New Rules for Ruta de los Cenotes Tourism Growth

Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — In response to exponential tourism growth along the Ruta de los Cenotes, state authorities have launched a comprehensive evaluation of service providers in the area. The initiative aims to formalize businesses through the State Tourism Registry while ensuring sustainable and orderly development, according to Reportur.

Andrés Aguilar, Undersecretary of Tourism for Quintana Roo, explained to the cited outlet that this ecotourism corridor has seen surging demand from nature-focused travelers, necessitating clear regulatory measures.

“Growth must adhere to sustainability criteria. Fortunately, we are already part of the committees and are promoting the formal registration of operators in the area to ensure they comply with regulations,” Aguilar stated.

Few Certified Operators: The Challenge of Training

Currently, only a small number of tourism service providers hold formal certifications. One of the primary challenges will be training operators and integrating environmental and sustainability practices into their services. This effort seeks to enhance the quality and safety of visitor experiences while protecting the region’s unique natural environment.

A Natural Paradise of Cenotes and Mayan Spirituality

The Ruta de los Cenotes stretches from Puerto Morelos into the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, bordered by tropical jungle and dotted with cenotes—geological formations found nowhere else in the world. These freshwater sinkholes, ranging from open-air to semi-enclosed or fully underground, offer experiences from adventure to spiritual connection.

Beyond their scenic beauty, these sites were sacred to the ancient Maya and continue to attract travelers seeking a link to nature and ancestral history.

Cultural Tourism and Nature: A Perfect Complement

As previously reported by Reportur.mx, Playa del Carmen anticipates a summer tourism surge despite sargassum concerns. In this context, Adán Toledo Lucero, president of the Canaco-Servytur in Playa del Carmen, has advised tour operators to include visits to cenotes and archaeological sites like Cobá, Chichén Itzá, and Tulum in their packages.

This integrated approach not only diversifies tourism offerings but also alleviates beach congestion and promotes responsible tourism inland.