Tulum is one of the most visited towns in the Riviera Maya, mostly known for its ruins by the sea, its cenotes, and white beaches. And while you absolutely have to enjoy all these activities, one of my favorite things to do in Tulum (especially when it rains) is learn the secrets behind Mexico’s most beloved dishes.
When joining a cooking class, you’ll be diving into the culture and history of Tulum through its cuisine (which, who are we kidding, it’s mouthwatering!)
A chef will show you all the tricks, tips, and secret recipes, and then you get to enjoy your meal. What’s not to love about this? No more inauthentic Mexican take-away when you’re back home – you’ll be able to prepare delicious local meals in your own kitchen, long after the trip is over.
In this post, you’ll find a handpicked selection of the very best cooking classes in Tulum.
➥ Why can you trust me? While I haven’t personally taken a cooking class in Tulum, I’ve done so in other Mexican destinations such as San Jose del Cabo. I’ve always immensely enjoyed the experience (even if I’m a terrible cook!)
I’ve spent over 6 months traveling all around Mexico, and each region has its own special ingredients and cooking styles. So I know what makes a cooking class not just fun but also rich in local culture.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the best options:
| THE BEST CLASS | Mexican Cooking from Scratch |
| PRIVATE CLASS | Private Mayan Food Cooking Class |
| CHOCOLATE EXPERIENCE | Chocolate and Honey Experience |
OUR PICK: The BEST Tulum Cooking Class
This Mexican Cooking from Scratch and Mezcal Tasting in a Local Home in Tulum is the best cooking class on the list, at least in our opinion. If you’re eager to learn tasty recipes for some of Mexico’s most popular dishes, I wouldn’t think twice about joining.
Your host will welcome you to her house in the Mexican jungle and introduce you to the traditional ingredients of Mayan and Aztec cuisine. After an interesting introduction to the region’s traditional dishes and the lesson’s menu, you’ll get ready to cook.
Follow your host’s lead to prepare a 3-course meal. You’ll be making tortillas from scratch, plus , guacamole, tacos al pastor (my favorites!), and cream cheese jelly for dessert.
Once everything’s done, enjoy your meal with the rest of the class. Cap off the experience by taking part in a mezcal tasting.
➤ Why is this the best cooking class? With over four hundred 5-star reviews, this class is super comprehensive, offering an in-depth introduction to Mexican cuisine. You’ll not only learn to craft authentic dishes – possibly with a modern twist! – but learn the history behind each of them.
A local will guide you through Mexico’s traditions and culinary secrets, ensuring that you have a genuine experience. Plus, the class will have a maximum of 10 people, so you will actually be able to learn and get to meet your fellow travelers.
Read what the reviews say:
“Visiting Lily’s home and cooking in her kitchen was the highlight of my trip! She was an absolute expert in authentic Mexican cooking and shared her grandmother’s recipes, as well as important history about the cuisines. The food we made was absolutely delicious. This was such a wholesome and lovely experience it made me emotional. If you are Tulum be sure to carve out an evening to spend at Lily’s, you will not regret it!”
Maddie_H – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Food and drinks, fresh ingredients, and the cooking class. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Cooking Classes in Tulum
Do you prefer an exclusive experience for you and your party? Then check out this Private Mayan Food Cooking Class, Cenote and Coba Ruins. This culinary experience begins with a visit to an authentic Mayan family. They’ll introduce you to traditional Mexican cuisine and teach you how to prepare it.
You’ll make tortillas, learn how to marinate meat, and bury the food in the ground to be prepared. You’ll visit a cenote for a refreshing dip, and return later to enjoy a tasty lunch with the family.
This tour includes: Private transfers, breakfast and lunch, bottled water, a cooking class, and a visit to the cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Chocolate Class in Tulum
Chocolate lover? Create your very own sweets in this amazing Tulum: Chocolate and Honey Sanctuary Experience with Lunch.
Your host will explain the history of cacao and all you need to know about the raw bean. You’ll then proceed to roast, peel, and turn it into a delicious chocolate creation with your favorite flavors.
The class includes a soap-making workshop using the Maya bees’ organic honey. To finish the day you’ll indulge in a gourmet lunch based on chocolate and honey, and swim in the fresh waters of a cenote.
It’s undoubtedly one of the most striking Tulum cooking classes you’ll come across!
This tour includes: Lunch, entrance fee, cenote swimming, and both chocolate and honey experiences. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Mezcal & Tequila Tasting in Tulum
The Tequila and Mezcal Tasting in Tulum with Cheese Pairing allows you to discover the country’s signature drinks with an expert. Both tequila and mezcal originate from the agave plant, however, they are quite different.
You’ll learn what sets them apart as you taste them, and delve into the history of both spirits, their production process, and their origin in this wonderful experience.
The tasting includes samples by artisanal and small-batch producers to ensure the quality of the drinks, and cheese pairings.
This tour includes: All tastings and cheeses, and a knowledgeable host. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
