Discover Tulum’s Spectacular Jaguar Park Project Presented to Semarnat

TULUM, Quintana Roo – In a joint effort between the Secretariat of Agrarian, Territorial, and Urban Development (SEDATU) and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), the highly anticipated “Parque del Jaguar” project has been presented. This groundbreaking initiative aims to implement a comprehensive spatial intervention strategy within the protected natural areas of the Tulum National Park (PNT), Jaguar Flora and Fauna Protection Area, and the archaeological zone known as Tulum-Tancah.

The master plan for the Parque del Jaguar encompasses a range of infrastructure and facilities designed to regulate, manage, and organize both existing and future activities, with a particular focus on educational, cultural, and low-impact recreational endeavors. One of the key components of the plan is the construction of the “Acceso Sur” (Southern Access) which will feature service modules and a dedicated bike lane along Cobá Avenue. Additionally, the southern zone will benefit from enhanced internal mobility and pathways, beach access points, and various amenities. The northern zone will house a center for services and facilities, alongside well-planned internal mobility routes and pathways, all protected by perimeter walls.

Spanning an impressive area of 20.93 hectares, the Parque del Jaguar is comprised of 99.4% land and 0.06% marine zones. This meticulously designed conservation project aims to safeguard the region’s unique natural heritage while providing the public with an exceptional space for environmentally conscious tourism.

However, it is important to acknowledge recent concerns raised by tourists and service providers through social media platforms. These individuals reported the use of heavy machinery to remove sand dunes near the archaeological site, prompting widespread condemnation. In response, SEDATU released a statement clarifying that the activities were part of the larger Parque del Jaguar project. Nonetheless, critics argued that these actions were conducted without the necessary environmental permits, unlike the obligations imposed on private individuals.

SEDATU emphasizes that the Parque del Jaguar represents an interagency collaboration involving several institutions, including the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA), SEMARNAT, the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP), and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). Together, they strive to create an enduring conservation area for the iconic jaguar species, acting as a flagship initiative while providing the public with a space to appreciate and enjoy the natural splendor of the region, with minimal environmental impact.

Lastly, the estimated cost of the Parque del Jaguar project is a staggering 1.6 billion pesos, which will be financed through a conventional public investment scheme. This substantial investment underscores the commitment of the Mexican government to prioritize the preservation of its natural treasures and the promotion of sustainable tourism.

As construction progresses, the Parque del Jaguar is set to become a pioneering example of environmental stewardship and responsible development, demonstrating Mexico’s dedication to safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations.