11 days by the Aztec and Mayan Route:Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Yucatan and Cancun

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Entry/Admission - Teotihuacan Pyramids
  • Entry/Admission - Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán
  • Entry/Admission - Parque Nacional Cañón del Sumidero
  • Entry/Admission - Zona Arqueologica de Palenque
  • Entry/Admission - Parque Museo La Venta
  • Entry/Admission - Chichen Itza
  • Hoteles are not included. Those must be booked by your own.
  • This is a circuit package. You must book all hotels by your own. We will be in contact with you prior your date tour to have all details of your hotels, so we can add in our schedule. It is highly recommended to book hotels in the centre of each visited place.
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
  • Chichen Itza
  • Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán
  • Parque Museo La Venta
  • Zona Arqueologica de Palenque
  • Teotihuacan Pyramids

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tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

  • Heather M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic way to learn more about Mexico & see interesting cities I highly recommend this trip as an add-on to your stay in Mexico City although you might want to stretch it out a bit to spend more time exploring these wonderful cities. We feel we just got a sampling of what there was to see. We will definitely go back and spend more time in this area. Our guide Oscar was outstanding and made the trip all that more enjoyable. Read more Written November 10, 2019

More to explore in Mexico City

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

11 days by the Aztec and Mayan Route:Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Yucatan and Cancun provided by Circuitos por Mexico - CDMEX

Product overview: 11 days by the aztec and mayan route:puebla, oaxaca, chiapas, yucatan and cancun.

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tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

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tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

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tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

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Generating impact every step of the way

Meet local communities, foster job opportunities, boost the local economy and help restore the environment.

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“Being able to receive visitors is of utmost importance for us as it leads to the creation of employment opportunities and promotes the development of the areas where the tourist attractions are located. Moreover, it provides a great chance for individuals to come together, share experiences, and learn about different perspectives.”

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“Thanks to the partnership between Rutopía and the ecotourism project "Mujeres Milenarias" in El Almacén, Oaxaca, this destination has welcomed more than 100 visitors to date, providing a source of income for local families to reinvest in the project's development and allocate funds towards the restoration of their ecosystems.”

Therefore, we comply with the highest standards of sustainability, social impact, environment, transparency and legality. At Rutopía, we assume a commitment to continuous improvement.

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Mexico awaits. Experience the magic

Travel all mexico with rutopía, why travelers love rutopía.

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Everything is customizable to fit your needs, so you can have the trip of your dreams. We show you the true magic of Mexico.

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Hand over the planning to us and just enjoy your time. Our experienced travel planners at Rutopia will take care of ensuring a smooth trip.

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Personalized 
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Take a moment to envision waking up to freshly-made tortillas from places like Oaxaca and indulge in the authentic flavors of local Mexico. Our trusted travel experts will show you the most beautiful Mexican sites, giving you a privileged access to the unknown, yet breathtaking, places around the country.

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Delivering memorable moments and positively impacting others is who we are. We open to you the heart of Mexico, providing local trips by local people.

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Unique lodgings & activities

Hotels, glamping cabins, or somewhere in between? You choose what fits you best! Oh, and while you’re at it, have a taste of Mexico’s finest tequila from places like Jalisco.

Safe trips guaranteed

Be safe at every point of your journey while enjoying beautiful locations, such as Chiapas or Puebla, alongside your personal guide.

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How can indigenous and rural communities in Mexico benefit from their rich biodiversity and culture while preserving and regenerating it and creating dignified job opportunities? This was the question posed by Sebastián Muñoz and Emiliano Iturriaga in 2017, after months of collaborating on a participatory design project with these communities. The answer: through alternative, regenerative, sustainable, community-based, ecological, in other words, impact tourism.

And that's how Rutopía was born, as a social enterprise whose mission is to regenerate nature and culture through tourism. In 2019, it was awarded the most prestigious prize in Social Entrepreneurship: the Hult Prize, granted by the United Nations and personally presented by Bill Clinton.

Rutopía is the first tourism company in Mexico to be certified by the B Corp label. It was recognized by Forbes Mexico in 2021, and in August 2022, Rutopia was selected as the tourism promise by CNET (Information public until September 2022). It also received the Iberoamerican Award for Social and Sustainable Tourism in 2023.

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Meet our travel experts

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Lisa Brissac

A French-born but Mexican at heart, and she will be your local specialist for your trip. "Mucho gusto!" as they say here! Since living in Mexico, she has had the opportunity to explore magical villages, local customs, sandy beaches, and has fallen in love with its aromas and colors. What a joy to know that you have chosen to discover the diverse ancestral culture of this multifaceted country!

Leo Mallet

French-born living in Mexico who enjoys sharing his passion for this wonderful country with you through its various aspects: its archaeological temples, numerous museums, nature outings by the sea or in the jungle, the diversity of its cuisine, and the richness of the local communities with whom we are fortunate to work.

Lauren Nadot

French-born living in Mexico, with 12 years of experience in tourism, specializing in crafting off-the-beaten-path adventures in Mexico. With a deep passion for exploration and a profound love for the country. She takes travelers on a journey beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Her unique itineraries unveil the hidden gems of Mexico, showcasing its lesser-known archaeological wonders, secluded natural wonders, and vibrant local cultures.

Isabelle Bauer

Originally hailing from Germany, she has been a resident of Mexico since 2014, and it didn't take long for her to fall head over heels for the country. Her role in the tourism industry in Mexico provides her with the perfect platform to share her passion for the nation with fellow travelers.

Andrea Gramai

Residing in Cancun, he has had the privilege of embarking on comprehensive tours of the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as exploring portions of Chiapas and Mexico City. With over fifteen years of global travel and work experience, his heart was captured by Mexico a few years ago. As a seasoned travel consultant, he excels in crafting custom itineraries for some of the world's most exclusive destinations, with a particular expertise in this fantastic country. Andrea is here to provide his expertise and support for travelers' needs.

Karen Quintero

A proud Mexican hailing from the small city of Tlaxcala. Over the past four years, she has been dedicated to exploring the diverse landscapes of Mexico and has developed a profound appreciation for the authentic Mexico she has come to adore. It's a Mexico brimming with culture, natural wonders, and warm-hearted people. What sets her apart is her commitment to traveling with a positive impact and forging meaningful connections. Karen is eager to share her wealth of experiences and knowledge to assist you in crafting an authentic journey through Mexico that reflects her passion and values.

Diego Olivares

Proudly Mexican and having immersed himself in the heart of Mexico's diverse regions, he curates experiences that allow you to venture off the tourist trail and discover the authentic essence of the country. From exploring ancient ruins tucked away in remote jungles to savoring the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine in local markets, his alternative routes promise a deeper, more meaningful connection to Mexico's beauty and heritage.

Leslie Pérez

She takes great pride in her Mexican heritage and possesses an unbridled passion for travel. With the privilege of having visited 25 different countries, her recent four-year focus has been on uncovering and revealing the concealed gems within her beloved Mexico. Her personal interests are deeply rooted in learning about the ancient history and culture of her homeland, serving as a way to connect with her heritage. Her ideal travel experiences encompass a harmonious blend of outdoor adventures, be it in the mountains or by the beach, coupled with the exploration of cities and towns rich in cultural treasures.

Pauline Nourtier

French-born living in Mexico, she’ll help you embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure, uncovering the treasures of Mexico that often go unnoticed by conventional travelers. Get ready to embrace the magic of Mexico in a whole new light, with a passionate travel specialist who knows how to make your journey truly unforgettable.

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Mexican who holds a deep love for travel, values environmental awareness, and seeks to glean knowledge from diverse global cultures. He firmly endorses travel as a means of fostering positive personal growth and development. Recognizing that his homeland ranks among the world's top tourist destinations, he’s dedicated to ensuring that every visitor enjoys the most exceptional experience possible.

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tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

For those who don't like to manage logistics like hotels, rental cars, activities. And above all, to have someone who speaks fluent French that we can reach at any time for the unexpected... You are in the right place! Thank you to Chloe for the preparation of our trip, to Melina our Ariadne's thread and Teresa for her welcome and help at the arrival and departure. A big thank you to Enrique and Blanca from Nuevo-Durango for their welcome, their smiles, their family, a lot of emotions at the time to leave you. Thanks to Mémo for your teaching of Mexican customs (Sian Ka'an) The Yucatan is a magnificent region. And the population is very pleasant. Only downside Holbox... Too much dust, too much smell of fuel oil, too much tourist. I will keep in memory these wonderful moments!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Discovering wonderful and surprising sites, Mayan communities with an unforgettable welcome, breathtaking landscapes, a very pleasant climate in the middle of March...and smiling people! A big thank you to Rutopia and his team for the elaboration of this ideal circuit, alternating nature, city life, simplicity and comfort. Thanks to Mélina for the follow-up during our trip. We don't speak Spanish well enough, and we appreciated having a French-speaking contact person who could be reached if necessary. We still have a lot to discover and hope to come back very soon, and with Rutopia without hesitation!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

The trip was perfectly organized, we were always exclusive or in very small groups and had freedom to do our own activities. All accommodations were fantastic and sustainable, the food almost always local and very good, we could always fill our Rutopia water bottles and travel as plastic free as possible. We were met at the airport and had assistance getting a rental car. After that, we traveled independently but had our fixed dates and reservations with Rutopia. It was the perfect mix!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

We were traveling as a group of friends with nothing organized. We like to improvise and be able to find alternative plans to the conventional tourist routes. We arrived in Puerto Escondido - Mexico's paradise - and started looking for options. A Mexican friend recommended us to contact Rutopia and we did. We explained our way of traveling - which they quickly understood - and in a few hours they came to us with a perfect selection of activities. We chose one of them and the next day we found ourselves galloping through beautiful hills, crossing a small lagoon in canoes, bathing on an unspoiled beach at sunset and sipping freshly picked coconuts with some mezcal. We had dinner in the only hut on the beach, eating fish that had been caught that day from the lagoon. Then we went to see the luminescence of the placton with paddle canoes until we were surprised by one of the biggest and reddest moons I have ever seen in my life. We ended up sleeping in bamboo huts a few meters from the waves. There were no more than 5 huts on the miles of beach that we could see. And at ALL times with an exquisite treatment - sympathy, kindness and attention. This is just one of the plans we booked with Rutopia, which definitely changed the course of our trip. Without a doubt, I would repeat this experience in any place I would like to visit in Mexico. Viva Mexico!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

We have worked with Rutopia for several tours in Mexico in the Yucatán and Chiapas and we have never been disappointed. Authentic experiences, with locals, in magical places and off the beaten tourist track. Our contact Marisol was always super available and responsive, understanding and anticipating our desires. And she speaks very good French. I highly recommend Rutopia!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

I traveled to Chiapas for an ecotourism experience with Rutopia and I liked it very much, the team responds very quickly to all questions and accompany the traveler throughout the experience, I missed my flight and they were very flexible to accommodate the entire itinerary, My destination was the lakes of Tziscao, where I was received by Neri with his family in very nice cabins next to a lake with incredible views and a magnificent tranquility, with them you make experiences of beekeeping and coffee and tours to nearby lakes, Montebello is a must! 100% recommended.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

We had an amazing trip excellent organized by Jorge and supervised by Melina from Rutopia. We spent 10 days in Mexico, starting in Ciudad de Mexico where we visited the amazing Teotihuacan and then we flew to Yucatan for the amazing sites of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Ek Balam, Tulum, Merida, Valladolid and the great Island Holbox. The trip was perfectly organized, the hotels were very good, and the guides were carefully chosen. We highly recommend Rutopia and especially Jorge! Leer menos

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

We had a wonderful time. We started out in Mexico City with a 2 day tour filled with museums, food, and beautiful sights. We then went on to Cholula to experience the culture in a smaller town, see a local market, and eat traditional food. We finished the tour in a small town called Cuetzalan, where most people speak an indigenous language. All of our guides were great. Thank you for a memorable vacation!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Tom and I knew we wanted to go to Mexico. We knew we wanted a little bit of culture, some wildlife, and maybe a splash in the ocean. That's it. With the vague and minimal information we gave them, Rutopia was able to put together a perfect trip for us. We had a flawless itinerary. It's so clear that Rutopia really cares about the communities (animals and humans) in Mexico. Everything we did and everywhere we stayed felt like they were helping us experience Mexico as authentically and respectfully as possible. It's almost impossible to pick a highlight, but top of the list has to be the day we shared with Enrique, a Mayan host who was unbelievably generous with us. He shared the community gardens, including history and background about the families that live in Nuevo Durango and other nearby communities. He showed us the neighborhood cenotes, Punta Laguna, Uma Nojoch Keej (a wildlife reserve), and more. We picked and prepared the plants as Enrique and his wife Blanca showed us the best way to cook them (and rescued us when we were pricked by the nopales!). We saw howler monkeys and spider monkeys in the wild which was very cool. That had to be the very best day, but every day was amazing. Sian Ka'an reserve was lovely, the Mayan ruins were spectacular, the snorkeling in Puerto Morelos was fabulous, the bicycle cenote tour was jaw'droppingly gorgeous. I'm waxing superlative but it really all was like a dream. Beyond the activities, the scheduling and pace was perfect for us. We felt like we really made the most of our six days, but with enough downtime to explore and enjoy at our leisure. From picking up our car at the airport to finding our accommodation, the logistics were very smooth at every interaction. Special shoutout to Melina who pretty much instantly helped us when we had any questions about the trip. We've never used a travel planning service like this before. But after this trip, we'll never go back to the old way!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

My wife and I had a fantastic holiday in Mexico thanks to Marisol, Ana, Teresa and their colleagues & partners. The entire itinerary and arrangements were put together in less than 4 days. What we really liked about Marisol & her team was that they were only a message or a phone call away for any query/suggestion, etc. The trip was bespoke to the extent that Rutopia had kept in mind about our interests, food habits & executed bookings, tours. They were also very flexible in catering to last minute changes/requests. The team took upon them to ensure that our entire trip was comfortable & safe by taking care of even small stuff that one normally finds out post getting to a place. We would definitely like to use their services again!!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Rutopia did an outstanding job with the arrangement and execution of a 9 day tour of Mayan sites in the Yucatan peninsula. We provided Rutopia with the general parameters of the trip we wanted and they suggested an itinerary. After our approval, they set up the hotels, transportation within Mexico, and site tours. The hotels were good quality, and all of the drivers and tour guides showed up on time. We were very impressed with the quality of the tour guides and learned a lot on the trip. Jorge handled setting up the itinerary, and Melina handled the execution of the trip and was readily available via WhatsApp throughout the trip for any questions or issues. Melina was particularly helpful in changing our transportation arrangements to the airport at the last minute per our request. I would recommend Rutopia and would use them again for future trips.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Great experience with this agency. Our tour in Mexico was perfect and organised with great passion and precision. Special thanks to Mel (our direct contact during the trip) for being super responsive and to Jorge Barbosa (our tour guide in Mexico City). Totally recommend this tour operator!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Such an amazing time in the Yucatán! Between floating in the mangroves to visiting Chichén Itzá to spending a whole day on the beach in El Cuyo, I couldn’t have planned a better trip without their help. Thank you so much for an unforgettable birthday vacation!! Simply amazing! Don’t think twice about having them help you plan your next vacation!

Enjoyed using Rutopia (Marisol and Melina) to plan my trip to Mexico. Marisol helped me figure out the best options fand booked everything. Melina was my in country support. Rutopia (the company through Kim Kim) is great and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to take the burden out of vacation planning. My son and I truly enjoyed the trip knowing everything was taken care of and we just had to have fun. Thanks!

Seamless transfers, excellent hotels particularly in Mexico city and Puebla, combined with various cultural and food tours. Particular highlights were the cultural/food tours in Mexico city and Puebla (also including the anthropology museum in Mexico city), and the rural tours in Oaxaca where we visited textile workshops, mescal producers and participated in a cooking class using traditional equipment. Also, although we didn't need it, the on call remote assistance was reassuring. I would definitely recommend Rutopia.

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Conexión Oaxaca, Chiapas, Península de Yucatán 9 Días

.-  Conociendo la ciudad

Recepción a este hermoso estado de  Oaxaca, llamada la verde Antequera, hacemos check-in en el hotel y en seguida iniciamos un city tour  para apreciar su magnífica arquitectura del siglo XVI y XVIII, recorriendo la impresionante iglesia de Santo Domingo y su exuberante arte sacro, continuaremos sobre un corredor peatonal hasta llegar al parque central para conocer la catedral, el palacio municipal  y  por último el mercado Benito Juárez donde todos los días los habitantes de las comunidades llegan a vender sus diversos productos del campo y artesanías. regreso al hotel.

Pernocta: Oaxaca

Monte Albán – Culturas Vivas (Cuilapan de Guerrero, Arrazola, Coyotepec)

Por la mañana saldremos hacia la impresionante  zona arqueológica de Monte Albán (monte blanco) majestuosa capital de la cultura Zapoteca, en donde se encontró el tesoro más grande de Mesoamérica exhibido en el museo regional (ex convento de Sto. Domingo), disfrutando de las vistas panorámicas de los valles, continuamos el recorrido al primer pueblo llamado Arrazola, lugar  en donde se elaboran los famosos Alebrijes, después nos dirigiremos a Cuilapan de Guerrero donde visitaremos el exconvento y lugar donde pasó sus últimos momentos de vida nuestro héroe Vicente Guerrero, además tendremos  tiempo para comida en restaurante típico (opcional). para conocer las artesanías de barro negro, nos trasladaremos a San Bartolo Coyotepec donde vistamos familias que elaboran estas piezas excepcionales, regreso a la cd. de Oaxaca.

Santa María el Tule –  Hierve el Agua –  Mitla – Fabrica de Mezcal

Después del desayuno iniciamos con las actividades, nos dirigiremos hacia Santa María el Tule para ver el árbol considerado el más ancho del mundo con formas fantásticas, continuamos a  Hierve el Agua, para ver esta maravilla natural, fuentes naturales de aguas termales y las cascadas petrificadas, hacemos una caminata para verlas y admirar hermosos paisajes,   posteriormente nos dirigiremos a la zona arqueológica de Mitla conocida como  la ciudad de los Muertos donde admiraremos la rica ornamentación geométrica de sus fachadas y su arquitectura, sus tumbas, edificios del grupo de la Iglesia y las columnas, dirigiéndonos a continuación a un restaurante típico que ofrece una amplia variedad de platillos. Para finalizar este día conoceremos el proceso de la elaboración de una de las bebidas más representativas del país, el Mezcal. Traslado a la ciudad de Tehuantepec, check in en el hotel del lugar.

Pernocta: Tehuantepec

Cañón del Sumidero – Chiapa de Corzo – San Cristóbal de Las Casas

Llegada a Chiapas para iniciar el imponente recorrido sobre el Río Grijalva y admirar las impresionantes paredes del Cañón del Sumidero, flora y fauna nativa del lugar. Continuamos con la visita de la pintoresca ciudad de Chiapa de Corzo y visita de sus monumentos históricos como también panorámicos de la ciudad, Traslado a San Cristóbal de Las Casas.

Pernocta: San Cristóbal de Las Casas

Culturas vivas – San Cristóbal de Las Casas

Nuestro recorrido inicia con una caminata en la ciudad de San Cristóbal de Las Casas, para conocer el contexto de esta ciudad que está considerada entre las más antiguas del continente americano, y parte importante de la fundación de nuestro Chiapas, así también este día nos acercaremos de forma respetuosa a la forma de vida de las comunidades indígenas, San Juan Chamula y San Lorenzo Zinacantán pertenecientes a la etnia tsotsil. Recorreremos la iglesia de San Juan Bautista con características únicas en América donde veremos el sincretismo religioso de nuestros ancestros mayas con la cultura occidental católica. En San Lorenzo Zinacantán habrá la oportunidad de convivir en la casa de una familia originaria del poblado para ver la técnica prehispánica de elaboración de los textiles que realizan las mujeres locales, será una experiencia maravillosa que no se pueden perder.

Pernocta: San Cristóbal de Las Casas.

Cascadas De Agua Azul – Misolha – Palenque

Con equipaje listo, nos dirigimos a la ciudad de Palenque, a dos horas aproximadamente llegaremos al valle de Ocosingo, lugar donde tendremos el tiempo destinado para el desayuno, posteriormente camino a Palenque recorreremos las exuberantes cascadas de Agua Azul y finalizando Visitamos la Cascada Misol-há con una caída de agua con más de 20 metros de altura.

Pernocta: Palenque.

Zona Arqueológica de Palenque – Campeche

Después del desayuno nos dirigiremos a la Zona Arqueológica de Palenque, un sitio importante por los grandes descubrimientos mayas que se han tenido en el siglo XX, visitaremos la zona abierta al público y el museo, donde valdrá la pena observar una réplica del mausoleo maya más famoso encontrado, donde esta obra en años futuros será considerada también como una gran obra del arte arcaico, esta visita está sujeta a los días que el INAH labora. Al terminar, continuaremos hacia Campeche, capital del estado del mismo nombre, al arribar, haremos una pequeña caminata para conocer el centro de esta ciudad considerada Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad

Pernocta: Campeche.

Mérida – Chichen Itza – Cancún

No podemos dejar Yucatán sin visitar este increíble lugar icono de la arqueología. Salimos de Mérida con maletas y nos dirigimos a la famosa antiguan ciudad maya de Chichen Itza en donde conoceremos y entenderemos porque es considerada una de las “7 nuevas maravillas modernas del mundo” por la UNESCO.

Al finalizar continuamos hacia Cancún, Tulum o Playa del Carmen, en donde usted podrá disfrutar de unos días de playa (pregunta por la visita a los parques temáticos como Xcaret y Xel ha o visitar Isla Mujeres) o pernoctar en Cancún para que al día siguiente, tome el vuelo de regreso a su ciudad.

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Conexión Oaxaca - Chiapas – Península de Yucatán 9 Días

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16 Best Things To Do In Chiapas and Oaxaca, Mexico

  • written by Hudson Crider
  • March 24, 2021

best things to do in Mexico

Before moving to Mexico, I didn’t know much about the Mexican states of Oaxaca and Chiapas. However, when we would ask people in Mexico where we should visit, we kept hearing that we had to visit these two magical areas. These south central states are full of a rich history and indigenous influence. There aren’t as many tour groups, cruise ships, and big cities as other parts of Mexico. The jungle landscape of Chiapas is far different from the beaches of Quintana Roo or the high desert around Mexico City. Some areas of Chiapas reminded me a lot of the Costa Rican rainforest. Oaxaca is widely known for its incredible food and alluring beach towns. There are dozens of ancient ruins, natural landmarks, and charming towns in these South Central Mexican States!  

This is our list of best things to do in the states of Oaxaca and Chiapas.

1. San Cristóbal de las Casas

best things to do in Mexico

San Cristóbal de las Casas (Chiapas) If you are in Chiapas, be sure to stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas. This is one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magic Towns), and it is easy to see why. It isn’t as big as and doesn’t have an airport like nearby Tuxtla, but it has so much culture and charm. Full of cobblestone walking streets, cathedrals, markets, local restaurants and boutique hotels, it was the perfect city to stay and wander. It was also the perfect launching pad for many of the Chiapas day trips. 

2. Palenque Ruins

best things to do in Mexico

Palenque Ruins (Chiapas) Since living in Mexico, we have been constantly amazed by the massive, advanced architecture of ancient Mayan civilizations. The ancient ruins of Palenque were no exception. This Mayan city dates back as early as 300 – 700 A.D. The ruins may not be as big or old as other Mayan cities such as Calakmul and Tikal, but their well-preserved epigraphy (inscriptions) have played a crucial role in unlocking many Mayan mysteries. It was amazing walking around the ruins deep within the jungle of Chiapas, picturing what life would have been like during the height of Palenque. One of the coolest things was being able to hear the loud roar of the howler monkeys that live within the area. As big as the ruins are, only 10% have been excavated. Meaning that 90% of Palenque is still covered under the jungle!

3. Agua Azul Waterfalls

Agua Azul Waterfalls (Chiapas) If you’re visiting the ruins in Palenque, definitely stop by Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls! Deep in the Chiapas jungle are the beautiful, turquoise colored Agua Azul waterfalls. The jungle is so dense and diverse that we felt like we were back in Costa Rica. I thought that the pictures online of Agua Azul’s blue water were edited, but it really was that stunning turquoise color! You can swim in designated areas but not close to the main falls. However, I read online that there are more falls down the river that you can swim right up to! With our tour we had about two hours at the falls. It was plenty of time to grab something to eat and explore the main area, but not quite enough to wander off down river. The falls are deep in the Chiapas jungle, but there are dozens of restaurants and local vendors at the falls entrance. (Just be sure to bring pesos if you want to buy some food or use the bathroom!)

4. Misol-Ha Waterfalls

best things to do in Mexico

Misol-Ha Waterfalls (Chiapas) On our way to Palenque Ruins, and an hour away Agua Azul, we made a brief stop at Misol-Ha Falls. This waterfall isn’t anything overly special, but it’s an easy stop on the way to Palenque. These falls have a path that leads behind the water for a unique perspective! (Be careful though as the path is slippery!) Although this waterfall isn’t worth driving four hours on its own, it was a great bonus getting to see it on our way to Palenque! (There are bathrooms and a restaurant here too.)

5. Sumidero Canyon

best things to do in Mexico

Sumidero Canyon (Chiapas) One of our favorite day trips in Chiapas was Sumidero Canyon. Floating down the river, surrounded by 3,300 feet cliffs made us feel really small! During our 2.5 hour boat tour, we also saw about a dozen crocodiles and two very cute spider monkeys! The canyon is about an hour drive away from San Cristobal de la Casas. The canyon boat tour is in Spanish, but the views are so beautiful that we didn’t feel like we missed much. There is also the option to drive to various canyon overlooks for some more incredible views. We didn’t go to these, but the pictures look beautiful. Our boat finished its tour in Chiapa de Corzo, which is another one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos. The town is small, but was a good place to grab some food before the van took us back to San Miguel de la Casas! 

*Check out Adventurous Kate’s great post that helped us know what to expect before our Sumidero Canyon tour! 

6. Puerto Escondido*

Puerto Escondido (Oaxaca) The state of Oaxaca is known for it’s amazing beach towns. The crown jewel of these amazing beach towns is Puerto Escondido. It’s much quieter and low-key than Cancun or Cabo. Although it isn’t as well known among international travelers, Puerto Escondido is a very popular beach getaway in Mexico. We haven’t been there yet, but Puerto Escondido is at the top of our list of places to visit in Mexico!

7. Oaxaca City

best things to do in Mexico

Oaxaca City (Oaxaca) Oaxaca is a state in Mexico, and Oaxaca the city is the largest city and capital of the state- also known for its history, culture, and delicious food! Ask someone from Mexico which state has the best food and chances are they’ll mention Oaxaca. Some of the popular dishes from the area are mole, mezcal, oaxaca cheese, and tlayudas. (Tlayudas are made of large toasted tortillas filled with meat, oaxaca cheese, and a bunch of other goodness.) You don’t have to go far to find a tlayuda. They are everywhere downtown. We loved going out at night and trying different foods from the various street vendors. The city has several chocolate stores, markets, and restaurants. It’s a great city to stroll around and enjoy! 

There are plenty of day trips from downtown as well. Usually the easiest and cheapest way to book these tours is to talk with one of the many tour operators in downtown Oaxaca. Unfortunately when we were there, many of them were closed.

8. Hierve el Agua*

Hierve el Agua (Oaxaca) One of the most iconic day trips from the city of Oaxaca is Hierve el Agua. This is one of the few “petrified” waterfalls in the world! (The other being the famous Pamukkale in Turkey.) The combination of the pools, stalactites, and mountains make for some amazing pictures! (Or at least what I’ve seen online. Unfortunately when we were in Oaxaca, this attraction was still closed.) 

9. El Chiflon Waterfall*

El Chiflon Waterfalls (Chiapas) El Chiflon Waterfalls are beautiful, cascading falls that measure nearly 400 feet in height! From what I’ve read, the entire area is enchanting. Not far from the Guatemalan border, this massive waterfall makes a great stop on a Mexico to Central American roadtrip.

10. Sima de Las Cotorras*

Sima de Las Cotorras (Chiapas) It’s not often that you get the chance to rappel down a massive 460 foot sinkhole. But that’s exactly what you can do at Sima de Las Cotorras (Sinkhole of the Parakeets). As you’re descending, view dozens of parakeets and parrots that live within the giant, remote sinkhole.

11. Monte Alban and Mitla Ruins*

Monte Alban and Mitla Ruins (Oaxaca) Popular day trips from the city of Oaxaca are Monte Alban and Mitla Ruins. Since as far back as 2000 BC, Monte Alban was the home of several different civilizations. Mitla was an important religious area that has a very unique design for it’s time. Both of these archaeological sites have played important roles in unlocking mysteries about the ancient civilizations that lived within this area.

12. Montebello Lagoons*

Montebello Lagoons (Chiapas) These crystal clear lakes are just another miraculous natural wonder in Chiapas. This beautiful national park is home to lush green trees and stunning blue water. Be sure to take a tour on a raft made from bound together tree trunks!

13. Zipolite and Mazunte Beaches*

Zipolite and Mazunte Beach (Oaxaca) Puerto Escondido may be the most popular beach town in Oaxaca, but it isn’t the only one. Other popular coastal towns are Mazunte and Zipolite. Just 15 minutes apart, Zipolite and Mazunte are best known for their great surfing. Full of charm, Mazunte is a Mexican Pueblo Magico (Magical Town). This area is also famous for its protection of sea turtles.

14. Cenote Chukumaltik*

Cenote Chukumaltik (Chiapas) Close to the Guatemalan border, relax in the crystal clear waters of Cenote Chukumaltik. At over 600 feet wide and 200 feet deep, this cenote is popular among divers. With more than 100 feet of visibility, divers can see petrified trees and quartz deposits on the cenote floor.

15. Tonina Ruins*

Tonina Ruins (Chiapas) The Tonina Ruins are well-known for the preservation of Mayan carved structures. Built on various levels of artificial mounds, Tonina stands tall among the surrounding landscape. These ruins are a popular stop on the way from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque.

16. San Juan Chamula*

San Juan Chamula (Chiapas) There aren’t many places where you can still witness ancient religious rituals that are still being practiced. Visit San Juan Chamula for a unique experience. Remember to be respectful of the locals as photos inside the church of San Juan Bautista are forbidden.

Where We Stayed

Popular cities to stay at in Oaxaca and Chiapas are San Cristóbal de las Casas, Oaxaca City, and Puerto Escondido. These towns are full of local character and make for great home bases to explore the surrounding area. Prices are usually very reasonable. Although they weren’t anything special, we found great accommodations in the downtown area through AirBnB.

Where We Ate

What this area lacks in fancy restaurants, it makes up for in local dishes. Known for its amazing street food, markets, and iconic dishes, be sure to take some time to experience the food in this area. Oaxaca is home to many famous local dishes. Both states are full of local markets with fresh fruit and unique dishes. Prices are exceptionally inexpensive and every restaurant we ate at was full of its own local charm.

*These are places we haven’t had a chance to visit yet, but hope to someday!

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HI, WE'RE HUDSON + EMILY

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Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días

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Lo Destacado de Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días

  • Visitas a zonas arqueológicas.
  • Visitas a pueblos indígenas.
  • Hermosos paisajes naturales.
  • Conocerás lugares emblemáticos de Oaxaca y Chiapas.

Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días

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Tips para Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días

- Ropa y zapatos cómodos. - Protector solar y repelente de insectos biodegradable. - Sombreros o gorros. - Abrigo, suéter o chamarra. - Llevar dinero extra para gastos adicionales.

Conoce más de Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días

Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días es un viaje que te permitirá conocer sitios turísticos de estos dos destinos. Iniciarás con una visita por la ciudad de Oaxaca en donde conocerás la Iglesia de Santo Domingo, la Catedral, el zócalo de la ciudad, Palacio de Gobierno, los mercados 20 de Noviembre y Benito Juárez. A partir de esta noche podrás descansar en un hotel de Oaxaca por 2 noches. Al día siguiente visitarás la zona arqueológica de Monte Albán, una ciudad zapoteca con gran importancia debido al control religioso, político y militar que ejerció en el Valle de Oaxaca. Posteriormente te dirigirás a Cuilapam de Guerrero, lugar donde admirarás un interesante conjunto arquitectónico cuya principal característica es el uso de la cantera verde tan tipica de esa región; continuando con el viaje llegarás a Arrazola Xoxo, una comunidad dedicada a la fabricación de alebrijes y enseguida arribarás a San Bartolo Coyotepec famoso por la creación de piezas en barro negro. El tercer día conocerás el árbol del Tule, este ahuehuete tiene el diámetro más grande del mundo. Después de esta visita llegarás a Teotitlán del Valle, un pueblo zapoteco que se dedica a la fabricación de textiles de lana de manera artesanal; el siguiente punto de este recorrido será la zona arqueológica de Mitla, la característica principal de este conjunto de edificios es su decoración con grecas. Posteriormente podrás admirar la belleza natural de Hierve el Agua, una imagen de cascadas petrificadas que no podrás olvidar; al final de este día y ya de regreso en Oaxaca visitarás una fábrica de mezcal después de la cual abordarás un autobús rumbo a Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Al llegar el cuarto día habrás arribado a Tuxtla Gutiérrez y serás trasladado al embarcadero del Cañón del Sumidero para disfrutar de un paseo en lancha y continuarás hacia Chiapa de Corzo, un pueblito mágico en donde podrás apreciar ejemplos de arquitectura con inspiración morisca. A partir de esta noche dormirás en un hotel de San Cristóbal de las Casas. El quinto día conocerás dos bellezas naturales, iniciarás con la cascada "Velo de Novia" ubicada en El Chiflón, una caída de agua de 120 metros aproximadamente rodeada de un espeso bosque y después llegarás a los Lagos de Montebello cuyos colores no podrás olvidar. Durante el sexto día visitarás dos pueblos indígenas, San Juan Chamula y Zinacantán, habitados por la comunidad Tzotzil; en donde podrás admirar artesanías y entender la fusión de la cultura occidental con las costumbres prehispánicas. El séptimo día viajarás rumbo a Agua Azul, en donde conocerás sus hermosas cascadas escalonadas con albercas naturales; después llegarán a Misol-Há, una caída de agua de 30 metros y para cerrar con broche de oro, conocerás la zona arqueológica de Palenque famosa por sus estelas con jeroglíficos que han aportado datos interesantes sobre la Cultura Maya. Esta noche podrás descansar en un hotel de Palenque. Para finalizar este circuito, el último día realizarás una visita a dos zonas arqueológicas enclavadas en la selva, iniciando con Yaxchilán, abordando una lancha sobre el río Usumacinta y en línea divisoria entre México y Guatemala, en ésta zona vale la pena admirar el arte escultórico de sus dinteles y estelas; posteriormente continuarás rumbo a Bonampak, famosa por sus pinturas murales. Este día esta programado tu regreso a Palenque y el traslado en transporte público hacia Tuxtla Gutiérrez o Villahermosa.

Ubicación de Circuito Cultural por Oaxaca y Chiapas 8 días

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Johnny Africa

The Perfect Mexico Travel Itinerary: Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, And Mazunte

Johnny

  • Last Updated On: September 10, 2023

When visiting Mexico, most tourists opt for the familiar areas of the country like Cancun, Cabo, Tulum etc. Those are great but packed with tourists. Mexico is a huge country after all, and there is so much delicious food to be consumed and sights to be seen. None better than Mexico City and the surrounding areas. This Central Mexican itinerary is for those that are looking to visit Mexico City, and to work their way down towards the Pacific Oaxacan coastline.

mazunte beach puerto escondido huatulco mexico

Where I went in Mexico

I have visited Mexico numerous times but this time, it is to visit the central part of the country, specifically the cities near to the capital. This is the cultural and dining heartland of the country. We saw loads of ruins, ate tacos endlessly, and drank mezcal at amazing cocktail bars.

Beautiful Oaxaca City

In total, this itinerary is for anyone that has 12-16 days.  Of course this itinerary can be shortened or lengthened depending on your schedule. I visited the following areas on this itinerary

  • Mexico City
  • Puebla City
  • Oaxaca City
  • Oaxacan Coast – Huatulco, Zipolite, Mazunte areas

If these places ring a bell and sound like the places you want to visit, this is the perfect itinerary for you! Also, Mexico is one of the common starting points for those looking to do the entire Central American route. You can either fly from Mexico City to the Yucatan and work your way down, fly from Mexico City to Guatemala City, or simply take buses by land through the Oaxacan and Chiapas province until you arrive in Guatemala.

mexico itinerary

Detailed Posts

  • The Ultimate Mexico City Tacos Tour Itinerary
  • Puebla City Travel Guide
  • Traveling Oaxaca City And Surrounding Areas
  • Guide to Traveling the Oaxacan Coast

Full Itinerary

This itinerary starts in Mexico City  as numerous international airlines fly into this airport, and ends in the Oaxacan Coast .

There are two options to do this trip: By bus and air, or by rental car.

Originally, we wanted to do a road trip for this entire itinerary by renting a car from Mexico City and driving towards the Pacific Coast. The main problem with this is we wanted to do a one way rental dropping it off at either Puerto Escondido or Huatulco Airport. The one way drop fee is huge ($500+) so we decided against it.

Bus Station mexico City ADO

We opted for taking the bus, and ultimately flew back to Mexico City from Huatulco Airport. Flying back from Puerto Escondido is also an option but Huatulco just happened to have the cheaper flights when I was there.

Day 1-4: Mexico City

The trip begins in Mexico City. Mexico City is one of the most underrated cities in the world in my opinion. It is slowly getting its due but too many people still can’t get over how “dangerous” it is. It is not. If you’re reading this post, I’m here to say that it is not some war zone like it’s made out to be. It’s filled with historical sights, culture, beautiful neighborhoods, friendly people, and great weather. In fact, Mexico City might be one of my favorite places in the world.

I spent three nights in Mexico City but I could have easily spent a week. There is so much to eat and discover in this city that you will never be bored.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the City

Start with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Mexico City, which offers the convenience of a guided tour but the freedom to disembark as you wish. Hop off at top attractions such as the Zocalo, home to the magnificent Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace; the ancient Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor; the Palace of Fine Arts in Alameda Park; and the House of Tiles. Stay on the bus along the grand Paseo de la Reforma Boulevard and jump off to visit the hilltop Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology.

Walk down through the forests and lakes of Chapultepec Park into the colorful neighborhood of La Condesa to browse the shops and tuck into typical Mexican cuisine at one of the many restaurants. In the evening, attend a lucha libre (masked wrestling) match. Afterwards, head to Plaza de Garibaldi and enjoy a drink at one of the streetside bars, while mariachi bands play in the square.

Day 2: Experience Mexican Culture

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Start in the southern suburbs of Mexico City at the floating gardens of Xochimilco—a network of canals and chinampas (man-made islands) that date back to Aztec times. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and set sail around the UNESCO-listed landscapes aboard a traditional trajinera boat. Next, head to the nearby neighborhood of Coyoacán, one of Mexico City’s most picturesque. Use your prebooked skip-the-line tickets to enter the Frida Kahlo Museum, known for its long lines, and check out nearby Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum too.

Back in the city center, shop at the La Ciudadela artisan market for typical Mexican handicrafts. Head to the San Juan Market a few blocks away for street food, or, for a real Mexican culinary experience, sign up for an evening cooking class.

Day 3: Explore Ancient Teotihuacan

teotihuacan mexico City

If you only have time for one day trip from Mexico City, make it the ruins of Teotihuacan. The ancient “City of the Gods” is a top archaeological site in Mexico. To get the most out of your visit, choose to explore with an archaeologist guide and discover the history of the pre-Aztec city. Highlights include climbing the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, walking along the Avenue of the Dead, and visiting the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.

On your final evening in the city, attend a performance of the Mexico City Folkloric Ballet. The shows are held at locations including the Palace of Fine Arts or Chapultepec Castle and feature costumes, live music, and traditional folk dances from all around Mexico—a memorable way to end your vacation.

Eat Tacos and Enjoy the food

There’s nothing more I can ask for in life than a delicious taco with spicy salsa. Mexico City is home to all the tacos you could ever want. I spent a good chunk of my time consuming the best tacos in the city for all three meals of the day. Whether it’s tacos al pastor, tacos Arabes, carnitas, suadero, seafood, or lengua, I tried it all. Follow my ultimate Mexico City Tacos Itinerary for the scoop on which places to go!

El Vilsito Al pastor mastery Mexico city

Day 4-6: Puebla City

The next destination on the itinerary is Puebla City, a short two hour bus ride from Mexico City. From Mexico City’s TAPO bus station, there are frequent buses on numerous different companies to Puebla’s CAPU. I’ve only ever taken ADO bus company which I am a big fan and has very comfortable buses. Expect to pay 300 pesos or so for a one way transfer. Alternatively, you can also take Uber to Puebla for 1,000 – 1,500 pesos. This would be a great option with 3-4 people.

Puebla City

Exploring Puebla City

Puebla is known for its culinary traditions , colonial architecture and loads of historical sights. The Renaissance-era Puebla Cathedral has tall bell towers and overlooks the Zócalo. Museo Amparo offers an extensive display of pre-Hispanic art, such as ceramics and mural fragments.

Los Sapos puebla Mexico

Make sure to enjoy all the culinary highlights Puebla has to offer. Middle Eastern immigrants settled here bringing over their spit style cooking methods. Eventually their methods were adapted to the local flavors using pork, and spicy salsas. Make sure to try tacos Arabes which is the perfect fusion of the two cuisines.

Church of Santo Domingo in Puebla

Mole Poblano is probably what Puebla is most famous for. This cacao and chili based sauce (along with 20 other spices) is incredibly flavorful and goes so well with chicken, duck, and other meats.

Tacos Arabes at Tacos Bagdad

Also explore Cholula

Cholula is a lovely little town in the Mexican state of Puebla. It is not where the delicious hot sauce comes from as one might immediately conclude. That’s actually from another part of Mexico nowhere nearby. Cholula does, however, boast several other fascinating tidbits. Cholula is best known for its great pyramid,  Tlachihualtepetl. It is said to be the largest pyramid known to exist in the world, bigger than any other, even than the Great Pyramids of Egypt . 

Cholula Great Pyramid

Cholula is easily accessible using Uber, and is roughly 30 minutes away from Puebla City.

Cholula Great Pyramid

Day 6-9: Oaxaca City

Perfect cobblestone streets of Oaxaca

From Puebla, it is a 4-5 hour bus ride to Oaxaca City. The main Puebla CAPU has regular buses to Oaxaca. This bus only runs a few times a day so during busy times of year, I would recommend booking this ticket online on ADO’s online website. You don’t even need to print the tickets as they give mobile options. We paid about 500 pesos for a one way transfer with ADO.

Oaxaca City streets

Oaxaca is one of the most picturesque cities in Mexico. Its cobblestone streets, perfectly kept colonial buildings, and mountain landscapes makes this place a must visit in my opinion. Oaxaca is also the epicenter of the forever delicious mezcal, the local firewater. There are many trendy but still very affordable cocktail bars in the Zocalo.

Day trips from Oaxaca

Oaxaca is also conveniently located to some amazing attractions nearby. The Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban make for an excellent day or even half day trip from the city. The Zapotec pyramids of this little town are perfectly kept.

Monte Alban Ruins

Further away, the famous Hierve El Agua makes for an even more stunning day trip. The natural rock formations of Hierve El Agua (or “water that boils”) resemble cascades of water. You can even swim here in the natural pools and enjoy stunning views of the nearby mountains. This is nature’s rendition of the infinity pool and it does not disappoint.

Hierve El Agua

Read more about traveling Oaxaca City, and the surrounding areas

Day 9-13: Oaxacan Coastline

The last part of this itinerary is to visit the Pacific coast of Oaxaca. While less known to international tourists, Mexicans from Oaxaca and Mexico City regularly come here. The beaches here are fantastic and the waves make for great surfing.

zipolite beach mexico oaxaca sunset

Getting to the Oaxacan coast from Oaxaca City

While there are regular flights from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, there are fewer options from Oaxaca City. There are essentially three ways to get to the Oaxacan coast from Oaxaca:

  • Air: From Oaxaca City, there are two companies that fly to Huatulco and Puerto Escondido. TAR Airlines and Aerotucan make daily flights between the two destinations. The airplanes are very small 10-15 people planes. I’ve seen flights on TAR for as cheap as 1300 pesos and Aerotucan has a set price of 2,700 pesos for a one way flight. The flight is 40 minutes and offers some spectacular views of the scenic mountain ranges. My original plan was to take this flight but Aerotucan’s website looked super sketchy that I decided to wait until I got to Oaxaca and could talk to my Airbnb host. They were full by this point and TAR just happened to not fly that day! Therefore, I had to go to the next option
  • Bus / Shuttle: For group transfers, you can either take a large bus, or a van shuttle. My Airbnb host recommended the latter saying it was a smaller vehicle and would be more comfortable. To be clear, the land based transport from Oaxaca to Huatulco is  very uncomfortable . In total it is 7 hours, and you are going up a mountain where the roads are intensely winding. It is uncomfortable to say the least.

Staying in Mazunte

The Oaxacan coast is home to many little quaint beach side towns like Puerto Angel, Zipolite, Mazunte, etc. As we rented a car and were able to explore the entire area, my favorite place was definitely Mazunte. This charming little town defines what it means to be lazy. Unlike Tulum where people are hippie and Instagram chic, people here are just mostly hippie and chilled out.

punta cometa

There are countless guesthouses, hostels, Airbnbs, and nice resorts here. You won’t have trouble finding a place in any budget range. For the higher end budgets, stay at Hotel Zoa which has spectacular views of the ocean.

punta cometa sunset hike mexico mazunte oaxaca

The beaches are fantastic here, although the Pacific coast beaches are rougher and better for surfing than say the beaches in the Yucatan which are perfect for diving and lounging.

We chose to rent a car at the Huatulco Airport so we could explore the region. We were able to easily explore all the neighboring beaches. However, if renting a car is not in your budget or plans, I think it is quite easy to explore the area on your own using the collectivo taxis. These are very cheap and efficient, and an adventure as you are literally just sitting in the back of a truck.

While on the coast, make sure to check out the beaches in Mazunte, have a drink at El Copal for the sunset, and check out Zipolite for their famous nude beaches.

Day by Day breakdown

Here is a day by day breakdown of the itinerary.

Day 1: Land in Mexico City, explore the city Day 2: Mexico City Day 3:  Mexico City Day 4:  Bus to Puebla, explore Puebla Zocalo Day 5: Puebla Day 6:  Morning in Puebla, afternoon bus to Oaxaca Day 7: Oaxaca Day 8: Oaxaca Day 9: Oaxaca to Mazunte Day 10: Mazunte Day 11:   Mazunte Day 12: Mazunte Day 13: Mazunte to Mexico City

What to do with more days?

If you have a few more days, I would have liked to spent at least one more day in Mexico City, and could have done one more day in Oaxaca too to explore all the wonderful mezcal bars. In fact, I could spend weeks in either place and wouldn’t feel like I was over doing it.

Museo Amparo

Central Mexico and the Yucatan

This itinerary would also combine very easily and feasibly with my two week itinerary in Mexico and Belize. From Central Mexico, take a very affordable flight on one of the many Mexico airlines to Cancun and start the itinerary that is filled with beautiful beaches and quaint coastal towns. Follow it up with some epic diving in Cozumel and in Caye Caulker, Belize.

cozumel airbnb

As this itinerary includes many beaches, you may elect to skip over the Oaxacan coast if you’re short on time. However, the beaches on the Oaxacan coast are very different from the Yucatan, so it may be cool to get both perspectives.

Caye caulker belize island

Read my two week Belize and Mexico itinerary.

Day 1: Land in Cancun, transfer to Tulum Day 2: Tulum – Explore the ruins Day 3: Tulum – Chichen Itza Day Trip Day 4:  Tulum – Cenotes Snorkeling Day 5: Tulum – Free day to explore Day 6:  Bacalar Day 7: Bacalar Day 8: Bacalar to Chetumal to Caye Caulker Day 9: Caye Caulker Day 10: Caye Caulker Day 11:   Caye Caulker Day 12: Caye Caulker to Belize City to San Ignacio Day 13 : Explore the Xunantunich Mayan ruins Day 14: ATM Cave tour Day 15:  Return to Belize City

Central Mexico, Yucatan, Belize, and Guatemala

Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala make an even better travel itinerary if you can swing the time. Guatemala is the capital of the ancient Mayan civilizations and its picturesque cities and lakes make it a must visit. Belize and Guatemala border each other and is very easy to get from San Ignacio to Tikal via bus.

Lake atitlan sunset sunrise

This is the perfect way to start off a Central America tour. After Guatemala, head to Honduras, El Savador, etc.

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Continue Reading:

  • The Ultimate Travel Guide For Mazunte, Zipolite, and the Oaxacan Coast
  • The Ultimate Puebla City, Mexico Travel Guide
  • The Perfect Two Week Mexico and Belize Travel Itinerary
  • The Ultimate Mexico, Belize, Guatemala Travel Itinerary
  • The Ultimate Mexico City Tacos Tour And Itinerary
  • The Ultimate One To Two Week Travel Itinerary For Guatemala
  • The Ultimate Travel Guide For Oaxaca City, Mexico
  • How To Get From Caye Caulker, Belize to Chetumal, Mexico And Vice Versa
  • The Best Beach In The Algarve: Look No Further Than Praia Da Furnas
  • Ultimate Guide to Cozumel, Mexico
  • Best Places For Digital Nomads In 2022
  • The Ultimate Algarve, Portugal Travel Itinerary
  • The Ultimate Road Trips To Take Around The World
  • The Perfect One Week And Two Weeks Travel Itinerary For Albania

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Discover the land of the Ancient & Present Day Yucatecan Maya.

Sun drenched Yucatan lies on the Peninsula that shares its name. Known for it’s aqua blue waters, the great Classic and post-Classic Maya empires of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, colonial Merida, and the Winter feeding grounds of the Greater Flamingo, Yucatan never fails to enchant and delight those who come to explore; including Stephens and Catherwood, who wrote of their discoveries in the classic book, Incidents of Travel in Yucatan in 1843!

Tours in Yucatan:

Pre classic to post classic maya: campeche and yucatan.

Travel to the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve and Calakmul Ruins. Visit the heart of the Rio Bec region of Campeche. Get to know the Classic Puuc site of Uxmal, followed by other sites on the Puuc route, such as Sayil, Kabah and Labna, where we see great examples of the Puuc style palaces and arches, originally discovered by Stephens and Catherwood in the 1840’s…

The Flavors of Yucatan and Campeche

We will embark on fascinating excursions to meet farmers, fishermen, and ranchers to better understand and appreciate the farm to table relationships and supply chain of uniquely Yucatecan ingredients. Visitors will visit a Yucatecan family to discover the traditional pit cooking style called pib. The culinary traditions of Yucatan are like none other!

Hanal Pixan: Food for the Souls, Day of the Dead in Yucatan 2024

Participate in our newest journey to witness and experience the Day of the Dead in the Maya world of Yucatan. Here, it is called, Hanal Pixan, or Food for the Souls. We’ll learn all about the special rituals dedicated to the memory of loved ones who have died. The culture of the Maya in Yucatan is singular and is alive to this day.

Yucatan Family Adventure!

On this journey designed for families, we will learn about the ancient Maya and explore their former ceremonial centers, we’ll visit and interact with local Maya communities to learn of their living traditions, we will refresh in the cool blue green water of the cenotes and enjoy a combination of natural wonders, ancient Maya history, local cuisine and music and dancing.

This is why we love Yucatan:

The Colonial City of Merida, known as “The White City”. The Yucatecan Maya are among the friendliest people you will meet. The ancient Maya ruins in the Puuc Hills: Uxmal, Labna, Sayil, Kabah. Mystical “cenotes” or sink holes that remain sacred to the Maya. They are invigorating to swim in!. The Yucatecan Cuisine is like none other in Mexico: From Maya traditions, dishes have names such as, sikil pak, tikin xic, poc chuc, pibil; all are delicious!.

Exploring Yucatan

The main aiport of entry to Yucatan is Cancun. Get a good look, because that’s the last we’ll see of it! We will immediately board transport to take us to the vibrant, tropical, colonial capital city, Merida; land of the guayabera and romantic boleros. From here, we explore the Maya sites of Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and learn to identify Puuc architecture at Uxmal, Kabah, Sayil and Labna. To enjoy the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, we visit Celestun, the Winter feeding grounds for the Greater Flamingo. Our trip ends with an adventurous trek to the white sandy beaches of Holbox; not easy to get to, but worth the trip. If you like fresh ceviche, you’ll be in heaven.

Architectural Styes of Late Classic Maya

Depending on location and timeframe, the Maya developed distinctive architectural styles; Peten, Puuc, Chenes and Rio Bec. In Yucatan, this style was in large part Puuc, identifiable by keyhole style entry ways and ornate carved friezes. The timeline will be reviewed, from the Pre-Classic, Classic and Post Classic periods to get a better understanding of who was where, when! The Maya Calendar, and the difference between the Calendar Round and Long Count method will be reviewed. We’d better hurry, as the Great Cycle, according to the Long Count calendar ends December 23, 2012!

The Maya Today

It is hard to imagine that so close to us, are a people whose rhythms of life are so different from ours. From what they think about and do when they get up in the morning, to how they build their homes, what they eat, and even where they sleep. In large part, the Maya people of Yucatan have preserved a way of life, that for centuries revolved around the cycle of the seasons and the all important corn harvest, or “milpa”, based on slash and burn methods. Their cultural identity also comes from their unique Language and Religion. Join us on a Journey to learn more about how others in our world live today.

Photos From This Trip

  • Meeting their People
  • Bird watching

hut-yucatan

drink-yucatan

food-yucatan

food-yucatan2

popular-food

bird-watching

bird-watching2

bird-watching3

bird-watching4

bird-watching5

bird-watching6

Yucatan is amazing!

Coming trips to yucatan :.

Date pending

  • Trip: Destination-Based
  • Name: The Treasures of Yucatan

Mar 08 – Mar 15

  • Trip: Culinary Traditions
  • Name: Viva la Vida Travel & Carmen Schaffer Maya Culture & Cuisine

For More info see

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Tour por Oaxaca

Tour por Oaxaca

Tour por Oaxaca; Prepara tus maletas! Morelia Travel te lleva a conocer el folclor de Oaxaca, la fabricación de su mezcal, sus artesanías, su cultura, su gatronomía, y sus atractivos naturales y arqueológicos.

Intinerario

Días: 5 Días 4 Noches. Salidas: Todo el Año 2022.

Día 1 PICK UP Aeropuerto y Traslado al Hotel

  • Recepción en el aeropuerto de la ciudad de Oaxaca en el horario indicado y traslado al hotel, el resto del día será libre.

Día 2 Bellezas Milenarias

  • Salida: 09:00hrs
  • Regreso al hotel: 18:00hrs
  • Este día conoceremos el milenario Árbol del Tule, con un tronco de 14 metros de diámetro y una circunferencia de más de 45 metros, este extraordinario árbol mexicano es en realidad un enorme ahuehuete y se dice que es el ser vivo más antiguo del mundo. En la segunda parada haremos un recorrido donde se explicará el proceso de fabricación del mezcal, al final degustaremos entre 15 a 20 shots de mezcal, probando desde el más joven al más añejo y uno que otro de sabor. Además, aprenderá algunos secretos sobre esta bebida artesanal. Posteriormente nos dirigiremos a Teotitlán en este lugar los artesanos utilizan técnicas ancestrales para la elaboración y teñido de los tapetes, la mayoría de us diseños son creaciones personales del artesano o imitaciones de obras de pintores famosos como Toledo, Picasso y Tamayo. La siguiente parada es la zona arqueológica de Mitla, donde nos esperan un montón de tesoros arquitectónicos, descubriremos el secreto de su construcción, sus tumbas, sus grecas y se parte de la historia de la piedra del amor y la columna de la vida.

Día 3 Bellezas Artesanales

  • Regreso al hotel: 19:45hrs
  • Reconocido como Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco, es uno de los yacimientos de vida más importantes del valle de Oaxaca. Monte Albán es una zona arqueológica ubicada en el corazón de la ciudad, visitaremos sus basamentos arqueológicos, los templos y los altares, además de las estructuras residenciales, todo ello construido en torno a la Gran Plaza rectangular, una amplia zona abierta en la meseta allanada. Nuestra siguiente parada es Cuilapam de Guerrero, un monasterio dominicano del siglo XVI. Podrás enamorarte de su impresionante estructura arquitectónica empezando por su capilla abierta, lugar donde el General Vicente Guerrero fue fusilado y la princesa Donají fue enterrada. La siguiente parada será en Arrazola, el pueblo de artesanos dedicados a los alebrijes por excelencia con nosotros conocerás la historia y el proceso de elaboración de estás formidables figuras artesanales. Por ultimo visitaremos San Bartolo Coyotepec, lugar del barro negro, mundialmente famoso por las hermosas formas que se pueden moldear con barro negro. Grandes artistas del medio del espectáculo han visitado este hermoso lugar y este taller donde las manos artesanas se lucen para producir tan hermosas estructuras de cerámica y alta alfarería.

Día 4 Senderos del Arte

  • Regreso al hotel: 05:00pm
  • Por la mañana nos dirigiremos a una experiencia diferente, este día nos recibe el pueblo de artesanos dedicados a los alebrijes por excelencia San Martin Tilcajete, este destino mundialmente conocido por ser el centro de inspiración de la Película Coco de Pixar, en donde nos cuentan de la importancia de la tradición de “Día de Muertos” y los míticos Alebrijes, e stas formas caprichosas elaboradas con madera de Copal están talladas y pintadas manualmente y la combinación de sus colores es simplemente hipnotizante. Con nosotros conocerás la historia y el proceso de elaboración de estás formidables figuras artesanales; así mismo podrás adquirir un alebrije para poder pintarlo y vivir tu propia experiencia. También conocerás tu Tona, que es tu animal mítico y protector, esto de acuerdo a la cultura zapoteca. Posteriormente nos dirigiremos a Jalietza, pueblo cuyo nombre signica en zapoteco “abajo de la iglesia”, en el que se elabora una gran variedad de artesanías, como bordados y tejidos. Es digno de visitarse su templo, edificado en honor a Santo Tomás, que data del siglo XVII. En su interior hay retablos de estilo barroco de buena calidad.

Día 5 Traslado al Aeropuerto

  • Este día finalizamos con el traslado al aeropuerto de la ciudad de Oaxaca, concluyendo así nuestros servicios.

$13,539 2x1. Incluye: Recepción y traslado al aeropuerto de la ciudad de Oaxaca, 4 Noches de hospedaje, 4 desayunos por persona, Entradas a los sitios a visitar, Guía durante el recorrido y Servicio de transporte compartido. No incluye: Alimentos no mencionados, Actividades extras, Gastos personales y Todo lo no mencionado.

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How to Travel on the Maya Train: The Ultimate Guide + Tips

  • The New Maya Train in Mexico: Your Guide to an Incredible Adventure

Planning to explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of The Yucatan Peninsula ?

There’s no better way to do it than on the new Mayan Train !

The Maya Train, or “Tren Maya”, is a railway project that will connect five states in Mexico’s southeast, covering a distance of approximately 1 500 kilometers (932 miles): Chiapas , Tabasco, Campeche , Yucatán, and Quintana Roo.

The stations will be strategically located near a variety of attractions, activities and experiences, such as 14 “Pueblos Magicos” (Magical Towns), 6 World Heritage Sites and 50 archaeological sites !

To help you plan your trip on the Mayan Train, I have prepared a comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know.

In this guide, you will find out the detailed route of the train , with the main stations and the best attractions near them. You will also learn about the features and amenities of the train; the cost of tickets and how to book them ; and the complementary projects that are planned around the Mayan Train.

Let’s dive in!

What You Should Know Before You Hop on the Tren Maya

When will it be in operation, how much will the train cost, how to get tickets for the maya train, inside the maya train: the features and services, the stations of the maya train: itinerary and attractions, the mayan train map, the complementary projects around the maya train, how accessible is the maya train for people with disabilities, how fast will the train go, how long will it take to travel from merida to cancun on the mayan train, my opinion on the tren maya, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

The Tren Maya is expected to start operating in December 2023.

The official prices are still pending , but the National Fund for the Promotion of Tourism (Fonatur) stated previously that tourists would pay between 40- 50 dollars ; about 800-1,000 pesos.

  • The fare will depend on the distance traveled and will vary for local, domestic and foreign passengers, with locals paying the lowest rate.

At the moment, the Maya Train is in its early stages of operation , which means ticket availability is limited and they’re being snapped up fast! To purchase your tickets, visit this link: www.eticket.mx/trenmaya

For the latest updates on ticket sales and routes , I recommend following the Maya Train’s Facebook page . They regularly post important information there.

Once the Maya Train is fully operational, you’ll have the convenience of buying tickets at any station’s ticket office , through the official website , or by using the Tren Maya App .

tickets tren maya

The Maya Train will feature 42 X’trapolis trains, electric trains that will feature a distinctive design for Mexico, with a capacity of 300 passengers per car .

It will be able to carry 10,000 passengers per day and aims to attract three million tourists annually!

The Mayan Train will offer three categories of service : Xiinbal (regular), Janal (long journey) and P’atal (restaurant).

  • Xiinbal, the regular service

The large windows offer passengers a stunning view of the scenery along the journey. The seats are spacious, ergonomic and reclining, and have power outlets and storage for suitcases and bags.

There is also a designated area for bikes .

regular service maya train

  • P’atal , the long journey service

The passengers traveling long distances will have access to comfortable cabins with bunk beds, private bathroom and shower.

train corridors tren maya

  •  Janal , the restaurant service

The train’s menu  will feature more than 30 dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, showcasing the regional mayan cuisine such as chipilín tamales, motuleño eggs, panuchos, cochinita pibil, venison tzic, lime soup, papadzules, among others.

The train’s dessert menu will offer traditional marquesitas , artisanal chocolates, cocada and dulce de nance (a fruit).

The train will also serve regional drinks such as coffee, pozol , water and chaya tea, pitahaya and lime waters, xtabentún , tequila, mezcal, wine, pulque and craft beers from Mexico.

restaurant tren maya

The Maya Train will have 20 stations and 14 additional stops  across the five states , covering a distance of approximately 1 500 kilometers (932 miles) , with two routes that encircle the peninsula: one clockwise and one counterclockwise.

Here are some of the stations that the Maya Train will have:

1. Cancun Airport

Cancun is one of the main destinations of the Maya Train in Quintana Roo.

It has a big international airport that connects with many destinations around the world, and is one of the most famous beach resorts in the world , offering white sand, turquoise water and a lively nightlife. It is also a gateway to other attractions in the Caribbean, such as Isla Mujeres , Cozumel and Tulum .

  • Where to stay in Cancun? The guide to the best hotels and resorts, for all budgets
  • Cancun : the 35 Best Things to Discover
  • 1 Day in Cancun   – The Perfect 24h itinerary
  • 2 Days in Cancun  – How to make the most of your week-end in Cancun
  • 3 Days in Cancun –  What to See, Do and Eat

Playa Langosta Cancun

2. Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a small town in Quintana Roo that is known for its easy access to the Ruta de los Cenotes , a road that connects dozens of beautiful cenotes that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

It has a charming fishing village atmosphere and a coral reef that is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System.

what to do puerto morelos

3. Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Riviera Maya .

The city offers a wide range of accommodation, dining, shopping and entertainment options, as well as beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife. It is also close to other attractions such as Xcaret Eco Park and  Xplor Adventure Park.

  • Top 30 Things to Do and See in Playa del Carmen!
  • 1 day in Playa del Carmen   – the best 24h itinerary
  • 2 days in Playa del Carmen  – An Epic Itinerary
  • 3 days in Playa del Carmen – What to Do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay

playa punta esmeralda playa del carmen

A town in Quintana Roo that is famous for its Mayan archaeological site that overlooks the Caribbean Sea.

Tulum also has stunning beaches, bohemian vibes and eco-friendly resorts. It is a hotspot for yoga, wellness and alternative lifestyles.

  • Tulum Ruins : everything you need to know for your visit

tulum

5. Tulum Airport

A brand new airport in Riviera Maya,  located about 15km from Tulum, and yes it will have its own train stop!

The airport is expected to be operational by 2024 and will have a capacity of 3 million passengers per year.

tulum airport project

Bacalar is a small town in Quintana Roo known for its Lake of Seven Colors (Laguna de Bacalar), which has beautiful crystal-clear water.

You can enjoy a boat trip on the lagoon , visit the fortress of San Felipe , explore the Canal de los Piratas, a natural passage with white sand and beautiful blue tones, and the Rapidos de Bacalar, where you can swim, paddleboard or kayak in the water flows.

bacalar catamaran

7. Chetumal

Chetumal, the capital city of Quintana Roo with an international airport (CTM), is a border city that faces Belize.

It is also close to Mahahual , a village with a more authentic and relaxing feel than other popular spots like Cancun and the Riviera Maya , although it can get busy when cruise boats visit the Costa Maya Port for the day.

You can explore the rich marine life of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, or simply relax on the soft sand and enjoy the breeze.

lighthouse mahahual

Xpujil is a town in the state of Campeche that is known for its proximity to the wonderful Calakmul , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features one of the largest and most important Mayan cities in Mexico.

It has over 6,000 structures, including pyramids, palaces, temples and stelae. It is also surrounded by a biosphere reserve that hosts diverse flora and fauna.

  • I’m pretty excited for this one because Calakmul is my favorite archeological site in Mexico , and it has always been difficult to access . But now thanks to the new Xpujil station, it’s going to be much easier!❤️

calakmul

9. Tenosique

Tenosique is a town in Tabasco that is known for its traditional dance called “La Pochó”, which involves colorful costumes and masks.

This dance, which dates back to the pre-Hispanic times, is a remarkable feature of the Tenosique Carnival that takes place in late January.

It is also close to the Usumacinta River , which forms part of the border with Guatemala.

10. Palenque

Palenque is the starting point of the Maya Train in Chiapas .

Palenque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features one of the most impressive Mayan archaeological complexes in Mexico . It is also surrounded by lush rainforest that hosts diverse wildlife.

palenque

Edzna was one of the major cities in the region and had a close relationship with Calakmul.

You can admire the main pyramid of Edzna , which has a unique five-story structure with a temple on top and a staircase flanked by masks of the rain god Chaac.

edzna Temple of Five Stories

12. Campeche

San Francisco de Campeche is the capital city of Campeche state . Campeche is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves its colonial architecture and fortifications.

walls-campeche

Mérida is the capital and largest city of the state of Yucatán , and a cultural and historical center of the Yucatán Peninsula.

From Mérida , you can also take a day trip to the Ruta Puuc , a circuit of five Mayan archaeological sites that showcase the distinctive Puuc style of architecture and sculpture.

The most famous and impressive of these sites is Uxmal , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features the Pyramid of the Magician, the Governor’s Palace and the Nunnery Quadrangle

  • The initial plan was to put a station direcly in Mérida, but it was modified and now Mérida-Teya station ( see map here ) will be located about 10 km from Mérida.

My Advice Check out my guides:

  • The Ultimate Bucket List of 20 Amazing Activities in Mérida
  • A Complete Guide to Visiting Uxmal Mayan Ruins

palacio-canton-mérida

Izamal is a colonial town in Yucatán that is known for its yellow buildings and its large Franciscan convent, Convento de San Francisco de Padua.

Izamal also has several Mayan pyramids, like Kinich Kakmó and Iztamatul, that are integrated into the urban landscape. It is considered a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) by the Mexican government.

izamal

15. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a New Wonder of the World , is Mexico’s most iconic and visited Mayan site.

It features the famous Pyramid of Kukulkan, the Temple of the Warriors, the Mesoamerican Ballcourt and the Observatory.

chichen-itza

A colonial town in Yucatán that is known for its cenotes (the most famous being Ik Kil and Suytun) and its proximity to Chichén Itzá.

From Valladolid, you can also visit the ancien mayan city of Ek Balam , home to the  Acropolis , a six-level structure that measures 524 ft in length, 223 ft in width and 104 ft in height. It is one of the largest and most impressive Mayan buildings in the region!

 Another attraction of Ek Balam is the Cenote Xcanche , a stunning natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation and rock formations, where you can swim and relax after exploring the ruins.

My Advice Don’t miss my articles:

  • How to Visit Ek Balam: A Guide to the Ancient Mayan City and its Cenote
  • The Ultimate Guide to Valladolid  

calzada de los frailes valladolid

Here you can see the full map of the Maya Train’s route, with all the stations and stops marked.

oficial map mayan train

Along with the Maya Train, there are significant complementary projects that are ongoing, such as the Nichupté bridge (Cancun), 6 new hotels and 2 ecological parks!

The six Tren Maya Hotels will be located close to archaeological sites, facilitating their access:

  • Palenque , Chiapas
  • Edzná , Campeche
  • Uxmal , Yucatán
  • Chichén Itzá , Yucatán (it will be the 1st one to open)
  • Tulum , Quintana Roo
  • Calakmul , Campeche

hotel chichen itza tren maya

Other frequent questions about the Maya Train

The flat floor facilitates the movement of passengers with  limited mobility .

The train also features storage areas for wheelchairs and accessible toilets .

The Maya Train can reach a speed of 160 km/h (99mph)

It will only take one hour and 30 minutes by train , instead of the current four hours by car.

Like any other project, the Train Maya has its advantages and disadvantages. However, I think it is overall a positive initiative that will provide more accessibility to many amazing sites that were hard to reach before quickly.

I wish it will encourage people to venture beyond the popular destinations of Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, because there is so much more to see and experience in Mexico!

Another interesting aspect is that it will also be a great alternative for those who do not want to rent a car but still wish to explore the peninsula’s diversity in depth.

So, are you excited to experience the Maya Train on your next Mexico adventure?

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

  • The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
  • Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City , Chiapas and Yucatan
  • Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
  • Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
  • Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
  • Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
  • Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
  • Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
  • Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
  • Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
  • Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
  • Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
  • Yucatan Peninsula : Top 20 things to Do and See
  • New Tulum Airport (Felipe Carrillo) : All You Need to Know
  • Playa del Carmen : Top 30 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

mayan train mexico

I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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Discussion 14 comments.

JS SMITH

Hola, Great article Saludos! -Scott

Martine

Hello, I read that there will be a train ride from Merida to Cancun but will there be a ride from Cancun to Merida? I cannot find the info anywhere. it seems to me that the Mayab Train will be doing ……

Vanessa

Hi Martine! Well, they are contemplating a double-track between Mérida and Cancún, but it is still pending confirmation (same for Cancun-Tulum)

GERALD GARNTO

Much information!

Jose R Leyva

I hope to ride the tren, from Merida to Palenque, in a clockwise direction, what would the cost of the trip, and how many stops, ( over night stop) would I be allow?

Hi Jose! For now there is still very few information/update so I really can’t tell you how much the ticket “Merida-Palenque” would cost. As for the stops, you can check out the map to get an idea: https://www.voyagemexique.info/en/maya-train/#The_Mayan_Train_Map

Mauricio Gondi

Can you explain the difference between estaciones and paraderos? What is the difference between the two from a passengers perspective.

Hola Mauricio! Paraderos are simple platforms that do not have any additional structures. They are different from stations, which are larger and offer more services. Passenger trains generally do not make long stopovers at paraderos, unless necessary for boarding or disembarking passengers at that specific stop.

DJ

Hi Vanessa,

I have booked the train ride from Campeche to Cancun. It leaves Campeche at 11am, I have not been able to find out what time it arrives in Cancun.

Hi DJ, I’ve been searching for that information myself and can’t find it anywhere

Romeo Salinas

Nos gustaria ir en El Tren Maya este ano.

Andrew

Gracias por tu descripción. De hecho, es uno de los mejores que he visto hasta ahora. Es uno que mucha gente de la región debería leer porque muchos tienen la idea errónea de que el Tren Maya también irá de Mérida a Chetumal. Muchos en Yucután creen que podrán viajar por todo Yucután en lugar de ADO y Mayab, lo cual no es el caso en absoluto si son desde Yucután.

También cabe señalar que aún faltan años para que este proyecto esté finalizado. En la mayoría de los lugares ni siquiera se han instalado las vías del tren porque el camino aún no está despejado. Y además, les faltan aún más estaciones de tren que aún están por construir. A este proyecto aún le faltan entre 4 y 6 años para completarse, si no más.

Este es un buen proyecto para los turistas y el turismo.

Thanks for your description. It’s one of the best I have seen thus far actually. It’s one that many people in the region should read because many have the misconception that the Tren Maya will also go from Merida to Chetumal. Many in the Yucutan believe they will be able to travel throughout the yucutan in place of ADO and Mayab which is not the case at all if from Yucutan.

It should also be noted that this project is still years away from completion. Most places still don’t even have the train tracks laid down because the pathway isn’t cleared yet. And to add, they are missing even more train stations which have yet to be built. This project is still 4-6 years from being completed, if not more.

This is a good project for tourists and tourism, but besides cheaper fairs for locals and some jobs for a couple of years, it’s not beneficial for them.

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  • All our Guides about Mexico

JPM Tours - ES

Combinado Yucatan/Chiapas

Sugerencia de tours y estadías en méxico.

El circuito ideal para descubrir  Yucatán. Biosferas, tierras salvajes, haciendas y fabulosos sitios arqueológicos son las sorpresas que le esperan con este circuito.

  • Info Precio
  • Día 1 : Llegada a Cancún
  • Día 2 : Cancún - Valladolid - Chichen Itzá
  • Día 3 : Chichén Itzá - Mérida
  • Día 4 : Mérida - Uxmal
  • Día 5 : Uxmal - Campeche
  • Día 6 : Campeche - Villahermosa
  • Día 7 : Villahermosa - Tuxtla Gutiérrez - San Cristóbal de las Casas
  • Día 8 : San Cristóbal de las Casas
  • Día 9 : San Cristóbal de las Casas - Palenque
  • Día 10 : Palenque - Chicanna
  • Día 11 : Chicanna - Calakmul - Bacalar
  • Día 12 : Bacalar - Tulum
  • Día 13 : Tulum
  • Día 14 : Tulum
  • Día 15 : Tulum - Cancún
  • PRECIO POR  PERS. (base 2 personas en habitación doble)
  • Hoteles y desayunos
  • Alquiler de coche por 14 días con seguro incluído
  • Acompañante en el camino de San Cristóbal de las Casas a Palenque
  • Entradas : Cenote Xcanche (con actividades), Cañón del Sumidero, Kayak a Bacalar (3h)

No incluido :

  • Las entradas para sitios/museos/actividades excepto que las indicadas
  • Las bebidas y los gastos personales

Depart Mexique avion, drapeau du Mexique, voyage, circuit sur-mesure - JPM Tours

Llegada a Cancún

Para este primer dia, llegada a Cancún. Recepción y traslado privado a su hotel.

Cathédrale de Valladolid, Yucatan au Mexique

Cancún - Valladolid - Chichen Itzá

Esta mañana, recogerá su coche de alquiler en el centro de Cancún. Luego, visita del sitio de Ek Balam, uno de los mejores conservados en la región de Yucatán. Disfrutarán luego de las actividades en el cenote Xcanche: Tirolesa, VTT, Rappel y nado. Pequeña parada en Valladolid, ciudad florida y rica en historia en el camino hacia Chichén Itzá.

Site, pyramide de Chichen Itza, Site archéologique, Yucatan au Mexique

Chichén Itzá - Mérida

Este mañna, visita de una de las ciudades las más fascinantes del mundo y la mayor capital del área maya entre 750 y 1200 d.C.: ¡Chichén Itzá! Llegarán luego a Mérida pasando a través del encantador pueblo de Izamal, la ciudad de las tres culturas, con casas amarillas y ocres donde se mezclan rasgos precolombinos, coloniales y modernos.

Femme Merida, Yucatan au Mexique

Mérida - Uxmal

Hoy, visita libre de Mérida, capital del Estado de Yucatán, la « Ciudad Blanca » fundada en 1542. En la tarde, irán al Cenote Kankirixché donde descubrirán tres estanques semi abiertos de agua cristalina. Luego, alcanzarán Uxmal donde pasarán la noche.

Site, pyramide de Uxmal, Yucatan au Mexique

Uxmal - Campeche

En la mañana, visita de Uxmal una de las ciudades más pintorescas de la región. Luego, llegarán a Campeche por la ruta Puuc. En una de las raras alturas de la península donde se encuentran las ruinas de importantes centros ceremoniales. Otra opción para llegar a Campeche es a través del pequeño pueblo de Becal, donde se puede comprar el famoso sombrero « panamá ».

Ruelle colorée de Campeche, Yucatan au Mexique

Campeche - Villahermosa

Esta mañana, descubrirán Campeche, la ciudad de colores pasteles y armoniosos que realzan el estilo de la época colonial. De camino a Villahermosa, harán una parada en Sabancuy, pequeño paraíso preservado que dispone de un lago de aguas tranquilas y arena fina.

Canyon del Sumidero, Chiapas au Mexique

Villahermosa - Tuxtla Gutiérrez - San Cristóbal de las Casas

Hoy, partirán luego hacia el Cañón del Sumidero. El paseo en lancha es uno de los más atractivos. Aprovechan del descanso para descubrir la pequeña ciudad de Chiapa de Corzo. Al final de la tarde, llegarán a San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Villages Tzotziles, San Cristobal de las Casas, Chamula, Chiapas au Mexique

San Cristóbal de las Casas

Hoy, descubrirán San Cristóbal de las Casas. Su patrimonio colonial y la magia de sus tradiciones ancestrales hacen de San Cristóbal de las Casas el lugar más encantador del Estado de Chiapas. En la tarde, partirán en dirección de los Pueblos Tzotziles(San Juan Chamula, Zinacantan).

Cascades de Agua Azul, Chiapas au Mexique

San Cristóbal de las Casas - Palenque

Saliendo hacia Palenque, harán una parada en Agua Azul para refrescarse en un paisaje espectacular: aguas turquesas y vegetación verde. Luego, irán a Misol-Ha, cascada que se precipita en un magnífico estanque de aguas cristalinas. Les sugerimos meterse al agua.

Site, pyramide de Palenque, Chiapas au Mexique

Palenque - Chicanna

Visita del espléndido sitio de Palenque, sitio maya extraordinario, que demuestra con fidelidad el saber y la complejidad de esta apasionante cultura precolombina. Luego, se dirigen hacia Chicanna.

Site de Calakmul, Yucatan, Pyramide au Mexique

Chicanna - Calakmul - Bacalar

Partirán esta mañana para el sitio de Calakmul. Sitio maya que tuvo un papel clave en la historia de la región. La biosfera de Calakmul constituye una de las selvas protegidas más grande de la zona tropical y alberga un gran número de especies raras tanto al nivel de la fauna que de la flora. Luego llegarán a Bacalar por la ruta Río Bec.

Lagune Bacalar Mexique, eau turquoise, Yucatan, bateau, kayak, paradisiaque

Bacalar - Tulum

Disfrutarán esta mañana de la laguna Bacalar, también conocida con el nombre de laguna de los siete colores por sus diferentes tonalidades que le dan sus variaciones de profundidad. Luego, irán a Tulum, una de las últimas ciudades construídas y habitadas por los mayas de la península.

Tulum ruines, eau turquoise, riviera maya, Caraibes, Yucatan au Mexique

Día libre para disfrutar del mar o posibilidad de excursiones a los alrededores: reserva de Sian Ka’an, sitio de Cobá, parques acuáticos de Xel-Ha, Xcaret y cenotes.

Reserve naturelle de Sian Ka'an, bâteau, eau turquoise, Yucatan au Mexique

Segundo día libre en Tulum.

Panneau Cancun airport, direction aéroport et Cancun, Mexique

Tulum - Cancún

Dependiendo de su vuelo de regreso, se dirigen hacia el aeropuerto de Cancún para la restitución de su coche de alquiler.

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  • Mexico City
  • Copper Canyon
  • San Cristóbal de las Casas
  • San Miguel de Allende
  • 5 Days in Mexico City
  • 10-Day Copper Canyon by Train
  • 10-Day Guanajuato Road Trip
  • 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip
  • 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip
  • Playa del Carmen
  • Isla Mujeres
  • Cozumel Island
  • Holbox Island
  • Puerto Escondido
  • Hot Springs
  • Mayan Ruins
  • Mountains and Valleys
  • Best Mexican Movies
  • Best Books about Mexico
  • Mexican Street Food
  • Mexican Holidays

Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]

  • by Nellie Huang

For an epic Yucatan road trip, here is a detailed 10-day Yucatan itinerary packed with outdoor adventures and cultural immersions.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a lot more than just all-inclusive resorts and wide sandy beaches — it’s dotted with gorgeous cenotes (underwater sinkholes), impressive ancient ruins and charming colonial towns. Since moving here, we’ve discovered that the region really has no shortage of archaeological ruins, historical colonial cities, and freshwater caves.

We chose to live here, for good reasons! I promise you’ll fall for the Yucatan, just as we did. To help you plan the perfect Yucatan road trip , I’ve put together this action-packed Yucatan itinerary that will show you the best beaches, colonial cities and ancient sites in just 10 days.

yucatan road trip - 10 days in yucatan itinerary

Table of Contents

How to Get to the Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico travel requirements , best time for a yucatan road trip, is this yucatan road trip safe, how much does a yucatan road trip cost, where to stay in valladolid, yucatan itinerary day 2: valladolid, swim in cenote zaci, visit convent of san bernardino, visit the stunning cenote suytun, explore ek balam , swim in cenote x’canche, float in cenote ik kil, visit the yellow city of izamal,  soak up mexican culture in merida, where to stay in merida, see the monumento a la patria, visit  the palacio de gobierno, explore the mayan world museum of merida, catch a pok ta pok mayan ball game, experience a shaman ritual in cenote sacamucuy, where to stay in tulum, visit  mystika tulum, swim in the gran cenote, extending your yucatan road trip, more travel tips for the yucatan:, further reading on mexico, yucatan  road trip guide.

The main gateway to Yucatan is Cancun International Airport (even though Cancun is not in the Yucatan state). Flying into Cancun from the US is really affordable. You can  fly from New York to Cancun  for as little as $300 return (4.5-hour flight).  Flights from Los Angeles to Cancun  are slightly more expensive around US$350 return (4.5-hour flight).

Flying from Europe to Mexico is also affordable, especially from London and Madrid. We took a direct flight from Madrid to Cancun on Iberojet for just $350. You can get really cheap deals off season.

Alternatively, the biggest airport in the Yucatan state is the Merida International Airport (MID). It serves mainly cities in Mexico, but also Houston and Toronto airports.

Book Flights to Cancun

nellie and alberto at chichen itza

Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane or ferry. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.

However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. It is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my  travel insurance guide  for more details.

best time to visit yucatan

How to Get Around the Yucatan

For this Yucatan road trip, I recommend hiring a compact car. An economy rental car in Mexico averages just $200 for a whole week, which is less than $25 a day. The current price for gas is 16.50 pesos per liter (about $2.50 per gallon), though this varies throughout the country.

It’s generally easy to drive in Mexico, especially outside of the cities. I drive in Playa del Carmen everyday and find it quite easy: just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers! In this Yucatan itinerary, we cover roads that are in relatively good conditions. 

Check Car Rental Prices

renting a car in yucatan peninsula

If you don’t want to drive in Mexico, it is absolutely possible to follow this Yucatan itinerary by bus. Mexico has an extensive bus network and buses are really affordable. The buses are generally good quality and air-conditioned. The most popular bus company in the region is Grupo ADO. Book tickets online to ensure availability . Some offer luxury or de lujo services with lots of legroom, reclining seats, and TVs.

public bus in mexico - how to get around mexico

The best time to visit the Yucatan is during the dry season between December and April , when there is virtually no rain. Head to the Yucatan Peninsula at the start of the season (November to early December) when prices are lower. Read this guide on the best time to visit the Riviera Maya .

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Try to avoid public holiday as surcharges are common around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

The Yucatan Peninsula celebrates many Mexican holidays , including Carnaval in February, Semana Santa (Easter) in April , and Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in October. We were there for their Independence Day on 15 September, and it was a spectacular event!

yucatan road trip - cancun from above

 Yucatan is one of the safest places in Mexico for travelers . While petty crime is common here, it has one of the lowest rates of homicide in Mexico (10 times lower than the rest of the country).

Many travelers report that taking public transport around the peninsula is safe during the day. However, like the rest of Mexico, it’s advised not to travel around at night . Carjackings have been reported, most occurring at night or on desolate roads.

A common scam targeting visitors is money switching, particularly at gas stations. You may hand over a 500 peso note and the attendant swiftly changes it for a 50 peso note, insisting you need to pay more. Make sure when you hand over the correct amount, keep your eyes on them and don’t leave until you have the correct change.

travel yucatan - cenote suytun

Mexico is generally very affordable, but the Yucatan Peninsula is slightly more expensive than other parts of Mexico that receive less tourism. Budget travelers can survive on around US$40 – $50 per day.

Hiring your own car will cost around US$30 per day for car hire. Buses are cheap, ranging from $2 to $25 depending on the distance. Accommodation usually ranges from $30 for a hostel room to $150 for a 4-star hotel. Mexican food is incredibly good and cheap everywhere. You can get 3 tacos for $3 , or $5-10 per meal in a restaurant.

money in mexico - cost of travel yucatan peninsula

My 10-Day Yucatan  Itinerary

As Yucatan is massive, you’ll need at least 10 days to see some of the main highlights. I added Tulum in this itinerary even though it’s not in the Yucatan state (it’s in Quintana Roo), as it’ll be a shame to miss out on the Caribbean beaches if you’re already here.

This is a summary of my recommended Yucatan itinerary. I will be giving a day-to-day breakdown below.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Cancun
  • Day 2: Valladolid
  • Day 3: Day Trip to Ek Balam
  • Day 4: Day Trip to Chichen Itza
  • Days 5-7: Merida
  • Day 8-10: Tulum

yucatan road trip - tulum ruins

Yucatan Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in CANCUN

Begin your 2-week Mexico itinerary in Cancun. If you’re coming a long way here, then spend a few nights at a resort in Cancun and have some downtime. Check out our list of fun things to do in Cancun and where to stay in Cancun . But for those who don’t like lazing at an all-inclusive resort (like us), I recommend heading straight to Valladolid.

Calm and unpretentious Valladolid is one of the best kept secrets of the  Yucatan Peninsula . Despite being the closest town to  Chichen Itza, Valladolid is surprisingly quiet and laidback. It’s a 2-hour drive away from Cancun, on a new tolled highway.

Listed as one of Mexico’s  pueblo magico  (magical towns), Valladolid is lined with cobblestoned streets, pastel colored houses and old colonial buildings converted into art galleries or indie boutiques. It also has a large Mayan population — you’ll see plenty of locals walking around in traditional dress and lots of the restaurants serving typical Mayan dishes.

Budget: Casa Hipil

A lovely homely budget option, this place feels more like a guesthouse than a hotel and even has a lounge and communal kitchen. It’s warm and welcoming with clean and comfortable en suite rooms. Check rates here.

Midrange: Hotel Colonial Zaci

Located just one block from the main central square, Hotel Colonial Zaci is a graceful and elegant choice. Rooms feature dark wood furniture and beautifully-patterned tiles on the floor, but also feel modern and updated. There’s also a lovely central courtyard to relax in. Check rates here. 

Luxury: Le Muuch

One of the best and newest hotels in Valladolid, Le Muuch is full of charm and color. Open-air public spaces feel jungle-like with lots of plants and foliage. Individually-decorated rooms are themed around different precious stones and feature added touches such as a hammock, traditional cookies and local Mexican coffee. Check rates here.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Don’t be fooled by the small size of Valladolid. There are actually many things to do in Valladolid , from exploring archaeological sites to cenotes and charming colonial architecture.

One of the best things to do in Valladolid is to wander around town aimlessly. It’s such a pleasure strolling along the streets, admiring the pastel colored houses and wondering what surprise is in store around each corner.

The most photogenic street in Valladolid is the Calzada de los Frailes, which has been tastefully restored with indie boutiques, museums, and small cafes. Be sure to stop at  Idilio Folklore Cervecero , a stylish restaurant that offers a small museum and beer tasting sessions.

calzada de los frailes - valladolid mexico yucatan road trip

Valladolid is unique in the fact that it boasts a cenote right in the center of town: the Cenote Zaci . While beautiful and easy to get to, it’s not the most spectacular of the Cenote’s close to Valladolid. One of the best we visited was Cenote Saamal , a very deep cenote with a gorgeous tumbling waterfall. Just grab a taxi from the central square to get there.

cenote saamal - our favorite cenote on this yucatan road trip

In the evening, head out to the elegant San Bernardino Convent , where you’ll see video mapping and colored lights are projected onto the sides of the complex. The projections tell the story of Valladolid and its history in a beautiful and magical way. Check with the Tourist Information Office on the main square as to the days and timings.

valladolid convent of san bernardino

Yucatan Itinerary Day 3:  Ek Balam

I’m a big fan of cenotes: they’re in essence natural sinkholes or caves that contain water. Cenotes were commonly used for water supplies by the ancient Maya, and occasionally for sacrificial offerings. Of all the cenotes I’ve been, my absolute favorite is   Cenote Suytun .

Yes, it’s risen to enormous fame thanks to Instagram, but it’s one of those rare few places that’s actually as magical as it appears in photos. I took the following photos with my iPhone (no filter!) and didn’t need any fancy photography equipment.

If you visit first thing in the morning (9am) like we did, you’ll avoid the crowd and be able to capture the famous sunbeam (provided it’s sunny). It’s only a 12-minute drive from Valladolid. Read my guide to visiting Cenote Suytun .

yucatan road trip itinerary - cenote suytun

A 20-minute drive from Cenote Suytun is the spectacular and less-visited archaeological site, Ek Balam . It’s equally impressive but far less commercialised (you won’t find any vendors here!). Read my guide to Ek Balam ruins .

It’s also still possible to climb to the top of the pyramids. At 100 feet (29m) high,  the Acropolis  is the tallest structure in Ek Balam. A spectacular view awaits at the top: ancient pyramids poking above the tree canopy and lush green jungles for as far as the eye can see!

Midway to the top of the pyramids is the tomb of Ek Balam’s powerful ruler, Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, who reigned during the city’s peak in 800 A.D. The tomb is being restored, but you can see carvings, paintings, and murals.

ek balam archaeological site - road trip yucatan

Next to the archaeological site of Ek Balam is the wild and rugged Cenote X’canche .We absolutely loved the wild and atmospheric setting of this cenote. It’s surrounded by the jungle, with tree roots hanging over the spearmint blue water and rickety wooden bridges running along the sides of the cenote. There’s also a zipline over head, which our 6.5 year old daughter loved!

Best of all, it was actually empty when we visited on a Saturday afternoon, and we had the whole place to ourselves.

cenote x'canche - valladolid in mexico

Yucatan Itinerary Day 4: Chichen Itza

One of the highlights for any first-time visitor to the Yucatan Peninsula is surely Chichen Itza , one of the country’s most celebrated Mayan archaeological sites. An important Mayan-Toltec city it spans a thousand years of history. Today, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , it ranks #1 on the best things to do in  Yucatan .

It’s only a 30-minute drive from Valladolid, but I recommend leaving early and reaching the site around 8am, before all the day-trippers arrive from Cancun. I also suggest hiring a guide, as there aren’t many plaques or information. Read my guide on how to get to Chichen Itza .

chichen itza - an important stop on this yucatan travel itinerary

No trip to Chichen Itza is complete without a swim in the Cenote Ik Kil , a sinkhole that is connected to Chichen Itza by a raised pathway. It’s said that this large natural well may have given Chichen Itza (“Well of the Itzáes”) its name.

The use of the Sacred Cenote was exclusively ceremonial. Over the years, the water has yielded many artifacts including gold, jade, copper, shells and the bones of around 200 people who were thrown in as a sacrifice.

This cenote isn’t my favorite, as it’s the most commercialized that we visited (artificial stairways, lookout points and too many tour groups). But with an almost perfect circular opening and lush green vegetation dangling over the water, the cenote definitely has a stunning setting.

Cost: 150 Pesos ($7.50) per person

travel yucatan - cenote ik kil

Yucatan Itinerary Day 5:  Merida

Your Yucatan road continues further inland, to the cultural capital of Merida . It’s an easy 2-hour drive from Valladolid, but be sure to make a stop at Izamal. Nicknamed La Ciudad Amarilla (the Yellow City),

Izamal earned its nickname from the traditional golden-yellow buildings that spiral out from the center like a budding daisy. The small provincial town is easily explored on foot, and spiffy horse-drawn carriages add to the city’s charm.

izamal colonial historical city in yucatan

For culture vultures, a visit to Merida is definitely the highlight of this Yucatan road trip. The vibrant capital of the Yucatan Peninsula has a rich Mayan and colonial heritage. Known as the White City, Merida was also named the American Capital of Culture in 2017.

Start by strolling along the Paseo de Montejo, a tree-lined street flanked by the most beautiful buildings in Merida. Walk the whole length of 2 miles or 3.2km, and make stops at the numerous cute cafes and chic shops along the way. Read our full list of 30 best things to do in Merida .

The city’s focal point is  Plaza de la Independencia, bordered by the fortresslike Mérida Cathedral and white limestone Iglesia de la Tercera Orden, both colonial-era churches built using relics from ancient Mayan temples. Don’t miss the Casa de Montejo, a 16th-century mansion, is a landmark of colonial plateresque architecture.

itinerary yucatan peninsula - merida

Budget: Hotel & Hostal Boutique Casa Garza

A beautiful budget option for solo travelers, this centrally-located hostel has beautiful rooms with a garden, terrace and small pool. Check rates here.

Midrange: Villa Orquídea Boutique Hotel

Also housed in a beautifully-restored colonial building, this boutique hotel features an all-white exterior and slick, elegant interiors. The avant-garde pool is to die for! Check rates here.

Luxury: Casa Azul Monumento Histórico 

Set in a 19th-century listed building, this heritage hotel is said to be the best in Merida. The extravagant hotel has luxurious suites with high ceilings, antique furniture, artwork and mosaic tiled floor. Check rates here.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Yucatan Itinerary Day 6:  Merida

The next day, sleep in and take your time as you’ll have the whole day to explore the city of Merida. Make your first stop t he Monumento a la Patria (Monument to the Fatherland) designed by Colombian sculptor, Romulo Rozo. It chronicles about 700 years of Mexican history and features more than 300 hand-carved figures. On it, you’ll see artistic representations of Mayan rain god,  Chaac , and more.

travel to yucatan - merida monument

Dating back to 1892, the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) houses Yucatan state’s executive government offices and it’s open to the public. You’ll find murals and oil paintings by local artist Fernando Castro Pacheco, depicting the Yucatan Peninsula’s history.

A 20-minute drive from Merida is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum), which houses the largest collection of Mayan art and artifacts in the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s lauded as the best museum in Merida, so it’s worth a trip for art and history lovers. Note: it’s closed on Tuesdays.

gran museo del mundo maya - merida yucatan road trip

Pok Ta Pok is an ancient Mayan game that was played thousands of years ago. The ball game was part of a sacred, sacrificial ceremony, pitting good against evil. The winner (yes, winner!) of the game was sacrificed, which was then the highest honor bestowed on a Mayan player.

On Friday nights at 8-9pm, the ancient sport is reenacted in front of Merida Cathedral – luckily though, sans sacrifice. It’s fun to watch and it gets pretty crazy towards the end, when the ball is literally ON FIRE, prompting faster passes, for sure.

mayan ball game merida road trip

Yucatan Itinerary Day 7:  Uxmal Day Trip

A 1-hour drive from Merida is  Uxmal , another UNESCO-listed Maya ruin celebrated for its impressive construction and ornate stone carvings. It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites of Maya culture, along with Chichen Itza, Caracol and Xunantunich in Belize, and Tikal in Guatemala.

The name Uxmal means ‘thrice-built’ in Mayan. It refers to the construction of its highest structure, the Pyramid of the Magician which was built on top of existing pyramids. This archaeological complex has much less crowds than Chichen Itza. It is massive and there are very few signs, I highly recommend hiring a guide for this.

uxmal - another one of the mexican ruins in yucatan

On your drive back to Merida, make a stop at Cenote Sacamucuy, where local shamans still perform traditional rituals. The shaman performs a wellness ceremony to fill one’s soul with powerful positive energy. The ritual involves giving a beautiful offering of colorful flowers, medicinal plants, cocoa beans and candles to the gods via fragrant  copal (tree resin) incense. You can book a traditional Mayan purification ritual through Hacienda Temozon .

sacamucuy - cenote mexico yucatan

Yucatan Itinerary Day 8:  Drive to Tulum

It’s time to head back to the coast! Drive 3 hours back to Tulum. Once a sleepy coastal town, Tulum has transformed into a trendy beach destination loved by hipsters, honeymooners and yogis alike. Read our comprehensive Tulum travel guide .

Even so, the area near the beach hasn’t been overly built up and the jungle comes right down the sand. Beyond the beach, you’ll also find  cenotes (sinkholes filled with crystal clear waters), secluded lagoons, turtle reserves, and fascinating Mayan ruins that have been tumbled and shaped by time. Check out our list of best things to do in Tulum .

The town itself doesn’t have any particular attractions, but it’s great for tacos and vegan food. For lunch, there are some great places to dine in town. If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend La Hoja Verde , which offers lots of typical Mexican dishes with vegetarian alternatives. The other place I absolutely loved was Burrito Amor , who make their own deliciously spicy sauces.

tulum beach - best place to go on yucatan vacation

If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend spending one night on Tulum beach and one night in Tulum town. Both accommodation and food are very expensive near the beach. The two areas are around 2.5 miles (4km) away apart. Check out my guide on where to stay in Tulum.

Budget: Che Tulum Hostel

Situated in the center of Tulum Town, this may be a budget choice, but it still offers an outdoor pool and fun hip vibe. There are both private and dorm rooms available, as well as lockers and free wi-fi. They also rent bikes, so you can easily cycle to the beach. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Coco Hacienda

Sitting on the edge of town, the Coco Hacienda is a great option for those who don’t want to pay the high prices on the beach, but still enjoy being surrounded by nature. As it is located a bit out of the center, the hotel has a large tropical garden filled with palms and banana fronds. It’s built in a rustic colonial style and has two tranquil swimming pools. Check the rates here.

Luxury: The Beach

As the name suggests, this gorgeous eco-boutique hotel sits right on the beach and offers a boho-chic vibe with a rustic charm. The luxurious thatched cottages offer private plunge pools and hammocks, while the communal areas feature several pools hidden amongst the jungle foliage. There are also free yoga classes each morning. Check the rates here.

boutique hotel in tulum mexico

Yucatan Itinerary Day 9: Tulum Ruins

You can’t travel to Yucatan without visiting the Tulum Archeological Zone . The area is filled with Mayan ruins, which sit high above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, as well as numerous iguana and tropical flora. Remember to bring your bathing suit as there are a few lovely white sand beaches, which can only be accessed from the site.

tulum ruins - an essential sight when traveling to yucatan

Right by the Tulum ruins entrance is the new museum, Mystika Tulum . It’s a one-of-a-kind sensory experience, designed to take you on a journey through large-format photographs and multi-sensory installations. This spectacular venue has behind the brilliant mind of its founder Pepe Soho, one of the most recognized Mexican photographers.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

After a busy day under the sun, head to the Gran Cenote , a gorgeous sinkhole filled with clear turquoise-colored waters, partly open to the sky and partly under an enchanting cave. Remember to bring a mask and snorkel with you (or rent one when you’re there) as a variety of fish and turtles live beneath the surface.

cenote grande - bext place to visit on this mexico holiday

 Itinerary Day 10: Fly Home!

It’s the last day of your Yucatan road trip! Cancun Airport is around a 2-hour drive from Tulum. If you are not leaving your car rental at the airport, remember to arrange a shuttle to take you to the airport.

If you have some extra time before your flight, I recommend doing a day trip from Tulum checking out cenotes and wilderness reserves in the area. Some of my favorite cenotes include Car Wash Cenote, Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido . Each one is totally unique and beautiful in its own way.

cenote tour from tulum mexico

If you’ve got more than 10 days in Yucatan, I would suggest continue driving down the coastline to Bacalar Lagoon , a gorgeous natural lake also known as “Laguna de Siete Colores” (or lake of seven colors). Check out my super detailed Bacalar travel guide .

Alternatively, another excellent spot to visit is the remote Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve – a protected area that rich in wildlife and surprisingly wild, empty and secluded. The easiest way to visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is catching a boat from Muyil ruins to float through its ancient canals dug out by the Mayans centuries ago. Another way to get to Sian Ka’an Reserve is from Punta Allen, via a treacherous, unpaved road from Tulum all the way south of the Boca Paila peninsula. For more details, read my guide to Punta Allen .

One of my favorite spots in the Yucatan Peninsula is Isla Holbox, in the northeastern coast. Isla Holbox is gloriously car-free and largely undeveloped. Only a small part of the island is inhabited, and even then, it never feels overrun with visitors. No paved roads, no cars, no hassling. Read our list of things to do in Holbox .

yucatan road trip - bacalar lagoon

  • Buy a Mexican SIM card before you start this Yucatan road trip.  Having internet data will make it easier to navigate, do research on the go and contact hotels etc. You can get a Telmex SIM card from OXXO for less than $10.
  • Pump your gas in advance, don’t wait until your gas tank is completely empty. We always use PEMEX (the petrol kiosk withe the best prices), as we’ve always found the staff to be reliable. They always pump it for you, though they expect a small tip.
  • Try to avoid driving at night, as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps.
  • That brings me to my next point —   you’ll find MANY speed bumps (topes) on the roads of Yucatan, including on the federal highway. Some of them are treacherous, so make sure you slow down when you see a sign that says ‘TOPE’.
  • Don’t leave anything visible in your car, to avoid break-ins and theft. We always leave anything we have in the trunk.
  • Parking is super easy anywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula . In the city centers, there are usually street parking (marked by white squares) and green parking meters for paying. You simply key in your license plate number and throw in a few coins (average cost is 10 pesos/hour). Once outside the center, parking is free.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

I hope this Yucatan road trip itinerary has been useful to you. Let me know if you have any questions on Mexico travel below. I will be more than happy to help!

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

  • Mexico Fun Facts
  • 35 Fun Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
  • 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
  • 20 Best Day Trips from Tulum
  • 30 Fun Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
  • 30 Best Things to Do in Merida
  • 20 Cool Things to Do in Valladolid, Mexico
  • My Guide to Isla Holbox Mexico
  • 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip Itinerary

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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15 thoughts on “Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]”

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

thanks for this trip plan! A few good ideas for me.

peeked at your WildJunket very quickly…and my first thought was:

The true voyage of discovery is not in going to new places, but in seeing with new eyes. – Marcel Proust

And this is coming from 80+ country traveler….most of recent travels – past decade, most places have been to countries I’ve already been to – but certain specific places.

Most unexplored place in the world…is looking back at you in the mirror….ever heard of a True Mirror?

anyway…like your photos of the Yucatan. 2nd trip to Yucatan next year…but will rent car, so not dependent on tours, buses, guides.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Thanks very much for the kinds words! Interesting stuff.. I need to go read up on True Mirror!

I think one thing to mention is that MERIDA is a HUGE CITY / area of 1.2 million people. which may come as a shock to anyone traveling in Yucatan. There is no other city larger than 100,000 people (Per wiki).

All your lodging choices (Look nice) are smack dab in the middle of the city…which I guess is ok if you arrive by bus or what not…but I’m not driving through that mess of streets in a car. Don’t use GPS – just printed maps (sometimes I print google maps out) and sense of direction.

Want to visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, but that’s on the fringe a little, on a major street. I think staying in Progreso is a better choice or Ixmal. Or for a visit to Uxmal, right near Uxmal in small towns.

You’ve added several days to my planned trip!

Ah yes.. Merida is a big city, but honestly the town center doesn’t feel that way. It feels rather quaint and small to me. We drove our car and stayed in the center of the historical city. The streets aren’t too messy or hectic to navigate and there’s not a lot of traffic. We parked the car at the hotel and mostly walked everywhere, but used to it to explore outside of the historic center like the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya and Uxmal. Progreso does look pretty laidback (I made a new friend who lives there) and we definitely want to visit someday!

ok..took a closer look…if one stays on the main drag or two, easy to avoid 99% of all other streets…so staying in the center is not as bad as I thought.

Also I see the sequential street numbering, so not hard to get around from that angle.

Progreso still looks more peaceful for the $! 🙂 We’ll see…

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Hi! Your information about the Yucatan is awesome. Can one safely travel with small children?

hi Rachel, yes! We live in the Yucatan Peninsula (specifically Playa del Carmen) with our 7-year-old daughter and we feel safe traveling around the region with her. The area is great for kids because of all the outdoorsy activities available, like cenote-hopping, exploring Mayan ruins, and beach combing.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Hi Nellie, your 10-day road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula sounds great. I was curious how much downtime there is factored in. My wife and I are going on a 8/9 day trip at the end of November and I want to make sure we don’t end up rushing around too much. How would you adapt the trip to allow enough downtime? Any suggestions you can give would be much appreciated. Thanks, Phil

hi Phil, thanks for dropping in! Honestly, there’s not a lot of downtime factored in. If you want to allow for some downtime, I would suggest removing Uxmal from the itinerary (since you’ll be seeing Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Tulum ruins) and then spending the day relaxing in Merida or even going to Tulum earlier to chill on the beach. You can also skip the cenotes in Tulum since you’d have visited a few in Valladolid (which in my opinion are better there). Hope this helps!

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Just wondering if it’s possible to do 5 days of all inclusive resort and 4 days of road trip. Do you know if I can book separately?

hi Cathy, oh it’s all up to you and what kind of travel you like. I personally don’t like all inclusive resorts but it’s easy to see why it appeals to so many people. You can definitely book it yourself and then hire a car to do the road trip yourself. If you need some ideas on where to stay, check out this Cancun article I’ve written. From there, you can do a short road trip to just Valladolid, Chichen Itza, and Cenote Suytun. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay on the coast, then you can head down to Tulum, see the Tulum ruins and explore the cenotes near there. I’ve written about all these destinations so feel free to search on my site.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Great itinerary! We have been to Mexico several times and done road trips. We felt that it was safe, and smooth sailing. I think I have been to all the places on your list! We love visiting cenotes, Mayan ruins, and places in the cities.

tour oaxaca chiapas yucatan

Hi Nellie, just want to thank you so much for all of the wonderful tips you have provided! We have 6 nights booked in Merida at an AirBnB, and another 7 nights in the Yucatan area. Your advice is helping me to plan a route and narrow down where we should stay for the later half of the trip. Thanks again from Canada.

Aww Kathie, thank you for the very kind comment! I’m so glad you’ve found my tips helpful! Have a great trip in the Yucatan Peninsula. 🙂

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    For this Yucatan road trip, I recommend hiring a compact car. An economy rental car in Mexico averages just $200 for a whole week, which is less than $25 a day. The current price for gas is 16.50 pesos per liter (about $2.50 per gallon), though this varies throughout the country. It's generally easy to drive in Mexico, especially outside of ...

  22. Mexico City & Yucatán Peninsula: Best Itinerary Ideas

    For most travelers, 9 to 12 days is the perfect amount of time for a Mexico trip, with stops in both Mexico City and the Yucatán Peninsula. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five to eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Oaxaca, Chiapas, or Chichén Itzá ...

  23. Oaxaca and NW Chiapas

    The international airport of Oaxaca City serves this region. This complex birding route has several 'good' options including: (1) an extended circle that requires beginning and ending in Oaxaca City; (2) a linear route that begins in Oaxaca City and ends in EITHER Veracruz or Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas. [these two options can also be run in reverse order, ending in Oaxaca City.