Things To Do
in Peto

Peto is a charming town located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, known for its rich Mayan heritage and vibrant local culture. The town is characterized by its colorful buildings, friendly locals, and a laid-back atmosphere that invites exploration. Visitors can experience traditional Yucatecan cuisine, lively markets, and unique handicrafts.

Peto serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby archaeological sites and natural attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Peto
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant colors and aromas of Yucatecan produce. Try some fresh fruit and local pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby cenotes for a refreshing swim and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. Afterward, explore the historical sites within Peto, including local churches and plazas.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant where you can enjoy local dishes like cochinita pibil. Stroll through the town square to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Take a guided tour to a nearby Mayan archaeological site, such as Ek' Balam, and learn about the history and significance of the region.

afternoon
:

Head back to Peto for lunch, and then participate in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Yucatecan dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, sampling regional drinks like horchata or local beers while enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🌮Meal at a local restaurant$5
🥤Bottle of water$0.50
🚌Bus fare within town$0.30
🛍️Souvenir$10
Coffee at a café$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experience with local traditions and festivals.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Access to beautiful natural attractions like cenotes.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Peto

Visit one of these nice places.

Cenote X'batun

A stunning natural swimming hole surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Peto Town Square

The vibrant heart of the town featuring colorful buildings and local life, ideal for street photography.

Mayan Ruins of Ek' Balam

Ancient ruins that offer breathtaking views and rich history, perfect for both landscape and architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Peto

Peto offers a delightful array of local cuisine that reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Peto Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote, traditionally served with pickled red onions.

Must-Try!

Sopes

Thick corn tortillas topped with refried beans, meat, and fresh vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Peto Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors offer delicious tacos and tamales throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Peto experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season typically runs from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall but also cooler temperatures. The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by sunny days and cooler nights. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in the cooler months to 35°C (95°F) in the summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Locals

A friendly 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' is appreciated when entering shops or meeting locals.

Respect for Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious events or ceremonies.

Dress Code

While casual clothing is acceptable, dressing modestly is encouraged, especially in religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Peto is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Always stay aware of your surroundings and use common sense when exploring new areas.

Tipping in Peto

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash; however, some larger establishments accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Temperatures are mild, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and exploring.

Spring

Warm weather with occasional rain; ideal for visiting cenotes.

Summer

Hot and humid, with a risk of tropical storms; best for early morning or late afternoon activities.

Fall

Temperatures start to cool down; great for visiting archaeological sites and enjoying local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Peto at Night

Peto's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to larger cities, but there are charming local bars and cafes where you can enjoy live music, especially on weekends. Most venues offer a relaxed atmosphere to unwind with a drink after a day of exploring. Socializing in town squares is common, where locals gather to enjoy music and dance.

Hiking in Peto

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cenote Ik Kil Trail

A scenic trail leading to the famous Ik Kil cenote, surrounded by lush greenery.

Mayan Ruins Trail

A trail that takes you through the jungle to visit nearby archaeological sites, offering both history and natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Peto by plane.

Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport

Located approximately 90 km from Peto, this airport serves the city of Mérida and offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Peto is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the town easily on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the pace of life is relaxed, encouraging leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mayan Descendants

Many locals are of Mayan descent, preserving their cultural heritage and traditions.

Spanish Speakers

Spanish is the primary language spoken, with many residents being bilingual in Mayan languages.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Fútbol)

Soccer is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches that bring communities together.

Baseball

Baseball also has a strong following, with many locals playing casually and attending professional games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Peto is minimal due to its small size, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and connect to nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Peto.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While traditional Yucatecan cuisine includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and local markets provide fresh vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Corn-based dishes are prevalent, providing gluten-free options, but always confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

While Peto has basic healthcare facilities, access to advanced medical services may require travel to larger cities like Mérida. It is recommended for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas treatment and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide