Tulum, Quintana Roo, is experiencing a record tourism decline as both flight arrivals and hotel bookings drop sharply, highlighting challenges for the region's once-thriving travel sector. The recent launch of the Tulum International Airport, initially expected to boost visitor traffic, has yet to meet projections, with domestic and international flights falling far below expectations. Coupled with changing travel trends, increased competition from nearby destinations, and economic uncertainties affecting travelers, hotels across the region are reporting historic low occupancy rates. This combination of factors has created a perfect storm, putting pressure on the hospitality sector and prompting urgent calls for strategic recovery measures ahead of the crucial winter season.
During the final week of September 2025, the airport recorded only 24 international flights and 38 domestic flights, figures far below initial projections. Despite offering connectivity to 18 destinations -- four domestic and 14 international -- through 13 different airlines, passenger numbers have yet to reach the levels forecasted for the early stages of operations. The shortfall has raised concerns among local authorities and tourism stakeholders about the airport's immediate impact on the region's travel ecosystem.
The hotel sector in Tulum mirrors this broader challenge. According to recent statistics from the Quintana Roo Ministry of Tourism, hotel occupancy fell from 66.7% in September 2024 to 49.2% in September 2025, a steep decline of 17.5 percentage points. This figure represents one of the lowest occupancy rates in the past several years, signaling a substantial slowdown in the region's tourism activity and putting pressure on local hospitality providers who rely heavily on consistent visitor traffic.
Local authorities have launched investigations to identify the factors contributing to the tourism slump. Analysts are examining both domestic and international influences, including economic trends, competition from neighboring destinations, and evolving traveler behaviors. Additionally, officials are exploring strategies to revitalize tourism, aiming to support the hospitality sector and reinvigorate visitor interest through marketing campaigns, improved infrastructure, and promotional incentives.
Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism for the coming winter season. Early reports suggest that hotel bookings for November and December 2025 are performing better, with occupancy levels estimated at 80% and 90% respectively. These figures indicate a potential seasonal recovery, offering some relief to local businesses that have experienced a downturn in bookings during the late summer and early fall months. The winter season, traditionally a peak period for travel in the region, could serve as a lifeline for Tulum's tourism-dependent economy.
Industry observers note that the area's recovery will require a multifaceted approach. Coordinated marketing efforts targeting both domestic and international travelers, partnerships with airlines to increase flight frequency, and competitive travel incentives could help boost visitor numbers. Enhancing Tulum's natural appeal -- including its beaches, cultural heritage sites, and eco-tourism offerings -- may also attract a broader demographic of travelers, encouraging longer stays and increased spending.
Travel analysts emphasize that Tulum's tourism industry remains highly sensitive to fluctuations in travel demand. While the new airport represents a key infrastructure advancement, its potential to drive growth depends heavily on broader coordination across transport, hospitality, and promotional sectors. Without aligned strategies, the airport alone may not be sufficient to counteract the current decline in arrivals and hotel performance.
The present situation also offers an opportunity for strategic reassessment. By focusing on sustainable tourism practices, diversifying attractions, and improving the overall visitor experience, Tulum can position itself for more resilient long-term growth. Local businesses and hotel operators are already preparing to adjust operations, optimizing for seasonal shifts and leveraging the anticipated winter rebound to offset earlier losses.
Tulum is facing a record tourism decline as the new international airport underperforms, flight numbers drop, and hotels report historic booking slumps, driven by changing travel trends, regional competition, and economic uncertainty.
In summary, Tulum is navigating a challenging period as tourism slows and the newly opened airport falls short of expectations. September 2025 marked a significant drop in both flight arrivals and hotel occupancy, highlighting vulnerabilities in the region's tourism infrastructure. However, early signs of strong winter bookings offer hope that the sector can stabilize. Recovery will likely hinge on strategic planning, targeted promotion, and a concerted effort to enhance the visitor experience, aiming to restore Tulum's reputation as a premier destination in the region and ensure sustainable growth in the years ahead.