Tulum, Q.R. — The number of foreign residents in Tulum taking advantage of free park access is nearing one thousand. Although Johnny Monsreal Padilla, the General Secretary of City Council did not have an exact number, he said they are nearing the one thousand mark of issuing free park access cards to municipal foreigners.
In late February, municipal authorities had recorded more than 650 Tulum residents who had applied for the card. The cards are being issued to allow non-Mexican residents who live in the municipality to access Jaguar Park free. The card works the same for foreigners as proof of municipal residency as an INE card does for Mexican nationals.
The cards are being issued due to an agreement between the Mayor of Tulum, Diego Castañón Trejo and both Gafsacomm (the company that manages the park) and the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP).
Tents have been set up at the south entrance of the park where, with identification, foreign residents take apply for the card free of charge. The process is done on site and takes approximately five minutes.
“The hours are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Requirements include an official photo ID such as an INE or passport, the immigration card issued by the National Institute of Migration (INM) and a recent proof of address,” Monsreal Padilla explained.
In mid-December, both Castañón Trejo and Governor Mara Lezama announced the free Jaguar Park access for Tulum residents throughout the municipality after locals found the prices to access, what are supposed to be public beaches, steep.
