Progreso Misnebalam Ghost Town ATV excursion and Break at Silcer Beach Club

Progreso Misnebalam Ghost Town ATV excursion and Break at Silcer Beach Club offers travelers a chance to combine thrilling off-road exploration with a relaxing coastal retreat. For $175 per person, this roughly 3-5 hour tour takes you from the bustling port of Progreso into the fascinating abandoned town of Misnebalam, followed by a leisurely stop at the Slicer Beach Club. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll experience the history and architecture of a ghost town, then unwind with ocean views, white sands, and optional food and drinks.

What we love most about this experience is the adventure of riding ATV through off-road trails—an exhilarating way to see a less-visited part of Yucatán—and the chance to connect with local history through the stories your guide shares. Plus, the beach stop offers a chance to cool off and relax after some spooky sightseeing.

One consideration is that the beach club may not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re expecting a large, luxurious resort—some reviews mention the Slicer Beach Club as small and unimpressive. Also, the price includes a lot of conveniences like round-trip transport and safety gear, but extras like food, drinks, towels, or lockers are not included, which could add to your costs if you want to fully indulge.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, history, and beach relaxation. It’s ideal for those comfortable on ATVs, curious about local stories, and looking for a hassle-free day out with transportation and a guide included. If you’re seeking a structured, guided experience that offers authentic sights and a bit of thrill, this excursion checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Off-road adventure with ATV riding through rural parts of Yucatán.
• Historic exploration of Misnebalam, with insights into its 19th-century architecture and haunted reputation.
• Convenient transportation included, saving you time and effort from arranging your own logistics.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable, multilingual guides sharing local stories.
• Beach relaxation at Silcer Beach Club with stunning ocean views and white sands.
• Optional all-inclusive upgrade available for food and drinks at the beach.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Location and Overall Experience
Starting from Progreso, you’ll be picked up at your hotel or cruise port, then transported in a fully insured, air-conditioned vehicle to the nearby local Mayan town of Paraiso. Here, you get a quick safety briefing and familiarization with your Yamaha or Italika ATV, which is automatic and equipped with helmets, knee, and elbow guards. We appreciate that the tour is designed to handle a maximum of just 7 travelers, allowing for a more personalized and safe experience.

Stop 1: Paraiso and ATV Practice
The first stop is all about getting comfortable with the ATV. The practice session is brief but essential, especially if you’re new to off-road riding. Expect friendly guidance and a chance to ask questions before heading off into the countryside. This initial 25-minute segment sets the tone for a fun, adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Stop 2: Misnebalam Ghost Town
The highlight for many is the exploration of Misnebalam, the “ghost town” that has attracted curiosity for decades. Here, you’ll walk through the remains of a once-bustling 19th-century town, marveling at the old architecture and imagining what life was like in its heyday.

Some reviews mention the haunted reputation—”you might see some real ghosts,” as one playful review suggests—but even without spectral sightings, the decayed buildings and deserted streets offer a powerful sense of history. Our guide shares stories and insights, making the visit more than just a walk through ruins. Be prepared for some uneven terrain and a bit of dust; it’s an active off-road adventure.

Authentic Sightseeing and Stories
What truly elevates this stop is the local guide’s storytelling. Some reviews praise guides who “know the history well” and share legends, creating a vivid picture of the town’s past. Others note that the experience is “full of energy” and that the guide’s enthusiasm makes the stories come alive.

However, a negative review mentions that some visitors felt the beach club was small and “kinda skanky,” and that the pool was unimpressive. It’s worth noting that the tour’s primary focus is the ghost town experience, and the beach club is a convenient, if modest, relaxation spot. If you’re expecting a luxury resort, you might be disappointed. But if your goal is to unwind by the ocean after a fun ride, this spot can be just fine.

Stop 3: Silcer Beach Club
The final part of the tour is a laid-back visit to Silcer Beach Club. It boasts beautiful ocean views, white sands, and emerald-green waters, perfect for cooling off after the adventure. You’ll have two hours here, during which you can relax, swim, or grab a snack. Food and drinks are available, but not included unless you pay for the all-inclusive upgrade.

Some travelers comment that the facilities are basic—“the pool is literally the size of a hot tub”—but many find the location charming, especially if you’re seeking a quiet, scenic spot for a bit of rest. The optional all-inclusive package is available, but even without it, the experience offers a decent chance to enjoy the coast.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transport and Group Size
The tour includes round-trip transportation from your cruise or hotel, which simplifies logistics and ensures you don’t waste time figuring out how to get to Misnebalam. Groups are kept small—up to 7 travelers—which enhances safety and allows guides to provide more personalized attention, a plus for those new to ATV riding.

Duration and Timing
Starting at 9:30 am, the tour lasts about 3 to 5 hours. This flexibility is helpful if you need to coordinate with cruise schedules or want a relaxed pace. The tour’s structure makes it easy to fit into a half-day plan.

Cost and Included Items
At $175 per person, the price covers all safety gear, the guided tour, and transportation. Given that you get to see the ghost town, enjoy a safe ATV ride, and relax at the beach—all in one package—it offers good value. However, extras like towels or lockers aren’t included, so bring your own if needed.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback
While the overall review score is a modest 3.2 out of 5, many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the value for money. One traveler wrote, “this was hands down the best excursion to get out of your comfort zone,” emphasizing the adventure component. Conversely, some critiques about the beach club’s size and cleanliness remind us to manage expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion suits adventurers eager for a dose of off-road excitement combined with a taste of local history. If you’re curious about abandoned towns, enjoy guided storytelling, or want a unique way to see the Yucatán countryside, you’ll find this appealing.

It’s also ideal for small groups or families looking for a hassle-free day with transportation and safety gear included. However, if you prefer luxurious beach resorts or dislike dust and rugged terrain, you might want to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers a fairly unique package. The ATV ride through Misnebalam provides a memorable way to explore the Yucatán’s past, while the beach stop offers a laid-back end to the day. The small group size and guided stories make it engaging and personal.

However, the quality of the beach club and the value for extras (like food or lockers) may not meet everyone’s expectations. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path sights and are comfortable on ATVs, and who appreciate the chance to hear local legends and history firsthand.

This tour delivers a fun, educational, and scenic experience that takes you off the tourist trail, but it’s important to keep expectations realistic about the beach facilities and the modest nature of the site.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your Progreso cruise or hotel is included, making the logistics straightforward.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden an ATV before?
Yes, the tour begins with a practice lesson to familiarize you with the ATV, so beginners are welcome.

What should I bring?
Bring personal towels, and consider your own waterproof or protective gear if you prefer. The tour provides helmets and safety gear, but lockers are not included.

Is food or drinks included?
No, unless you upgrade to the all-inclusive beach package, which covers food and drinks at the beach club.

What is the condition of the beach club facilities?
The facilities are basic, with some reviews describing the pool as small and not particularly clean, so don’t expect a luxury resort.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Minimum age is 18, so this tour is designed for adults only.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or full refund will be offered.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, the guides are likely to be multi-lingual, with at least English-speaking staff available.

In essence, this tour is a solid pick for those craving an active, culturally interesting day with a scenic coast finale. Just remember to manage your expectations about the beach facilities and be ready for some dusty fun in the countryside.