Question 1

What is the "Police Bribe (Mordida) for Traffic Stop" scam in Tulum?

Accepted Answer

Local police stop tourists driving rental cars or scooters on minor or fabricated traffic violations and request an informal cash payment (mordida) to avoid being taken to the station. This is particularly common on roads between Tulum town and the beach zone. Politely decline to pay any informal fee and ask to be taken to the police station to resolve the matter officially. Carry only a photocopy of your passport when driving. Having DiDi or Uber on your phone as an alternative reduces the need for driving in unfamiliar areas.

Question 2

What is the "Unofficial Parking Attendant on Carretera Tulum–Boca Paila" scam in Tulum?

Accepted Answer

On the unpaved road running south from Tulum town toward the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve (Carretera Tulum–Boca Paila), individuals posing as official parking attendants collect cash fees from visitors parking near cenotes, beaches, and eco-lodges. There is no official parking authority on this road, and the collected money goes entirely to the individual. Some attendants become intimidating if payment is refused, and a few have been reported damaging vehicles of visitors who did not pay. Research in advance whether a specific cenote or beach you are visiting has a legitimate, fenced parking area with proper signage and posted fee boards. Do not pay cash to individuals who approach you on the road with no fixed booth or official identification. If approached aggressively, drive to the next establishment before stopping.

Other Tourist Scams in Tulum

Police Bribe (Mordida) for Traffic Stop

Unofficial Parking Attendant on Carretera Tulum–Boca Paila

Experienced a scam here?