Exploring the Scenic Roads of Yucatán, Mexico

The Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico has a well-developed road network, making it easy to travel between the region’s various cities.

Taking a road trip through Yucatán is an excellent way to explore the area and discover off-the-beaten-path sites.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Cancun, you’ll undoubtedly drive along the roads of Yucatán during your journey.

In this article, I’ll share all my tips for planning your road trip in Mexico, including insights into the condition and unique features of the roads of Yucatan Peninsula.

Is it easy to drive on the roads of Yucatán, Mexico?

Driving in Mexico, particularly on the roads of Yucatán, is very straightforward and relatively similar to driving in other countries.

Mexican drivers are generally respectful of others, although you might need to assert yourself at some intersections in larger cities.

In Mexico, main roads always have priority over smaller ones in urban areas.

As long as you follow the traffic laws, you shouldn’t have any issues driving during your road trip.

However, when driving in Yucatán, I recommend avoiding nighttime driving. Roads are not lit, and it’s common to encounter pedestrians, animals, and even livestock along the roads, including on highways.

What is the condition of the roads in Yucatán?

In Mexico, as in other countries, there are different types of roads. With a rental car, you’ll be able to drive on most roads in Mexico, with a few exceptions.

Some very rough dirt tracks are off-limits for rental cars in Yucatán, as specified by most car rental companies.

That said, rest assured—the general road network in Yucatán is in excellent condition, with well-maintained and smooth roads.

I recommend the car rental agency DiscoverCars, which can help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs in the Riviera Maya.

They offer car rentals with assistance and insurance if you need, so you can hit the road worry-free.

Highways in Mexico

The main thoroughfares in the region are the highways, which are relatively new and constantly expanding.

Highways in Yucatán are very convenient, offering quick connections between cities like Mérida and Valladolid and popular destinations like Playa del Carmen and Cancun in the Riviera Maya.

These highways are safe to use, and you can drive on them with confidence. However, they are toll roads, and you’ll need to pay a fee in cash to access them.

One thing to note is that all directional signs on roads and highways are green. Highways are specifically marked with the word “Cuota” to indicate toll roads.

Main Roads

In the Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll find major national roads connecting the region’s main cities. These roads are well-maintained, fairly safe, and completely free to use.

The most traveled main road in the entire peninsula is undoubtedly the one connecting Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

This route runs along the coast, providing access to Cancun Airport and all the resorts in the Riviera Maya.

However, stay alert—pedestrians and cyclists can sometimes be spotted along the edges of these main roads.

Secondary Roads

To reach smaller towns in the Yucatán Peninsula that are not located along the main highways, there are smaller roads, most of which are in reasonably good condition.

Mexico’s secondary roads allow you to venture further inland and access popular tourist attractions like the archaeological sites of Chichen Itza, Ek’ Balam, and Tulum.

These roads will undoubtedly be part of your journey during a road trip in Yucatán, leading you to the region’s hidden treasures.

Dirt Roads

If you’re looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, you’ll likely encounter dirt roads where extra caution is required.

For instance, cenotes are often located a few kilometers off the main road and are accessible via rough dirt tracks.

In these cases, drive slowly and carefully to avoid damaging your rental car, which could lead to costly issues when returning the vehicle.

One area, however, is particularly discouraged for rental cars: Punta Allen in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

The dirt road to Punta Allen stretches over 40 kilometers and is extremely bumpy. Attempting to drive a rental car there poses a high risk of damage.

In fact, most rental agencies explicitly prohibit taking their vehicles into this area.

I would recommend to visit the Sian Ka’an biosphere through a tour.

What type of car to rent for driving on the roads of Yucatán?

For driving on the roads of Yucatán, renting a standard car such as a compact or sedan will be more than enough.

The vast majority of roads are accessible to all types of cars, including the least expensive models.

However, I do recommend choosing a car with air conditioning, as temperatures can quickly rise in the region.

Only certain dirt roads will be more difficult to navigate without a 4WD. Roads leading to some cenotes, although bumpy, are still passable with a standard car.

On the other hand, if you plan to visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, renting a 4WD is essential, as it can be challenging to drive on those roads without one.

What are the speed limits on the roads of Yucatán?

In Mexico, the metric system is used to measure distances and speeds.

The speed limits on the roads of Yucatán are as follows:

• Highways and national roads: 110 km/h
• Secondary roads: 80 km/h
• In cities: 40 km/h

That said, Mexicans often tend to exceed these speed limits on the road.

Speed checks are fairly frequent near cities, especially when it comes to rental cars, so I recommend avoiding speeding.

Also, be mindful of your speed due to the many animals that may suddenly appear from the jungle and cross the highways and roads of Yucatán.

Are there any Mexican road specifics?

Speed Bumps

You’ll encounter numerous speed bumps (known as topes) in towns and their outskirts. Mexicans seem to have a fondness for speed bumps on their roads.

Topes are small, round bumps about 10 centimeters high placed across the road. You’ll need to cross them slowly to avoid damaging your tires!

Be cautious and drive gently over them to prevent harm to your rental car.

Also, their signage is sometimes missing or unclear. Pay close attention, especially on secondary roads and in urban areas.

Traffic Lights in Mexico

As in the United States, traffic lights in Mexico are placed on the opposite side of the intersection. Be sure to stop at the line on your side of the intersection.

Another similarity with the U.S. is that you are allowed to turn right on a red light, but you must yield to other vehicles.

The Emergency Lane in Yucatán

In Mexico, the emergency lane serves a different purpose compared to other countries.

Speed limits are rarely adhered to, and drivers are always looking to overtake others.

You’ll often see slower vehicles move over to the emergency lane to let faster cars pass.

Feel free to pull over to the emergency lane if you see a car approaching at high speed, allowing them to pass safely.

Gas Stations in Yucatán

Gas stations are plentiful in the cities of Yucatán and are widely available throughout urban areas.

However, once you’re on the highway, finding a gas station can be more challenging. Be sure to fill up before leaving the cities.

Fuel is still relatively expensive for an oil-producing country.

Expect to pay between 22 and 25 MXN pesos per liter for gasoline or diesel in Mexico.

One thing to note is that in Mexico, you don’t pump your own gas. An attendant will do it for you at the station.

What to do in case of an issue on the roads of Yucatán?

Driving in Mexico is generally safe. However, in case of an accident, it’s important to contact your car rental agency, which will guide you on the next steps.

The car rental agency DiscoverCars offers insurance and assistance for any questions you may have.

If you experience a problem while on a Mexican highway, you can call the emergency number 078.

For general emergencies, the number to call in Mexico is 911.

Having insurance is crucial when renting a car in Mexico, as failing to have it could lead to serious consequences, including a potential few days in jail.

Preparing for your road trip on the roads of Yucatán

Before heading out on your road trip through Yucatán, it’s essential to plan your key stops and route.

I recommend downloading GPS maps to your phone so you can access them offline.

Many sections of roads outside the main cities are not covered by the mobile network, so it’s important to have offline maps available.