Tren Maya Fails to Boost Bacalar Tourism as Promised

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — Seven months after its inauguration, the Tren Maya station in Bacalar has yet to fulfill its promise as a catalyst for regional tourism, according to local service providers. Despite being marketed as a transformative project for southern Quintana Roo, the influx of visitors remains largely unchanged, raising concerns about the initiative’s economic impact.

Minimal Visitor Increase Despite High Expectations

The Tren Maya, which connects Bacalar to destinations such as Chetumal, Palenque, Escárcega, Campeche, Mérida, Valladolid, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen, was expected to position the town as a key tourism hub. However, local businesses report negligible growth in tourist arrivals via the rail service.

“The tourism impact hasn’t been noticeable. Among service providers, we haven’t seen an increase in visitors arriving by the Tren Maya. The presence of tourists using this transportation to reach Bacalar is almost nonexistent,” said Max Contreras Méndez, administrator of the Ejidal Balneario at the Laguna de los Siete Colores.

Lack of Promotion and Information Hinders Usage

Beyond the low passenger numbers, operators cite insufficient promotion and unclear scheduling information as major obstacles. Contreras Méndez emphasized the need for broader outreach efforts to attract travelers.

“There’s a lack of comprehensive dissemination strategies. Posting schedules at stations isn’t enough. We need an effective informational campaign on digital platforms, hotels, and travel agencies—something concrete to encourage tourists to consider the train as a viable option,” he added.

Financial Viability Questioned Amid Heavy Subsidies

While the federal government has reported ticket sales revenue of 299.8 million pesos, official figures reveal the Tren Maya’s heavy reliance on public subsidies. Over 12,867 million pesos were allocated this year alone to sustain operations, raising doubts about its long-term financial sustainability given the low demand.

Even with competitive fares and promotions like 2-for-1 deals, the rail project has failed to draw significant ridership or deliver on its economic promises for Bacalar, where tourism still depends primarily on other transportation methods.

As the Laguna de los Siete Colores and Bacalar’s cultural riches await a tourism revival, the Tren Maya remains far from becoming the regional economic engine it was touted to be.