Tulum Ticket Changes Spark Worker Protests – INAH Responds

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The Mexican Ministry of Culture and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have issued a clarification regarding recent changes to ticket sales at the Tulum Archaeological Zone, following protests by a group of workers at the site.

Streamlined Ticket Sales Implemented

Since August 10, 2025, under an agreement between the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp), Grupo Mundo Maya, and INAH, tourists can now purchase tickets for the Tulum Archaeological Zone, Tulum National Park, and Jaguar Park at a single point of sale. The measure aims to optimize the visitor experience by reducing wait times through consolidated ticket purchases.

INAH emphasized that this procedure does not replace the functions of its personnel, as the tickets made available by Grupo Mundo Maya at the Jaguar Park ticket office were previously acquired from the institute. Authorities confirmed that direct sales at the Tulum Archaeological Zone ticket office continue to operate as usual.

Worker Concerns Addressed

Regarding workers' concerns about potential labor rights violations, INAH stated that the accusations are unfounded, as no modifications have been made to labor processes or the institute’s operations.

Existing fee exemption policies remain in place for certain groups, including:

• Mexican children under 13
• Teachers and students
• Persons with disabilities
• Senior citizens with valid Inapam identification

Free admission on Sundays for Mexican nationals and foreign residents also continues. Exemptions additionally apply to members of indigenous communities from municipalities near archaeological sites, provided they present valid official identification.

Commitment to Transparency and Access

INAH and the Ministry of Culture reaffirmed their commitment to Mexico’s cultural heritage, pledging to promote measures that diversify access options while ensuring respect for labor rights and transparency in their relations with communities and visitors.