Yucatán, Mexico
Photo: Yodigo, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Arrecife de Alacranes (Scorpion Reef) is a reef located 125 km north of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. The reef is a designated national park that, because of its remote location, is visited only by serious scuba divers and very enthusiastic birdwatchers. The reef has five main islands, but only one is inhabited (Isla Perez). The park is recognized as an "Important Bird Area" because of its large nesting population of frigatebirds.
The only way to get to Arrecife de Alacranes is by boat. The nearest port is Progreso, Yucatán.
Read in the guideYou need a boat. Boats might be chartered in Progreso, though it's a long, difficult trip best done with an experienced captain familiar with the dangers of the reef system.
Read in the guideChoose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Mérida · International · MID
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Arrecifes de Alacranes National Park and Mexico.
Find the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
Explore the best places to visit in November across autumn foliage, mild desert warmth, southern spring blooms, and off-peak travel bargains.
6 min read
Plan your Isla Holbox trip with our complete Mexico guide. Explore sand streets, Punta Cocos bioluminescence, whale sharks, beach clubs, and ferries.
8 min read
Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Compare safety in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Mexico City, and Oaxaca with official travel advisories and local tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.