Impact of Tulum Archaeological Zone Closure: Tourist Sales Plunge by 90%

In the absence of tourists due to the closure of the Tulum archaeological zone announced by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), tourist excursion modules have experienced a significant decline in sales, reaching as low as 90 percentage points compared to a typical day, stated Gilmer Chacón, in charge of Infotours company.

According to the interviewee, on Monday, May 15, the first day of the closure, visitor flow remained acceptable because they were unaware of the news. However, on Tuesday, the arrival of both national and foreign tourists notably decreased.

Chacón considered that hotels and travel agencies are now informing tour operators about the suspension of visitor entry, which will last from May 15th to May 22nd. This measure is being implemented due to ongoing federal construction works as part of the Archaeological Zone Improvement Program (Promeza).

He specified that approximately 20 sales agents collaborate with his company, with each agent typically selling around 10 packages on a normal day. However, due to the decreased influx of visitors, they have only managed to sell one tour. The alternative being offered to tourists is to view the archaeological site from the sea, aboard a vessel.

The interviewee added that he supports these construction works to enhance the conditions in this emblematic location. Nevertheless, they hope that the duration of the closure does not exceed the established week.

He even mentioned that he would endure up to two or three weeks without the monuments site being open, as long as there are favorable results in terms of infrastructure improvement.

“It has indeed affected us since hotels inform their guests about the closure, practically stating that nothing can be done here. As a result, people no longer come, and it has had a significant impact. However, they mentioned one week, so let’s hope it remains just one week. If it extends to two or three, that’s fine as long as it benefits Tulum. Comparing it to a normal day, sales have declined by approximately 90 to 95 percent,” he explained.

Indeed, a tour of the nearby commercial plaza revealed that the majority of souvenir shops, restaurants, handicraft stores, and guide modules were closed. These businesses depend on the operation of the archaeological site to attract customers and consequently generate profits.