The low occupancy rates in Tulum’s central hotels have raised concerns among tourism entrepreneurs, who attribute the decline to the fees for accessing the beaches within Jaguar Park. At 255 Mexican pesos per person (approximately 12 dollars), many national tourists are opting for more affordable destinations like Playa del Carmen and Cancun, where beach access remains free.
Impact on Family Tourism
This fee particularly affects family tourism, traditionally a key pillar of Tulum’s hotel economy. Jesús García, from the Chilam Balam hotel, highlighted those additional restrictions in Jaguar Park, such as bans on bringing food and drinks, have further discouraged domestic travelers seeking flexible and affordable options.
Economic Strain on Businesses
The reduction in national tourism, which historically supports low seasons, significantly impacts hotel occupancy and the overall economic activity of the area. This situation has led some businesses to reconsider their strategies, while others struggle to maintain operations amid declining reservations.
Loss of Recurring Tourists
Businessman Antonio Paparela, another hotelier in downtown Tulum, pointed out that recurring tourists are now exploring new destinations to avoid the fees and restrictions of Jaguar Park. This phenomenon affects not only hotels but also restaurants, shops, and other services reliant on consistent traveler flow.
Public Discontent and Incidents
The discontent over Jaguar Park fees is not new. In December, a Venezuelan tourist publicly criticized the excessive fees and additional charges for carrying cameras, describing the experience as an “ordeal.” Incidents with National Guard members, who allegedly treated visitors inappropriately, have further tarnished Tulum’s reputation.
Conservation vs. Accessibility
The fee for accessing Tulum’s beaches through Jaguar Park aims to conserve and regulate tourism but has secondary effects that could undermine the destination’s competitiveness. While other Riviera Maya locations offer free beach access, Tulum’s fees are seen as barriers that make the experience more expensive and deter national visitors.
Challenges and Questions
Balancing environmental conservation with tourist accessibility is a challenge in high-demand destinations. Tulum’s policies highlight the need for adjustments to avoid negative economic impacts. The key question remains: Can Tulum maintain its tourist appeal with these restrictions? While luxury and exclusivity have driven growth, excluding mass tourism could lead to an economic slowdown.
The central hotel sector, dependent on budget-conscious visitors, is already feeling the repercussions of these new policies. In a competitive environment where travelers seek accessible, high-quality experiences, Tulum’s beach access fees could be a decisive factor in their choice of destination.
Source: Soy Nomada
