Tulum to Offer Weekly Free Entry at Archaeological Sites

Cancún, Mexico — President Claudia Sheinbaum announced during her visit to Quintana Roo that her administration is preparing a decree to establish one free entry day per week at the archaeological sites of Tulum, following a model already implemented by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) at other sites across the country.

Free Access Initiative

"Yes, we are considering it, just like in other archaeological zones where Sundays are free. The idea is to have one free day so people don’t have to pay for entry. We are reviewing it, and it will happen very soon," Sheinbaum stated when asked about the current admission fees at the site.

She emphasized that the measure does not require legal reform: "There must be a free day—it’s mandatory. What we’re reviewing is when it will start… But we will do it." Authorities have reiterated that existing fee exemption policies remain in place.

Complaints Over Enforcement

Despite official assurances, residents have voiced complaints on social media, alleging that the promised free entry to archaeological sites is not being honored, according to reports by Infobae.

Controversy Over Military Involvement

As previously reported by REPORTUR.mx, the National Union of Workers of the Secretary of Culture recently condemned the transfer of ticketing control at the Tulum archaeological site to the military-run company Grupo Mundo Maya—a responsibility that, by law, belongs to INAH.

José Enrique Vidal, Secretary General of the National Executive Committee of the union, denounced that the National Guard conducts patrols in the archaeological zone while Grupo Mundo Maya handles ticket sales, leading to allegations of double-charging visitors.

"The creation of a parallel entity to manage funds that should be allocated to the country’s historical memory is concerning," Vidal warned.

Public Reaction

Comments on the announcement reflect mixed reactions. One user suggested extending free access to the Maya Train to boost ridership, while another criticized the current system, noting that visitors must pay a $230 fee to enter an adjacent park even if they only wish to access the archaeological site. A third commenter pointed out that free Sundays were already standard at archaeological sites before the introduction of additional fees.

The decree is expected to be finalized soon, though an exact implementation date has not yet been confirmed.