Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Most visitors find the process straightforward. Citizens of the United States, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, Japan, and many others do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 180 days. A valid passport suffices. This policy applies to tourism, business, and certain short-term unpaid activities.
For other nationalities, a Mexican tourist visa (Visa de Visitante sin permiso para realizar actividades remuneradas) is needed. Apply through your country's Mexican Embassy or Consulate. This process includes an application, required documentation, and an interview. Start this process early.
Mexico does not charge a general "entry fee" for tourists. A tourism tax (DNI - Derecho de No Inmigrante) typically comes with international airline tickets. This tax covers the right to enter and stay in the country as a tourist. If entering by land, or in specific cases (e.g., private yacht), this tax might be collected separately at the entry point or a bank. Always verify with your airline or point of entry if the DNI is included in your fare. Immigration procedures involve presenting your passport, and potentially your FMM (if physical or requested), to an immigration officer. They might inquire about your visit's purpose, stay length, and accommodation plans. Respond factually and directly.
Generally, no special permits are needed for standard tourist activities in Progreso or the Yucatán Peninsula. Most attractions, including archaeological sites and nature reserves, have an entrance fee. However, professional photography/videography at archaeological sites or protected areas may need a permit from INAH. Drone use varies; some areas forbid it without a special permit. Research/academic activities need visa and permit clarification from the Mexican embassy/consulate.
No specific health entry requirements.
Mexico currently holds no health entry requirements for travelers. Vaccination proof, negative test results, or health declarations are not needed upon entry.
This policy can change. Always check the latest official government travel advisories from your home country and the Mexican government before your trip.
Progreso is more affordable.
Official currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), symbol $. Do not confuse with USD. Prices are typically marked as MXN.
Exchange currency at banks, ATMs, or casas de cambio. ATMs generally offer good rates but may have fees. Notify your bank about travel.
Varied options available.
Hostel/Budget Hotel: MXN 300-800. Mid-range Hotel/Vacation Rental: MXN 800-2000. Luxury Hotel/Boutique Stay: MXN 2000+.
Prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on season, choices, and current exchange rates. (1 USD ≈ 17-18 MXN for early 2024 reference.)
Street food/local eateries (tacos, tortas, salbutes): MXN 30-80 per item; full meal MXN 80-150. Casual restaurant meal: MXN 150-300 per person. Fine dining: MXN 400+ per person (limited in Progreso). Domestic beer: MXN 40-70. Soft drink/bottled water: MXN 20-40.
Colectivo/local bus within Progreso: MXN 8-15. Taxi within Progreso: MXN 50-100. Taxi Progreso to Mérida: MXN 300-450. Bus to Mérida (Autoprogreso): MXN 25-40. Progreso Pier/Beach: Free. Cenote admission: MXN 50-200. Major Mayan ruins (Chichen Itza, Uxmal): MXN 500-650. Organized day tours: MXN 800-2000 per person.
MXN 550 - 1550 ($33 - $93) per day.
MXN 1500 - 3900 ($90 - $234) per day.
MXN 3900+ ($234+) per day.
Prioritize your health and safety when traveling. Progreso is generally safe, but preparation is important.
Progreso has a general public hospital (Hospital General de Progreso) and private clinics for minor ailments. For more comprehensive care, Mérida, a short drive away, offers modern private hospitals (e.g., Hospital Star Médica, Clínica de Mérida) with English-speaking staff.
Progreso is generally safe for tourists, with a lower crime rate than some larger Mexican cities. The Malecón area, beach, and main commercial streets are well-trafficked and often have visible police presence. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas.
Prepare a list of emergency contacts before your trip and keep it accessible (on your phone, a physical card in your wallet).
Travel insurance offers financial protection against unforeseen events.
Costs for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical treatment are covered. Your domestic health insurance may not cover international incidents.
Costs for medical evacuation back to your home country if required.
Can include travel delays, personal liability, and more.
Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if your trip faces cancellation or is cut short for covered reasons (e.g., illness, family emergency, natural disaster).
Lost/Delayed Luggage: Coverage for costs for essential items if your luggage faces delays or is lost.
Compare policies from different providers to secure comprehensive coverage, especially for medical expenses and specific activities (e.g., water sports). Look for providers with good customer service and a reliable claims process.
Recommended providers include: World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Insubuy.
A consumer visa application service. Visit IVisa.com.
A direct visa and passport service. Visit VisaHQ.com.
Helps passengers receive compensation for delayed/canceled flights. Visit AirHelp.com.
Ensure your well-being with these specialized resources for travelers.
Daily cost estimates for different traveler types in Progreso.
Accommodation: 300-800. Meals: 200-400. Transport: 50-150. Activities: 0-200. Total: 550-1550.
Accommodation: 800-2000. Meals: 400-800. Transport: 100-300. Activities: 200-800. Total: 1500-3900.
Accommodation: 2000+. Meals: 800+. Transport: 300+. Activities: 800+. Total: 3900+.