The Yucatan Peninsula is an intriguingly disparate place; a combination of sparse rocky lands and lush jungle, with a mix of population that ranges from the tourist mecca of Cancun and its rich plethora of nightclubs, casinos, and beach bars to the Mayan villages where modern life has barely encroached.
The Yucatan area used to be a haven for logging and farming, with traditional Mayan culture and heritage cut off from the mainland of Mexico because of the lack of transportation options – but since the 1970s the focus of Yucatan has shifted to tourism.
Whether you visit the bustling resort cities of Cancun and Merida, or you take a trip inland to see Mayan temples and wander around cenotes and haciendas untouched by the 21st century, there is more to Yucatan than just sandy beaches.
Daytime in Yucatan
During the day, the natural beauty and changing landscapes of the Yucatan Peninsula will give you all the scenery you need.
Cultural experiences like visiting the inland villages walled with rock are a particular joy. Traditional Mayan farming communities live natural lives, unbothered by modernity in unrestored haciendas around secluded cenotes in the middle of the jungle. Exploration is key here, as undiscovered ruins and beautiful hikes can take all day.
If you feel that you want some more fun, then the music-heavy street scene in Merida will have you tapping your toes and joining in with the dancing in the plazas around the city.
For something a bit more adventurous, you can get closer to nature in the crystal-clear waters by snorkelling and scuba diving or test your fly-fishing abilities from a boat in the coves and bays.
The beaches are stunning around Yucatan. From bustling beach bars to secret hideaways, the powdery white sand and the warm azure ocean are made for relaxation.
Own the Night in Yucatan
The super resort towns of Yucatan really come into their own when the sun sets – and that is when you can discover some hidden gems in the Peninsula that will make you never want to leave.
Casinos
Dressing up and heading out for an exhilarating experience in a casino is something that is suitable for couples and for groups of friends – who doesn’t love the adrenaline rush of the slot machines or the roulette wheel?
Yucatan has a selection of excellent casinos in the major cities, and with the same sort of range of slot machines and live card games, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The Dubai Palace Casino is a Vegas-style casino situated just off the beach in Cancun, while the Palace Casino has an excellent selection of live card games in the evening. The Golden Island Casino in Merida is open 24 hours a day!
Before heading out to the casinos in Yucatan get your practice in with some online casino games and slot machine tips – you’ll be taking on the pros in no time.
Night Tours
The selection of night tours available in Yucatan mean that you can choose the experience you want to have based on who you are sharing it with.
Yucatan has long been a destination for weddings (and honeymoons), so for the ultimate in romantic escapes you can take your beloved sailing on a sunset lagoon cruise. These cruises are often accompanied by musical performances and delicious meals by candlelight, so they ooze romance set against the stunning scenery.
For something with a bit more of a party atmosphere, the bus tours are a brilliant choice. Groups can enjoy sightseeing with a real experience – your tour guide will give you all the information you need about the surrounding sights, but you will also be able to enjoy excellent food and drink as well as music and games – a really fun way to spend the evening!
Nightclubs
A destination for tourists and a super resort city is not complete without some excellent nightclubs – and the cities of Yucatan do not disappoint.
You’ll find welcoming clubs to suit all tastes in Cancun, Merida, and the other major destinations. Look out for the oriental-styled Mandala Club with its open frontage, or the Vegas-themed Coco Bongo in Cancun.
Another popular option for those seeking entertainment as well as the opportunity to dance the night away is The City Discotheque. Shots, DJs, and dancing as well as must-see performances from acrobats and fire dancers will make for a brilliant and entertaining evening.
Day to Night in Yucatan
Discover the history and culture of Yucatan during the day and be ready to be awed by the party atmosphere of the Peninsula at night.
The Yucatan Peninsula is a land of opposites and of multiple dimensions, but it is a destination designed to leave you always wanting more – and there will always be more to discover.
