Mexico slashes Tulum ruins fees, opens all beaches to the public in tourism rescue plan

Mexico’s federal government has unveiled Plan Tulum Renace, a ten-point strategy aimed at reversing Tulum’s tourism slump by slashing archaeological zone fees, opening all beaches to the public, and making Parque del Jaguar free for Mexican nationals. Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez Zamora presented the plan on July 17 during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference in Tulum, with Governor Mara Lezama and security officials in attendance.

The most immediate changes affect visitors to the Tulum archaeological zone: entry now costs 80 pesos for Mexican nationals and 265 pesos for foreign visitors, roughly half the previous fees. Sundays remain free for Mexicans. Meanwhile, every beach in Tulum is now free and public, with ten new access points opened. Barriers blocking direct beach access are being removed, and an electric transport service inside Parque del Jaguar will carry visitors to the shoreline for about 20 pesos.

The plan also addresses the sargassum crisis that has fouled beaches, with the government pledging more vessels to intercept seaweed at sea, barriers to keep it off shores, and recycling into energy or construction materials. Other measures include a new public transportation system, tourist assistance with the National Guard, and a campaign to attract new air routes.

The moves come as Tulum faces a difficult season with record sargassum, high prices, and complaints about beach access. Local hotel workers, restaurant staff, and vendors have been hit hard. The government hopes lower costs and open beaches will bring visitors back, but success depends on execution and environmental factors beyond its control.

Article and image source: tulumtimes.com