Tulum Tourism Drops as New Fees Scare Visitors Away

Tulum, Mexico — Merchants operating near the historic entrance to the Tulum archaeological site have reported a sharp decline in tourist traffic, raising concerns among business owners who have operated in the area for over half a century. According to local accounts, visitor numbers have dropped to levels not seen in recent years, directly impacting sales and the economic stability of families reliant on tourism.

A Concerning Downturn

Gerardo Méndez, manager of Arventur Bikers Tulum—one of the oldest businesses in the area—stated, "This season started far below what we used to record. We’re seeing a significant drop in visitor arrivals."

Merchants attribute the decline to multiple factors, primarily the introduction of new access fees for both the archaeological site and nearby beaches, now part of the Jaguar National Park (PNJ).

New Fees Deter Visitors

"Now, there’s an entrance fee not just for the archaeological zone but also for the beaches. This discourages many visitors, especially those on tight budgets," Méndez explained.

Local vendors argue that the new fee structure has had the opposite of its intended effect, reducing accessibility and diminishing interest in a site that has long been one of the Mexican Caribbean’s most iconic destinations. There are fears that without intervention, tourism could shift to other locations in the state or country, leaving the area economically vulnerable.

Calls for Dialogue

"We’re worried this area could be forgotten. If no action is taken soon, many businesses may close permanently," Méndez warned.

In response, merchants have urged authorities from the Jaguar National Park and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) to establish a dialogue to balance heritage conservation with the economic sustainability of those who have supported Tulum’s tourism industry for generations.

Uncertainty Looms

For now, businesses continue to open daily, but pedestrian traffic has visibly dwindled, casting doubt over the future of a commercial corridor once considered the gateway to the walled city.