Planning a 2-week Yucatan itinerary but not sure where to start? Having visited the Yucatan peninsula a handful of times, here’s my guide to planning a great two-week trip.
Refreshing cenotes, more-ish tacos, ancient ruins and powdery beaches – planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the best travel decisions you can make.
This region jutting out from Mexico’s eastern side is bursting with vibrant culture, ancient Mayan ruins, colourful colonial towns and some of the most stunning natural wonders I’ve ever seen. From floating in the turquoise waters of Bacalar’s lagoon to wandering the sun-soaked streets of Valladolid, the Yucatan peninsula is a part of the world I’d be very happy to plant roots in.
When I first mapped out our two-week Yucatan itinerary, I wanted to include well-known highlights with some more off-the-beaten-path experiences. Sure, places like Chichen Itza and Merida are must-visits, but there are also cenotes tucked away from the crowds and sleepy towns painted in shades of yellow and pink.
This Yucatan itinerary blends recommendations from a few trips I’ve taken to the peninsula and ties it all up into a great two-week journey. It’s best done as a road trip, but it can also be done completely by public transport. Covering the states of Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo, it includes cenotes, cities, smaller towns, beaches and a whole lot of great food.
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Yucatan map and itinerary overview
Here’s how I recommend spending two weeks in the Yucatan:
- Days 1-3: Merida
- Day 4: Campeche
- Day 5: Calakmul (overnight in Xpujil)
- Days 6-8: Bacalar
- Days 9-11: Tulum or Isla Holbox
- Days 12-13: Valladolid
- Day 14: Fly out of Merida or Cancun
Days 1-3: Mérida
You can start this trip in busy Cancun, but I recommend kicking it off in the pastel-painted city of Merida instead.
Fly into Merida (there are connections from Dallas, Houston, Miami and Toronto) and pick up a rental car from the airport. (I like renting cars through DiscoverCars because I can easily compare vehicles across a range of well-known brands.)
Begin by exploring the historic centre of Merida with a walking tour, either self-guided or with a local guide.
We loved our free walking tour with Fernando, who was incredibly knowledgeable and full of so much energy. You can book the free walking tour online here.
Highlights of wandering Merida include the Plaza Grande, the impressive Mérida Cathedral, the very fancy Casa de Montejo and the mural-filled Palacio de Gobierno.
There are also cute side plazas like Santa Lucía as well as the city’s quirky sillas tú y yo or “conversation chairs.” These white, curved benches are designed for people to sit face-to-face to chat and they’re found in parks across the city.
Dedicate your first afternoon to a taco tour and dive into Mérida’s delicious street food scene. Try regional favourites like cochinita pibil, panuchos and salbutes. We took a food tour with Gabriel, a journalist and history buff who walked us through the bustling Lucas de Gálvez market and introduced us to incredible Yucatecan food we wouldn’t have found by ourselves.
The tour costs MXN$200 per person, plus food and drinks – it’s a bargain for all the food and information you’ll receive. Book online here.
In the evening, try more Yucatecan dishes at dinner before grabbing a marquesita (a rolled-up, crispy dessert crepe filled with edam cheese and chocolate – sounds strange but it works!) from a street vendor.
On day two, learn about Mayan history at the impressive Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, then stroll along Paseo de Montejo, a grand boulevard lined with elegant colonial mansions and leafy cafés. Don’t miss the striking Monumento a la Patria at the northern end.
If your visit coincides with a cultural event or festival, catch a free concert or traditional dance performance – Mérida has something happening almost every night. See what’s happening online here.
Use your final day in Mérida for a day trip. You could visit the flamingos and mangroves of Celestún, explore the impressive Mayan ruins of Uxmal or take a dip in nearby cenotes. Other options include the yellow-painted town of Izamal or a deeper dive into Mayan archaeology along the Ruta Puuc.
Read more about what to do in Merida in my Merida itinerary guide.
Where to eat in Merida
Try traditional Yucatecan cuisine at Chaya Maya for dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork cooked in citrus) and papadzules (rolled tortillas in pumpkin seed sauce – sooo good).
We loved all the tacos as Taqueria de la Union (their handmade tortillas are delicious) and Los Trompos. The breakfasts at Tinoc Café, Soco and Pancho Maiz are out of this world.
Where to stay
We absolutely loved our stay at Hotel Hacienda Merida. In an 18th-century building, this boutique hotel has huge rooms. It’s located close to the centre of town so it’s easy to walk everywhere from here. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Other options include Casa Tres Colibries, which is in a great location and has a lovely pool in lush gardens. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Decu Downtown is also in a great location but more upscale – the architecture is stunning. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Day 4: Campeche
From Mérida, it’s an easy two-hour drive to the fortified city of Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage site that often flies under the radar. Its colourful streets, sea breezes and charming old town wrapped in ancient stone walls make it worth a visit.
Start your visit with a stroll around the historic centre, where colonial mansions are painted in sherbet shades of pink, mint and ochre. Pop into a few of the quiet plazas, then follow the malecón (the waterfront promenade) for views over the Gulf of Mexico. It’s particularly beautiful in the late afternoon, when the light softens and locals come out for a walk.
If you want a little history, climb the old ramparts and visit Fuerte de San Miguel, which now houses a museum. The museum is small but atmospheric, and the views from the top stretch across the coastline.
In the evening, head back to the historic centre and grab dinner. Calle 59 is pedestrian-only, and all the restaurants along this street have tables and chairs out the front.
Where to eat in Campeche
Don’t miss Santo Taquito (an excellent array of tacos – we went here twice!) or La Parroquia (try the pan de cazón, a layered casserole made with tortillas, black beans and shark). I also devoured the mole enchiladas at Restaurante Luz de Luna.
For sunset dining and seafood, head to La Palapa del Tío Fito along the malecón.
Where to stay
We booked an apartment at Narrativ Lofts and highly recommend it. It’s in a great location and the apartment was roomy, with two bathrooms and a kitchen. The owner came to meet us and helped us find a park when we arrived in Campeche.
If you’re travelling with a family or group, the owners of the apartment also have a much larger home, also in the centre of town. Casa Japa has been gorgeously remodelled and has a rooftop terrace and small plunge pool.
Day 5: Calakmul (overnight in Xpujil)
This is the most off-the-grid part of the itinerary – but one of the most rewarding.
We actually did a day trip to Calakmul from Campeche but it was a long, long day (and it’s sort of on the way to Bacalar, the next stop in this itinerary), so I’d recommend actually driving here and spending the night nearby these incredible Mayan ruins.
From Campeche, get an early start and head south toward Xpujil, a small jungle town that acts as the gateway to Calakmul, one of the largest and most remote Mayan cities in Mexico.
The ruins are deep in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. Unlike Uxmal or Chichen Itza, this site is still enclosed by the jungle. Exploration of the site only began in 1984 and there’s still a lot to uncover. It’s a absolutely awe-inspiring to wander through here.
You pay at the entrance, which is a ramshackle building at Kilometro 0, and receive a bracelet. The drive in used to be on a long, bumpy jungle road, but it’s now paved (although it’s slow going because the speed limit is only 30 kilometres per hour to protect all the birds and animals living here).
It’s a bit of a journey to get to Calakmul, but that’s exactly what makes it special. You’ll likely share the site with only a handful of other travellers – and a few spider and howler monkeys. We saw less than a dozen other people while we were there. There are an estimated 800 jaguars living in the biosphere, but they are very rarely spotted.
The scale of the city is impressive, with towering pyramids peeking above the tree canopy. You can still climb some of the structures here, and from the top of some, it’s just endless green jungle in every direction.
Bring a guidebook or hire a guide, as there are few informational signs. We did our day trip with Ka’an Expeditions, and our guide was knowledgeable on both Mayan history and architecture and wildlife. Depending on the season, they may be able to create a bespoke tour for you and meet you at the entrance and then drive you in from there.
Calakmul is still relatively underdeveloped for tourism, so come prepared: bring snacks, plenty of water and bug spray. There are no shops or restaurants at the ruins, just pure, wild jungle and ancient stone. This will likely change as the Tren Maya (more on that later) becomes more popular and connected to more remote sites like Calakmul.
After spending several hours here (it’s a huge site!), head into Xpujil to rest up for the night. It’s a very simple town, but this stop is about getting close to the wild heart of the Yucatán.
Where to eat in Xpujil
As mentioned, we didn’t stay in Xpujil as we did a day trip to Calakmul from Campeche. However, some recommendations I’ve found online are Sazón Veracruz and Ma’alobkin.
Where to stay
Check into Chicanná Ecovillage Resort, which offers rustic bungalows in a peaceful jungle setting. It’s just outside of Xpujil. In town, Coa de Collar has A-frame bungalows and rooms that other guests say are good value for money.
Travel tip! Start early from Campeche to make the most of your day at Calakmul. Bring plenty of water, snacks and bug repellent, as the site is remote and facilities are minimal.
Days 6-8: Bacalar
After a night in the jungle, arriving in Bacalar is a complete change. The road winds through small towns and flat, green countryside until – suddenly – you see the lagoon. And what a lagoon it is. Named the “Lake of Seven Colours,” Bacalar’s water really does shimmer in every shade of blue you can imagine.
There are plenty of ways to get out on the water. Take a boat tour to see the cenotes and Pirate Channel, or rent a kayak or paddleboard if you prefer to explore independently. Your hotel will have recommendations for tours and where to rent equipment. It’s incredible to see the different colours – especially the contrast between the turquoise shallow waters that then suddenly change to black as the boat glides over the deepest parts of the lake.
We did a fun tour that took us to some great spots for a refreshing swim and had free drinks (water, juice and beer) onboard but lacked in the “snacks included” department (they provided containers of boring jicama, which to me tastes like raw potato!).
Back on land, stroll into town to see the Fuerte de San Felipe, a small fortress that once protected the town from pirates. The views from the walls are worth a stop, and there’s a simple museum if you want a bit of local history.
By night, Bacalar is low-key but full of good food. Think open-air cafés strung with lights, craft beer and fresh fish tacos. It’s easy to stay longer than planned.
Where to eat in Bacalar
Our best find in Bacalar was Maíz Azul, an absolutely beautiful Mexican restaurant that celebrates local flavours. We were in heaven with every bite. It’s in more of a residential area and it’s a little more expensive but it’s definitely worth it.
La Playita has a buzzy vibe and tables right by the water, while Mr Taco is great for cheap and delicious tacos and burritos.
Where to stay
My recommendation is to stay somewhere that has direct access to the lagoon. We booked a few nights at Azulea Bacalar Hotel & Spa and could walk into the water for a quick dip each morning. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Also right on the lagoon, Hotel Rancho Encantado is the go-to splurge – it has a dreamy spa. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
For something social and budget-friendly, Yak Lake House has a prime location in town.
Important! The lagoon is closed to traffic on Wednesdays to give the water a rest. I absolutely love that they do this – but keep this in mind as you plan your Yucatan itinerary.
Days 9-11: Tulum or Isla Holbox
You have two options for the next few days: Tulum or Isla Holbox. Tulum is far more touristy than Isla Holbox, but it is easier to get to. Isla Holbox has a much more relaxed vibe. It really depends what you’re after!
Whichever you choose – both are great options for a beach break during this Yucatan road trip.
Option 1: Tulum
From Bacalar, head north to Tulum, a destination that’s as beautiful as it is polarising. I’ve been to Tulum twice and it has changed a lot in the 10 years since I first visited. Yes, it’s touristy, and yes, some parts feel more like Los Angeles than Mexico – but there’s still a lot to love here, especially if you know where to look and get away from the Instagram crowds.
Start with the Tulum ruins. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, they’re not the largest or most intricate ruins in the Yucatán, but the setting is absolutely spectacular. Go early to beat both the tour buses and the heat.
After that, cool off in one of the nearby cenotes – Cenote Calavera and Gran Cenote are popular choices, but, with a car, you can reach quieter ones like Cenote Cristal or Cenote Corazón.
If you feel like a beach day, the public beach near the ruins is free and beautiful. Or splurge on a day bed at one of the beach clubs if you’re in the mood for cocktails and people-watching. Tulum’s hotel zone runs along a jungle-lined beach road, filled with Instagram-ready cafés, boutique shops and thatched-roof bars.
For something different, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a short drive from Tulum but feels like a different world – wild, quiet and teeming with wildlife. You can float down a lazy river through ancient Mayan canals.
Evenings in Tulum are all about good food and great ambiance. You can go rustic with tacos at a roadside stand or book a table somewhere sleek and candlelit. Either way, you’ll eat well. I’m usually in bed by 9pm so I don’t have any nightlife recommendations – but you can easily follow the music to find a party somewhere!
Where to eat in Tulum
Taqueria Honorio is great for a daytime taco fix – they’re famous for their slow-roasted cochinita pibil. For something fancier, Hartwood is the place everyone talks about – if you can get a reservation.
Where to stay in Tulum
On our most recent visit to Tulum, we stayed at Alaya Tulum. Right on the beach, the treehouse guestrooms are a great size. They even arranged a candlelit dinner right on the beach for my birthday. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
On a more modest budget, Hotel Luna Llena has quiet, minimalist rooms in town, as well as a pool. Rent a bike to easily get around town and to the beach. Check availability and pricing on Expedia
Option 2: Isla Holbox
If Tulum isn’t your scene – or you’ve already been – Isla Holbox offers a completely different kind of beach escape. It’s car-free, a little bit scruffy around the edges and just the right amount of sleepy. This is the kind of place where people walk barefoot to dinner and 4WD golf carts double as taxis.
To get there, drive to the port town of Chiquilá (about 5 hours from Bacalar – this is a big drive so it will probably determine whether you go to Tulum or Holbox) and catch the ferry to the island.
Spend your first day getting your bearings: wander the town and pick a spot on the beach. The water here is shallow and calm, perfect for floating with a drink in hand or wading out to one of the long sandbars. In the evenings, head to Punta Cocos for the sunset. Bring mosquito repellent and stay after dark if the moon is low – you might catch a glimpse of bioluminescence glowing in the water.
There’s plenty to do if you’re feeling active. Take a boat trip to Isla Pájaros (Bird Island), Isla Pasión and the Yalahau cenote, or rent bikes and ride along the shoreline.
If you’re visiting between June and September, Holbox is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks.
Unlike some beach towns that feel overbuilt, Holbox still has a raw charm – but of course it won’t stay like this forever.
Tip: Leave your car at one of the parking places near the ferry terminal. They charge around US$5 per 24-hour period.
Where to eat in Holbox
We loved the fresh seafood and friendly vibes at Tuch Holbox as well as the enormous ceviche servings at Las Panchas. Taqueria Mateo has excellent tacos for excellent prices. For a quick and cheap snack, the empanadas at La Conquista Empanadas are delicious. Also try the street vendors that set up around Holbox Park in the centre of town.
Where to stay in Isla Holbox
The hammock on our balcony at Hotel La Palapa was the perfect spot to while away a few lazy hours. The rooms are large and comfortable and it’s beachfront (although be mindful of the seaweed that piles up on the beach at certain times of the year). Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
For a luxurious beachfront stay, Hotel Villas Flamingos is hard to beat. It’s east of town on a quieter beach and the rooms are stunning. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Hotel Para Ti is a beautiful mid-range option with a peaceful courtyard and adults-only policy. It’s small, with only 11 rooms, so it’s a peaceful option just a few blocks back from the beach. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Tip! This is an island that often has trouble with electricity and water – be patient with your hotel when you inevitably experience this.
Days 12-13: Valladolid
Valladolid might just be the most photogenic town in the Yucatán. After days of jungle, ruins and coastlines, this pastel-coloured colonial city feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s small enough to explore on foot, but packed with plenty of history, charm and good food.
Start by wandering the city’s central square, Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado, where locals gather day and night. The San Servacio Cathedral dominates one end of the plaza, and you might catch live music or dancing in the evenings.
From there, stroll over to Calzada de los Frailes, the prettiest street in town, lined with boutiques, cafés and candy-coloured buildings.
One of the more underrated things to do in Valladolid is visit the Casa de los Venados, a privately owned home and art museum where more than 3,000 pieces of Mexican art are displayed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion. Join a guided tour (offered 5 times a day, by donation) to learn about the collection and the building’s history. The Frida Room and the dining room are particularly impressive.
Not far from the centre is Cenote Zací, one of the few cenotes located right in a city. You can actually walk there from the plaza and cool off with a quick swim beneath its lush, vine-covered cliffs. If you’re up for more cenote adventures, there are dozens nearby – Cenote Suytun is the most Instagrammed cenotes in the Yucatan, but places like Xkeken and Samulá are equally beautiful and (sometimes) less crowded.
On your second day, make a side trip to either Chichén Itzá or Ek Balam. I personally prefer Ek Balam – the ruins are still partially covered in jungle, you can climb to the top and it’s far less busy. It also pairs nicely with a swim in Cenote Xcanche, just down the road.
Evenings in Valladolid are relaxed (once the tourist buses depart). Find a nice restaurant and sip a mezcal cocktail with dinner. For rooftop views, Don Diablo and Mirador Don Alfonso are both chilled places that overlook the plaza.
Travel tip! Valladolid is an excellent base for visiting Chichen Itza (if you didn’t already visit when you were in Mérida). Plan to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat – be there as the gates are opening to have it to yourself for a few minutes!
Where to eat in Valladolid
For cheap eats, you can’t go past the tacos at Sabrositacos or the tortas at El Taco Loco. Both are unassuming places in residential streets. The food at La Palapita de los Tamales is also delicious – with huge portions (although the service could be improved).
Where to stay
Le Muuch Boutique Hotel has lovely garden areas and is close to the centre of town. Our room was pretty small and had some issues with the shower, but it was still a great, comfortable stay. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
We peeked inside Real Haciendas while we were wandering around Valladolid – and it looks like such a gorgeous place to stay. With a pool, shaded courtyard and generous rooms, it’s close to Cenote Zaci. The owners have a lovely store next store that sells great souvenirs – we got chatting to them and they kindly showed us the hotel. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Casa San Juan is a lovely boutique stay near the centre with friendly service and a peaceful vibe. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Hotel Zenti’k Project offers a bit more luxury and has an underground saltwater cave pool. It’s a bit further out from the centre of town. Check availability and pricing on Booking.com and Expedia
Day 14: Return to Mérida or fly out of Cancún
On your final day, it’s time to wrap things up and make your way home. You can either fly out of Merida or Cancun, depending on flight availability. Mérida is about a two-hour drive west, but if you’re flying out of Cancún, head east instead – it’s a similar distance, but with more traffic. There are also plenty of things to do in Cancun if you have a few extra days.
Depending on your flight time, squeeze in a relaxed breakfast or a final cenote swim in Valladolid before you go.
And just like that, your two weeks in the Yucatán come to an end. If you’re anything like me, you’ll now be scheming how you can get back here more often.
How to get around the Yucatan
The Yucatan is one of the easiest regions in Mexico to explore, especially if you like the freedom of the open road. We rented a car for this trip and highly recommend it – it gives you full flexibility to stop at hidden cenotes, take scenic detours and avoid tight bus schedules. We book cars through DiscoverCars, which collates all the major car rental companies in one place.
Our car cost around US$300 a week, plus petrol (which is relatively inexpensive). All gas/petrol stations are serviced, so you don’t need to fill up yourself – have a small tip ready.
Roads are generally in good condition (although some are littered with potholes!), and signage is decent (just watch out for sneaky speed bumps, aka topes). Keep an ear out for any protests taking place, as it will result in road closures. We experienced two during our trip, which delayed us for an hour or two each time.
If driving isn’t your thing, ADO buses are a reliable and affordable option for getting between cities and towns. They’re comfortable, air-conditioned and run (mostly) on time. Just be mindful that they don’t reach more remote spots like Calakmul or some cenotes. In smaller towns, colectivos (shared vans) and taxis can fill the gaps, or you can join day tours.
The Tren Maya has opened but still has a way to go to connect visitors with towns and historic sites. I’d love to take the train one day and be able to give a full review.
Tip: If you’re renting a car, you need to pay for third-party liability insurance, which is a pain. Be prepared for occasional police checkpoints – we saw them but were usually waved through.
What to pack for the Yucatan
You’ll spend much of your time in the Yucatan outdoors, so packing light and smart is key. Here’s what I found essential:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing – it’s hot and humid almost year-round
- Swimsuits – you’ll want more than one for all the cenote and lagoon dips
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals – for all the ruins, cobbled streets, jungle paths these are a must! I like my Tevas for this!
- Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen
- Bug repellent – especially for areas like Calakmul and Holbox
- Dry bag or waterproof pouch – useful for boat tours or kayaking
- Reusable water bottle – hydration is no joke in the Yucatan heat (I also bring Aquatabs so I can fill up with tap water and avoid wasting plastic bottles – and am thinking about buying a LifeStraw Go water bottle)
- Light jacket or wrap – for chilly bus rides or air-conditioned restaurants
Best time to visit the Yucatan
The best time to do this itinerary is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is warm and sunny, with low humidity.
The shoulder months (May/June and October/November) are also great. Expect a few more rain showers, but fewer crowds and better prices. We did this road trip in October and had a few days of rain but nothing that stopped our plans.
The rainy season runs from June to October, and while it can be humid and stormy, it’s still a good time to visit if you don’t mind occasional downpours. September is the peak of hurricane season.
If you’re hoping to swim with whale sharks, plan your visit for June to August – that’s when they’re most active near Isla Holbox.
Is the Yucatan Peninsula safe to visit?
The Yucatan is generally one of the safest parts of Mexico for travellers. That said, no destination is risk-free, and a few common-sense precautions go a long way:
- Avoid driving at night – roads are dimly lit, and it’s harder to see animals, potholes or topes.
- Use official taxis or rideshare apps (Uber operates in Merida but not in smaller towns).
- Keep valuables secure, especially in busy areas and on public transport.
- Watch your step at archaeological sites and cenotes – paths can be uneven or slippery. (Trust me, I know after slipping over at Calakmul and ending up with a lovely big bruise on my right butt cheek!)
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection – heat exhaustion is more common than crime.
Travel tips
A few local customs and tips that’ll make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:
- Greetings matter: Say buenos días (good morning) or buenas tardes (good afternoon) when entering shops or restaurants. Make a small effort to learn some Spanish and it will go a long way.
- Tipping is expected: 10-15% at restaurants, a few pesos for baggage handlers and small change for parking or bathroom attendants.
- Don’t flush toilet paper: Most plumbing in the Yucatan isn’t built for it – use the bins provided.
- Respect sacred sites: Cenotes and ruins are often spiritually significant. Don’t wear sunscreen unless it’s reef-safe and never touch or climb structures that aren’t clearly open to the public.
- Cash is king in small towns: Keep pesos on hand for local markets, street food, and remote areas where cards aren’t accepted. However, most restaurants accept credit cards nowadays.
Final thoughts: 2-week Yucatan itinerary
Two weeks in the Yucatan might sound like plenty of time, but by the end of this trip, I still found myself wanting just one more cenote, one more sunset, one more taco.
This road trip offers a deeper dive into a region that deserves more than just a few days at an all-inclusive resort. I hope this itinerary gives you the confidence to plan your own adventure.
Yucatan road trip FAQs
Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in the Yucatan?
While many people in tourist areas speak basic English, knowing some Spanish will greatly enhance your experience, especially in smaller towns. Basic phrases like greetings, ordering food and asking for directions will be useful – and get you a smile most times!
When is the busiest time to visit the Yucatan?
High season is December to April, which means more people and higher prices. Book popular tours and accommodations in advance to secure your spot, especially for attractions like Chichen Itza and boutique hotels in Merida, Tulum or Valladolid.
Can you drink tap water in the Yucatan?
Tap water in the Yucatan is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water or bring a portable water filter to reduce plastic waste. I bring Aquatabs so I can drink tap water. Most hotels provide filtered water for guests.
What currency is used in the Yucatan, and should I carry cash?
The currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants in major cities, I recommend having cash on hand for small purchases, local markets and tips and for when you’re in more rural areas. ATMs are in all cities and many bigger towns.
Can I use US dollars in the Yucatan?
US dollars are accepted in some tourist areas, but the exchange rate may not be favourable. It’s better to use pesos for most transactions to avoid losing money on conversions.
Is tipping customary in the Yucatan?
Yes, tipping is appreciated and expected in many situations. In restaurants, 10-15% is standard. You should also tip hotel staff, guides and anyone offering a service, like drivers or parking attendants.
Do I need any vaccinations?
No specific vaccinations are required for the Yucatan, but make sure you’re up to date on routine vaccines. Use mosquito repellent, especially in jungle areas and near water.
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Do you have any questions about this Yucatan itinerary? Drop them in the comments section below!
Related posts
Before you go, you might like some of these Mexico travel guides.
- How to Spend 3 Days in Magical Mérida
- 3 Days in Mexico City: What to See, Do and Eat
- 4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary: 25+ Best Things To Do
- 19 Useful Things to Know Before Travelling to Oaxaca, Mexico
- The Best Things To Do in Cancun, Mexico: An Insider’s Guide
MEXICO TRIP ESSENTIALS
- Book flights to and around Mexico online with Skyscanner. I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
- Find great hotels across Mexico. Check prices on Booking.com and Expedia online.
- Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Mexico on GetYourGuide or Viator. There’s something for everyone.
- A copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Mexico will be handy, along with a Spanish language phrasebook.
- One thing I always purchase is travel insurance! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
YUCATAN ROAD TRIP ITINERARY: PIN IT FOR LATER
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