From Progreso: ATV Ghost Town Excursion & Beach Club Access

From Progreso: ATV Ghost Town Excursion & Beach Club Access

If you’re looking to combine a bit of adventure with a dose of local history and relaxation, this tour from Progreso might just be what you need. For $120 per person, in about six hours, you’ll get to ride your own ATV through a fascinating ghost town called Misnebalam, explore abandoned haciendas, learn about local legends, and then unwind at Silcer Beach Club—complete with pool, sea, and snacks.

We really appreciate how this experience offers a genuine taste of rural Yucatán—and the chance to get your adrenaline pumping on a solo ATV ride. Two things we especially like are the opportunity to hear stories about witchcraft and mystical creatures linked to the ghost town (added flavor for history buffs) and the chance to relax afterward at a well-equipped beach club.

One thing to keep in mind is that for safety reasons, visitors aren’t allowed into the abandoned buildings of Misnebalam—so don’t expect to explore the interiors. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, adventure, and beach time, and who don’t mind getting a little dusty or wet.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic exploration of a real ghost town with stories of local legends.
• Solo ATV riding provides a fun adrenaline rush and a sense of freedom.
• Relaxing time at Silcer Beach Club with pools, umbrellas, and water sports.
• Learn about the history and folklore of Misnebalam from knowledgeable guides.
• Includes hotel pickup, safety gear, and entrance to the beach club, making it a seamless experience.
• Suitable for active travelers and families with older children who can drive or ride double.

An Adventure in the Heart of Yucatán’s Hidden Stories

This tour from Progreso offers a rare look at the stories that swirl around abandoned towns and haciendas. We loved the way the guide shares tales of witchcraft and mystical creatures believed to have scared away the original inhabitants of Misnebalam. It’s a fascinating mix of local legend and history, all delivered by guides who speak both English and Spanish fluently, making the experience accessible and engaging.

The journey begins with a hotel pickup and a brief safety briefing before you hop onto a Yamaha or Italika ATV, either riding solo or with a companion. As you navigate the dirt roads leading to the ghost town, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of driving yourself—an activity that’s surprisingly easy to pick up, even if you’re new to ATVs.

We found the 30-45 minute visit to Misnebalam to be just enough to get a sense of the place without feeling rushed. You’ll see exterior views of abandoned buildings, including an old Hacienda, and hear about the history of the town’s previous inhabitants. The guide’s storytelling really adds depth, especially with tales about how occult practices and folklore may have contributed to the town’s mysterious abandonment.

After the ghost town, the tour continues to the Paraiso Blue Lagoon, a peaceful spot to swim and cool off amid lush surroundings. The water is clear, inviting, and perfect for a quick dip. Then it’s off to the Silcer Beach Club—a highlight for many. Here, you’ll find comfortable beach chairs and umbrellas, a swimming pool, kayaks, and even free WiFi.

The beach club offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing after your morning’s adventure. You can stroll along the shore, lounge in a hammock, or order a refreshing drink and authentic Mexican or American fare from the bar and restaurant. Kids are also well-catered to, with a dedicated kids’ club and non-motorized water sports that are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Visiting Misnebalam Ghost Town

The real draw here is the storytelling. While you won’t enter the abandoned buildings for safety reasons, the exterior views alone evoke a feeling of faded glory. The guide shares tales of the town’s inhabitants, with some stories involving witchcraft, mystical creatures, and locals’ legends about why the town was abandoned. One reviewer, Dennis, called the guide “knowledgeable,” which makes a big difference when you want to understand the stories behind the ruins.

This part of the tour is relatively short—about 30 to 45 minutes—so it’s a quick but impactful glimpse into the town’s eerie past. The buildings, though off-limits inside, are still evocative, and the stories add an atmospheric layer to the visual experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Off to Paraiso Blue Lagoon

A short ride from the ghost town, the Blue Lagoon is a favorite for a reason. Surrounded by nature, this serene swim spot offers refreshingly clear waters that invite you for a quick splash or a relaxing float. It’s a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of ATV riding. You’ll love the way the cool water makes you feel after a morning of dusty roads and storytelling.

Relaxing at Silcer Beach Club

The final leg of the tour is the Silcer Beach Club, a well-equipped seaside haven. The facilities—beach chairs, umbrellas, a swimming pool, and kayaks—are designed for comfort and fun. Many travelers, including the reviewer who enjoyed the full ocean view hammock, find this part of the day very restorative. The option to buy food and drinks from the Mexican menu adds to the appeal, especially if you’re craving authentic flavors after a busy morning.

Kids will appreciate the kid’s club, and for everyone, the free WiFi offers a chance to share photos or just unwind without feeling disconnected. The water sports are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s worth arriving early if you want to kayak.

How the Experience Comes Together

This tour balances adventure, history, and relaxation quite well. The ATV ride gives you independence and a bit of a thrill, making the tour memorable. The stories about Misnebalam add a layer of local color that enriches the experience far beyond just sightseeing. Finally, the beach time offers a well-deserved break, with plenty of facilities to relax and enjoy the day.

The value depends on what you’re looking for. Given that the tour includes hotel pickup, safety gear, and entrance to the beach club, the $120 fee represents a reasonably comprehensive day. It’s especially worth it if you enjoy active days with a mix of cultural storytelling and leisure.

A key highlight is the knowledgeable guides, who seem to be a real asset—many reviewers, including Dennis, praise how their stories make the visit more engaging and informative. The small group size (limited to 7 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, avoiding the crowding of larger tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a taste of rural Yucatán, an interest in local legends, and a relaxed beach day loaded with amenities. It’s great for families with older children, as kids must be at least 14 to drive a double ATV, and safety comes first. Those who appreciate guided storytelling and well-organized facilities will find it satisfying.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility challenges, or wheelchair users, since the focus is on physical activity and walking around the ghost town’s exterior.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of history, adventure, and leisure during a single day. Expect to feel a sense of discovery as you explore the abandoned town and hear its tales, then unwind with a swim and a relaxed beach afternoon. The small group size and friendly guides create an intimate atmosphere that many travelers find appealing.

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the mysterious stories of Misnebalam, a sense of achievement from the ATV ride, and plenty of memories from your time relaxing at Silcer Beach Club. It’s a smart choice for those who seek authentic experiences, active fun, and a taste of local legends all in one package.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without worrying about transportation.

Can I drive the ATV myself?
Yes, if you are 18 or older and have a driver’s license, you can drive solo. Children aged 14-17 may drive a double ATV with a parent on the back.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and clothes that can get dirty. Towels are available at extra cost.

Is the tour suitable in rainy weather?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine. Be prepared for outdoor conditions, but your guide will adapt as needed.

How long is the visit to Misnebalam?
Expect about 30-45 minutes, enough to see the exterior of a few abandoned buildings and hear stories about them.

Are non-motorized water sports included?
Yes, kayaks are available on a first-come, first-serve basis at the beach club.

What’s not included?
Towels (available for purchase), massages, and food/drinks beyond what’s offered at the beach club are not included.

Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes, drivers must be 18 or older, and children aged 14-17 can drive a double ATV with parental accompaniment.

This tour from Progreso is a chance to combine outdoor adventure, local lore, and seaside relaxation in a way that feels authentic and fun. Whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, or just in need of some well-earned downtime, it offers a balanced, memorable slice of Yucatán.

You can check availability for your dates here: