About Mayan Monkey Hostel Tulum
Mayan Monkey Tulum is a vibrant social hostel and bar nestled on Avenida Coba Sur (KM 25) in Tulum. The multi-story complex sits between downtown and the beachside hotel zone , surrounded by lush gardens and jungle-themed decor. Inside, communal areas are bright, leafy and open-air, featuring hammocks, swings, murals and tropical plants. The layout centers on an outdoor pool and bar, with a rooftop lounge called “Ático” above. Accommodations include shared mixed or female dorm rooms (bunk beds with lockers) and private rooms (king or twin beds) . This bohemian venue is geared toward backpackers, digital nomads and festival lovers, offering a communal, festive vibe – indeed one review describes it as “an oasis for barefoot travelers … free-spirited energy [to] meet new friends” .
Events and Programming
Mayan Monkey Tulum is known for music events and parties year-round. In peak season it essentially turns into a festival venue. For example, each New Year the hostel hosts the Muluk Rhythm festival (typically Dec 31–early January) right on-site . During 12–16 days of Muluk, each afternoon and evening features live DJ sets by international electronic artists, pool parties, and themed nights (neon parties, tropical beach vibes, etc.) . Guests who book a stay during Muluk enjoy free festival access and shuttle service to the main stage . In addition, the hostel runs its own recurring events. Every day often brings late-afternoon music by the pool and lively evening DJ sets on the rooftop or bar area, giving a festival-like feel even outside December. Special holiday parties are also a draw. For instance, Halloween is marked by a “Carnevil” costume party with scary games and live spooky tunes , and Christmas “Posadas” nights are celebrated with festive drink specials and giveaways. In short, you’ll find DJs and dancing on most nights, especially in December–January, plus occasional theme nights (language exchanges, game nights, etc.) posted by the hostel.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike a traditional concert venue, Mayan Monkey has no public box office – events are closely tied to the hostel’s bookings. You generally reserve a bed or room (via the website or travel sites) rather than individual show tickets. During festival periods, your accommodation automatically includes party admission. For example, anyone staying at Mayan Monkey Tulum during the Muluk Rhythm festival receives a festival pass and shuttle without extra charge . If you’re not a guest but still want to attend Muluk, you must buy a Muluk pass through the festival organizers. Other nights and special parties usually admit all hostel guests free or at minimal cover; on rare occasions (big DJ acts, Halloween, etc.) advance tickets or door cover might be required. In practice, it’s best to book lodging early if you want to take part in the major events (rooms and passes sell out fast). The hostel’s own reservation system offers flexible or non-refundable rates with cancellation policies (e.g. free changes up to 72 hours before arrival ). For non-festival nights, simply show up and check in – the venue is open and most events have open admission for in-house guests.
Seating and Layout
Mayan Monkey Tulum’s layout is casual and open. The ground floor encloses a central courtyard with a swimming pool, sun loungers and a bar counter . Surrounding this courtyard on the first two floors are the accommodations and common areas; a spiral staircase leads up to the rooftop Ático bar. Seating is entirely general-admission: there are no reserved seats for events. Guests usually spread out on poolside lounge chairs, wooden benches, beanbags, or bar stools. The best spots depend on the vibe: pool-level seating puts you right next to the DJ booth for loud party energy, while the rooftop lounge offers panoramic views (and often cooler breezes) at sunset. Acoustically it’s all open-air, so music from the pool or rooftop carries throughout – many reviews note the pool bar is “the heart of the vibe” for its lively afternoon and evening music . If you want a quieter corner, head to the coworking or seating areas near reception. In general, try to get to popular events early to claim a shaded lounger or table. During busy parties, note standing-room is the norm; newcomers often wedge into any available gap. Avoid blocking fire exits or walkways. Lighting is casual (fairy lights, spot uplights); at night the pool area is party-lit and most people dance or chat under the stars.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The hostel’s address is Avenida Coba Sur S/N (KM 25), Tulum 77524, Quintana Roo . This is the main road leading south out of Tulum (toward Playa del Carmen). It lies roughly equidistant between downtown Tulum and the hotel zone beaches .By Car or Taxi: If driving, you’ll turn off Highway 307 onto Avenida Coba Sur. Several free parking spaces are located right in front of the property； they are first-come and fill up quickly . Upon arrival, ask the front desk for a parking permit to place on your dashboard. Uber/Didi/taxis from downtown Tulum can drop you at the hostel entrance on Coba Sur; there is no official gated lot, so street parking is the norm. Nighttime taxi stands are in downtown (≈10 min away).Shuttle Service: The hostel itself offers private airport transfers. As of 2024–2025, shuttle packages from Cancun airport to Tulum cost about $145 USD for 1–3 people or $180 USD for up to 8 people . These are door-to-door vans. (Alternatively, you can take an official ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum town and then a local taxi for the last 2 km.)Public Transit: For budget travel, take the ADO bus to Tulum’s central terminal (in town). From there you can take a colectivo (shared van) heading south toward Coba/Playa del Carmen; ask the driver to drop you at “Coba Sur” or near I.A.T.A. You can also walk or ride a bike (≈20 min south) from the ADO lot. Within Tulum, there is no metro/subway – just buses/colectivos along Hwy 307 and taxis.Bicycles and Walking: The hostel rents bicycles (~MXN 215/day) . It’s about a 15–20 minute bike ride from downtown Tulum to the hostel, and roughly the same distance (5 km) to reach the beach zone. Walking from downtown takes about 20 minutes along the flat streets. Many travelers find biking the easiest low-cost way to explore nearby cenotes or restaurants.Parking Tip: If the hostel’s small lot is full, street parking is the only option. Always lock your vehicle, as these spots are unsupervised. Uber operates sporadically in Tulum, so don’t count on it late at night – pre-arrange a cab if needed.
Inside the Venue
On entering Mayan Monkey Tulum, expect a laid-back, party-friendly atmosphere. Reception is open 24/7 and staff greet you with a smile. Guests typically receive a key card or wristband. There are no formal security lines (it’s a hostel, not a concert hall) unless a specific event requires ID checks. Most activity centers on the ground-floor courtyard and adjacent bar. By day this space is casual and quiet (often filled with sunbathing or laptop-working guests), but by night it becomes a bustling dance lounge. The on-site bar serves cocktails, beer and non-alcoholic drinks. Piercing a friendly note, reviewers mention that the bartenders even hold impromptu margarita or guacamole-making classes – a testament to the venue’s personal touch. The restaurant kitchen (same space) is open approximately 7 AM–11 PM, offering breakfast, sandwiches, salads and tacos. Prices are reasonable for Tulum: neither street-cheap nor jungle-lodge expensive. The hostel also has a small shop/bodega for snacks, water and beach essentials.
Ancillary facilities include a shared kitchen (with fridge and stove) and coin laundry, which guests may use. Fast Wi-Fi covers the pool, lounge and most rooms , enabling digital nomads to work on site (there is a dedicated coworking area with tables and outlets ). Private rooms generally have ensuite bathrooms and AC, while dorms share cluster bathrooms. Towels are provided in private rooms; for dorms you may need to bring your own or rent. Restrooms are clean but basic. There’s luggage storage at reception (free on the day you arrive/depart) . The hostel enforces an 18+ rule (no children) and smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor spots. Dress code is casual – flip-flops, shorts and a tank top are fine, but walkways are stone so no high heels. In short, inside Mayan Monkey is very much a hostel vibe: minimal formalities, a friendly communal bar, and a party atmosphere after dark. Everything is geared toward comfort and socializing rather than luxury.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants and Cafés: The hostel is surrounded by Tulum’s casual dining scene . A short stroll brings you to taco stands, fruit juice carts and taquerías serving fresh Mexican fare. For sit-down meals, Alma Verde and its sister eatery Bio-Natural (vegan/organic cuisine) are popular nearby options. There are also pizza joints, burger bars and street-food carts just off Avenida Coba. Breakfast options (smoothie shops, coffee) open early.Bars and Nightlife: Besides the hostel bar, downtown Tulum (≈1.5 km) features many open-air bars and lounges. Places like Batey Mojito Bar or local pubs offer drinks and music. Most late-night spots start bussing after 9 PM. If you venture east to the hotel zone by bike or taxi, you’ll find beach bars (Casa Jaguar, etc.) and clubs as well.Shops and Markets: There are small convenient stores and mini-markets along Coba Sur, plus a farmacia (pharmacy) nearby. A short walk leads to Tulum Centro where bigger supermarkets (like Mega) are located. Street vendors outside often sell fresh fruit, agua frescas and souvenirs within steps of the hostel.Lodging: If friends need nearby lodging, downtown Tulum has many hostels and boutique hotels (Selina Tulum, Hostel Mundo Maya, etc.), while the hotel zone (east) has condos and beach hotels. Mayan Monkey itself sits in a transitional area: you’re closer to town life than beachfront luxury.Attractions: Famous Tulum Mayan ruins are about 3 km north – reachable by taxi or bike. Good cenotes (Dos Ojos, Calavera, etc.) lie 10–15 minutes’ drive south on the highway (some tours can be booked via the hostel). For practical needs, the ADO bus terminal is in Tulum center (~10 min away); pharmacies, clinics, and banks are all in town.Arrival/Departure Tips: If you have time before check-in (3 PM) or after checkout (noon), note that the hostel lets you use the pool and lounge early. Also be sure to grab pesos in town beforehand since the hostel area has no ATM on site. Rides back to town are available at any hour – just ask reception to call a taxi or arrange a shuttle.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set Mayan Monkey Tulum apart. Chief among them is the social community . Reviewers consistently praise how personal and friendly the experience is. For example, guests note staff often learn your name and breakfast order, and even hold free bar workshops for cocktails and guacamole . This focus on hospitality gives the place a tight-knit “hostel party” vibe unlike a generic hotel. The design also emphasizes connection: multiple communal spaces (pool, rooftop, hammocks) naturally bring strangers together. Another big draw is the festival culture . Mayan Monkey links directly into Tulum’s famous electronic music scene. Its location and amenities turn it into an open-air club during peak season . For event-goers, it’s more than a place to sleep – it’s at the heart of the action. Even outside festival weeks, the daily pool parties and night DJ sets make it feel perpetually festive . In short, this hostel blends lodging with nightclub energy – capturing Tulum’s boho, free-spirited beach culture in one venue. Many visitors say they come for the music and stay (or return) because of the friendships formed and the relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. It truly shines as a home base for the season’s biggest parties and as a meeting point for adventure-loving travelers .
Visitor Tips and Information
Age Restriction: Mayan Monkey Tulum is adults-only. The minimum age is 18 (no children allowed). Always carry ID for check-in and bar credits.Accessibility: This hostel is not wheelchair-friendly. There are stairs to most areas (including the rooftop) and no elevator . Guests requiring assistance should note this limitation.What to Bring: Swimwear and a towel (for the pool), sunscreen and flip-flops for daytime, and a light jacket or long pants for cooler evenings. Earplugs can help if you’re a light sleeper (music can be loud until midnight). We recommend a reusable water bottle; the hostel has water dispensers.Dress Code: Casual is fine – beach attire or relaxed clothes. No formal dress code. Note that most parties are outdoors, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are key during the day.Luggage: You can store luggage at reception at check-in/check-out day for free . Extra days of storage incur a small fee. Travel light if you plan to move around the hostel a lot.Payments and Currency: Mexican pesos or credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted . The hostel also charges \$5 USD per room for late check-out hours (12–2pm). Tip in pesos is customary.Meals and Drinks: The on-site restaurant/bar serves food most of the day. There’s no outside food or drink allowed in the bar area, but you may bring bottled water or snacks for your room. Outside (street) eateries can be cheaper for meals.Lounge/Tech: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel . The hosts also offer daily yoga classes in the morning (on the deck or lawn). If you need quiet time, the afternoon pool hours are usually calmer and the rooftop has shaded seating.Parking: If you drive, get a parking pass from reception for the front lot (limited spaces) . Double-check street signage – by day it’s free, but late at night nearby streets can be watched by patrol cars.Outdoor Areas: There is no smoking inside; you may smoke at the designated open-air areas by the pool. Mosquito repellent is useful at dusk. The property is close to nature, so watch your step around the gardens.Local Etiquette: Tulum has a relaxed vibe but be mindful of locals. Spanish greetings and thank you (hola, gracias) go a long way. Tipping the hostel staff (10–15%) for bar and cleaning is appreciated. Finally, don’t forget to drink bottled or filtered water outside the hostel if you tour the area.
Where is Mayan Monkey Tulum located, and how can I get there?
Mayan Monkey Tulum is on Avenida Coba Sur (KM 25), between downtown Tulum and the beach zone . You can reach it by taxi or colectivo from central Tulum (colectivos run along Hwy 307 and will stop by request). If arriving from Cancun, the hostel offers paid private shuttles (~$145–$180 USD) . Alternatively, take the ADO bus to Tulum town and a quick taxi for the last 2 km.
Is there parking available at Mayan Monkey Tulum?
Yes, the hostel provides a few free parking spots right in front of the building . These are unassigned and first-come. Upon arrival you should ask reception for a parking placard to display on your dashboard. Because spots fill up, you may sometimes need to park on the street and display the hostel tag.
Is Mayan Monkey Tulum wheelchair accessible?
No – the hostel is built on multiple levels with only stair access. A reviewer notes there is “no step-free access” . All common areas and many rooms require climbing stairs, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
Are bicycles available on-site?
Yes, the hostel rents bicycles to guests. The daily rate is around MXN 215 per bike . Renting a bike is a popular way to explore around Tulum (flat roads to the beach, ruins, etc.), and the staff can help with helmets and locks.
What is the minimum age to stay at Mayan Monkey Tulum?
Guests must be 18 years or older to stay at this hostel . It is an 18+ property, so no minors or children are permitted. You should carry photo ID for check-in and any venue events.
What payment methods are accepted?
The hostel accepts Mexican pesos (cash) and major credit/debit cards (Visa and MasterCard) . American Express is not accepted. Service fees (tips, airport shuttles) can be paid in cash or card. If paying late (e.g. extra nights), currency dollars or euros may also be accepted, but it’s safest to use pesos or your credit card.
How do I cancel or modify a reservation?
This depends on your rate type. A flexible booking allows free changes or cancellations up to 72 hours before check-in . Non-refundable rates cannot be refunded or changed. If you booked through the hostel website, use their cancellation form as instructed. For third-party bookings (Booking.com, Expedia, etc.), contact that agency. Always check the confirmation for your specific terms.
When is check-in and check-out?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM and check-out is by 12:00 PM (noon) . Early arrivals may leave bags at reception and can use the pool or lounge before check-in. Late check-out (until 2:00 PM) is available for a fee (~\$5 USD) if arranged with reception.
Is luggage storage available?
Yes. The hostel provides free luggage storage on the day of your arrival and departure . This means you can drop off bags at reception before check-in time, or leave them after check-out if you have a later flight. For storage beyond those days a small fee applies.
Does Mayan Monkey Tulum have a restaurant and bar?
Yes. There is an on-site restaurant and full bar. The bar is lively and staff are known for being friendly (guests even mention free margarita/guacamole classes occasionally ). The kitchen serves breakfast and casual meals all day (tacos, salads, etc.). Drink prices are roughly moderate for Tulum. The rooftop bar (Ático) opens in the evening as well.
Is Wi-Fi available at the hostel?
Free high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout Mayan Monkey Tulum . You can connect in all guest areas (pool, lounge, rooms and even the rooftop) once you have a room or wristband. It supports typical online use; however, speeds may slow slightly during big events or peak evening times.
Do I need tickets for events or parties at the hostel?
Most on-site events (pool parties, DJ nights) are free for hostel guests, so no separate tickets are needed. For large festivals like Muluk Rhythm, you typically need a festival pass – however, guests receive these passes at no extra charge . In short, if you have a room there, you won’t need to pay cover for the majority of hostel events. Always confirm with staff on arrival if an upcoming event requires any ticket.
Are outside food or drinks allowed?
Outside alcohol is not permitted in the bar or party areas. You should plan to buy drinks on-site or before entry. Outside snacks or meals (other than bottled water) can be eaten in your room or the shared kitchen, but typically you’ll buy food from the on-site restaurant or nearby eateries.
Is there any membership for discounts?
Yes. Mayan Monkey offers a “Monkey Membership” program for extended stays. Members get up to 35% off a flat rate on long consecutive bookings (up to 30 days) at any Mayan Monkey location (Cancún, Tulum, etc.) . Check the official site for details or sign up during booking.
How can I keep up with the hostel’s daily activities?
The hostel posts its schedule on-site. Common ways to find daily plans are: visit reception, check the activities board in the lobby, or follow their social media (Instagram/Facebook) . Staff will also announce special events each day, so feel free to ask at the desk when you arrive.
