Yucatán Hotels Hit 59% Occupancy in March

Mérida, Yucatán — Hotels in Yucatán recorded a 59 percent occupancy rate in March, reflecting steady tourism activity across the state. The data, released by the Mexican Hotel Association of Yucatán (AMHY), highlights regional variations, with Mérida leading at 61 percent, followed by coastal areas at 52 percent, Valladolid at 48.51 percent, Chichén Itzá at 47.30 percent, and Izamal at 42.92 percent.

Regional Breakdown and Seasonal Influences

Juan José Martín Pacheco, president of AMHY, noted that while Yucatán’s overall occupancy was two percentage points lower than March 2024, most destinations maintained performance levels comparable to the previous year. The figures were derived from a sample of 5,881 rooms across 104 hotels statewide, including 5,130 rooms in 77 Mérida establishments and 751 rooms in 27 hotels elsewhere in the state.

Martín Pacheco attributed the slight dip in overall occupancy to an increase in available rooms, particularly in Mérida, Valladolid, and Izamal. "This growth presents a double-edged sword: it signals expansion but also intensifies market competition," he explained.

Alternative Lodging and Key Events

The coastal segment saw families opting for rental homes or apartments, impacting traditional hotel bookings. Despite this, occupancy remained robust, bolstered by seasonal events such as the March equinox, which drew domestic and international visitors to sites like Chichén Itzá.

First-Quarter Performance and Future Outlook

The first quarter of 2025 averaged over 58 percent occupancy, indicating strong demand ahead of peak periods like Easter Week in April. Comparatively, Yucatán’s hotel occupancy in May 2024 stood at 46 percent, while November 2024 reached 64 percent, underscoring seasonal fluctuations.

Martín Pacheco expressed optimism, stating, "The sector remains resilient, with potential for further growth in the second quarter." The data underscores tourism’s pivotal role in Yucatán’s economy, with hospitality metrics serving as key indicators for regional development.