16 Fun Things To Do In Progreso, Mexico – or nearby
Where is Progreso? It’s certainly not one of the glitzy resort places on the Caribbean. And that’s part of its charm. With its charm and the many things to do in Progreso, you need to find out more!
The city of Progreso is located on the Gulf of Mexico. And that gives it a unique atmosphere. It’s a great seaside day trip from Merida and a fascinating destination if you’re arriving on a cruise ship.
Its lovely white sandy beaches and a newly renovated Malecon alone are worth the visit. But as well as the beaches and Malecon, there are many other fun things to do in Progreso, and even more nearby.
Regardless of how you come to find yourself in Progreso, especially those spending only a short time there, the key question is: What to do in Progreso?
We’ve lived in Merida for four years and have visited Progreso many times. In this blog post, we’ll uncover the best things to do in Progreso Yucatan so you can make the most of your trip.
Although this blog is ’16 Fun things to do in Progreso’, the town has many other activities that are ‘interesting’ rather than ‘fun’!
How to get to Progreso by car, bus, or taxi from Merida
Progreso is rightly known for having the best beach near Merida, which is the main reason Merida residents make the journey. Progreso is about 27 miles (40km) north of the city, which takes roughly 30 minutes along a good highway, making it an easy day trip from Merida.
As of September 2023, an Uber costs around MXN350 from Merida to Progreso beach. That price can vary with the time of day and season. I’ve done the return journey from Progreso to Merida for MXN250 but that was probably an unusually low price.
If you have the Indriver app, you’ll probably find fares cheaper by about MXN50 each way.
The bus from Merida to Progreso runs all day. It’s a regular service with buses leaving every 15 to 20 minutes (on weekdays – check for weekends).
The bus journey can take about an hour, subject to traffic, and has various stops en route. The fare is around MXN50 return and you can only pay cash for the ticket. The Autoprogeso bus station in Merida is at Calle 62, #524, Merida Centro.
What to do on a Cruise to Progreso?
If you are on a cruise that is stopping in Progreso, then you want to make the most of your time. Most cruise ships stop at the port for between four and six hours. That makes it a great stop off but what can you do in that time? Especially when you have to include the travel time along the pier.
Most passengers on cruise ships stopping at Progreso are content to walk along the Malecon. It’s one of the easiest free things to do in Progreso, Mexico. You can relax on the beach and do a bit of shopping at the many souvenir stalls that line the beach. Ideal!
The first 5 of the Six great things to do in Progreso are ideal for cruise passengers. They are easily accessible by foot and include great places to eat or just grab a drink. And why not?
The ‘Four Great Things to do close to Progreso’ are trips you can easily do in the time you have onshore. As you leave the pier, there are many ‘touts’ offering these trips. Most know your schedule probably better than you, so they’ll have you back on board in time. El Corchito (see below) is the most popular trip with cruise passengers and is MXN850 per person as at January 2024.
Sadly, trips to Chichen Itza are too far for cruise passengers. You can get into Merida in the time allotted but it’s cutting it fine.
Six great things to do in Progreso
Now you’ve arrived let’s look at what to do in Progreso, Yucatan. Later we’ll see what’s nearby and then look at some tours that are normally offered for people on cruise ships. But for now, let’s focus on Progreso attractions:
1. Stroll down the Progreso Malecon and enjoy the sea view
Whether you arrive by car, on a cruise ship, or walk down from the bus station, the Malecon is where you’ll start your day in Progreso. And rightly so.
The Progreso Malecon is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and vibrant attractions in the city. Stretching along the coast, this lively promenade offers something for everyone, from stunning ocean views to a wide array of dining options and entertainment.
As you stroll along the pedestrian-only Malecon, you’ll be captivated by the beach of the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the shops and restaurants on the other. The walk with its views of the beach and sea are just one of the great free things to do in Progreso, Mexico!
Over the past few years, the Malecon has seen a vast change for the better. A lot of effort has been put into making this a lovely promenade for tourists.
No matter how many times I see them, the frigate birds and pelicans, along with the gulls and terns, flying above the beach really make this a tropical beach scene!
Back to the Malecon!
There are souvenir shops and stalls along the way, so you can get your souvenir shopping in Progreso without leaving the beach area!
You’ll find restaurants galore, from the medium to the high priced. Yes, the prices along the Malecon are higher than you will pay a few blocks inland. But surely you should expect to pay some premium for eating fresh seafood overlooking the gorgeous beach?
In addition to its scenic beauty, Progreso Malecon also hosts various cultural events throughout the year such as live music performances and art exhibitions. It’s worth keeping an eye out for any upcoming festivities during your visit. Be warned – the Malecon can get packed when there’s a live music festival!
2. Spend time relaxing on the white sands of Progreso beach
Access to the beautiful white sandy beach is as simple as stepping over a low wall on the edge of the Malecon! There is a wheelchair-friendly platform at the far end of the Malecon to allow closer access to the sea for those who need it.
Progreso beach has no shortage of shaded palapas if you want to dine or simply take a drink under cover and get close to the sea. The palapas (and unshaded tables and chairs) are all linked to one or another of the restaurants on the Malecon. It’s simply a case of picking your spot to relax – you won’t be short of suggestions from the friendly waiter plying for trade!
The sea is warm and the water doesn’t get deep near the beach line. The shallowness of the water is one of the reasons Progreso Pier is so long.
If you don’t want to use a palapa but simply want a quiet space on the beach, it’s easy to find somewhere away from the crowds.
If you really want to get away from the crowds, try walking along the Malecon towards the pier. On the other side of the pier you’ll find a lovely beach, with fewer people. There are also some drink and food stalls in the nearby car park but otherwise, this beach is quiet and away from the tourists.
3. Take photos of Progreso Pier, the longest in the World
Progreso Pier is one of the main attractions in Progreso, Yucatan, drawing tourists and locals alike with its amazing length. This iconic pier stretches way out into the sparkling turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Access restrictions make strolls along the pier out of the question. (It would take around 90 minutes to do the walk to the end and the same back, so maybe that’s not such a bad thing!)
The pier dominates the Progreso seascape. At 4 miles long, it’s hard to miss! It was originally built in the 1930s and when finished was only about 1.2 miles (2km) in length. Even at this length, it was responsible for overshadowing nearby Sisal as the most important port in the area.
In 1985, the original pier was rebuilt and extended to its current length of 4 miles (6.5km). According to the Guinness Book of Records, Progreso pier is the longest jetty/pier in the world as at 1 July 2023.
Not a bad record for a small port in the Yucatan!
4. Visit El Museo del Meteorito and see awesome dinosaurs
Once you’ve seen the Progreso pier, walked the Malecon, and had a dip in the sea, you may be looking for something original to do in Progreso before searching for somewhere to eat. What about the Progreso Dinosaur Museum?
El Museo del Meteorito (The Meteorite Museum) is a unique addition to the Progreso attractions. It’s a museum that aims to take you on a journey through space and time. Located at the furthest point of the Malecon from the pier, this museum showcases a collection of meteorites from around the world.
The building itself is worth the walk, with life-size statues of various dinosaurs on top and in the entrance ways. You’ll need to walk around both ends of the building to see the T-Rex and the Mosasaurus. To add to the realism, the Quetzalcóatlus Nortrophi (Pterosaur to you and me) is even sitting on some eggs!
Chicxulub meteor crater and dinosaur extinction!
The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about meteorites and their significance in understanding our universe. One of the highlights of El Museo del Meteorito is its interactive displays, allowing visitors to touch and hold real meteorite fragments.
The reason why the museum is in Progreso is its proximity to the Chicxulub meteor crater. According to scientists, this asteroid hit the Earth some 65 million years ago. The resulting devastating impact resulted in the extinction of the dinosaurs. (And was responsible for the Ring of Cenotes – click here to learn more).
The entry price (September 2023) is MXN350 for foreign adults and MXN100 for children. Be warned that some feel that what’s on offer isn’t worth the high entry price. And with the many school trips that visit the museum, it’s sensible to check how crowded it is before paying for a ticket.
5. Here are some ideas on where to eat in Progreso
You’ve done the beach, walked the Malecon and visited the Meteorite museum (and, of course, got snaps of the pier). It’s time for a rest and some food!
Progreso, Yucatan is not only known for its beautiful beach but also for its diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a seafood lover or crave traditional Mexican dishes, Progreso has something to satisfy every palate.
And as an important fishing center, you can be sure that the restaurants serve the freshest seafood!
Popular for over 60 years, Eliado’s is a great spot for a meal or a drink. It’s ideally situated at the pier end of the Malecon. Its palapa-style roof is hard to miss. With a varied menu, Eliado’s has some great Yucatecan favorites like sopa de lima (lime soup), cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), and prawns in various styles. This restaurant showcases the unique flavors of the region. The margaritas are also pretty good!
Along the Malecon you are spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants. You can either eat on the beach at most places or inside the restaurant itself. Which you choose will depend on the time of year.
There are many high-end places to eat such as Crabsters, Mobula, and similar well-known restaurant chains. These serve good food at prices to match. They are clean and very popular. The biggest, like Crabsters and Mobula, have their car parks behind the restaurants, which can be useful. (But they are also franchises, meaning you can eat the same food elsewhere.)
The views from their restaurants are great but, for us, Progeso is somewhere to relax with less ostentatious food in a rather more ‘local’ setting.
Try the local restaurants along the Progreso Malecon
There are some great local-style restaurants along the Malecon.
Maya Ka is a restaurant which gets good reviews. It has a unique ambience and style. It’s wel worth a visit and the menu has a good range and is priced sensibly.
Marsicos de ChiChi is another local style seafood restaurant. It’s reviews are a bit variable but still worth a look. Their Sunday buffet at MXN299 might be just what you’re looking for!
To compare prices in different restaurants, it is necessary to use a standard. Comparing ceviche or steaks is unfair as they may be cooked or prepared differently, so I use a bottle of Sol beer! It should cost about MXN 30 to 50 at most.
This might help you decide on the value for money at the different restaurants or beach palapas.
At the Eliado end of the Malecon, Sol can be anything from MXN65 or up. By the time you get near to the Dinosaur Museum, the price should have dropped to about MXN45. (In the Cancun beach area, it is often over MXN90 per bottle!)
Why not visit our favorite restaurants in Progreso?
A favorite is Le Saint Bonnet, with its Chilpachole. This is basically a delicious seafood casserole but delightfully spicy and lots of prawns. It is MXN99 a helping. It’s been that price for a some time now and it’s a bargain. Further along the Malecon, another restaurant charges MXN199 for the same thing!
The Garden Coffee is a lovely cafe that was, until recently, several streets back from the beach. The decor and food are great. We’ve been there with friends several times.
At the far end of the Malecon (away from Eliado), is a restaurant we have been visiting since 2020 – Carabela. The prices are good and they have covered seating on the beach. Their Sol is MXN45!
Eating is one of the best things to do in Progreso!
Realistically, no matter where you choose to dine in Progreso Yucatan, one thing is certain – the delicious flavors found along the Malecon will delight your taste buds.
If you’re looking for a greater variety of food or cheaper options, just walk back a block or two from the seafront and you’ll find dozens of good, cheap restaurants. I saw one recently offering three empanadas for MXN20. Now that’s hard to beat!
Sarten Cubano was a great Cuban restaurant with good prices and tasty food. Unfortunately, today (4th January 2024) we found it has closed down – maybe we didn’t eat there enough?
Enjoy shopping at the Municipal Market Progreso Yucatan
To be fair, this is not a favorite of mine as I’ve seen better markets and I’m not a big shopping fan! So I’ve added it after the ‘fun thing to do’. But that’s just me! Many people rave about it.
After a relaxing meal, if you don’t want to jump back in the water, walk back from the main Malecon a few blocks and find the Municipal Market. The best way to find it is to go along the Malecon and turn inland once you reach Eladio’s restaurant. The road has many souvenir stalls you can stop at on the way to the market.
As soon as you enter the Municipal Market, the colorful stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood will greet you with their complex aromas. The market is has many local products and culinary delights.
As you wander through the aisles, you’ll discover an array of spices, herbs, and traditional ingredients used in Yucatecan cuisine.
You’ll also find handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, shoes, and even electronics at affordable prices.
This is also a good place to pick up cheap fruit.
If the heat outside is getting to you, try refreshing aguas frescas made from tropical fruits.
6. Enjoy the night life of the ‘other’ Progreso!
If you’re visiting Progreso on a day trip from Merida, you may be tempted to leave before it gets dark. Normally, I would not recommend that you do drive at night. But the road from Progreso to Merida is a straight, well-maintained highway all the way. I’ve made this trip many times with my family without a second thought.
If you stay for a few hours into the evening, you can enjoy a special treat! Rather than wander the well-known main Malecon at night among the other tourists – which is certainly good fun – you have a great opportunity to experience the ‘real’ Progreso that few tourists ever see.
The beach area on the other side of the pier is a public beach, which is delightfully quiet during the day and a great spot for a swim without the crowds. But at night this Malecon comes alive with Mexican families having a great time.
Officially, this is the International Malecon but, again, it’s not to be confused with the better-known Malecon de Progreso, with all the restaurants and tourists on the other side of the pier.
Join a group for a quick game of Volleyball
At the start of the Malecon are a series of courts for playing games (Futbol Playero). They’re simple enough – soft white sand, a net, and a roughly marked-out court to play on. There’s no charge for their use but you need to bring your own ball.
Or you could ask to join one of the groups already playing. Some welcome strangers, others have teams and are less welcoming, which is fair enough. But if you get a chance to play with the locals, it’s awesome fun!
Dead Whales, Flamingos and a Miniature Chichen Itza!
As you walk along the Malecon, you’ll see all sorts of unexpected sights!
There’s a flock of pink, life-size flamingo statues standing to one side of the Malecon, just begging for a photo. Further along, hidden slightly in the bushes is a miniature Chichen Itza, lit with a green light.
My favorite is the full-size 47 feet long (14.5m) whale skeleton. In reality it’s a copy but it’s impressive, none-the-less. The original whale washed up in Progreso, Mexico on 28th February 2016.
Try different types of food at the many food stalls
Starting with the iconic Mr Hotdog, you’ll find many food stalls or food trucks along the Malecon. Mostly they serve local Mexican food but there is an Italian pasta stall and, at the far end, a US-style chicken wings stand.
Our favorite is the Birria food truck – Las Birrias del Güero. We never visit Progreso at night without either a Birria taco or a bowl of Birria and Ramen soup. The amount of meat in one bowl is amazing and the soup is rich and tasty.
Further along the Malecon are a couple of stalls with a roof terrace! We’ve enjoyed a quick beer upstairs after a bowl of birria. The view is great and the breeze is delightfully cool!
Don’t miss this great opportunity to enjoy a side of Mexico most never see and make some great memories!
Five great things to do close to Progreso
If you’ve enjoyed the attractions in Progreso itself, there are various day trips offered by tour guides in Progreso. Some are nearby and others will take you away for the whole day.
If you’ve just come off a cruise you may wish to consider a trip that’s less than 40 minutes from Progreso so you can still enjoy the seaside city itself. Here are four great trips nearby that still allow you time to enjoy some of the things to do in Progreso, Mexico.
If you’ve come by car, these are often good stops on the way back to Merida to complete the day. You might even combine a couple as they’re on the same road.
I’ve added a sixth option as it’s often listed but I don’t recommend it!
1. Meet the wildlife at El Corchito Ecological Reserve
El Corchito is very close to Progreso. It’s only about 8 minutes by car or 2 miles (3km). El Corchito Ecological Reserve is a beautiful reserve, home to lush mangroves, three cenotes, and an incredible array of wildlife.
The visitor center is on the main road but to get to the reserve, you’ll need to take a very short boat trip across the lagoon that separates it from the road. Once you get off the boat, you’re surrounded by the sounds of birds chirping.
Raccoons and Coatis are visitor-friendly and will soon make themselves known. (A coati is like a brown, pointed-nosed raccoon with a long tail – really cute and friendly!) You’ll see some amazing birds and, if you’re fortunate, a crocodile or two. (The road along the lagoon has many signs warning of crocodiles!)
One of the highlights of El Corchito is its cenotes. A cenote is a natural sinkhole, filled with water.
If you’ve never been to a cenote before, don’t miss this opportunity. These are the only cenotes close to Progreso. They are not the best but you’ll have to travel an hour or more south of Progreso to see better cenotes.
There are three cenotes at El Corchito. The quality of the water varies. The smaller ones can look unappealing but the larger one is normally good for a swim.
The reserve also offers several walking trails on raised wooden boardwalks where you can explore the mangrove and more of its natural wonders. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful butterflies fluttering by or iguanas basking in the sun on tree branches.
Don’t forget mosquito spray.
Entry is MXN90 for an adult.
2. Go back 65 million years at Sendero Jurasica
Making the most of the Chicxulub meteor crater, Sendero Jurasica continues the story from El Museo del Meteorito (or Meteorite Museum) in Progreso, Mexico (although the two are not linked).
The park is actually behind Puerto Chicxulub so realistically you can’t get closer to the impact site! It’s 12 minutes away from the Malecon, so a short trip if you have a car (5 miles or 8km).
Sendero Jurasico (which means Jurassic Trail) provides a multisensory experience based on the dinosaur theme. Animatronics, audiovisual booths, and other technologies are used to achieve this.
The park features ‘statues’ of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures, some stationary and others animatronic, plus information about the devastating impact of the meteor and its effect on the dinosaurs. Don’t expect deep science as this park as it’s aimed more at kids than graduates.
There are some nice dinosaur statues in the gas station on the other side of the roundabout!
The park only opens at 5 pm and stays open until 11 pm. That may make it impractical to add as a trip if you’re on a cruise. (The website isn’t updated very often).
3. See the vibrant pink salt lakes at Laguna Rosada
The pink lakes are about 35 minutes from the Progreso Malecon, at 22 miles (35 km). It’s an interesting drive along a good road to Telchac Puerto, with a lagoon on one side.
The Laguna Rosada (or Salinas Rosas) are artificial ponds or lakes exploiting the same concept originally used by the Mayans to obtain sea salt by evaporation.
A species of algae in the water gives the lakes their pink hue. Apparently, the pinkness is often lost after heavy rains as it affects the algae. The time to see the best colors is near midday when the sun is shining.
The day we went it was bright and sunny and the lakes were an incredible bright candy pink.
We have visited Los Colorados, near Rio Lagartos, and the depth of the color at Laguna Rosada was much richer.
The annoying crowds we found at Los Colorados were also absent. For the whole time we were at Laguna Rosada, there was only one other couple.
There are many ponds or lakes, some having a crust of salt forming. The small hut that takes your entrance fee also sells a few souvenirs and drinks and you can buy the locally produced salt.
The entry fee was MXN20 which is well worth it.
I walked between the ponds to the lagoon and saw several clusters of flamingos. As we were leaving half a dozen flew overhead. A magical sight!
I recommend good sunscreen – I wore a hat but no sunscreen (despite my wife’s insistence). With the white sand and the salt on the ground, the reflection left me sunburned for the first time in many years, as well as embarrassed with a face the color of beetroot!
4. Visit the Xcambo Mayan Ruins and avoid the crowds
While there aren’t any Mayan ruins in Progreso, there are some great ones nearby.
Xcambo Mayan Ruins are just down the road from Laguna Rosada, about 4 minutes (1.5 miles or 2.8 km) along the same road. Look out for flamingos as you drive (carefully) along the lagoon road. If you’re coming straight from Progreso, Xcambo is about 40 minutes away at 24 miles (38km)
The turning comes up on you quite quickly, so be ready to turn right onto what quickly becomes a dirt road. As you drive along the wooded road, you’ll see some ruins in amongst the trees. If you get out to look at the ruins, be very careful of mosquitoes. They swarm in the damp woods – the back of our car was black with them.
After a few minutes, you’ll come to the ticket office. It’s MXN90 to enter this unique site. Xcambo Mayan Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Mayan civilization.
This archaeological site is lesser known compared to its famous counterparts like Chichen Itza and Uxmal, but it certainly holds its own allure. And you won’t be overwhelmed with crowds or souvenir sellers that are a problem at Chichen Itza!
As you wander through Xcambo, you’ll see the remnants of ceremonial platforms, pyramids, and plazas that once thrived with bustling activity. The site’s main attraction is the Temple of the Crosses (Templo de las Cruces), which you can climb for views of the surrounding landscape.
An unusual sight that hits you almost immediately, is the chapel built inside the ruins in the last century, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who the locals say appeared here.
Don’t forget the mosquito repellant!
5. Visit the Dzibilchaltun Mayan ruins and climb the steps!
Dzibilchaltun Mayan ruins are great trip to make if you are staying in Progreso or want a good trip from your cruise ship.
It’s only about 30 minutes from the Progreso pier to the Mayan ruins at Dzibilchaltun, so it’s a comfortable trip there and back if you are short of time on shore. You may even have to time to explore restaurants along the sea front or have a dip in the sea.
What makes Dzibilchaltun Mayan ruins special are the number of restored ruins you can climb. Most Mayan ruins in the Yucatan have stopped visitors from climbing.
Ancient Dzibilchaltun relied heavily on the port at nearby Xcambo for its wealth and influence. It has a long history and is believed to be the longest continuous Mayan inhabited place.
Among the things you’ll want to see are the Franciscan chapel, built in the middle of the ruins in the early 1500s and the lovely Cenote Xlakah. Note that you cannot swim on the cenote.
If you get the chance, this is a great Mayan ruin and well worth the 30 minute journey.
If you want to learn more and find out the costs, etc., click: Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins – Everything you need to know!
6. The ghost town of Misnebalam – exercise caution!
This was a thriving town midway between Progreso and Merida, inhabited from 1910 to 2010, and then abandoned apparently for no reason (which seems unlikely). Tours to this town are often offered but I would recommend against taking one.
Due to its isolation, there have been muggings of groups visiting. Like everywhere in the Yucatan, such occurrences are very rare. If you decide to go, make sure you are in a large group, with a knowledgeable guide. I would suggest you don’t do this tour on your own!
Six tours to enjoy further from Progreso
With the exception of a trip to Merida, these tours from Progreso are not really for those who are visiting Progreso on a cruise ship. The ships only stop for 4 to 6 hours, so they are too far to really enjoy. (I spoke to a tout offering tours and he said he would organise a trip to Chichen Itza but you would be lucky get an hour to walk about, if that!)
Some tour operators might try to convince you they have worked out their itineraries to ensure that you can get to and from your destination comfortably within the on shore time available. Be cautious!
However, these tours are great options if you are staying for a few days.
Here are six great tours from Progreso. This gives you the chance to experience parts of Mexico that you would otherwise never see. But which places to visit? :
1. Visit Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is an absolute must-visit if you have the chance when you’re in Progreso. This ancient Mayan city is located about two and a half hours away from Progreso, so it’s a bit of a trek but one you’ll remember for years.
As you explore Chichen Itza, prepare to be amazed by the intricate architecture and rich cultural heritage that surrounds you. The iconic El Castillo pyramid stands tall as a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Mayan civilization. Its design aligns with astronomical events such as equinoxes, producing a mesmerizing shadow illusion on certain days.
Whatever tour you opt for, try to arrive early if possible, as visiting Chichen Itza during peak hours can be crowded. Additionally, hiring a knowledgeable guide will enhance your visit by providing valuable historical context and intriguing stories behind each structure.
Click here to read more about Chichen Itza and how to enjoy it.
2. The Mayan ruins of Uxmal – a strong rival to Chichen Itza
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Uxmal is located about an hour and a half from Progreso (75 miles or 120km) from Merida, making it closer than Chichen Itza. Uxmal is a Mayan archaeological site that rivals or exceeds Chichen Itza in terms of its unique structures and the quality of its renovations.
Being slightly removed from the Riviera Maya, it doesn’t attract the large crowds as does Chichen Itza, nor does it attract the annoying vendors.
In our opinion, the lack of crowds and vendors, along with its superb renovation, make Uxmal a better destination than Chichen Itza – but perhaps not as iconic.
Uxmal was probably settled in the 7th Century but in 1573, when the Spanish came across Uxmal, it had already been deserted.
Uxmal’s ruins cover 150 acres (60 hectares) and consist of 15 main structures, which have been carefully restored so you can get a good feel of the way it looked in its prime. At 115 feet (35 meters) high, the Pyramid of the Diviner or Magician is the tallest and most impressive building at the archaeological site.
3. Take a tour to Mayapan Mayan Ruins and climb for the view
If you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations and want to explore the rich history of the Mayan culture, a day trip to Mayapan from Progreso is a good way to start. It’s not as well renovated as Uxmal but normally has fewer visitors.
Located about an hour and 30 minutes from Progreso, this archaeological site still offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Mayans. The site is smaller than Chichen Itza or Uxmal but equally impressive in its own right.
One of the highlights of visiting Mayapan is climbing to the top of the El Castillo pyramid and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
4. See the colonial splendor of Merida and Shop ‘til you drop!
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of modern Mexico, a day trip to Merida is an absolute must. Under an hour from Progreso, this charming city offers a wide range of sightseeing opportunities and a shopper’s paradise.
As you wander through the streets of Merida, you’ll be captivated by the colonial architecture that adorns every corner. The plaza in Centro is a great starting point, with its stunning cathedral and historic buildings. The side streets are packed with souvenir shops.
Take some time to walk the 20 minutes to Paseo de Montejo, where beautiful mansions line the boulevard, along with cafes and restaurants.
No visit to Merida would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The city boasts an array of traditional dishes with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds like never before. Make sure to try the Yucatecan specialty, cochinita pibil – slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus juices and spices.
From local markets bursting with handmade crafts and textiles to upscale boutiques featuring designer fashion and jewelry, there’s shopping for everyone here.
If you want to learn more about things to do in Merida – click here.
5. Visit Izamal, the Yellow City, and the Kinich Kak Moo ruins
Izamal, also known as the “Yellow City,” is located just under two hours from Progreso. It’s a pleasant day trip destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in Mayan history and culture.
As you enter Izamal, you’ll immediately notice its unique charm – every building in the town is painted bright yellow! This vibrant color gives Izamal an enchanting atmosphere.
Aside from the yellow buildings, the other attractions in Izamal are the ancient Mayan ruins that dominate the cityscape. The massive pyramid known as Kinich Kak Moo stands tall and proud, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area from its summit. It is still possible to climb Kinich Kak Moo ruins.
Aside from its historical significance, Izamal offers plenty of other attractions to keep visitors entertained. Charming shops sell handmade crafts and traditional souvenirs. You can also visit local art galleries showcasing works inspired by Mayan culture or enjoy delicious Yucatecan cuisine at one of the restaurants dotted throughout town.
6. Adventure and swimming at the Cenotes near Homun
Nestled in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, Homun is home to some of the most breathtaking cenotes in all of Mexico – natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear turquoise water.
Each cenote has its unique charm and allure, offering visitors an opportunity to swim, snorkel, or simply marvel at its beauty.
Homun is about 90 minutes from Progreso (56 miles or 90km).
There are over 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan. Some of the best cenotes in the Yucatan are located near Homun, which is ideally situated on the Ring of Cenotes. Most tours will allow you to visit several different cenotes during a tour. Your tour operator should take you to the best cenotes in Homun to give you a memorable experience.
Try to include an open cenote and a closed or semi-closed cenote in your tour to get the best of both worlds. And if you have a snorkel and mask, take them with you, as cenotes snorkeling can be great fun!
When is the best time to visit Progreso Mexico?
With its tropical climate, Progreso enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year but some times are better than others for visiting Progreso.
During the summer months, from June to September, the weather in Progreso can be hot and humid. This can restrict your ability to fully enjoy some of the fun things to do in Progreso, Mexico.
Temperatures can reach up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius), so be sure to pack your sunscreen and stay hydrated. The cool sea breeze can provide some relief from the heat.
The best time to visit is during the winter months, from December to March. During this time, the weather in Progreso is pleasantly warm and you’ll avoid the scorching heat of the summer. The temperatures range between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 25 degrees Celsius).
However, the weather in Progreso should not be your only consideration when planning a trip.
School holidays and public holidays are when the residents from Merida visit the local beaches. As Progreso has the best beaches near Merida, expect them to be crowded. We found Progreso packed solid on one Valentine’s Day.
If you’re coming from Merida, cruise ships typically arrive on a Thursday, so the Malecon will be crowded. Cruise day varies but Thursday has been the normal day for some time.
Interestingly, September is called the ‘Famine month’ by restauranteurs and tour guides, due to the lack of visitors (except for the Independence Day holiday). We had the Malecon almost to ourselves on a Tuesday this September.
Is Progreso safe for tourists?
When planning a trip to Progreso Yucatan, one of the first questions that may come to mind is, “Is it safe for tourists?” Rest assured, Progreso is considered a safe destination for travelers.
The crime rate in this area is relatively low compared to other popular tourist destinations in Mexico. While no place can guarantee absolute safety, taking normal precautions can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
The main tourist areas such as the Malecon and nearby roads are well-patrolled by local authorities, offering an added sense of security.
Like any other travel destination, It’s always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions like keeping your belongings secure.
Use common sense when exploring Progreso and you should have a great time!
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David H
After spending months in places like Playa del Carmen and Ajijic (near Lake Chapala, Guadalajara), my family and I have been living for the past four years in the Yucatan and enjoying this fabulous part of Mexico.
I've written many travel blogs for other travel sites over the years before starting Wonky Compass. I have three books published on Amazon.
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