Private Tour Highlights
- Savoring the enticing sights, sounds and smells of San Cristobal de las Casas and Oaxaca, both exquisite colonial towns in the south of Mexico.
- Exploring the intriguing archaeological sites of Monte Alban and Mitla near Oaxaca City, where a string of pre-Columbian civilizations flourished.
- Gazing up in wonder at the craggy rock faces of the towering Sumidero Canyon as you sail along the Grijalva River.
- Going for a dip in the pools of the Agua Azul waterfalls, named so for the inviting waters’ effervescent hues.
- Observing the traditions of the highland villages in Chiapas, including the distinctive dress, colorful markets and festivals.
- Soaking up the historical gems of Mexico City, including colonial palaces, imposing cathedrals and atmospheric streets.
Tour Overview
The Discovering Mexico’s Southern Gems in Oaxaca and Chiapas package includes exciting stops in Mexico City, the southern state of Oaxaca, and the colonial jewel of San Cristobal de las Casas before heading on to Palenque. About 130 kilometers south of Ciudad del Carmen, this site is much smaller than Tikal or Copán, but features some of the Mayas’ finest architecture. Palenque, dating back to 100 B.C., is on the western edge of the Maya empire near the present-day city of Chiapas. Well-preserved and maintained by local people and anthropologists, it is one of the most popular ruins for tourists from around the world.
Enjoy a tour to one of the world’s largest metropolis, Mexico City, also the oldest urban centre in the Western Hemisphere. From Mexico City continue to Oaxaca, located in a valley surrounded by the Sierra Madre del Sur, was once the center of the Mixtec and Zapotec civilizations. Next you will go to San Cristobal de las Casas a characteristically indigenous Chiapaneca town nestled in the heart of the jungle highlands. From San Cristobal de las Casas, continue to the city of Palenque and the ruins.
This trip can be customized to fit your individual travel dates and any specific requests you may have. Your travel consultant will prepare a customized itinerary for you. We offer a choice of 3, 4, 5-star and deluxe accommodations at the Four Seasons in Mexico City and Camino Real Oaxaca.
Inclusions
Local air transportation from Mexico City to Oaxaca, Oaxaca to Tuxtla-Gutierrez and Villahermosa to Mexico City, Hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast, All transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling, Guided tours in English including all entrance fees, Meals where specified, Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.
Note: Museums closed on Monday. Prices include private day tours and transfers in this itinerary. Yampu Tours believes this is the best way to experience the destination but if you are interested in group/shared tours please consult with your Yampu Tours Tour Consultant.
Package Price: From £$ 3737
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Mexico City
Upon arrival in Mexico City transfer to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure or choose from optional excursions.
Upon arrival in Mexico City transfer to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure or choose from optional excursions.
Teotihuacan Site – Mexico City Walking Tour
In read more...
In the morning, depart the city heading to the breathtaking archaeological site of Teotihuacan. By the afternoon, after the tour of the ruins, return to Mexico City to visit the first quarter – el Zocalo. Mexico City is also known as the Ciudad de los Palacios (City of Palaces). The tour continues in the main square, where one will visit some Colonial palaces like the Palacio Nacional, the Metropolitan Cathedral and other beautiful architectural jewels and walk through the main streets. Continue to the Paseo de la Reforma to admire its monuments and buildings. ...read less
Oaxaca
Transfer to the airport for the flight to one of the most traditional states in the country: Oaxaca, in Southern Mexico. There, a ride will be waiting to transfer to the hotel. Take this opportunity to explore the beautiful colonial city center.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to one of the most traditional states in the country: Oaxaca, in Southern Mexico. There, a ride will be waiting to transfer to the hotel. Take this opportunity to explore the beautiful colonial city center.
Monte Alban – Mitla
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the impressive archeological sites of Monte Alban and Mitla. Today, Mitla is a popular destination for tourists to Oaxaca. It has a small museum and hosts a large outdoor market. Many of the townspeople speak a form of the Zapotec language.
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the impressive archeological sites of Monte Alban and Mitla. Today, Mitla is a popular destination for tourists to Oaxaca. It has a small museum and hosts a large outdoor market. Many of the townspeople speak a form of the Zapotec language.
Oaxaca
Enjoy a half-day city tour of Oaxaca. Optional Oaxacan cuisine cooking course available, not included in price.
Enjoy a half-day city tour of Oaxaca. Optional Oaxacan cuisine cooking course available, not included in price.
San Cristobal de las Casas
Early read more...
Early morning transfer to the airport for a flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez. Upon arrival, be greeted for airport reception and transfer to San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, visit the enormous Sumidero Canyon to enjoy a boat ride. Live an unforgettable experience sailing throughout the Grijalva River all across a geological fault formed millions of years ago with dramatic cliffs of up to one kilometer high and the river's depth of up to 100 meters deep; the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon is located near San Cristobal de las Casas in the state of Chiapas. Wild monkeys and iguanas inhabit the area, among other different wild animals. ...read less
San Juan Chamula - Zinacantan
Today, read more...
Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the Indian villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Each village has its own distinctive highland dress as well as a weekly market and numerous festivals honoring their patron saint and other special religious days. Afterwards, walk through the colonial streets of San Cristobal de las Casas. San Cristobal de las Casas is a colonial jewel right in the heart of the Chiapas highlands. It is the indigenous soul of the town, coexisting harmoniously with its colonial charm, making it such an enchanting place to visit. ...read less
Agua Azul - Palenque
Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes, to the small town of Palenque. On the way, visit the spellbinding “Agua Azul” waterfalls.
Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes, to the small town of Palenque. On the way, visit the spellbinding “Agua Azul” waterfalls.
Palenque - Villahermosa
Enjoy read more...
Enjoy a visit to the archaeological site of Palenque. Walk through the same paths as the great Mayan Lords and feel the charm and mystery of this culture while discovering the Mayan site of Palenque, located in the northwest of the Maya lowlands in Chiapas, Mexico. Surrounded by jungle, Palenque is considered one of the most important archaeological sites of Mesoamerica as well as a ceremonial center and home to a number of Mayan Lords. There are religious temples, plazas, open courts and a ball court, but majority of the structures are palaces. Artifacts discovered at this site tell us about the Mayan Lords and in particular of Lord Pacal, one of the most well-known Lords of the Mayan civilization. Continue to Villahermosa for the night. ...read less
Flight Home
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Mexico City and connect with the flight home.
Transfer to the airport for a flight to Mexico City and connect with the flight home.
Mexico City, Mexico
Oaxaca, Mexico
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
Palenque, Mexico
Villahermosa, Mexico
Places You'll See
-
Mexico City
From the bustling nightlife, to the massive collection of museums, Mexico City appeals to all. Bring the family to Six Flags Mexico, or the Chapultepec Park and Zoo. Sports fans can enjoy the Estadio Azteca, the biggest soccer stadium in the world, or the Arena Mexico to watch the famous Lucha Libre. Or simply stroll the streets and visit different restaurants and shops.
-
Oaxaca
Capital of the Mexican state Oaxaca, Oaxaca city is a bustling area with impressive colonial structures and important archaeological sites including Monte Alban. This Zapotec site was created by leveling the mountains and constructing terraces. Keep in mind this was all before the massive power tools of today. One can explore the markets and take cooking classes along with Spanish lessons.
-
Palenque
Containing some of the finest architecture, Palenque was once a Maya city state that had been abandoned to be swallowed by the Mexican jungle. Now partially excavated, eight temples and other structures stand today. It is believed that this is only ten percent of the entire Maya City that is still mostly consumed by nature. Enjoy a guided tour and learn what there is of this ancient city.
-
Villahermosa
Villahermosa is an important business center for Mexican oil companies, rich in farming and agriculture, and the capital city of the Mexican state of Tabasco. Visit La Venta, an archeological site consisting of pieces from the Olmec civilization, the first major civilization in Mexico.
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
3 Star Properties
Mexico City : Hotel NH Centro Historico
Hotel NH Centro Historico
Mexico City , MEXICO
When it comes to location, the NH Mexico City Centro Histórico hotel is hard to beat. Guests find it in the heart of Mexico City’s historic center, footsteps from the City Museum, the ‘Templo Mayor’ archaeological area and the main square with its imposing Gothic cathedral. The hotel features modern, stylish interiors, and the rooms are comfortable and contemporary. They are decorated in soothing neutrals and vibrant reds, and are equipped with TVs and Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a well-equipped fitness center, an open air terrace for drinks, and a restaurant serving Mexican and international dishes.
Oaxaca : Mision de Los Angeles
Mision de Los Angeles
Oaxaca , MEXICO
Experience Oaxacan graciousness amid the exuberant vegetation and modern hacienda-style setting of Hotel Mision de los Angeles. The hotel’s peace and tranquility, and quality within every detail, make it an ideal option for a relaxing vacation. Mision de Los Angeles offers 145 individually decorated rooms, all equipped with Wi-Fi, Cable TV, and private bathrooms. The hotel also features a beautiful outdoor pool with poolside bar, lush, green gardens and leafy trees, a well-equipped fitness center, and lighted tennis courts. There is also a buffet breakfast served daily, Restaurant Antequera overlooking the garden serves international cuisine, and La Pergola serves café style light fare.
Hotel Casa Conzatti
Oaxaca , MEXICO
The Casa Conzatti Hotel has adapted from a lovely colonial style house in a peaceful residential area in the Historic Center of Oaxaca. The hotel offers 45 colonial style rooms are elegantly styled, and all of them equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, and private bathrooms. Casa Conzatti features free Wi-Fi access, cooked-to-order breakfasts (for a surcharge), and Magnolias restaurant, which specializes in international cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can also enjoy drinks at the bar.
Mision Palenque
Palenque , MEXICO
Hotel Mision Palenque offers upscale accommodations in a place surrounded by waterfalls, majestic Mayan vestiges of past and wild landscapes. The hotel offers 210 spacious guestrooms with modern design and convenient amenities, including air conditioning, Cable TV, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel also features a lovely outdoor pool with poolside bar, a fitness center, outdoor tennis courts, and a full service spa featuring a sauna and massage treatments. There is also a wonderful onsite restaurant and bar.
4 Star Properties
Hotel Victoria
Oaxaca , MEXICO
The Hotel Victoria is located at the top of the Fortin Hill in the middle of a massive garden, and offers a breathtaking view of the city center. Hotel Victoria offers 147 spacious and stylish rooms, all equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Cable TV, and private bathrooms. The hotel features a number of services and amenities such as, a beautiful outdoor swimming pool with poolside bar, a tennis court, roof top terrace, and massage treatments available pool side or in the rooms. Restaurante El Tule offers a varied menu with national and international cuisine, and guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast.
Palenque : Chan-kah Resort Village
Chan-kah Resort Village
Palenque , MEXICO
Discover the wonders of the jungle and enjoy an adventure surrounded by the natural beauty of Palenque, Chiapas at Chan- Kah Resort Village. Chan- Kah Resort Village has 76 independent casita style rooms and master suites of unique design, beautifully decorated with typical Mexican style that gives them an air of greater comfort, and are equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, private bathrooms, and private balconies. Cool off and have a good time in the stunning pool that resembles a Mayan cenote, taste delicious dishes and drinks at the bar of the hotel, and relax at the full-service spa.
Palenque : Villa Mercedes Palenque
Villa Mercedes Palenque
Palenque , MEXICO
A modern retreat inspired in the tropical forest, Villa Mercedes Hotel has an exceptional location 5 minutes from the legendary Archaeological Site and a few miles from spectacular landscapes, lakes and waterfalls. Surrounded by the most exotic natural beauty and gorgeous gardens, Villa Mercedes Palenque Hotel has been designed for families and business travelers. The hotel features 92 comfortable accommodations for guests to enjoy a pleasant experience and facilities that include a pool, temazcal, spa and restaurant, among many other elements that make Villa Mercedes a unique choice among hotels in Palenque, Chiapas.
5 Star Properties
Mexico City : Presidente InterContinental (Polanco View)
Presidente InterContinental (Polanco View)
Mexico City , MEXICO
Forty-two stories high, this cosmopolitan Mexico City hotel puts the city at your feet. Presidente InterContinental Mexico City is an award-winning hotel in Polanco, one of the capital’s most dynamic cultural, business and shopping areas. All 661 rooms are spacious and stylish, and are equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, and a private bathroom. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a full service spa offering hydro therapy, a steam bath, and a variety of massage treatments. Presidente InterContinental Mexico City also has 6 onsite restaurants for guests to choose from.
Mexico City : Hyatt Regency Mexico City
Hyatt Regency Mexico City
Mexico City , MEXICO
Elegance, distinction and functionality define Hyatt Regency Mexico City, a stylish landmark hotel. For guests looking for comfortable and elegant Mexico City hotels, Hyatt Regency Mexico City provides 755 elegant and modern guestrooms, all equipped with Cable TV, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center with tennis courts, a sauna and a steam room, and a variety of massage and facial treatments. There are also a variety of dining options such as Rulfo offering Latin cuisine, Yoshimi offering traditional Japanese delicacies, and the Teppan Gril.
Quinta Real Oaxaca
Oaxaca , MEXICO
Located in the heart of Mexico, Quinta Real Oaxaca reflects the visceral splendor of New Spain. The hotel offers 91 suites, including 8 Grand Class Suites. Each and every room is unique, surrounded by gardens, and has views of the picturesque streets. They are also equipped with air conditioning, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Quinta Real Oaxaca features a beautiful outdoor pool with comfortable lounge area, a lovely garden, and onsite shopping. El Refectorio is divided into 4 dining areas, and offers regional specialties, international dishes, and an American breakfast.
Palenque : Quinta Cha Nab Nal (standard)
Quinta Cha Nab Nal (standard)
Palenque , MEXICO
A short distance from the archaeological site of Palenque, this luxury resort evokes a Mayan palace complex of the Classic Period. The architectural complex has two Junior Suites, five Deluxe Suites and one Presidential Suite. Amidst luxuriant jungle flora the swimming pools recall the typical waterfalls found in the ruins of Palenque. The vision is to recreate an exquisite Pre-Hispanic atmosphere based on historic and archaeological data, allowing guests to live the Maya World without sacrificing any modern luxury. Unique for its combination of culture, art, archaeological knowledge, tradition and elegance, Boutique Hotel Quinta Cha Nab Nal offers an incomparable experience in Palenque.
Luxury Properties
St. Regis
Mexico City , MEXICO
The St. Regis Mexico City is located at Paseo de la Reforma, a key financial and business district as well as a center for social life in the Mexican capital. From legendary St. Regis Signature Butler Service to plush bathrobes and slippers, guest rooms offer both pampering and comfort. They are equipped with modern technology and amenities such as large flat screen TVs, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and beautiful private bathrooms. Find pampering and revitalization in the spacious Remède Spa or well-equipped Exercise Room. Enjoy the celebration of a daily Tea Ritual and a Champagne Ritual or allow the concierge to plan a guided wine tour at one of the country’s finest vineyards.
Four Seasons
Mexico City , MEXICO
Leave behind the busy capital and step into the exclusive world of Four Seasons Hotel Mexico, D.F. – a meeting place for international travelers and Mexico City’s elite. Set around a magnificent garden courtyard, the 240 deluxe rooms and luxury suites offer a cool update on colonial style. Connect with the vibrant local social scene in the onsite restaurants and bars. Then find tranquility in the sunny rooftop Wellness Area with a full service spa, fitness area and outdoor swimming pool. It’s like a staying in a Mexican home – warm and intimate – with a team of Four Seasons experts always ready to assist.
Casa Catrina
Oaxaca , MEXICO
Casa Catrina, a Colonial Oaxacan family home, has been beautifully renovated to create a new hospitality venue within the Herat of vibrant and colorful Oaxaca city. Six guestrooms are distributed around a central courtyard where exquisite full Oaxacan breakfast can be enjoyed. While guestrooms are similar in design, décor in each is based on a unique color scheme. The hotel also features a Temazcal steam bath, massage treatments, and a bar and lounge area for guests to relax and have a drink.
Oaxaca : Hacienda Los Laureles and spa Hotel Boutique
Hacienda Los Laureles and spa Hotel Boutique
Oaxaca , MEXICO
For discerning guests who want to avoid the bustle of the big city center, but still enjoy a unique locale, enjoy a relaxing stay at the Hotel Hacienda Los Laureles-Spa. This intimate Boutique hotel, with just 23 guestrooms, imparts the look and feel of a private hacienda. Thick stucco walls, terra cotta floors, ornate wrought iron furniture and colorful Mexican fabrics give the hotel an inviting, informal appeal. Outdoors, points of interest include colorful gardens and the fine laurel trees. Relax in the hotel’s newly expanded Petit Spa with a traditional “Temazcal” or indigenous steam bath, and enjoy traditional Mexican fare and international cuisine in its award-winning restaurant.
San Cristobal de las Casas : Hotel Bo (Ik suite)
Hotel Bo (Ik suite)
San Cristobal de las Casas , MEXICO
b¨o is a luxury boutique hotel whose roots are born in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas Chiapas, where stands to renew their traditions surrounded by stunning scenery, colonial streets and a world of art, textiles and culture to discover. It’s a cozy, authentic and with architecture that blends with the region, differing with great originality and character of the typical space, which makes it a destination in itself.
Palenque : Quinta Cha Nab Nal (deluxe Suite)
Quinta Cha Nab Nal (deluxe Suite)
Palenque , MEXICO
A short distance from the archaeological site of Palenque, this luxury resort evokes a Mayan palace complex of the Classic Period. The architectural complex has two Junior Suites, five Deluxe Suites and one Presidential Suite. Amidst luxuriant jungle flora the swimming pools recall the typical waterfalls found in the ruins of Palenque. The vision is to recreate an exquisite Pre-Hispanic atmosphere based on historic and archaeological data, allowing guests to live the Maya World without sacrificing any modern luxury. Unique for its combination of culture, art, archaeological knowledge, tradition and elegance, Boutique Hotel Quinta Cha Nab Nal offers an incomparable experience in Palenque.
Testimonials
Leelani F.
Traveled May, 2013
your sales consultants have an excellent way with dealing with clients
Thank you very very much for our wonderful tour of South America. you have done such a wonderful job of looking after us and I must thank you for it. I do not know whether you are aware, but your sales consultants have an excellent way with dealing with clients. They works with them beautifully. I do appreciate how they would always telephone me. And attended to all our requirements (which was changing constantly).We have recommended you to a lot of friends. you will be hearing from them, hopefully, soon. Thank you once again.
Traveled To
Ed from Takoma, MD
Traveled April, 2009
We loved the beach resort
We loved the beach resort (Shangri La Caribe) in Playa del Carmen. As far as we could tell it was by far the nicest place along that part of the coast. The rest of the trip also went well, except Palenque where I got sick and never made it to the ruins. We also loved San Cristobal del Las Casas and could have spent much more time there. All the other hotels were fine. Overall, a very good trip from my perspective.
Traveled To
Zoe, UK client
Traveled September, 2009
The itinerary was perfect
We had a fantastic time! The itinerary was perfect. I’d thoroughly recommend Yagul. Although it’s less well known, and less visited (apart from the archeologists we were the only people there), it’s on the way to Mitla and is very picturesque and has the second largest ball court in Mesoamerica!
Traveled To
