Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, Mayan Ruins, cenotes, and a unique take on Mexican food. Most of us have heard of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa de Carmen. Of course, I knew other cities in the area existed, I just did not know why I’d want to visit them. Well, I recently learned that there is so much more to this expansive peninsula, separating the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico. There are many magical towns like Valladolid and Mérida that are steeped in history and culture. There are also seaside and beach towns like Sisal, Rio Lagartos, and Telchec that offer beautiful beaches, views of amazing wildlife, and fresh seafood that will make most mouths water.
Cities to Visit:
1. Valladolid
Visit Valladolid. One of the oldest cities of Yucatan, it’s a jewel that is known for magic, mansions, museums, and art. Its location is perfect for stopping on your way to Marida from Cancun.
San Servacio Church – Valladolid, Yucatan was built in 1545 by Father Francisco Hernandez and was demolished in 1705 by Bishop Pedro de los Rios Reys, and in 1706 it was restored!
Take a look at the Tu y Yo Chairs or Kissing Chairs. I found these so sweet. They seemed to be at every park we went to in the Yucatan state. I even noticed many people sitting and chatting with their neighbors.
2. Rio Lagartos
Head to Rio Lagartos for a Flora and Fauna experience. Boat rides, bird watching, crocodile sightings, and Mayan Baths!
Take a boat tour with the family. This place is full of biodiversity and is a treasure. Our Rio Lagartos Adventures guide was super knowledgeable and so much fun! We wandered the waters learning about birds and wildlife in the reserve.
3. Telchac
Take a break and relax in Telchac. The Seahorse Resort is beautiful, the food perfect, and the beach on point! This town is a bit out of the way but well worth the drive.
4. Progreso
Head to Progreso to walk the beach and visit the Marymar Beach Club. We happened to be there for the World Cup and Mexico was playing so there was a lot going on! The food and drinks there were some of the best that I had on our trip.
5. Sisal
Visit Sisal! Loved, loved this place. Experience La Bocana Excursion – Boat and Kayak through the mangrove, swim in a cenote (natural water hole), and have lunch on a private beach.
6. Hunucmá
Explore the little town of Hunucmá. So intrigued by the colored walls and street vendors. We enjoyed lunch at Agua de Cienega Hotel.
7. Merida
Visit the Cultural Capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, Merida. This city is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico full of fun things to do and wonderful food!
Cochinita Pibil – Suckling Pig slow-roasted in banana leaves underground
