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Getting Around Progreso

Getting Around Progreso

Progreso Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico Travel Guide

Public Transportation in Progreso

Progreso operates a simple public transportation system. It lacks metro or tram services. The main options are city buses and "colectivos." Colectivos are shared shuttles on fixed routes, a cost-effective way to travel locally and to nearby communities.

Autoprogreso buses are frequent between Mérida and Progreso, approximately every 10-15 minutes during the day, from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM). Colectivos generally operate during daylight hours.

Routes & Fares

  • Buses (Autoprogreso): Main terminal downtown Progreso (near Calle 80 and Calle 31). Fares MXN 25-40 to Mérida.
  • Colectivos: Pick up/drop off along main roads. Fares MXN 8-15 for local or nearby village rides. Pay driver in cash.
  • Efficiency: Learn basic Spanish. Confirm destination with driver. Colectivos can be crowded.
  • Accessibility: Municipal buses and colectivos are generally not wheelchair accessible. Private transfers may be better.

Taxis

White or yellow taxis. Hail on street or find at stands. Always agree on fare before starting. Cash preferred. Short rides MXN 50-100.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Didi are available in Mérida. Availability in Progreso varies. Cashless payment and GPS tracking for added safety.

Walking

The Malecón and downtown are very pedestrian-friendly. Explore at a leisurely speed.

Rental Options for Exploring

Car Rental
  • Available from major international companies at Mérida Airport (MID).
  • Valid driver's license (IDP recommended), major credit card needed.
  • Mandatory Mexican car insurance. Do not rely solely on home country coverage.
Bicycle Rentals
  • Several shops along the Malecón rent bicycles.
  • Malecón has dedicated bike lanes, making cycling safe and enjoyable.
  • Cycling on smaller side streets in town is suitable.

Specialized Transport and Safety

Tour Buses

Cruise lines and independent operators provide buses for shore excursions to Mérida or ruins.

No Hop-on-Hop-off

These services are not in Progreso. More common in larger cities.

Boat Taxis

No formal boat taxi services for public transport. Private fishing charters possible.

Other Transports

Progreso lacks cable cars, funiculars, or other highly specialized local transport.

Departure Information

Plan your departure from Progreso to guarantee a seamless exit.

Air Travel Departure

  • Airport: Mérida International Airport (MID) serves departures.
  • Timing: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights; 1.5-2 hours for domestic.
  • Exit Fees: Tourism tax (DNI) typically included in international airline tickets.
  • Check with airline if any fees are due upon departure.

Bus and Cruise Departures

  • Bus Travel: For Autoprogreso from Progreso, arrive at terminal 15-20 minutes before departure.
  • Cruise Ship: Follow your cruise line's specific disembarkation instructions and timing.
  • Cruise Fees: Port fees and taxes are generally included in the sea voyage fare.
  • No additional fees upon disembarkation from cruise ships.

Airport & Station Facilities

  • Mérida Airport (MID): Check-in counters, security screening areas.
  • Gate areas with seating, restrooms.
  • Selection of retail outlets and food/beverage options.
  • Autoprogreso Terminal (Progreso): Basic terminal with ticket counters.
  • Waiting area for passengers.
  • Taxis typically wait outside for onward travel.

Road Conditions & Safety Reminders

Driving

Drive on the right side. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are in km/h.

Safety

Beware of speed bumps ("topes"), sometimes poorly marked. Avoid night driving on roads in rural areas.

Parking

Can be limited along the Malecón and downtown. Seek out designated lots ("estacionamiento").

Walking and Cycling Routes

Explore Progreso on foot or by bike for a relaxed pace and scenic views.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Malecón: Progreso's main pedestrian area. Original and more up-to-date International Malecón offer kilometers of boardwalk.
  • Ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling with continuous Gulf views.
  • Downtown: Grid layout is walkable. Easy access to the stores, restaurants, municipal market.
  • Side streets offer a glimpse into local residential life.

Walking Tours & Cycling Infrastructure

  • Self-guided Tours: Easily explore Malecón, main beach, and downtown on foot. Maps are available.
  • Guided Tours: Formal walking tours less common for Progreso specifically.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Malecón has dedicated bike lanes in some sections for safe cycling.
  • Cycling on main roads outside Malecón can be challenging due to traffic.

Accessibility Services

Malecón Access

Progreso's Malecón is relatively flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs.

Good for mobility aids.

Public Transport

Public transportation (buses, colectivos) is generally not wheelchair accessible, involving steps.

Limited access.

Specialized Transport

The cruise ports offer accessible facilities. Pre-booking specialized accessible transport for tours is suggested.

Pre-booking recommended.

Specialized Transportation and Risks

Available Options
  • Tour Buses: Cruise lines and independent operators offer tours from Progreso.
  • Boat Taxis: No formal boat taxi services; local fishermen arrange private fishing charters or tours.
  • Road-based vehicles: City is based on cars, colectivos, and taxis.
Safety and Warnings
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Limited and not recommended for long-distance travel due to safety.
  • No-go areas: No specific "no-go" areas. Use caution in poorly lit or deserted streets at night.
  • Progreso lacks special vehicles like cable cars or funiculars.

General Safety Reminders

  • Avoid unmarked taxis for safety.
  • Travel in groups at night, if possible.
  • Inform someone of your travel plans if taking a late-night ride alone.
  • Be mindful of hurricane season from June to November.
  • Beware of rip currents on the coast.
  • Watch for poorly marked speed bumps ("topes") on roads.
  • Carry small denominations for cash payments.
  • Confirm any potential exit fees with your airline or cruise line.

Final Transportation Note

Progreso's transportation scene combines traditional local options with modern amenities, creating travel ease for visitors.

Whether you prefer public transit or personal rentals, moving through the city and region is achievable.

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