Tulum: Where Our Journey Took Flight
Walking down the sandy streets of Tulum always feels like coming home. Some years ago, we opened our first international store in this bohemian beach town. Back then (before the pandemic), Tulum was the place that catapulted Espíritu onto the global stage – a melting pot of travelers from every corner of the world who stumbled upon our little huarache shop and fell in love with our handcrafted sandals. Although that storefront eventually closed its doors, it left us with something far more precious than sales or souvenirs: it gave us a community. The people of Tulum – locals, expats, and wanderers alike – became part of the Espíritu family, and their support and friendship are an invaluable treasure we carry with us everywhere.
Tulum itself is pure magic. Officially recognized as a Pueblo Mágico, it’s an international destination that somehow still retains a soulful, small-town charm. Picture it: turquoise Caribbean waters kissing powder-white beaches, ancient Mayan temples standing guard over the cliffs, and a vibrant town center humming with music, art, and life. There’s a special energy here – a blend of history, nature, and spirituality – that draws you in and never really lets you go. I think that’s why even after our store closed, we find ourselves returning to Tulum again and again. Each visit is a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet kindred spirits passing through, and discover new corners of this ever-evolving paradise. Every time I arrive, I feel the same sense of wonder I did on my first visit. Every time I leave, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and inspiration.
Over the years, Tulum has become our creative escape and our second home. We’ve wandered its jungles, swum in its cenotes, watched countless sunsets paint the sky neon pink over the lagoon. We’ve seen Tulum grow and change, yet miraculously it keeps its wild, free spirit intact. It’s this spirit – this harmonious mix of nature’s grandeur and human warmth – that resonates so deeply with Espíritu’s values. Our brand is all about honoring tradition, embracing craftsmanship, and building connections, and Tulum embodies all of those ideals. That’s why our team makes regular pilgrimages here, both for inspiration and for the sheer joy of being in a place that feeds the soul.
An Enchanting Escape at Wakax Hacienda
On our most recent journey back to Tulum, we ventured a bit off the beaten path and discovered a place that absolutely stole our hearts: Wakax Hacienda. Tucked away in the lush jungle just inland from Tulum’s buzzing center, Wakax Hacienda feels like stepping into another world – or rather, stepping back into another time. This 5-star retreat is a tranquil escape designed for disconnecting from the hectic pace of modern life and reconnecting with nature and oneself. Driving up the long, tree-lined road at golden hour, we were immediately struck by how peaceful it was. All we could hear were birds chirping and the wind rustling through the trees – a gentle welcome from the jungle.
Wakax Hacienda is an absolute gem that blends heritage, nature, and luxury in perfect balance. The property spans over 160 hectares of untouched Yucatecan jungle – essentially its own private paradise. At its heart stands the hacienda itself, modeled after an 18th-century colonial estate complete with a quaint chapel and a central plaza. When I first saw the terra-cotta walls and white chapel bell tower peeking above the palms, I felt as if I’d wandered into a colonial-era dream. The architecture pays homage to history, yet the design is also refreshingly modern and thoughtful. Inside the main house, polished concrete floors and sturdy wooden beams are paired with artisan-made ceramics and colorful Mexican textiles that celebrate local craft. Every corner seems to tell a story – from the hand-carved furniture to the mosaic tiles – and as an Espíritu team member who works with Mexican artisans every day, I deeply appreciated these details.
Surrounding the hacienda are lush grounds filled with natural wonders. A crystal-clear emerald lagoon stretches out alongside the property, and just beyond, hidden in the jungle’s embrace, are three gorgeous cenotes (natural freshwater sinkholes) with water so blue and pristine it doesn’t seem real. In fact, Wakax is uniquely positioned right beside a trio of cenotes that are all part of the world’s largest underground river system– easy access to these ethereal turquoise pools is reason enough to stay here. As we wandered the pathways our first afternoon, we stumbled upon one cenote where sunlight was filtering down through the cavern opening, turning the water a brilliant aqua. It took my breath away. We knew right then that this place was something truly special.
What makes Wakax Hacienda even more enchanting is how immersive the experience is. Being here isn’t just a hotel stay; it’s like being welcomed into a secluded sanctuary deep in the jungle. The hustle and bustle of Tulum’s beach road feels a million miles away. Instead of reggae from a beach club, you wake up to the sounds of the jungle – birds, cicadas, the distant call of a howler monkey at dawn. Nights are dark and wonderfully starry (with one cenote on the grounds beautifully illuminated for night swims, creating a magical glow. There are no city lights, no distractions – just the flicker of torches along the paths and the chorus of crickets to serenade you to sleep. From the moment we checked in, we felt an almost immediate sense of calm wash over us. The staff greeted us like old friends, with cold hibiscus tea and warm smiles, and we instantly knew we were in good hands. Over the next few days, Wakax would not only give us rest and adventure, but also rekindle our connection to Tulum’s deeper spirit.
Adventures in the Heart of the Jungle
One of the things our Espíritu team loves most about Tulum is the way it invites you to live in rhythm with nature, and Wakax Hacienda made that easier than ever. Every day there offered a new adventure – a chance to play, explore, and reconnect with the land in a very intimate way. We made it our mission to experience as much as we could of Wakax’s activities, and they did not disappoint!
Each morning, we rose with the sun and started our day with a refreshing cenote swim. Wakax Hacienda has its own private cenote (aptly named Nohoch) just a short walk from our casitas, and wow, is it something out of a dream. We would climb down into this limestone cavern where jade-colored water shimmered in the half-light. Taking a deep breath, I slipped into the cool water and felt instantly invigorated – it’s impossible not to feel alive in a cenote. We snorkeled around, marveling at the surreal rock formations beneath the surface and the tiny fish darting around our feet. It felt like entering a secret underworld. One of my teammates described it perfectly: “It’s like the earth is hugging you.” We later learned that these cenotes are all interconnected by underground rivers, part of a massive system sacred to the Maya. Immersing ourselves in the cenote’s crystalline waters and exploring those hidden caves gave us a profound appreciation for Tulum’s geological wonders. It was the purest morning ritual – a literal baptism in nature.
After drying off from our cenote dip, we’d usually head to the lagoon for a kayaking adventure. The hacienda provides kayaks and even stand-up paddleboards for guests, so we couldn’t resist. One gorgeous morning, a few of us grabbed bright-red kayaks and pushed off into Wakax’s emerald-green lake. The water was so calm it looked like glass. As we glided along, we passed lily pads and watched dragonflies skim the surface. From the middle of the lagoon, you can see the hacienda’s terracotta buildings peeking through the trees on shore – a surreal juxtaposition of civilization and wildness. We paddled at a leisurely pace, soaking in the sunshine and the absolute tranquility. Not another soul in sight, just us and the gentle splash of our paddles. There’s something incredibly meditative about kayaking there; it lets you appreciate the jungle from a new perspective. A couple of my teammates even took paddleboards out later and practiced yoga right there on the water (braver souls than me!). Whether you’re gliding across the lagoon at dawn or watching the sunset reflect off the water in the evening, it’s the kind of peaceful, screen-free enjoyment that makes you feel like a kid again.
The land adventures at Wakax were just as unforgettable. One day, we decided to explore the jungle on a guided bike excursion – and let me tell you, it was amazing. The hotel offers mountain bikes and a guided trail ride through their 160-hectare property, so we eagerly signed up. Our guide, Miguel, led us along a 5-mile circuit under the dense canopy of trees. Pedaling on a narrow dirt path surrounded by towering ceiba and palm trees, we felt completely immersed in the wilderness. Miguel would stop every so often to point out interesting flora and fauna: a copal tree here (which the Maya use for incense), a family of spider monkeys swinging overhead there. At one stop, he showed us an unassuming plant and upon crushing its leaves, a lovely herbal scent wafted out – “jungle oregano,” he grinned. The ride took us to a small Mayan cultural center (a replica of a traditional Mayan village) hidden on the grounds, where we learned a bit about the local Mayan community’s history and their way of life. It was humbling to see how much respect Wakax has for the indigenous culture, preserving a space to educate guests about Mayan traditions. After cycling further through sun-dappled groves, we ended our journey at – you guessed it – another cenote! Hot and sweaty from the ride, we jumped straight into the clear blue water of a different cenote for a refreshing swim. Floating on my back, looking up at the halo of jungle around the cenote’s rim, I felt a wave of pure bliss. This bike adventure was the perfect blend of exercise, culture, and nature – truly one of the highlights of our stay.
We even indulged our inner adventurers with some horseback riding through the jungle one afternoon. Wakax arranged for gentle horses (all rescues, we were told, now living their best life grazing on the property) to take us on a leisurely trek under the canopy. As someone who hasn’t been on a horse in years, I was a bit nervous, but my horse – a sweet chestnut mare named Estrella – couldn’t have been more patient with me. Together, our small posse clopped along a winding trail, the late-afternoon sunlight filtering in beams through the trees. There was a serene quiet as we rode; we mostly communicated in smiles and the occasional “¡mira!” when someone spotted a wild turkey or a colorful toucan up in the branches. Experiencing the jungle on horseback felt almost cinematic – like we were explorers from another century. It’s incredible how the simple act of riding a horse can make you feel so connected to the environment. By the time we returned to the hacienda stables, I think all of us riders felt a deep sense of calm and accomplishment (and yes, slightly sore legs too!).
Of all these experiences, perhaps the most soul-stirring was the temazcal ceremony we participated in. For those unfamiliar, a temazcal is an ancient Mayan sweat lodge ritual – essentially a spiritual sauna – used for purification and renewal. Wakax Hacienda has a beautiful ceremonial temazcal (sweat lodge) on site, and they offer this experience to guests seeking a deeper connection to Mayan heritage. One evening, just before dusk, our team gathered by the temazcal hut, a low dome-shaped structure made of stone, looking a bit like an earthen igloo. A local shaman named Don Beto welcomed us and explained the significance of the ritual: it represents returning to the womb of Mother Earth to purify the mind, body, and spirit. We were each given a cup of herbal tea and invited to reflect on our intentions. Then, in single file, we entered the temazcal. Inside, it was completely dark except for the faint glow of red-hot volcanic stones in the center. Don Beto began to chant in Maya and pour water over the stones, releasing waves of steam. The air grew hot and thick (yes, it’s intense, but in a strangely comforting way). As we sat in the darkness, sweating out not just physical toxins but emotional burdens, the shaman’s voice guided us through four stages of the ceremony – honoring Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. We sang, we prayed (in our own ways), and we listened to the drumbeat echoing in that sacred space. I won’t lie – there were moments I felt challenged to keep breathing steadily, but when it became a bit much, I felt a teammate’s hand squeeze mine gently, reminding me I wasn’t alone. After what felt like both an eternity and an instant, Don Beto opened the door flap, letting cool evening air rush in. We emerged from the temazcal covered in sweat and tears, feeling utterly renewed – reborn as “fearless warriors,” as the Maya would say. To cool down, we jumped into yet another cenote (talk about a natural cold plunge!) and then gathered around a fire to share fresh fruit and water, our bodies exhausted but our hearts light. Participating in this ancestral ritual together was a profound bonding experience for our team. It grounded us in what Tulum is truly about: healing, transformation, and respect for ancient wisdom.
By the end of our stay, we all sensed that we weren’t just visiting Wakax Hacienda – we were fully immersed in it. We rose with the sun, we sweated with the earth, we swam in hidden waters, we rode with the wind. These adventures weren’t just thrill-seeking activities; they were meaningful experiences that allowed each of us to reconnect with the deeper rhythm of Tulum’s ecosystem and with ourselves. In the bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to forget the simple joy of moving slowly, of observing, of being present. Wakax gently reminded us of that joy at every turn.
Savoring Tulum’s Flavors and Community
All that adventure and exploration certainly worked up our appetites! Luckily, Wakax Hacienda understands that nourishment is about more than just food – it’s about community and culture too. One of the unexpected delights of our stay was the incredible culinary experience on site. Wakax has an open-air restaurant called El Cocal, perched by the lagoon under a big thatched palapa, and it quickly became our favorite gathering place. Every meal felt like a celebration of authentic Mexican flavors and the coming together of friends.
In true Yucatecan hospitality, each morning we were greeted with a colorful spread of fresh fruits, homemade pan dulce (sweet bread), and aromatic coffee that woke us up better than any alarm. Breakfast often featured local specialties – I’m still dreaming about the huevos motuleños (eggs on tortillas with black beans and plantains) I had on our first day. The cuisine at Wakax is a perfect mix of traditional Yucatán cooking techniques and ingredients with an elevated, contemporary twist. You can taste the love and heritage in every bite: from the rich cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork in achiote, a regional classic) that melts in your mouth, to the fragrant chaya leaf empanadas, to the indulgent cacao desserts that honor Mayan chocolate traditions. What impressed us was how thoughtfully everything was prepared and presented. The chefs clearly take pride in their craft, blending old and new to create dishes that are both comfortingly familiar and excitingly new. It’s the kind of food that sparks conversation – we’d find ourselves guessing the spices, asking the waiter about recipes, and marveling at how even the most traditional dishes were elevated to fine-dining standards (without losing soul).
Dinnertime at Wakax was downright magical. After a long day of activities, we’d reconvene at El Cocal, settling into our favorite lakeside table with hungry bellies and big smiles. As the sky shifted to dusk and candles were lit on each table, the whole place glowed with a warm, communal atmosphere. We often lingered for hours over dinner, not just because the food was so good (which it was, every single night), but because the ambiance invited it. Meals became meaningful communal moments for us – a time to unwind and truly connect. We’d share plates of guacamole and sikil pak (a delicious pumpkin seed dip) like family, clink glasses of freshly made tamarind agua fresca and local mezcal, and recount the day’s adventures with laughter echoing across the lagoon. One evening, a brief tropical rain shower passed through, and we all just scooted our chairs a bit further under the palapa and kept the conversation flowing as the rain drummed on the thatch roof. In that moment, I looked around at my teammates – some of whom I’ve known for years, others newer to the crew – and felt a swell of appreciation. Here we were, a little Espíritu tribe, brought together by a love of craft and adventure, breaking bread in this stunning corner of Tulum. It was one of those pinch-me life moments.
The staff at Wakax also played a huge role in these special meal times. They didn’t just serve us; they welcomed us like neighbors. They remembered our names and our favorite salsas (one colleague couldn’t get enough of the smoky habanero salsa – every meal they’d teasingly bring him an extra bowl). They happily chatted with us about the origins of certain dishes – one waiter proudly told us his abuela’s recipe inspired the cilantro lime soup on the menu that night. These exchanges made us feel at home. On our last evening, the manager surprised our table with a complimentary tasting of a rare local liqueur and thanked us for choosing Wakax. We were floored – here we were wanting to thank them for such a remarkable stay, and they beat us to it! It’s that genuine warmth and attention to detail that turned great food into unforgettable memories. By the end of the trip, we joked that we’d come back just for the food and friendly faces, adventures or not.
Reflections: Tradition, Craftsmanship, and Connection
As I sit and reflect on our Wakax Hacienda experience, I am struck by how profoundly it resonated with everything we stand for at Espíritu. Our brand’s mission has always been to honor Mexican tradition, celebrate craftsmanship, and foster genuine connection – and it felt like Wakax was a living, breathing embodiment of those same values.
Tradition: Throughout Wakax Hacienda, there is a reverence for the past that you can feel. You see it in the colonial architecture and the little chapel by the plaza, in the way the property integrates remnants of Mayan culture, and especially in experiences like the temazcal ceremony. Participating in that ancient ritual, hearing the Mayan language spoken in prayers, and learning the significance behind each element reminded me of why Espíritu started in the first place – to honor and preserve traditional arts and practices. Just as the temazcal left us feeling renewed and connected to generations of wisdom, our huarache craft connects us to a lineage of Mexican artisans stretching back centuries. It was a beautiful affirmation that keeping traditions alive is not just a mission; it’s a blessing.
Craftsmanship: I was continually amazed by the level of artistry and care poured into every aspect of Wakax. The buildings themselves are like pieces of art, with hand-crafted details and decor that showcase Mexican artisanal work. I noticed beautiful Talavera ceramic vases in the lobby, locally woven hammocks by the lagoon, and even the woodwork in our casita had intricate carvings. This dedication to craft spoke to me, because at Espíritu we obsess over quality and detail in our handmade huaraches in much the same way. Seeing how Wakax supports local craftsmanship – whether through architecture, interior design, or the culinary arts in their kitchen – was deeply inspiring. It reinforced our belief that when something is made with heart and skill, you can feel it. Each time I slipped on my own leather huaraches to head out for the day, I felt proud, knowing that we too are part of this tapestry of Mexican craftsmanship and excellence.
Connection: Perhaps the most poignant parallel was the sense of connection that Wakax nurtured – connection to nature, to culture, and to people. Wandering those jungle paths, swimming in sacred waters, or sharing stories over dinner, we felt truly connected to Tulum’s soul. Wakax Hacienda has a way of bringing people together in meaningful ways, very much like how Espíritu has brought together a community of travelers and artisans who cherish authentic experiences. In Tulum, years ago, we found our first international community of supporters – a family of espíritus libres (free spirits) who understood our vision. Visiting Wakax, I was moved to see that same spirit of community thriving. Strangers at the hacienda quickly became friends as we traded adventure tips by the pool. Our team grew closer than ever, bonding over awe-inspiring moments and heartfelt conversations. This is the kind of human connection that our brand aspires to create. It’s about belonging – whether you’re in a temazcal sharing spiritual vulnerability, or wearing huaraches that carry the story of the artisan who made them, it’s all about feeling that you are part of something bigger, part of a community and a story that matters.
Leaving Wakax Hacienda was bittersweet. We hugged the staff goodbye like we were leaving family. We took one last look at that emerald lagoon, the hacienda silhouetted against the morning sky, and we promised ourselves it’s not goodbye, but hasta pronto – see you soon. In the van on the way back to the airport, our conversation kept circling back to how grateful we are. Grateful for Tulum, for being the place that welcomed Espíritu with open arms and gave us the confidence to share Mexican heritage with the world. Grateful for the magic that Tulum never fails to reveal to us, trip after trip. And now, grateful for Wakax Hacienda, for reminding us why we do what we do.
I carry that gratitude with me now that I’m back home, and I find myself sharing these stories with anyone who’ll listen. There’s a renewed fire in me (and in all of us on the team who were there) to continue the Espíritu journey with even more heart – to weave the tranquility, tradition, and togetherness we felt at Wakax into our work and our lives.
To our beautiful Espíritu community: gracias for coming along on this little reflective journey. And if your own journey ever brings you to Tulum, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seek out Wakax Hacienda. Experience the cenotes that will cleanse your spirit, paddle out on the lagoon at sunrise, taste the love in a home-cooked Yucatecan meal, and lose track of time under the stars. Let yourself be embraced by Tulum’s magic – the same magic that has given us so much. We went to Wakax in search of a getaway and found a profound reconnection. I have no doubt that you, too, will fall in love with this magical place just as we did. After all, in places like Tulum and Wakax Hacienda, you don’t just take a trip – you bring a piece of it back with you in your soul, forever.
Gracias, Tulum – until next time. 🌴✨
