No Increase in Visitax for 2026: What This Means for Travelers Visiting Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Tulum

Published on December 7, 2025

In a decision that will come as welcome news to international travelers planning to visit Quintana Roo in 2026, the state government has confirmed that the Visitax, the tourist tax introduced in 2021, will not increase next year. This means that visitors to popular destinations like Riviera Maya and Cancun will continue paying the current rate of 285 pesos without any changes. The Visitax remains an essential part of the state’s strategy to maintain the region’s competitiveness and sustain its thriving tourism industry. With the tax proceeds directed toward important initiatives such as beach maintenance, sargassum removal, and tourism infrastructure, the move ensures that Quintana Roo’s beaches and ecosystems remain pristine for the millions of visitors who flock to this paradise every year.

What is Visitax and Why is it Important for Quintana Roo?

The Visitax was introduced in 2021 as a fixed, one-time contribution for international visitors arriving in Quintana Roo. It applies exclusively to foreign tourists, with Mexican citizens and local residents being exempt from paying this fee. The tax is set at 285 pesos and is used to fund several key initiatives designed to support the state’s tourism sector, which plays a critical role in its economy. This includes investments in beach maintenance, environmental preservation, and efforts to handle sargassum, an invasive seaweed that often affects the region’s coastal areas.

One of the primary objectives of the Visitax is to ensure that Quintana Roo remains a top tourist destination while also protecting the region’s natural resources. The fee is collected from visitors only once during their stay, and it directly supports the upkeep of popular tourist areas, ensuring that visitors continue to enjoy the clean, attractive beaches that are so integral to the state’s allure.

The Quintana Roo Government’s Efforts for Efficient Visitax Management

The Quintana Roo government has acknowledged that, since the Visitax was introduced, there has been a need for better management of the tax’s collection. To improve efficiency, the state is working closely with the hotel sector and the private industry to develop a streamlined and transparent toll collection mechanism. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the funds raised are used effectively, guaranteeing that the infrastructure and natural beauty of destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum remain intact for future generations of travelers.

The government has committed to making the tax collection system more efficient by refining the process and ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately for the benefit of the state’s most important industry – tourism.

How the Funds Are Allocated: Transparency in Use

The funds generated through the Visitax are deposited into a public trust with clearly defined allocations. These allocations include:

1. Tourism Promotion and Crisis Management Fund (10%)
2. Sargassum Control, Beach Cleaning, and Ecosystem Conservation Fund (40%)
3. Fund for the Development and Strengthening of Strategic Projects with an Impact on Tourism (50%)

By directing the majority of the funds toward sargassum removal and beach restoration, the government ensures that the environmental health of Quintana Roo remains a top priority. This also helps preserve the region’s attractiveness as a tropical paradise for travelers. With 50% of the funds earmarked for strengthening tourism infrastructure, including strategic projects that enhance visitor experiences, the Visitax plays a pivotal role in the region’s growth and sustainability.

What Travelers Can Expect in 2026

For foreign tourists visiting Riviera Maya, Cancun, and surrounding areas in 2026, the good news is that there will be no increase in the Visitax rate. This ensures that tourists can continue to enjoy their vacation without worrying about additional fees. The government’s decision to keep the rate unchanged for the upcoming year is part of its broader strategy to maintain the region’s competitive edge in the global tourism market. This decision should help reassure travelers, making Quintana Roo an even more attractive destination for holidays, business events, and eco-tourism activities.

Travel Tips for Tourists Visiting Quintana Roo

1. Plan Ahead for Visitax Payment:
   While the tax is included in the price of hotel bookings, tourists should ensure they are aware of the Visitax before traveling. It is best to check with your hotel or travel agent to confirm that the tax is included in your booking.
2. Protect the Environment:
   Since a large portion of the Visitax goes toward sargassum removal and environmental conservation, visitors are encouraged to do their part by respecting local wildlife and participating in sustainable tourism practices.
3. Explore Beyond the Beaches:
   While beachfront destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen are popular, there are plenty of other attractions throughout Quintana Roo, including ancient ruins, cenotes, and eco-parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há.
4. Check for Discounts and Packages:
   Many hotels and resorts in Quintana Roo offer special promotions for international tourists. Travelers should look out for package deals that include transportation, excursions, and activities to maximize their experience.

What the Future Holds for Quintana Roo’s Tourism

As tourism continues to grow in Quintana Roo, the Visitax will play an integral role in sustaining the state’s tourism infrastructure. By ensuring that the funds raised are used in a transparent and efficient manner, the government aims to keep Quintana Roo at the forefront of global travel destinations. For travelers, this means continued access to well-maintained beaches, pristine natural environments, and vibrant tourism infrastructure.

The collaboration between the government and the private sector also sets a model for other regions looking to balance tourism growth with environmental and infrastructure sustainability. Quintana Roo’s efforts to streamline Visitax collection and allocate funds effectively demonstrate a commitment to sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.