By Saul Garpe
One of the great benefits of the reactivation of the Bajío to Mérida flights is that it not only brings the residents of central Mexico closer to a wonderful city rich in culture but also to the beauty of the Yucatan coast. Only 30 minutes, 37 km by highway from Merida, is one of the favorite beaches of Yucatan—Puerto Progreso. In recent months it has undergone a total renovation to the delight of visitors. We will tell you how to get there and what to visit.
My trip was from March 24 to 27, and although it was a bit rushed it was very well spent. The cost of the round-trip flight on Volaris was 2,513 pesos without checked bags which I didn’t really need. I put my backpack on my shoulder, with a couple of changes of clothes, and once in Mérida I simply asked what was the best way to get to the beach without having to rent a car. In less than 10 minutes I had the plan. I took a van with air conditioning on Calle 60 in the property marked with number 528, a block and a half from “La Plaza Grande.” I didn’t have to wait more than 10 minutes. The buses arrive and leave according to the demand of the day. In 35 minutes and paying 23 pesos I was a couple of blocks from the sea. The bus made almost no stops along the way, and there was no traffic.
What to see in Puerto Progreso?
My first recommendation is to arrive early. I arrived at 9am ready to go and enjoy the rebuilt pedestrian boardwalk without too much heat. Honestly, they did a good job on it. If you don’t feel like throwing yourself into the sea right away, take the opportunity to visit the old fishermen’s pier next to the current pier. Take a few selfies, go shopping in the nearby stores that I think have very good prices, or go to have breakfast at the market that is a block and a half from the boardwalk. You can enjoy a delicious “torta de cochinita” for 24 pesos. Close by is the Callejón del Amor—a small street with some interesting murals and a couple of very “instagrammable” corners. I am sure that after this you will want to cool off for a few hours in the sea.
If you find good accommodation in Progreso, you can enjoy the port at night which is also very charming. The next day visit the “El Corchito” Ecological Reserve which has impressive mangroves and cenotes a must-see. Remember that the last bus to Mérida is at 8pm, but I suggest leaving before 6pm to avoid crowds. Have a good trip!
