About Escaip Light
Escaip Light is a unique jungle retreat and event venue just outside Tulum town, not a typical beach club or concert hall. It is essentially a private luxury villa built around its own cenote – a natural sinkhole pool – set amid 6,000 m² of tropical grounds (hr.airbnb.com ). This boutique “villa hotel” has eight independent suites (sleeping up to 20 guests) plus a thatched pavilion, a Mayan-style pyramid structure and even a traditional temazcal steam bath on site (hr.airbnb.com ). In effect, Escaip Light doubles as both upscale lodging and an intimate underground music venue. Its design blends rustic jungle charm with resort comforts: lush gardens surround a palapa-covered bar/lounge and the cenote itself, creating an immersive experience of water, fire (ritual temazcal), and foliage. The name “Light” alludes to the state-of-the-art sound and lighting rig used for the venue’s events – picture Funktion-One speakers under the jungle canopy (ra.co ).
Opened in recent years, Escaip Light has quickly become notable for high-end private parties and electronic music events rather than mainstream tourism. It’s located on the Calle Principal/Highway just south of Tulum Centro (address: Carr. Cancún-Tulum Km 240) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), roughly a 10–15 minute drive from the town center. This location in the jungle clears the way for an exclusive atmosphere: pinegrove light shows, bass thumping off the trees, and dancing by the water under the stars. Rather than a historically significant site, its importance comes from blending Mayan-inspired architecture (the pyramid and cenote) with Tulum’s modern party culture. Escaip Light has no fixed seating or traditional theater layout; instead, it’s notable for offering an up-close party experience in a rainforest setting, which is quite different from the beach clubs and hotel nightclubs elsewhere in the Riviera Maya.
Events and Programming
Escaip Light is best known for hosting small-scale electronic music events, private parties, and immersive experiences. Think along the lines of exclusive techno and deep-house parties rather than mainstream concerts. Promoters occasionally build one-night festivals at Escaip Light featuring local and international DJs. For example, in March 2025 the “Chronicles Festival” staged an all-night techno event called “NIRVANA” here, headlined by Yubik (an artist on the Tale of Us Afterlife label) and top local house/techno DJs (ra.co ). Past events have been billed as “cenote parties” or jungle raves: one such event in 2021 was marketed as “Frscko Tulum 2021 – Cenote Party at Escaip Light” (ra.co ). Nighttime events often run well into the early morning (e.g. 9pm to 10am) to utilize the full sunrise-over-the-cenote vibe (ra.co ) (ra.co ). The décor is usually minimalistic – LED lights, projections and the natural cenote centerpiece – with no formal stage seating. Audiences are typically small (a few hundred people at most), preserving an intimate vibe.
There isn’t a regular weekly schedule like a city nightclub. Instead, events pop up occasionally, often on weekends or holidays, and often in coordination with Tulum’s electronic music scene. Promoters advertise on social media and event platforms. Ticket prices can vary widely by event – a typical General Admission is around MXN $800–$1,500 (roughly US $45–$80) plus fees, while VIP tables and bottle service packages run into the thousands of pesos (www.ticketfairy.com ). For instance, the 2025 NIRVANA event had a GA ticket at MXN $900 and a VIP at $2,000, with add-ons like 2-person or 4-person table packages starting at $6,000 and up to $50,000 MXN (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because events are infrequent and limited-capacity, tickets often sell out in advance. Aside from dance parties, Escaip Light’s owners also market it as a luxury party villa – you can book it for a private event (wedding, retreat or corporate party) with the DJ/sound setup included. In sum, expect Escaip Light to feature niche, curated electronic and deep-listening events, rather than pop concerts or plays.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at Escaip Light are not sold at a box office on site. Instead you need to buy online through the event promoter’s authorized channels. Keep an eye on announcements from local organizers (often via social media or websites) for each new party. Sales usually open a few weeks before an event and can sell out quickly. Promoters sometimes offer early bird specials or tiered pricing, so it pays to sign up for newsletters or follow Tulum party networks. For major events, VIP tables and packages (with bottle service, expedited entry, etc.) are typically available as well as General Admission. Avoid unverified resellers; only purchase from official event pages.
Since there’s no permanent ticket window at Escaip Light itself, latecomers have to rely on leftover ticket releases or waitlist openings online. Door sales might occasionally be available for smaller events if they haven’t reached capacity, but don’t count on it for big nights. Note that most Escaip Light events are 18+ or 21+ due to alcohol and club policies (ra.co ), so bring valid ID if you’re approaching party age. Also check each event listing for refund or re-entry policy – outdoor jungle venues often treat ticket sales as final due to planning costs. In summary: plan ahead, buy online in advance, and bring ID on event night.
Seating and Layout
Escaip Light has no fixed seating chart or numbered seats – it’s essentially an open-air dance venue around the cenote. The main “stage” area is an elevated wooden platform or pavilion next to the jungle-pool, where the DJ booth and speakers are set up. In front of that is usually a clear dance floor and some scattered benches or lounge spots, but expect to stand or lounge casually. Many attendees move to the terrace, around the cenote edge or even climb partially up the hill/pyramid for different views. There are no strict “bad seats” – it’s more immersive standing-room.
If a party has VIP tickets, these often correspond to reserved tables near the stage or a special roped-off area. For example, promoters have offered 2-, 4-, 8-, or 12-person VIP table bookings with perks like bottle service and backstage access (www.ticketfairy.com ). The tables are usually set off to the side or slightly elevated, so from a table you can still see the DJ and crowd. Acoustically, the venue is quite good despite being outdoors – events advertise Funktion-One club speakers, meaning even in open-air jungle you’ll get clear, deep bass (ra.co ). Because it’s outdoor and occasionally on uneven ground, heels or formal attire are less common – think barefoot or sandals if terrain. Areas to avoid: the very back corners under thick foliage can be buggy and offer weaker sound.
Overall, for best experience stand or camp near the front during a great DJ set, or grab a lounge bench under the palapa roof if you need a break. There are no balconies or closed rooms; it’s all jungle and sky. In daytime events (some bookings include daytime activities by the cenote), seating is still casual. Accessibility is limited: think uneven paths and steps, so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.
Getting There and Parking
Escaip Light’s address is on the Cancun–Tulum highway at Km 240 (Tulum, QRoo) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). It’s not in town, but about 10–12 minutes by car from central Tulum (La Veleta area) and 20–25 minutes from the beach road (Zona Hotelera). The venue is down a jungle road, so there’s no pedestrian drop-off – you really need a car or taxi. There are no official bus lines directly to Escaip Light. The nearest main public transport points are on nearby Routes 109 or 84; you could take a colectivo (shared van) or local bus to “Dos Ojos” cenote area and then grab a taxi. But the simplest is ride-share or taxi from Tulum’s city or beach zones. Late-night drop-offs should be arranged in advance since public transit stops early.
Parking is available on-site – there’s a gravel lot where cars can pull in. For parties, promoters often include VIP parking in the ticket (as one event did) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, you’ll likely find unattended free parking at Escaip Light (secure enough during events, but don’t leave valuables visible). If attending a large event, arrive early to find space. No meters or garages are required – it’s a rural property. Wear a jacket for the ride: on stormy or winter nights, cars parked there can get dewy or cool.
For alternative transit: Escaip Light is about 11 km from Tulum town center. If you can’t drive, consider arranging a private shuttle as part of a party package. We do not recommend walking or biking at night, as the forest path has no sidewalks and can be slippery after rain. GPS navigation usually works to “Escaip Light, Tulum” but double-check the pinned location before leaving – some maps confuse it with nearby cenote parks.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests check in at a small entrance gate. For events, security will scan your ticket and check ID (18+ only on most nights (ra.co )). Expect a quick bag search for prohibited items (see Venue Policies). Once inside, you enter a open jungle compound. The general layout: a natural cenote with a wooden deck and staircase on one side, the DJ stage under a thatched roof on the opposite side, and lounge bar/cafe structures in between. There are a handful of communal benches and hammocks, but most people mill about. The vibe is rustic-chic – exposed wood, hanging string lights and torches, live plants, even some boho art installations. A subtle breeze often blows through the palms, mixing with the music and the water sounds.
Facilities: There are restroom blocks on site (likely portable toilets or basic bathrooms). During private events, organizers sometimes hire catering trucks or set up local food stands. If not, Escaip Light’s own kitchen can sometimes offer simple snacks or grouper tacos (depending on the booking). In many cases, an event will have a staffed bar serving cocktails, beer and non-alcoholic drinks – expect local rums, mezcal cocktails, cold agua fresca and sodas. For example, one Chroniсles event included a “sushi reception” for VIP guests (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cash is often needed for purchases; verify if cards are accepted (smaller events may run card readers on tablets, but connectivity can be spotty). There is Wi-Fi for paying guests (as per a guest review, ‘good wifi’) (es.trip.com ), though as an outdoor jungle venue it may not cover dancing areas. Cell phone signal at Escaip Light can be unreliable – Telcel and AT&T signals are sometimes weak under canopy, so arrange rides in advance.
Atmosphere inside is flexible: if you rent the villa, you can roam freely – swim in the cenote, sit by the fire pit, or enjoy the temazcal. At events, the focus is on music and the cenote lounge zone. A word on wildlife: as one recent guest noted, “the cenote es muy chevere” (very cool) but warned of many scorpions around (es.trip.com ). It’s true – this is jungle. We recommend staying on paths, watching your step, and maybe keeping shoes by the bed. Other than that, the venue staff (often family-run) are attentive and keep the place clean. You’ll also find a small reception/office building where organizers handle table reservations or event inquiries, though no permanent gift shop or cloakroom exists. Coat checks are typically unnecessary (tropical climate!). In summary, inside Escaip Light you’re in a nature-protected, open-air environment – expect casual boho-rustic comfort rather than a polished club interior.
Nearby Amenities
Escaip Light sits outside the city, so the “neighborhood” is essentially jungle. There isn’t a restaurant or convenience store on site, nor any shops directly adjacent. The closest amenities are back in town or on the beach. For pre-event meals, most locals head 10 minutes north to Tulum Centro or 20 minutes south to the hotel zone. Downtown Tulum offers casual spots and taquerías: popular options include Burrito Amor or Antojitos La Chiapaneca (cheap tacos) and Pan Comido (Mexican-Brazilian cafe). For a mid-range sit-down option, many guests enjoy Ahau or Tunich Beach Hotels north along the beach road (with tacos, ceviche, and sea views about 15 minutes away). Tulum’s famous farm-to-table restaurants – like Hartwood or Arca – are on the beach strip, about 20 minutes drive, but check reservation policies (they often require dinner reservations well in advance).
Bars: If you want cocktails before a night out, try Batey or Matcha Mama in town for a jungle-bar vibe, or Passión Restaurant & Bar at noon for craft drinks. (Keep in mind closing times — later-night options are mostly in downtown Tulum or at Tulum’s beach clubs, not near Escaip itself.) Last call options include La Malquerida (downtown) or Club de Papas after-hours. For late-night rides home, it’s wise to reserve a ride-share in advance since service can get pricey outside the center (some attendees hire a private shuttle for the return trip when booking VIP).
Hotels: Escaip Light *is* itself lodging if fully booked, but otherwise your best bet is a hotel in Tulum town. In Centro, budget choices like Selina Tulum are about 8 km away. Hotel Azura Tulum (mid-range, with a cenote entrance) or Ma’a Tulum (boutique) sit about 10 minutes north. On the Tulum Beach road (south), top stays are Azulik, Nomade, or Mezzanine (though these are farther, 20+ minutes away). If you want literally next door, check out Casa Tortuga – a cenote park resort along the highway, about a 5 minute drive from Escaip Light (www.cenotescasatortuga.com ). Casa Tortuga offers jungle cabins and day passes to cenotes (for example, it lists rooms and its own tours, hinting at a connection to Escaip’s party events). In practice, guests often stay in Tulum’s Playa zone and simply commute to Escaip by car or taxi.
Timing: Because Escaip Light events tend to run late (often until dawn), plan your transport for after-party hours. Taxis and shuttles will be available in Tulum town to pick you back up even at 4–5 AM, but be sure to arrange that in advance (keep a hotel card with you or a local taxi number). If visiting during the day (some private hires do dawn meditation or yoga by the cenote), note that there are no 24-hour convenience stores nearby – stock up on water and snacks before leaving town. Parking costs at nearby hotels are generally free for guests, but double-check any hotel’s policy and tip accordingly if using their facilities.
What Makes This Venue Special
Escaip Light stands out because it combines elements rarely found together: a natural Mayan cenote, jungle setting, and cutting-edge DJ events under one roof. Tulum has many open-air venues, but few with a *private* cenote on site and a structure like a Maya-inspired pyramid (hr.airbnb.com ). This mix of nature and design creates a mystical vibe that performers and guests love. The view of stars and palms behind the DJ, the echoing splash of the cenote, and the scent of copal incense blend for a multi-sensory experience. Locals call it a jungle “temple of sound.” In fact, promotional materials emphasize the “deep sounds” of techno meeting “breathtaking nature” (ra.co ) – an experience unique to Tulum’s alternative scene.
Culturally, Escaip Light connects to local Mayan heritage through its features: the cenote (sacred wells in Maya culture) and temazcal (traditional sweat lodge). Yet it turns an ancient ritual into a modern party context. Its design evokes Mayan temples (the pyramid), while its programming embraces Tulum’s reputation for spiritual gatherings and music soirees. Historically it’s not an old pre-Columbian site, but in effect it’s become a living “eco-venue” that highlights Tulum’s old-meets-new spirit. Artists appreciate how the venue is far from city lights: when Sabrina Mazur or other DJs played here, they could literally see the comet tail of escaping nature lighting the sky. Guests often say it feels like dancing in a lost jungle temple, a story they remember long after the music ends (ra.co ) (hr.airbnb.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: This is a rustic jungle spot, not a modern arena. There is no wheelchair ramp to the main areas and paths are uneven. The DJ platform and bathrooms require steps. While the owners are friendly, basic ADA accommodations are limited. If you or someone in your group has mobility issues, contact the venue in advance to ask about specific arrangements (they may offer to set up ground-floor space in the pavilion).
What to Bring/Not Bring: Pack light tropical attire and sturdy sandals or sneakers (the ground may be sandy, muddy or littered with leaves). Bring a light long-sleeve layer for the cool rainforest breeze after midnight. Insect repellent is highly recommended – guests have noted mosquitoes and even scorpions on the jungle ground (es.trip.com ), so close windows/doors at night and check shoes before slipping them on. A small flashlight can be handy for late-night walks. The cenote is often part of the experience – if swimming is allowed, bring a swimsuit and quick-dry towel. (Though during most electronic music events swimming is discouraged for safety.) Also bring local currency (pesos) and ID; events are 18+ and often have a cash bar. On the other hand, do not bring weapons, illegal substances, or outside food/drink – these will be confiscated. Flash photography or professional cameras may be restricted at certain events, so check each event’s rules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: A top mistake is underestimating travel time. Even though it’s closer than Tulum Beach, during fiestas roads can back up. Arrive early (doors often open at 8–9pm) to avoid missing the start. Another is not hydrating – jungle heat and dancing are a dehydrating combo. Bring water ($) or drink at the bar between sets. Also beware: since the venue is so remote, phone service can drop out. If riding rideshare, arrange pickup with a local taxi if apps fail. Lastly, don’t scratch the surface of the cenote or touch wild plants; it’s a protected natural feature. – Do treat it with respect like any sacred cenote.
Dress Code: Casual tropical or boho is normal. Many guests wear swimwear or festival-style outfits (flowy skirts, flower crowns) during daytime events. In the evening, chic casual or slightly edgy clubwear fits in. High heels are not practical here; flats or barefoot (if on deck by the cenote) are common. Rain sometimes falls at night, so a light poncho won’t go amiss during the rainy season (May-Oct).
Age and ID: Most events at Escaip Light are strictly 18+ (some even 21+). Bring a passport or government ID; the gate staff will check. Onsite babysitting or kids activities are not available, so this isn’t a family attraction unless you rent the villa privately.
Insider Tip: If you’re staying in Tulum, let the party wind down a bit before heading home. Many guests enjoy after-parties by the fire pit or simply gazing at the cenote. If you’re not into late-night drone-free tranquility, arrange for a driver to collect you by 2–3am. Conversely, if you booked the villa/estate private, ask if you can crash in an unused room afterward – some hosts allow it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy tickets for Escaip Light events?
Tickets are sold online by each event promoter or festival organization. Watch for announcements on social media (and sites like Resident Advisor or Ticket Fairy) and purchase through the official event page or a recognized ticketing partner. There is no permanent box office at Escaip Light, so plan to buy in advance. Avoid unofficial resellers to prevent scams.
How much do tickets generally cost?
Prices vary by event and promoter. A typical general admission ticket might be around MXN $800–$1,500 (approximately USD $40–$80) plus fees, while VIP or bottle-service tables can cost several thousand pesos. For example, a GA ticket for one recent techno event was MXN $900 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the current event’s pricing on its announcement.
Is there on-site parking?
Yes, Escaip Light has a parking area on its property. Parking is generally free. VIP ticket holders often get reserved parking included. If you drive, arrive early to snag a spot. After-hours, remember to lock your car, and don’t leave valuables in plain view.
How do I get to Escaip Light without a car?
Public transportation doesn’t stop at the venue. Your best bet is a taxi or ride-share (Uber or local Tulum taxi) from the town center or hotel zone. Ridesharing may not drop you exactly at the entrance, so confirm the destination with the driver (e.g. “Escaip Light, KM 240 Carretera Tulum”). After an event, plan your return ride in advance, as night-time service can be scarce. Organizers sometimes offer shuttle pickups as part of packages.
What is the layout of Escaip Light? Are there seats?
Escaip Light is an open area centered around the cenote (natural pool). The DJ booth is on a wooden platform or pavilion; nearby are loose benches and tables. Most attendees stand or dance. There is no fixed seating like in a theater. VIP tickets often include reserved tables near the stage or under a palapa. You’ll see people perched on the low pyramid path or sitting on the cenote deck enjoying the music and view.
Is Escaip Light wheelchair accessible?
Not really. The venue has uneven terrain and several stairways (to the DJ stage and temple areas). There are no ramps or elevators. Guests with mobility issues should contact the venue in advance; sometimes arrangements can be made to stay in a ground-level area, but generally Escaip Light is not designed for wheelchair access in its current rustic layout.
What should I wear to a show at Escaip Light?
The dress code is casual tropical or festival chic. Many guests wear comfortable clubwear or even swimwear (since it’s hot and jungle-themed). Avoid heels or slippery shoes, as the ground can be sandy/muddy. Bring a light sweater for late nights. Fancy or formal attire isn’t expected. If you plan to swim in the cenote, pack a bathing suit discreetly under your clothes and a towel (though swimming is rare during music events).
Are children or pets allowed at events?
No. Escaip Light events are adult-only (typically 18+ only). The jungle setting, late-night hours, and party atmosphere make it unsafe for children. Pets are also not permitted. This is a nighttime electronic music scene venue, so it’s strictly for grown-up revelers.
Can I book Escaip Light for a private event or wedding?
Yes, Escaip Light can be rented as a private estate. The owners offer the entire villa and cenote for weddings, retreats or private parties. In fact, the Airbnb listing highlights that exclusive parties with a live band or DJ system are possible there (hr.airbnb.com ). You would contact them directly (through the venue’s messaging or their Airbnb profile) to arrange dates, rates and included services (accommodations, catering, equipment). Because it's in the jungle, these are usually all-inclusive events where attendees stay on site.
Are there food and drinks inside the venue?
For events, there is usually at least a bar serving alcohol, water and soft drinks (no outside beverages allowed). Some DJs or organizers bring in food vendors or caterers (you might find tacos, sushi or snacks depending on the event). If you rent the villa privately, the estate has a kitchen and may provide meals. Otherwise, plan to eat before coming, or bring cash for whatever food stalls are present.
What’s the venue capacity?
As a private villa, capacity is limited. While an exact number isn't published, expect fewer than 200 people at a big event to avoid overcrowding. The space was designed for intimate gatherings – it doesn’t hold a stadium crowd. Many events name limited tickets (often 100–300 max) to preserve comfort. If you see ticket sales stop before 500 seats, that indicates capacity. In short, it’s a small-venue experience.
What is the “Cenote Casa Tortuga” reference I’ve heard?
Some event listings mention "Cenote Casa Tortuga, Tulum" along with Escaip Light. This likely refers to the neighborhood or a nearby cenote park. Escaip Light itself includes a private cenote (often called Cenote Lookha) on its grounds (hr.airbnb.com ), but it’s possible promoters co-brand it with the larger Casa Tortuga cenote complex next door for promotion. In any case, the party is at Escaip Light’s property even if that phrase appears.
Is the cenote there safe to swim in?
The cenote is a natural freshwater pool, and guests regard the water as clean and refreshing (es.trip.com ). If you're renting the venue privately at dawn or for a retreat, you can usually swim there. However, during nighttime events, for safety and insurance reasons, the hosts may restrict swimming. Check in advance: some private hires include a swim hour, but typical parties focus on music.
What is the cancellation or weather policy?
Since Escaip Light is mostly outdoors, heavy rain can impact events. Most organizers issue rain plans (usually postponing or letting it go under cover if possible). Refund policies vary: some tickets are sold as “rain or shine” (no refund if weather behaves), while others may refund or allow rescheduling if the event is canceled. Always read the fine print on your ticket. As a tip: jungle downpours can be intense but brief; bring a poncho if raining, and trust that the organizers usually have a plan for cover or shelter under palapas if needed.
