A Journey Through Time: Tulum’s Ancient Wonders

The sun was just beginning to rise as Manny, our guide and driver for the day, picked us up from our hotel. The air was filled with excitement and the promise of adventure as we set off on our journey to explore the ancient ruins of Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza. Manny, with his infectious humor and wealth of knowledge, made the two-hour drive from our hotel north of Cancun to Tulum feel like a breeze. As we arrived, the sight of the majestic ruins perched on the cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea took my breath away.

Tulum, once a bustling port city, still holds the echoes of its past in its stone walls and ancient structures. Manny guided us through the site, sharing stories of the Mayan civilization and pointing out the major points of interest. The tram ride from the van to the entrance was a welcome surprise, saving us from a long walk under the sun. We wandered through the ruins, capturing family photos and soaking in the history that surrounded us. The cool breeze from the sea was a refreshing companion as we explored, and Manny’s cooler stocked with cold water, pops, and beer was a lifesaver.

Coba: A Jungle Adventure

Our next stop was Coba, a city still embraced by the jungle. The rickshaw ride through the lush greenery was an adventure in itself, and I could see the joy on my daughter’s face as we zipped from one ancient structure to another. The rickshaw drivers, with their strength and knowledge, made the experience even more memorable. Each stop offered a glimpse into the past, with time to wander and take photos of the towering pyramids and intricate carvings.

Lunch was a traditional Mexican feast, a delightful spread of chicken soup, salad, fruit, and more. While the selection might challenge picky eaters, the flavors were authentic and satisfying. After lunch, we headed to the cenote, a natural underground pool. The cool, clear water was a welcome respite from the heat, and floating in the life vest allowed me to gaze up at the stunning view above. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a chance to recharge before our final destination.

Chichen Itza: A New World Wonder

The drive to Chichen Itza was filled with anticipation. As we arrived, Manny’s detailed description of El Castillo, the iconic pyramid, brought the site to life. Walking through the ball game area and learning about the Mayan culture was fascinating, and the free time to explore allowed us to discover more of the site’s hidden gems. My children found treasures of their own, with Mayan zodiac and obsidian bracelets as souvenirs of our journey.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to the van, tired but fulfilled. The 2.5-hour drive back to our hotel was a time to reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. We had journeyed through time, exploring three distinct Mayan cities, each with its own unique charm and history. From the coastal beauty of Tulum to the jungle embrace of Coba and the grandeur of Chichen Itza, the tour was a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. It was a day I would never forget, and one I would recommend to anyone seeking to uncover the mysteries of the Mayan world.