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

This review covers a popular excursion that combines adventure, history, and relaxation—perfect for travelers seeking a bit of everything while visiting the Yucatán Peninsula. The Progreso Misnebalam Ghost Town ATV tour is advertised as a chance to explore an abandoned town, learn about its haunted past, and unwind with a beachside break at Silcer Beach Club. With a price of $175 per person, it’s a little on the steep side, but many find the experience offers a unique blend of thrills and leisure.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the off-road ATV adventure through Misnebalam promises a hands-on way to see the ruins and get your adrenaline pumping. Second, the combination with a relaxing beach visit offers a nice balance—especially after some spooky sightseeing. However, a few travelers have expressed disappointment, chiefly regarding the beach club’s size and service, so it’s worth considering whether this tour suits your style.

In the end, this excursion is best suited for those who enjoy active exploration and are curious about local history, but don’t mind a variable party atmosphere at the beach. Families, adventure lovers, or history buffs who want a full day out might find it worthwhile. Let’s unpack the details to help you decide if this adventure is right for you.

Key Points

• Adventure and history combine in a guided ATV ride through the abandoned town of Misnebalam.
• Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Progreso ensures a smooth experience.
• Authentic insights from knowledgeable guides enhance the spooky storytelling.
• Beach relaxation at Silcer Beach Club offers a laid-back end to the tour, with optional all-inclusive upgrades.
• Group size is limited (up to 7 travelers), maintaining a personal atmosphere.
• Variable reviews highlight both the fun and the potential downsides of the beach facility and service.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Progreso

The adventure kicks off around 9:30 am, with hassle-free pickup from your hotel or cruise ship terminal—an aspect many travelers appreciate, especially after a morning of travel or arrival. The transport is fully licensed and insured, providing peace of mind. Expect a short 25-minute ride to the local Mayan town of Paraiso, where you’ll get a quick practice lesson on the ATVs. This initial stage is crucial, especially for newcomers or those a bit nervous about driving off-road. The guides are usually friendly and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.

Exploring Misnebalam

The main event is the roughly 2-hour exploration of Misnebalam, the famed ghost town. Once a bustling mining settlement, it’s now a hauntingly quiet place with 19th-century architecture still standing amidst the ruins. The tour guides share stories about the town’s haunted reputation and history, adding spice to the sightseeing. Several reviews mention “ghosts” and urban legends, which can be quite entertaining, especially in the fading light and creaky structures.

However, some reviews hint at mixed experiences here. One traveler noted, “Not as great as it was made out to be,” and others have mentioned that the town’s appearance might not match everyone’s expectations—some found it more rustic and less picturesque than imagined. But if you’re into authentic ruins with stories to tell, this stop offers a memorable visit—especially when you’re riding an ATV through the dusty streets and overgrown paths.

Beach Club Relaxation at Silcer Beach

After exploring the ghost town, the tour continues with a short drive to Silcer Beach Club. Here, the focus shifts to unwinding, with white sands, emerald waters, and ocean views. The included two-hour break is your chance to soak up the sun, swim, or enjoy some refreshments. The facilities are basic, and some reviews describe the beach club as small and somewhat “skanky”, with a pool the size of a hot tub. It’s worth noting that at the time of review, some guests felt the amenities didn’t quite live up to expectations, especially if expecting a large, well-maintained resort.

Many travelers appreciate the included facilities—restrooms, chairs, and the chance to relax after the adventure. Some opt to upgrade to the all-inclusive package, which offers food and drinks—though beware, as some reviews have reported being pressured to purchase the upgrade or high prices for drinks ($28 for a few Cokes and snacks). If you’re not interested in the all-inclusive, you can simply pay as you go, which might be a better value depending on your appetite and drink preferences.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

The ATV Ride

The ATV portion is the highlight for most. The vehicles are automatic Yamaha or Italika ATVs, easy to operate for beginners but still fun for experienced riders. The guides supervise closely, helping you navigate muddy patches, uneven terrain, and dusty roads. The terrain can be bumpy and challenging, which is part of the thrill, but the safety gear—helmets, knee, and elbow guards—are provided so you can focus on the fun.

Some travelers have shared that the ride is roughly 20 minutes from the town to the ruins, but the actual exploration on site lasts around two hours. During this time, guides share stories about the town’s haunted reputation and its 19th-century architecture, which adds a layer of history and mystery to the ride.

Misnebalam’s Ruins

Once in the ghost town, you’ll see abandoned buildings, overgrown streets, and remnants of a once-thriving mining community. The atmosphere can be eerie in the right light, and guides often spin tales of urban legends and ghost sightings. This part of the tour is not a deep historical lecture but more of a storytelling experience, which is generally appreciated by those who enjoy a spooky twist.

While some reviews have been mixed—cautioning that the town might be more rustic than picturesque—most agree that riding through the ruins on an ATV makes for an unforgettable experience. Don’t expect pristine tourist-friendly ruins; instead, prepare for a raw, authentic atmosphere that feels more like stepping into a ghost story.

Beach Break at Silcer

The final stop at the beach club is less about grandeur and more about relaxing ocean views and a casual environment. Expect white sandy beaches and water that’s perfect for swimming. The facilities include basic amenities, but as some reviews note, it’s not a luxury resort. The all-inclusive upgrade can be tempting, especially if you want drinks and snacks readily available, but some guests felt pressured into purchasing it.

The two-hour window allows for swimming, sunbathing, or just chilling with a cold beverage—a real plus after the adventure. For those who prefer to skip the upgrade, there are plenty of nearby vendors selling snacks and drinks if you want to explore more.

The Practicalities: Pricing, Duration, and Value

At $175 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option in Progreso, but it bundles several experiences into one package: ATV adventure, haunted ruins, and beach relaxation. Including transportation, guides, and equipment, many travelers see it as a fair deal—especially given the hassle-free pick-up and drop-off.

The duration of about 3 to 5 hours makes it a solid half-day activity, perfect for travelers who want a mix of excitement and downtime. Group size is limited to 7 travelers, ensuring a more personal feel, though this can also mean spots fill up quickly—average booking is about 35 days in advance.

From reviews, it’s clear that value depends on your expectations. If you’re eager for a thrilling ATV ride and a spooky story, the experience generally delivers. But if you’re after pristine scenery or luxury amenities at the beach, the beach club might not satisfy those desires.

Authenticity and Cultural Context

This tour offers a rare glimpse into Yucatán’s local history—an abandoned mining town with stories of ghosts and ghostly legends. It’s less about polished tourist attractions and more about raw, real sites that tell of the region’s past. Many reviews express appreciation for guides who share local legends and history, making the experience more meaningful.

That said, some visitors have felt the beach and beach club part fell short of expectations, citing small, somewhat neglected facilities. It seems that the main value in this tour is the adventure and storytelling during the ATV ride, with the beach segment serving as a relaxing capstone—dependent on individual preferences.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and relaxation—perfect for those open to off-the-beaten-path exploration. If you love active outdoor activities and are curious about Yucatán’s abandoned settlements, you’ll likely enjoy the ATV ride and the stories that come with it. The hassle-free transportation makes it convenient, especially if you’re on a cruise or short visit.

However, be aware that the beach club may be modest and the amenities basic, which might disappoint travelers expecting a more luxurious setting. The mixed reviews about the beach and service indicate it’s not a high-end resort experience but rather a simple seaside break.

For travelers who value authentic ruins, storytelling, and adventure, this tour offers genuine fun and insight. But if luxury, pristine scenery, or quiet beach time are your priorities, you may want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. The tour provides round-trip transportation from your Progreso cruise ship terminal or hotel, making it very convenient.

What’s the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age is 18, which applies both to riding the ATV and to drinking alcohol, if you choose the all-inclusive upgrade.

How long does the entire tour last?
The entire experience typically takes between 3 to 5 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and beach time.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, the tour can be operated by a multi-lingual guide, generally in English, to help non-Spanish speakers understand the stories and safety instructions.

What’s included in the price?
Price includes transportation, guides, ATV equipment (helmets, guards), and access to the beach club facilities. The all-inclusive food and drinks are optional and can be purchased separately.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera. If you plan to stay longer at the beach, consider bringing extra cash for snacks or drinks if you skip the upgrade.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adrenaline, intrigue, and leisure—great for travelers wanting a full day of outdoor fun with a touch of history. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the beach facilities, and you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your Yucatán adventure.