Monterrey, the capital of Nuevo León, is one of the most urbanized and wealthiest cities in the region. Located in Santa Catarina Valley in northeastern Mexico, this place is surrounded by the scenic views of Cerro de la Silla and Cerro de la Mitra in the background. Nearby, there are also canyons and mountains for sightseeing trips and hiking. This modern city also has a deep history with Spanish roots, preserved in its Barrio Antiguo or old neighborhood. It has a vibrant culture which is depicted in the city’s various museums and through the flavors of its northeastern Mexican cuisine. With a combination of city life and nature, it’s no wonder this city is attracting visitors from all over the country and the world. If you’re planning a trip, read the rest of the article to discover the top tours in Monterrey Mexico.
1. Explore La Huasteca Canyon and take photos of the landscape (from USD 79.0)
Located a half-hour away from Monterrey, La Huasteca Canyon is a scenic location for those who love the outdoors. The picturesque scenery of cliffs and mountains is perfect for photographers. An expert in traversing the local terrain will be your companion on this tour. He will lead you to see majestic rock formations in the canyon such as the Pico Independencia main wall and Zona Extrema, which is a haven for climbers. This tour is approximately four hours long and includes light off-roading in the mountains. Hiking here is relatively easy and suitable for most people, even when exploring the rocky areas of the canyon. Rest assured, your guide will cater to your needs during this sightseeing trip of La Huasteca Canyon.
Parque de la Huasteca Canyon Small-Group Tour
Duration: 4 hours
2. Hike uphill in Chipinque for a sunset view of the city (from USD 79.0)
This hiking tour in Chipinque includes a peaceful but challenging trek uphill the slope of a mountain. During this hike, you’ll enjoy the tranquil scenery and spot some animals in their natural environment. Make sure to come prepared with durable footwear such as hiking boots or sneakers with some grip for the rocky terrain. After 45 minutes, you will reach the summit where you’ll marvel at the panoramic view of Monterrey as the sun sets. Your guide can provide alternate routes that you can take depending on your fitness level. However, it is good to notes that the more challenging trail has a better view at the end of it all. Once it’s dark, your guide will provide you with headlamps for the easier hike downhill. The tour ends when you’re dropped off at your accommodation to enjoy the rest of your evening in the city. This is a quick hike and a great way to end the day in Monterrey.
Private Chipinque Sunrise/Sunset Hike
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
3. Climb, hike, and rappel in La Huasteca (from USD 121.0)
This guided tour will appeal to those seeking an adrenaline rush or an adventure-filled memory. No experience is necessary and first-time climbers are welcome as long as they are physically fit and not afraid of heights. The guide will equip you with safety cables and harnesses to ensure your well-being. Visitors will ascend up a challenging climbing route with metal rungs to reach the summit of the mountain, where views of the Huasteca landscape awaits. After taking in the view, you will take a 280-ft (85-m) zipline to another peak and rappel down 300 ft (91.4 m) to return to your starting point to end the seven-hour tour.
A small-group, full-day rock climbing tour near Monterrey
Duration: 7 hours
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4. Visit Horsetail Falls and stroll around Villa de Santiago (from USD 102.0)
Enjoying the local scenery and culture is always a must when you’re a tourist. This guided roundtrip will pick you up at your hotel and bring you to Cumbres de Monterrey National Park where you can admire the scenery of mountains and canyons, including the famous Cola de Caballo or “Horsetail Falls.“ The next stop on your itinerary is a trip to the nearby Villa de Santiago, also known as Pueblo Mágico or Magic Town, which is a half-hour away from Monterrey. Here, you can take photos of the church of Iglesia Santiago Apostol, Plaza Ocampo, and the peaceful Presa La Boca. You’ll also have time to explore the local market that is filled with restaurants serving traditional cuisine. It is good to note that only guests aged 12 to 60 years old can take this trip and only up to 15 people can ride inside the tour vehicle.
Horsetail Falls Park Tour
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
5. Take a private vehicle to Grutas de Garcia (from USD 89.0)
This tour begins with a private vehicle picking you up at your accommodation, which will bring you 30 km (18.6 mi) northwest of Monterrey to Grutas de Garcia. This majestic cave complex is inside the Sierra del Fraile or “Friar’s Range” mountain. A short hike with your guide will take you to the caves, but you can take a cable car as well. Inside, you will see the eerie but beautiful and ancient stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the entire cave system. You will also see a humble shrine dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe set inside the natural formations. After your cave tour, you’ll stop by the charming municipality of Garcia, where there are attractions such as the colonial church and local restaurants that you can visit. The day ends with a road trip back to your accommodation in Monterrey.
The Grutas de Garcia Experience
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
6. Ride a private car around downtown Monterrey and visit famous landmarks (from USD 92.0)
This safe and private car tour around the city will bring you to popular tourist spots, shopping havens, and restaurants where you can sample the local cuisine. Your host on this trip is an engaging and passionate 30-year resident of Monterrey. You’ll start off with a traditional order of local tacos de canasta or “basket tacos,“ which is the region’s take on a Mexican classic. Next, your host will bring you to Palacio del Obispado for a fantastic view of the city. After marveling at the cityscape, you’ll head to Macroplaza or La Gran Plaza, the town square, where there are plentiful sites to see. Here, you will visit National Museum of History and stroll through the charming Barrio Antiguo (Spanish old Quarter or old neighborhood). You’ll end your trip with a scenic boat ride along Santa Lucia River and a stroll through Parque Fundidora, a picturesque public city park.
Private Monterrey Downtown Tour
Duration: 4 hours
Explore nature and the city in Monterrey
Monterrey is a beautiful metropolis with a rich history and culture. In the city, there are local attractions, vibrant markets, and restaurants that attract all sorts of tourists. Another reason people visit this city is because of the nearby mountains and nature trails that offer unique sightseeing excursions. From a short guided sunset hike to a personalized tour of the city proper, there is something for everybody here. If you’re planning a trip to Monterrey, you should check out these top tours to get you started.
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