Yucatán state’s Progreso may not be as popular a port of call for cruise ships as nearby Cozumel, but it is growing and has much to offer daytrippers.
Here are some of the things you can do in Progreso, Yucatan, during your cruise ship visit:
Relax on the Beach
Progreso has a vast stretch of beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. There are also several beach clubs with chairs and umbrellas available for rent.
Get to Know Yucatecan Cuisine
Yucatán is famous for its mouth-watering cochinita pibil. Still, several other dishes are worth trying, such as queso relleno, poc chuc, and papadzules — a delicacy that traces its history back to the age of the ancient Maya.
Go Birdwatching
Yucatán is home to several species of gorgeous birds, including the Yucatecan Mot Mot or Pajaro Toh. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gracht / Yucatán Magazine
Yucatán is home to an impressive amount of birds, many of which can be seen in and around Progreso, but the further away you get from town, the better your chances of seeing some of the region’s most gorgeous birds, such as flamingoes and mot mots.
Visit the Ruins
Yucatán’s most popular tourist attraction, the ancient city of Chichén Itzá, is just over two hours from Progreso. Several tour operators offer transfers, and though it is well worth the trip, there are other much closer Maya sites to visit, including Dzibilchaltún (just 20 minutes away from Progreso) and Xcambó (just under an hour).
Go Shopping
Progreso has several shops and markets selling everything from souvenirs to locally made crafts. Haggling is expected up to a point, but be respectful and don’t go overboard.
Take a Daytrip to Mérida
Mérida is the capital of Yucatán and a beautiful colonial city just 30 minutes away from Progreso. There are several things to see and do in Mérida, including visiting the Plaza Grande and its historic monuments, including the oldest Cathedral on the American mainland, and strolling through the centuries-old mansions Paseo de Montejo.
