Cielo Hamacas – Handmade Hammocks in Mérida (2025)

Who doesn’t love stretching out in a hammock every now and then?

It just reminded me – I actually own a brand-new one that’s still waiting to be hung up. In Yucatán, by the way, lots of people sleep in hammocks instead of beds – it’s totally normal and surprisingly comfortable once you get used to it!

So that brings up the real question – where’s the best place to actually buy one of these things? Cielo Hamacas is the best-known hammock store in Mérida and Mérida is home to the most famous hammocks in Mexico.

And here’s another tip while we’re at it – if you want the real deal, go for a handmade hammock woven from sisal, not cotton or plastic. That’s the traditional way, and it makes all the difference.

The little shop on Paseo de Montejo might not look like much – I’ve walked past it plenty of times without a second thought – but Cielo Hamacas is actually one of Mexico’s biggest hammock suppliers and even ships to the U.S. and Europe.

Designs and Custom Options

At any given time, about 10,000 Mayan hammocks are stored in the central warehouse, available in every conceivable size, shape and color, made of nylon or cotton.

Other materials? Just ask! One I’d totally recommend is sisal – it’s made right here in the region and adds a really cool, natural touch. Upon request, individual color combinations can be woven. In this case, the production time is about 2-3 weeks.

Pricing and Sizes

Prices start at about US-$ 100, but there are also luxury models that are large enough to comfortably accommodate two people and cost about US-$ 600.

The hammocks are offered in four sizes where the length always remains the same and only the width differs. You can get an idea of the models online before visiting one of the two stores in Mérida.

Fair Trade and Community Support

A factory is located in Teabo in Yucatán. As a member of the fair trade community, the company also cares about improving the living conditions of the poorer people.

Thus, Cielo Hamacas offers the possibility for men and women to weave the hammocks at home. These are then picked up. The raw materials for this are provided.

Store Locations and Online Presence

In addition to the store, there is also the headquarter:

• Store: Calle 56-A, No. 486 x 41 & 43, Paseo de Montejo

• Headquarter (with store): Calle 65, No. 510 Local 2 x 62 & 64, Col. Centro

And in addition to the Cielo Hamacas website, you can also find

• Cielo Hamacas in Facebook

• Cielo Hamacas on Instagram

The History of the Hammock

Hammocks originated over 1,000 years ago with indigenous peoples of Central and South America, especially the Taíno of the Caribbean. Early versions were made from Hamack tree bark, which gave the hammock its name.

In Mexico, especially in Yucatán, hammocks (or hamacas) have been part of daily life for centuries. Introduced by the Maya and woven from natural fibers like henequen, they became the go-to choice for sleeping in the region’s hot, humid climate.

Unlike beds, hammocks allow for better airflow, keeping people cool at night and protecting them from insects. Over time, the tradition evolved, with Yucatán becoming famous for its high-quality, handwoven hammocks, often crafted in villages like Tixkokob.

Today, hammocks remain a cultural symbol of comfort and craftsmanship, deeply rooted in Mayan heritage and still widely used in Yucatecan homes. When you drive through the villages in Yucatán, you can often see inside the houses and spot hammocks hanging inside.