Tulum Locals Protest Fees With Archaeological Zone Closure

TULUM, Mexico — Residents, business owners, and tourism service providers have announced plans to completely close the Tulum Archaeological Zone next Sunday, August 31, at 10:00 a.m. by blocking its four main access points. The protest is in response to the alleged failure of Grupo Mundo Maya (GAFSACOMM) to honor agreements guaranteeing free access for local inhabitants to the Jaguar Park and beaches.

The call for the protest, which organizers describe as an act of defense for tourism and the local economy, is circulating on community chat groups.

"We are fed up with this situation that does not benefit the community, nor the workers, nor the small businesses that depend on tourism," the messages state.

Business owners and residents accuse the company Gafsacom of failing to uphold previous agreements that guaranteed free access for municipal inhabitants.

The municipal president, Diego Castañón, joined the criticism against the company, stating that excessive fees in coastal areas are driving tourists away, as they seek destinations with greater freedom of movement and lower costs.

The dissatisfied groups said that tourism, which once represented the economic base of Tulum, is being strangled by private projects, concessions, and fees that turn access to beaches and natural spaces into a privilege for the few.

"We will not leave until they stop charging our tourists unfairly," the organizers warned.

GAFSACOMM RESPONDS

In response, Grupo Mundo Maya issued a statement assuring that it maintains its commitment to local residents and foreign inhabitants, who, upon presenting the corresponding accreditation, have free access to the Jaguar Park.

The company emphasized that the project seeks to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the area while simultaneously offering an inclusive and sustainable recreational space.

However, the protesters believe the promised benefits are not reflected in the daily life of the community and that the economic pressure on tourism continues to increase.

The protest next Sunday serves as a warning, with the risk of affecting one of the state's main archaeological zones. (Agencia SIM)