Tourists Complain of Excessive National Guard Presence in Tulum

Tulum, Quintana Roo — Tourists in Tulum have begun complaining about what they perceive as an excessive presence of National Guard personnel in the area, even as business groups voice support for the security reinforcement.

Federal Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch announced the bolstering of security in tourist and archaeological zones nationwide, following a deadly attack in Teotihuacán. The move has drawn mixed reactions in Tulum, particularly around the Parque del Jaguar development.

Lenin Amaro Betancourt, coordinator of the southeastern region of the National Association of Regional Business Councils (Ancer), said that while the increase in federal forces is positive, proper protocols must be applied to avoid harming the visitor experience.

“In destinations like Parque del Jaguar in Tulum, we have already received complaints from tourists due to an excessive perception of the National Guard,” Amaro said. “Still, it is better to have more surveillance than none at all.”

Amaro stressed the challenge lies in balancing security with tourist comfort to ensure a safe environment without causing discomfort or a negative perception among visitors. He called for protocols to be implemented before the upcoming summer high season, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching.

The security reinforcement follows a armed attack at the Teotihuacán archaeological site that killed a foreign tourist and injured 13 others. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the site’s reopening with enhanced security measures.