Quintana Roo Moves to Regulate Fees at Archaeological Sites

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The Quintana Roo Tourism Secretariat (Sedetur) has initiated negotiations to regulate excessive fees charged by ejidatarios for access to archaeological sites and services such as parking at locations including Ichkabal and Chacchoben in southern Quintana Roo. The move aims to prevent negative impacts on tourism and ensure fair pricing.

Deputy Tourism Secretary Omar Govea reported that the state government is working in coordination with various agencies to address this issue after visitors reported payments of up to 350 pesos or approximately 60 dollars, in some cases through divided charges, to access these historical and cultural sites.

According to the official, Governor Mara Lezama has led multiple working meetings involving ejidatarios, tourism authorities, the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), the Government Secretariat, and other state entities. The goal is to build an agreement that establishes clear, fair, and transparent fees.

Govea stated that the state government’s position is that communities should benefit from tourism, but under an orderly scheme that guarantees a positive experience for visitors. He indicated that when costs become excessive or unclear, it generates dissatisfaction and a negative perception of the destination, which impacts tourist flow.

The deputy secretary warned that if clear agreements and rules are not reached, this situation could lead to a decrease in tourism in the southern region of the state. He explained that increased costs for access and basic services discourage visits from both national and foreign tourists, who seek accessible destinations with cost certainty.