Yucatán eyes Quintana Roo’s tourists as violence and sargassum crisis worsen

Progreso is Yucatán’s most popular beach, but others like Sisal are quickly growing in popularity. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gacht 

It’s no secret that Quintana Roo has a problem with growing violence, not to mention its sargassum-covered beaches.

Taking note of the situation, tourism officials and business leaders see an opportunity to funnel more tourism into neighboring Yucatán. 

“Lots of people are beginning to see Cancún and other destinations in Quintana Roo as no longer viable. We have to work to make them aware that here in Yucatán we also have fantastic beaches and more than enough to keep the whole family entertained in a safe environment,” said David Escalante Lombard, president of Yucatán’s travel agency association.

Being recognized as the safest state in Mexico provides Yucatán with a significant leg up when it comes to attracting tourists, especially families.

Splash-n-Dash Aqua Park, a new attraction, will arrive in Progreso in the coming weeks. Photo: Courtesy

However, the fact that many of the state’s beaches are virtually sargassum free, combined with efforts to improve infrastructure and bring new attractions, certainly does not hurt. 

Earlier: Progreso beach will be 1st in Yucatan fly the Blue Flag of eco-friendliness

Government representatives and the private sector alike are expecting a busier than usual summer season in Yucatán, fueled mainly by domestic travelers.

But international tourism is far from being off the state’s radar. Work is being done to improve infrastructure at both airports and Progreso’s cruise dock.

Several of Yucatán’s new attractions, including the Sendero Jurasico, are designed with families in mind. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gacht / Yucatán Magazine

“Yucatán is a state that has everything. Our job is to make sure that the market gets this message and that once they are here they have the best time possible,” said state tourism secretary Michelle Fridman.

Some of Yucatán’s most important tourism destinations include the world-famous Chichén Itzá, as well the state’s many cenotes and beaches, including Progreso, Celestun, and Sisal

Carlos Rosado van der Gracht
Carlos Rosado van der Gracht
Born in Mérida, Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican/Canadian blogger, photographer and adventure expedition leader. He holds degrees in multimedia, philosophy, and translation from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
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