13-Day Southeast Tour: Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Merida and Cancun

Experience the Best of Southeast Mexico in 13 Days

This 13-day guided tour offers an immersive journey through some of the most iconic highlights of southeastern Mexico. Starting in Mexico City, you’ll visit the bustling Zócalo and its impressive murals, then venture to the colonial charm of Puebla with its historic churches and beautiful streets. Traveling further south, you’ll explore Oaxaca, home to ancient ruins like Monte Alban, and enjoy the lively markets and indigenous crafts of San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas. The adventure continues with boat rides through Sumidero Canyon, visits to the lush waterfalls of Agua Azul, and a walk among the mysterious temples of Palenque. On the Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll soak in the colonial elegance of Merida, marvel at the Chichen Itza pyramid, and relax on the beaches of Cancun.

What we love about this tour is its perfect balance of guided sightseeing and free time, allowing you to savor each place at your own pace. The inclusion of transportation, accommodations, many meals, and expert guides makes this a hassle-free way to see a broad swath of southeastern Mexico. Plus, it’s family-friendly, making it suitable for travelers of all ages eager to discover authentic local culture and stunning scenery.

A possible consideration is the busy schedule—days are packed with activities, so if you prefer slow and leisurely exploration, some days might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to maximize your experience, this itinerary provides a rundown without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

This tour suits travelers who want a thorough introduction to southeastern Mexico, especially those interested in history, culture, and natural beauty, and who appreciate professional guides and included logistics. If you’re after authentic sites, beautiful vistas, and a well-organized trip, you’ll find this tour quite rewarding.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary covers both cultural landmarks and natural wonders.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with knowledgeable commentary.
• Value for money considering transportation, accommodations, and most meals included.
• Flexible balance of guided tours and free time.
• Family-friendly with appealing sights for all ages.
• Efficient logistics with airport pickups and drop-offs included.

In-Depth Look at the 13-Day Southeast Mexico Tour

Starting Point: Mexico City

Your journey begins in Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis bursting with art, history, and vibrant street life. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Zócalo, the city’s main square, where you’ll admire the murals of the National Palace painted by Diego Rivera. Spending about four hours here, you’ll get a taste of Mexico’s political and cultural heart. The guide, likely well-versed and friendly, will help you navigate the crowded but fascinating streets, pointing out highlights and local stories.

Day 2 & 3: From Mexico City to Puebla

After your city tour, the adventure takes you to Puebla, known for its colorful buildings, traditional cuisine, and historic architecture. On the way, you’ll stop at Cholula to see its famous ex-Hacienda Chautla, with its charming English-style castle on an artificial lake—an unexpected sight that adds a touch of fairy-tale charm. Puebla itself boasts stunning churches, like the Chapel of the Rosary, and its picturesque main square, perfect for wandering and soaking in local life.

Day 4 & 5: Exploring Oaxaca and Mitla

Next, your trip heads to Oaxaca, a city renowned for its vibrant indigenous culture and archaeology. The Monte Alban site is a highlight, offering panoramic views from a hilltop filled with ancient pyramids and inscriptions. Here, you’ll see evidence of Olmec, Zapotec, and Mixtec peoples—an archaeological mosaic. The guide will likely highlight the site’s importance, helping you understand the cultural layers that make Oaxaca so special.

Early the next morning, you visit San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a town celebrated for its archaeological ruins and traditional crafts. Walking through its rustic streets, you’ll encounter artisans and perhaps purchase authentic textiles or pottery. A chance to experience local life outside the tourist trail, which many travelers find rewarding.

Day 6 & 7: Chiapas – Sumidero Canyon and Waterfalls

From Oaxaca, the tour proceeds to Chiapas, where the Sumidero Canyon offers dramatic natural scenery. Navigating the canyon by boat, you’ll witness nearly a 1 km deep gorge carved by the Grijalva River, with towering cliffs on either side—a truly striking sight. Be prepared for some boat rides, which many reviews praise as a highlight, offering close-up views of the canyon’s grandeur.

Afterward, the journey takes you to San Cristobal de las Casas, a colonial town with colorful markets and indigenous communities. You’ll visit Zinacantán, where local women display their traditional backstrap loom textiles and dress in vibrant costumes. This offers an authentic look at indigenous crafts and lifestyles, which many travelers find insightful.

The next day, the waterfalls of Cascadas de Agua Azul await. Their turquoise waters cascading over limestone create natural pools perfect for a quick swim if you’re feeling adventurous, as some reviews note. The short waterfalls are a favorite for their vivid hues and refreshing waters.

Days 8 & 9: Mayan Ruins and Yucatán Heritage

Your exploration continues deep into Maya territory with a visit to the Palenque archaeological site, considered one of the most beautiful and significant in the Maya world. Surrounded by jungle, the ruins feature well-preserved pyramids and intricate carvings that tell stories of ancient rulers. Travelers praise Palenque’s scenic setting and impressive structures.

From Chiapas, you travel to Merida, the lively capital of Yucatán. The city’s colonial architecture, including the cathedral in the main square, provides a charming backdrop for wandering and sightseeing. You’ll learn about the region’s mix of Mayan and Spanish influences—a theme that runs throughout the tour.

Days 10 & 11: Yucatán’s Highlights – Chichen Itza, Izamal, Valladolid

A day trip to Chichen Itza allows you to marvel at the iconic step pyramid, El Castillo, and learn about the Mayan civilization’s incredible achievements. Nearby, the charming Izamal, often called the “Yellow City,” enchants visitors with its colorful buildings and tranquil streets. Declared a Magic Town, Izamal offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling tourist sites.

The following day, your journey takes you to Valladolid, a colonial town with lively markets and historic buildings. An exciting boat ride through a biosphere reserve offers a chance to see crocodiles and diverse birdlife, adding a dash of adventure to your cultural exploration.

Final Days: Relaxation and Departure in Cancun

The tour ends with a free day in Cancun, giving you time to relax on its famous beaches or explore on your own. The journey concludes with an airport transfer, making your return home straightforward.

What Travelers Say

The most praised aspect of this tour is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer mentioned, “Todos los sitios visitados son interesantes, los guias y el conductor foram excelentes,” emphasizing that professional guidance greatly enhanced their experience. Another valued the beautiful views—from the canyon to waterfalls and ancient ruins—that make the many long travel days worthwhile.

Some travelers noted that Palenque wasn’t their favorite stop, suggesting that while the archaeological site is stunning, it may not appeal to everyone. However, overall, the reviews highlight good value for money, considering the included accommodations, transport, and many meals, which taken together reduce the hassle and expense of planning independently.

Logistics & Practical Tips

Transportation between sites is organized, which saves the headache of coordinating multiple rides. The group size is capped at 40, offering a balance between social atmosphere and comfort. Most hotels in major cities are four-star, with five-star options available in Mexico City and Cancun, ensuring a comfortable stay.

While the tour is packed with activities, certain days are long—sometimes up to 12 hours—so preparatory energy is key. The itinerary offers some free time, especially in Cancun, perfect for unwinding or exploring on your own.

Pricing at $2,075 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the comprehensive itinerary, included meals, and expert guides. It is especially attractive for those who prefer a curated experience that covers both cultural highlights and natural scenery without the stress of logistics.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers eager to see a blend of historic sites, indigenous culture, and natural beauty. It suits those who value guided insights but also appreciate some free time. Families will find it family-friendly, and adventure-seekers will enjoy boat rides and waterfalls. If your goal is a well-organized introduction to southeastern Mexico, this tour offers a balance of richness and convenience.

FAQs

Is transportation included throughout the tour?
Yes, transportation between all the sites listed in the itinerary is included, making travel seamless and reducing logistical worries.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour covers 12 nights in hotels, mostly four-star, with some options in Mexico City and Cancun at five-star levels.

What meals are included?
Most breakfasts are included, though specific meals at other times are not, so you may want to budget for additional dining.

Can I book this tour last minute?
On average, travelers book about 6 days in advance, but availability can vary, so booking sooner is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, with sights and activities appealing to a wide range of ages.

What should I pack?
Casual comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, sun protection, and swimwear for waterfalls and beaches are recommended.

To sum it up, this 13-day Southeast Mexico tour delivers an impressive overview of the region’s cultural, archaeological, and natural highlights. Its well-organized structure, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive logistics make it a practical choice for travelers looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free experience. While days are full, the variety of sights and the balance of guided and free time ensure you’ll come away with a genuine appreciation for this vibrant part of Mexico. Perfect for those eager to see iconic sites and hidden gems, enjoy authentic local culture, and appreciate spectacular scenery—all without the stress of planning every detail yourself.