PUEBLA, MEXICO — Puebla has officially been identified as the fourth most visited state in Mexico, a milestone underscored by a significant rise in tourism growth and a strategic shift toward community-based travel. The state is currently showcasing its cultural and gastronomic wealth at “Punto México,” a high-profile promotional space organized by the federal Secretariat of Tourism to connect local producers directly with consumers.
The federal Secretariat of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, praised the collaborative efforts between the federal government and Governor Alejandro Armenta Mier. This partnership has focused on positioning Puebla in international markets while strengthening 320 community tourism experiences through enhanced infrastructure and equipment.
Economic Impact and Tourism Growth
The state’s tourism sector has shown robust upward momentum. From January to July, Puebla hosted over 4.35 million tourists, representing a 5% increase in hosting capacity and a 7% growth in overall visitors. By the end of September, the state had welcomed more than 12 million visitors, generating an economic impact exceeding 14 billion pesos.
A key component of this success is the state’s diversification strategy. Historically, tourism in Puebla was heavily concentrated in the capital. However, current data reveals that 30% of visitors are now traveling to “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magic Towns) and other municipalities with a tourism vocation. These regions now generate 30% of the state’s total tourism revenue, providing a vital economic boost to rural communities and artisanal workshops.
Infrastructure and Promotion
To sustain this growth, the state is prioritizing logistical modernization. Governor Armenta Mier highlighted that Puebla now boasts 20 air connections, including national routes that facilitate international travel. Furthermore, 400 million pesos have been reserved to begin the modernization of the state’s airport district.
The promotional campaign also targets specific seasonal culinary routes, such as the “Chiles en Nogada” and “Mole Poblano” seasons, as well as the Day of the Dead celebrations and the Sierra Norte corridors. Additionally, Puebla is actively preparing for the 2027 “Tianguis Turístico,” a major trade fair intended to project the diversity of the state’s destinations to a global audience.
The “Punto México” event features over 50 artisans and producers from more than 20 municipalities, offering products such as talavera pottery, textiles, mezcal, coffee, and mole. By removing intermediaries, the initiative aims to provide a direct marketplace for local talent while preserving the cultural identity that serves as the backbone of the region’s tourism appeal.