morning – Tulum Ruins & Snorkeling with Turtles Private Tour

Start your journey with a private guided tour of the iconic Tulum Ruins. Perched dramatically over the Caribbean Sea, these Mayan ruins are particularly stunning. A private guide adds historical richness and helps you dodge the crowds. And swimming with turtles on Akumal Beach is a rewarding and majestic experience. Book here!

Afternoon – Beach Club Bliss

Head to Papaya Playa Project or Casa Malca for a luxurious beach club experience. Think designer cocktails, plush loungers, and artful ambiance.

Papaya Playa Project: Stylish crowd, great DJs, boho-chic scene.
Casa Malca (formerly Pablo Escobar’s mansion): Art-filled, surreal, and full of character.

Dinner – Fine Dining Jungle Style

Arca Tulum is the crown jewel of Tulum's dining scene. Nestled in the jungle, it offers a chef-driven seasonal menu focused on open-fire cooking and native ingredients.

Day 2: Cenote Magic & Underground Wonder

Morning – Cenote Hopping in Style

Book a private driver or luxury guided tour to explore these breathtaking cenotes:

Cenote Calavera – An Instagram favorite with its "skull" shape and diving platforms.
Gran Cenote – Crystal-clear waters and snorkeling through stalactite-filled caverns.
Cenote Suytun - A bit further afield but photogenic beyond belief with its dramatic stone platform and skylight beam.
Taak Bi'ha - popular for cave diving but stunning to snorkel as well

Luxury Tour Option: Tulum Private Cenote Explorer and/or Cenote Half Day Tour.

Optional Afternoon – Spa or Sound Healing

Return for a healing ritual at Yäan Wellness Energy Spa, where jungle meets sacred energy. Choose from Mayan clay treatments, temazcal ceremonies, or infrared saunas.

Dinner – Contemporary Mexican Gastronomy

Head to Hartwood, an iconic open-air restaurant that’s entirely off-grid. Seasonal menus are built around what’s freshly caught or harvested that day. Walk-ins are possible, but reserve well in advance if you want a guaranteed table under the stars.

Day 3: Rio Secreto & Ocean Vibes

Morning – Rio Secreto Adventure

Just under an hour’s drive from Tulum is the otherworldly Rio Secreto – a semi-flooded underground river and cave system filled with crystal formations and quiet awe.

Book the Rio Secreto Plus Tour for a VIP experience with rappelling, bike trails, and fewer crowds. You’ll explore illuminated caverns and feel like a true explorer.

Luxury Experience: Rio Secreto Plus

Afternoon – Chill & Shop in Aldea Zama

Back in Tulum, spend your final hours perusing boutiques in Aldea Zama. Pick up handwoven textiles, Mexican ceramics, or luxe resortwear from Caravana, Josa, or La Troupe.

Or sit by the beach or pool and relax and soak up the vibes.

Dinner – Sunset Finale

Book a table at Rosa Negra Tulum, where Latin American cuisine, lively ambiance, and a “Dinner as Theatre” vibe make for a dazzling final night. Try the truffle risotto or wagyu tacos, paired with craft mezcal cocktails. Expect fire shows, live music, and a celebratory energy.

Bonus: Luxe Essentials for Tulum

Pack these premium travel must-haves to stay effortlessly chic:

Wide Brim Hat – Sun protection with elegance.
Baggalini Fifth Avenue – Stylish carry-on for jet-set packing.
Reformation Swimwear – Sustainable and Instagrammable.

Final Travel Tips

Airport: Fly into Cancun International Airport, then book a private transfer to Tulum (~90 minutes).
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), but USD is widely accepted in tourist areas.
Best Time to Go: November to April for dry, sunny skies.

Book Your Dream Tulum Escape

From hidden rivers to beachfront glamour, this itinerary captures the spirit of luxurious Tulum. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a chic solo retreat, this travel edit offers a perfect balance of authentic adventure and indulgent living.