Geographical position and Climate of Yucatán
Yucatán state is located in the southeastern part of Mexico, occupying the northern portion of the Yucatán Peninsula. It is bordered by the states of Campeche to the southwest and Quintana Roo to the east, with the Gulf of Mexico lying to the north and west.
Yucatán has a tropical climate with two main seasons:
- Rainy Season: Typically runs from May to October, characterized by hot, humid weather with frequent rainfall.
- Dry Season: From November to April, the climate is milder and drier, making it the preferred time for tourism.
The state does not experience extreme temperature variations due to its tropical location, but the humidity can make the heat feel more intense. Yucatán is also susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes during the rainy season.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Yucatán is during the dry season, which spans from November to April. During these months, you can expect lower humidity, less rainfall, and more comfortable temperatures for exploring the region’s attractions.
- November to February: Cooler weather, ideal for visiting ancient Maya archaeological sites like Chichen Itza and Uxmal, or strolling through the colonial streets of Mérida, the state capital.
- March to April: Warmer temperatures but still before the onset of the rainy season; a good time for beach activities along the Yucatán coast.
Keep in mind that the peak tourist season coincides with the dry season, especially around holidays and festivals, so it’s wise to book accommodations and tours in advance. Additionally, if you’re interested in experiencing local events, such as Mérida’s Carnival or the equinox at Chichen Itza, plan your visit around these cultural happenings.
Travel to Yucatán
To get to the state, you have several options depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation:
By Air
- Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport (MID): Located in Mérida, the capital city of Yucatán, this airport receives domestic flights from major cities within Mexico as well as international flights from the United States and other countries.
With car or bus
- Bus: There are various bus companies that operate long-distance services to Yucatán from cities across Mexico. The ADO bus company, for example, offers comfortable travel options to Mérida and other destinations within the state.
- Car: Traveling by car is another option, with well-maintained highways connecting Yucatán to neighboring states and regions. This allows for a flexible itinerary and the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
By Sea
- Port of Progreso: Cruise ships occasionally dock at Progreso, a port town north of Mérida, offering passengers a gateway to explore Yucatán’s attractions.
When planning your trip, consider the most convenient point of entry based on your travel itinerary and the places you wish to visit within Yucatán state.
Places to visit in Yucatán
Important Information
Capital – Mérida
Largest City – Mérida
Territory – 39,524 km2
Population – 2,320,898
Time Zone – UTC-6 (CST)