FAQ
Are you having doubts? Our extensive frequently asked questions will put an end to it!
Is Yucatán safe for tourists?
Yes, Yucatán is one of the safest regions in Mexico, with very low crime rates and strong public security measures.
Yucatán isn’t just safe — it’s often ranked as the safest state in Mexico and even one of the safest in North America. Violent crime rates are incredibly low compared to other regions. The state government takes safety seriously, investing in surveillance, police presence, and traffic control.
Of course, as anywhere, common sense matters: keep an eye on your belongings, don’t leave valuables in cars, and respect local rules. You’ll notice Mérida has a very calm, family-oriented atmosphere, and visitors often comment on how relaxed they feel here.
What's the best time to visit Yucatán?
The best time is November–March for ideal weather, but shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
From November to March, the weather is warm, comfortable, and perfect for exploring ruins, colonial towns, or relaxing on beaches. This is also festival season (like Hanal Pixán and Carnival), so there’s plenty of culture to enjoy.
If you want better deals, consider April–May or September–October, when it’s still great for exploring but with fewer tourists. Summer (June–August) can be very hot and humid — fine if you don’t mind the heat, but less ideal for some travelers.
Is it safe to drive around Yucatán?
Yes, driving is generally safe, but watch for speed bumps, uneven roads, and police checkpoints.
The highways are in decent shape, but smaller roads can be rough and require attention. Expect frequent “topes” (speed bumps), sometimes unmarked, so always drive carefully. Police checkpoints are common but usually quick and routine.
Car rentals are widely available, and driving is a great way to explore off-the-beaten-path cenotes, pueblos, and archaeological sites. Just be patient — driving here can feel slower and less predictable than in the U.S. or Europe.
So Chichen Itza or Uxmal? Or should I visit both?
Chichén Itzá is iconic and world-famous, but Uxmal offers fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. Both are worth it if you have time.
Chichén Itzá is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — it’s spectacular, but it can be crowded. Uxmal, also a World Heritage Site, is less busy, beautifully preserved, and offers a more intimate visit.
If time allows, do both — the experiences complement each other. If you’re short on time, pick based on your style: Chichén Itzá for the “bucket-list wonder,” Uxmal for a more relaxed and atmospheric visit.
If you’d like to include Chichén Itzá in your trip, we can arrange it as part of a fully customized tour. Start planning your custom tour here.
If Uxmal sounds like your style, take a look at our sample Uxmal tour here.
When can I see flamingos in Celestun?
Flamingos can be seen year-round in Celestún, but the peak season is December to March.
The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is home to thousands of flamingos. While you can spot them all year, the biggest flocks gather between December and March. Boat tours are the best way to see them up close, alongside other wildlife like herons and crocodiles.
We offer a private Celestún tour, which makes it easy to enjoy the flamingos and the beach — take a look here.
How can I get around by public transport or is it better to take a tour?
Public transport works for basic routes, but tours offer comfort, flexibility, and access to harder-to-reach spots.
Buses and colectivos are cheap and run on main routes (like Mérida–Celestún), but they’re slower, less frequent, and not always reliable. For example, getting to Uxmal by colectivo is possible but requires changes and waiting times.
Tours, on the other hand, provide direct transportation, hotel pickup, English-speaking guides, and access to hidden places that buses won’t reach.