The hype
Travelers are obsessed with the architecture and the staff's attentiveness, often citing it as a peaceful break from the chaos of the Hotel Zone.
The Yellow Nest Tulum
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a design-forward jungle hideaway near the best cenotes and don't care about being 40 minutes from the beach.
Why People Love It
- Private villas with plunge pools that actually look like the photos
- Walking/biking distance to Dos Ojos and Pet Cemetery cenotes
- The 'Floating Breakfast' is a legitimate main character moment
Quick Take: A stunning Instagram trap in the middle of nowhere that actually delivers on service, provided you aren't expecting ocean breezes.
Reviewed by @wheres.kam: I came here feeling totally burnt out and left feeling brand new. The jungle silence is real, and the Temazcal ceremony was a spiritual experience I didn't know I needed. Eric treated me like family. If you need to disappear for a bit, this is the spot.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are captive to the hotel restaurant unless you have a car, and the isolation can feel trapping after 2-3 days.
- You have a rental car and want to explore cenotes early before crowds
- You prefer the sound of birds and wind over bass-heavy beach clubs
- You want luxury aesthetics for half the price of the beach zone
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is consistent, though sometimes late in the day.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally spotless, but humidity can cause a slight musty smell in drains.
- Maintenance: Good condition, though thatched roofs shed debris occasionally.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, but can feel damp due to 100% humidity.
- Odors & scents: Smells like damp earth and copal incense; no chemical bleach smells.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Jungle fauna (crickets, birds) at night
- Rain hitting the thatched roofs (loud but soothing)
- Occasional maintenance noise during the day
Before you book
Good to know
- Download offline maps; cell signal drops frequently in this area.
- Bring cash (Pesos) for tips and small purchases; card machines are spotty.
- The 'Adults Only' policy is generally enforced, but some booking engines show 13+ or 14+ allowed.
What to pack
- Biodegradable bug spray (absolute non-negotiable)
- Headlamp or flashlight for walking paths at night
- Slip-on shoes for easy transition from villa to pool
Room Genie
Best picks
- Villas with Private Pool – worth the upgrade for total privacy and the plunge pool experience
- Upper-level Nests – better airflow and slightly fewer bugs than ground floor
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor Nests near the pathway if you want privacy (people walk by)
- Any room with a gap in the mosquito screen (check immediately upon entry)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a Villa that is set back from the main pathway for maximum privacy. Please ensure the mosquito netting is intact.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a shuttle to the beach?
No free shuttle. A taxi will cost you about $900 MXN ($45 USD) one way.
Can I walk to restaurants?
No. You are in the jungle. The nearest town (Chan Chemuyil) is a 10-minute drive.
Is the pool heated?
No, and it can feel chilly in the mornings or during shaded hours.
Is there AC?
Yes, rooms have AC, but it may struggle to reach 'fridge cold' levels in the humid jungle heat.
How is the WiFi?
Functional for messaging and light browsing, but do not rely on it for video calls or large uploads.
Are there bugs in the rooms?
Yes, occasionally. It is an eco-lodge. Keep doors shut and use the provided sprays.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for the 'Floating Breakfast' at check-in to secure your slot; it sells out.
- ✨
Use the free bikes to get to Dos Ojos Cenote at 8:00 AM sharp to beat the tour buses.
- ✨
Buy water and snacks at a supermarket in Tulum town *before* you drive out to the hotel.
5 things to know before you go
💡The water pressure in the showers can be weak due to the eco-friendly systems.
💡You might spot a spider monkey or coati on your patio if you're quiet.
💡The road to the hotel is unpaved and bumpy; an SUV is better than a compact car.
💡Room service adds up fast since there are no other food options nearby.
💡The humidity means nothing ever fully dries—bring extra swimsuits.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Yellow Nest Tulum is located and what's nearby.