Quintana Roo, once known for the Cancun phenomenon in the 90s, is witnessing a similar situation in Tulum. The 90s saw Cancun's population double at the expense of the jungle, which shrunk by 7.1 percent, as detailed in the report "The development of tourism in Cancun, Quintana Roo and its consequences on the vegetation cover". The growth was marked by irregular settlements along the highway.

Tulum is currently experiencing unchecked urban growth, with the authorities seemingly ignoring the situation. The city is expanding chaotically with irregular settlements forming a poverty belt around the urban area. Despite closures, buildings up to seven stories high are being erected in nesting zones. Tulum is growing wildly in a lawless manner.

Tourism Surge Reflected in Flight Numbers

The tourism and real estate boom in Tulum is evident in its flight statistics. The latest report from the Federal Aviation Agency shows that Tulum International Airport "Felipe Carrillo Puerto" handled 212 thousand international passengers and 138 thousand national passengers in the first half of the year. Tulum's unique style, characterized by international electronic parties, ultra-luxury hotels, and exclusive parties in isolated spots surrounded by natural beauty, has attracted a high-income market. However, this popularity has its drawbacks.

The urgency to capitalize on the real estate boom has triggered a construction frenzy. According to the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI), there are over 300 developments in progress, six times more than in Cancun, which leads Latin America with 60 planned developments.

Marketing Without Permits

The issue is that most of these new developments are being marketed without construction permits, according to the association Defending the Right to a Healthy Environment. Despite accusations of dispossession and irregularities against several officials of the current government, no action has been taken. The State Prosecutor's Office has turned a blind eye.

An anonymous expert expressed frustration at the lack of action against these malpractices. He pointed out serious irregularities in the Tulum-Coba and Muyil areas, where developers seem to operate without fear of punishment. He believes that even if fined, developers will consider it a minor setback.

Million-Dollar Developments in Turtle Areas

Concerns have been raised about the "Adamar Solimán" development located in a turtle spawning and nesting area. The situation in Tankah Cuatro is equally alarming, where construction continues unabated with no regard for development plans or ecology. Land prices in the area have already soared to over 80 million dollars. The expert confirmed that Tulum could sustain vertical development, provided green areas are respected and services and infrastructure are properly planned.