Mexico Mérida, Chichén Itzá and the Yucatan

When is the best time to visit the Yucatan?

It’s hot and fairly humid all year round, with a risk of tropical storms and hurricanes Aug-Nov.

For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.

What language is spoken in the Yucatan?

The main language spoken in the Yucatan is Spanish.

What currency do I need in the Yucatan?

The Mexican peso is the main currency used in the Yucatan. Notes can be withdrawn from the ATMs in major towns throughout the peninsula using a UK credit or debit card. You may have to authorise with your bank before you leave homefirst, and withdrawals are limited to about £100. There are also banks and money exchanges (casas de cambio) here.

What is the time difference between the UK and the Yucatan?

The time difference between the Yucatan and the UK is GMT -6 hrs.

What other regions combine well with the Yucatan?

A visit to almost anywhere else in Mexico: the domestic flight network is comprehensive and roads are good.  Mexico City is less than 2 hrs’ flying time away. Havana, Cuba, is also just 2 hrs away from Cancún, Tulum and the Caribbean coastline.

What are the fiestas, cultural and sporting events in the Yucatan?

Carnival, many places on the peninsula, Feb-Mar annually, preceding Ash Wednesday and Lent.
Festival de las Aves de Yucatán, Mérida, Nov, annually. Bird-watching sessions, workshops, and exhibits.

Getting there

There are direct flights from London to Cancún (10.5 hrs) and routes to Cancún and Mérida via hubs in Europe and the USA.