Chiapas, Mexico
What to do in Chiapas, Mexico
Palenque Archaeological Site
Palenque is an ancient Mayan city nestled in the lush jungle of Chiapas, known for its impressive temples, including the iconic Temple of the Inscriptions. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the intriguing history of the Mayan civilization. The site’s intricate architecture and intricate carvings make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by ancient cultures. Additionally, the surrounding natural beauty adds to the allure, providing an immersive experience that blends history and nature.
Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour
Embark on a thrilling boat tour through the towering cliffs of Sumidero Canyon, where the Grijalva River cuts through the landscape, creating breathtaking scenery. As you glide along the water, marvel at the canyon’s dramatic walls reaching heights of over 1,000 meters and keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and numerous bird species. This adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the sheer magnitude of this natural wonder and experience the region’s diverse ecosystem firsthand.
Agua Azul Waterfalls
Nestled within the Chiapas jungle, Agua Azul showcases a series of stunning turquoise cascades and natural pools. Visitors can hike along the well-maintained trails, observing the vibrant blue water as it tumbles over limestone formations. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, or simply basking in the beauty of the surrounding tropical landscape. The waterfalls provide a refreshing respite and a chance to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature.
San Cristobal de las Casas
San Cristobal de las Casas is a charming colonial town nestled in the highlands of Chiapas. Its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant indigenous culture create a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town’s rich history, browse its artisan markets, and experience the warmth of its local community. San Cristobal also serves as a gateway to nearby indigenous villages, offering insight into traditional Mayan customs and crafts.
El Chiflón Waterfalls
Located near the town of Comitán, El Chiflón Waterfalls captivate visitors with their cascading beauty and the emerald green hues of the surrounding landscape. A series of falls plunges into crystalline pools, creating a mesmerizing sight. Visitors can hike along marked trails to appreciate different vantage points of the falls and enjoy the serene ambiance. It’s a fantastic spot for nature lovers and seekers of tranquility, offering a rejuvenating escape in the heart of Chiapas’ natural beauty.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Mayan ruins of Palenque. Explore the ancient city and marvel at the impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful jungle setting. Take your time to soak in the history and culture of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Afternoon
Head to the stunning Agua Azul waterfalls. Admire the turquoise blue waters cascading over limestone formations and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. Enjoy the lush surrounding jungle and take plenty of photos to capture the natural beauty.
Evening
Arrive in the charming town of San Cristóbal de las Casas for the night. Stroll through the picturesque streets, visit the main square (Zocalo), and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Take time to browse the artisan markets and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Day 2:
Morning
Explore the indigenous Tzotzil and Tzeltal villages surrounding San Cristóbal de las Casas. Visit communities like San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán to learn about traditional Mayan culture, visit local churches, and witness unique rituals and crafts.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon. Take a boat tour along the Grijalva River, and marvel at the sheer rock walls and diverse wildlife, including crocodiles and bird species. Don’t forget your camera to capture the dramatic landscapes and natural beauty.
Evening
Return to San Cristóbal de las Casas for a final evening in this vibrant town. Enjoy a leisurely dinner, sample local cuisine, and reflect on the memorable experiences from your whirlwind tour of Chiapas.
Visiting Waterfalls
Chiapas is known for its stunning waterfalls like Agua Azul, Misol-Ha, and El Chiflón, where visitors can swim, hike, and enjoy the natural beauty.
Cañon Del Sumidero, miradores From San Cristobal de Las Casas
Embark on an unforgettable adventure from San Cristóbal de las Casas. Our tour will take you through the stunning landscapes of the Sumidero Canyon. We’ll start by visiting two strategically located viewpoints at the top of the canyon, where you’ll have minutes at each to capture the natural beauty of the surroundings. Then, we’ll delve into the heart of the canyon on an exciting boat journey.
After the boat journey, we’ll visit the charming magic town of Chiapa de Corzo. Here you’ll have the opportunity to explore its history and culture-rich streets on foot. At the end of the day, we’ll return to San Cristóbal de las Casas, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your trip.
Please note that the viewpoints are closed on Tuesdays, so visits cannot be made on that day of the week.
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Sumidero Canyon, Miradores del Cañón and Pueblo Chiapa de Corzo.
Departure: 9:00 a.m.
Approximate return: 4:00 p.m.
Reception in Agency or Hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas Chiapas.
▶ Visit Miradores del Cañón del Sumidero, where you can observe in a panoramic way this natural wonder, considered a natural heritage, for its rare formation considered a geological fault.
▶ Visit to the sump canyon boat tour of approximately 1:30 hrs, where you can observe the variety of flora and fauna existing in this region.
▶ View of the Village of Chiapa de Corzo, there is a free stay of 1:00 hr. to visit the church, the cathedral and the variety of textile and craft stalls unique to the region.
Return to San Cristóbal - end of service
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Sumidero Canyon - Chiapa de Corzo
From San Cristóbal de Las Casas we will venture to the Cahuaré pier where we will board a boat to navigate the waters of the impressive Grijalva River, which will lead us to know the incredible geological fault that year after year gathers thousands of tourists, the Canyon of the Sumidero, do not waste a moment and admire the endemic flora and fauna of Chiapas, spider monkeys, crocodiles and a great variety of birds, feel the wind on your face, cool off with the Grijalva breeze. After such a fascinating experience, we will travel and tour the beautiful Magical town of Chiapa de Corzo, famous for its Pila or Fuente de Múdejar architectural style, unique in the entire state of Chiapas. At the end you will stay in San Cristobal de Las Casas, a magical town full of culture, history and tradition, a dream city that will be the starting point of many more adventures.
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Tour cascadas de Agua Azul, Cascada Misol-Ha y Zona Arqueológica de Palenque.
El tour a cascadas de Agua Azul y Palenque Chiapas; Te permitirá conocer en parte la entrada a la selva lacandona, el clima se presta para nadar el color azul turquesa de sus aguas, la ciudad maya de palenque y su historia te sorprenderá un tour por Chiapas que sin duda tienes que realizar. (Salidas de: Palenque, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez.)
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Sampling Local Cuisine
Visitors can savor traditional Chiapanecan dishes like tamales, cochinita pibil, and pozol, as well as coffee from local plantations in the region.
Cocoa Posh Chocolate Cata
Hi, my name is Luis and I am the founder of "La Capitania", a place to let people know more about culture. I have been living in San Cristóbal de las Casas for more than 20 years learning about their culture and I can say that it is a magical town with an incredible gastronomy.
We specialize in cocoa, chocolate and Posh. That's why I'd like to invite you to a tasting so you can taste how delicious and wonderful this drink and food is. We assure you that you will know more about the culture of this magical town of San Cristóbal.
We excel in having more than 50 flavors of Posh. Luis, Guillermo, Gildardo will be your hosts. Come and enjoy a unique experience in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
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Private Tasting of Chiapas Coffees for 2 Hours
With the help of a taster you will be able to know and learn everything about Chiapas specialty coffees. You will learn about different processes and varieties of producers in the region.
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Mexican cooking classes with Toñita
Toñita, a 65-year-old local woman who has cooked delicacies all her life, has decided to teach us what she does best. You will discover the delights of Mexico from its magical hands. His charisma and joy make the class better. He will tell you part of his life, traditions and some legends. If time permits we will play some traditional Mexican game. All ingredients are natural, bought in the local market. In two hours you will have a great time. In addition, if you are not the only assistant, you will meet other people from both Mexico and foreigners who, like you, have a love for travel and gastronomy.
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Exploring Mayan Ruins
Chiapas is home to several impressive Mayan ruins such as Palenque, Bonampak, and Yaxchilan that offer a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization.
Palenque Mayan Ruins, Misol-Ha and Agua Azul Waterfalls Full Day Tour from Palenque
Discover ancient Mayan ruins and turquoise waterfalls on this full day tour from Palenque. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is believed to be an ancient Mayan capital. Relax at two world-class waterfalls, Aqua Azul and Misol-Ha, both known for their bright blue waters and stunning jungle setting.
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PALENQUE RUINS, AGUA AZUL and MISOL-HA (Private from Palenque or San Cristobal)
Located on the first rise of the Tumbala mountains, Palenque archaeological site looks out over the Usumacinta River flood plain. Here you’ll be confronted by the largest Mesoamerican step pyramid, the Temple of Inscriptions, spotted with hieroglyphics that have contributed significantly to the study of Mayan civilization.
It is considered one of the most emblematic mayan site having been the empire of Pakal, Governor, Warrior and God of Mayan Civilization.
The Misol Ha Waterfall is a worthy representative of the eco-tourism of Chiapas, which offers a unique experience where the interaction with the flora and fauna of the place is the most important element.
The Cascadas de Agua Azul (Spanish for “Blue Water Waterfall”) are found near the Municipality of Tumbalá, in the middle of the Chiapas rainforest. It consists of many cataracts following one after another in the Cascadas de Agua Azul Natural Park. The larger cataracts may be about 6 meters (20 ft.) high.
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PALENQUE MAYAN RUINS (Private)
Located on the first rise of the Tumbala mountains, Palenque archaeological site looks out over the Usumacinta River flood plain. Here you’ll be confronted by the largest Mesoamerican step pyramid, the Temple of Inscriptions, spotted with hieroglyphics that have contributed significantly to the study of Mayan civilization.
It is considered one of the most emblematic mayan site having been the empire of Pakal, Governor, Warrior and God of Mayan Civilization.
Book Today on Viator From $140.00
Mayan Heritage Escape: Takalik Abaj, Farm Encounter & Downtown
We will discover an ancient Mayan city and learn about crops of extreme importance from ancient times to the present. In addition, we will go downtown Retalhuleu. We will do all these activities on a two-day tour from Tapachula in Mexico.
This is the ideal tour for all history and archeology lovers interested in the Mayans, their heyday, their cities, and how modern Mayans live today.
We will depart from the Central Park of Tapachula on day 1 at 7:00 AM and return to the same point on day 2 between 4:00 and 6:00 PM. Relax and enjoy while you get to know a new place in the company of an expert tour guide with years of experience, so you don't miss a single detail.
Travel in a modern air-conditioned bus and stay at a hotel located inside a natural reserve with mesmerizing views of Santiaguito Volcano. Don't give it second thoughts and reserve your spot.
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Visiting Colonial Towns
Chiapas boasts charming colonial towns such as San Cristóbal de las Casas and Comitán where visitors can stroll through cobblestone streets and admire historical architecture.
City Tour Walk through San Cristobal
Because we offer you to know the most important thing about San Cristóbal de las Casas, how its churches, temples, streets, neighborhoods and its people
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Full Day at Agua Azul Waterfalls, Misol Ha and Palenque
Pick up time starts at 04:00 am, we will pick you up at your hotel, the pick up time lasts 30 minutes.
Our first stop is the Agua Azul waterfalls, but before, we will go to the city of Ocosingo to have breakfast (not included), when we arrive to the Agua Azul waterfalls we will have enough time to walk around the place, swim and relax.
Afterwards, we head to Misol Ha, this is a waterfall of approximately 40 meters. It is recommended that you do not go swimming and take advantage of this time to visit the grotto behind the waterfall. Lunch will be taken en route (not included). Afterwards, we continue to Palenque, to visit the archaeological site with a Spanish speaking guide in a tour of approximately 2 hours.
We will leave Palenque at approximately 05:00 in the afternoon to arrive in San Cristobal around 10:00 at night. If you do not want to return, you can stay in Palenque and indicate the hotel where you will stay.
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City Tour with Dinner Pizza and Wine
This is a space walk, because you will enjoy a nice walk through the most important neighborhoods of the city, such as its buildings, its monuments, some churches and the important thing is that they end at the Sacred Restaurant.
Here you can enjoy a delicious artisan pizza and a bottle of wine and the tranquility to enjoy as a couple, friends or family.
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Palenque Archaeological Site from Palenque
Visit the archaeological site of Palenque, declared as a World Heritage list by UNESCO. Your full-day tour includes guided visits to the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Temple of the Foliated Cross, and the palace belonging to Maya royalty. Round-trip hotel transport and admission fees are included.
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Eco-Tourism
Chiapas offers a range of eco-tourism activities such as birdwatching, hiking in nature reserves like Montes Azules, and exploring the Lacandon Jungle.
Lacandon Jungle Tour from Palenque: River Rafting and Hiking Adventure
Spend the day exploring the Lacandon Jungle on this rafting and trekking tour from Palenque. Enjoy the serenity of the Lacanjá River as you float along and admire this biologically diverse region. Then discover the intrigue of the jungle as you trek to an ancient archaeological site, a Mayan village and a rushing waterfall.
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Customs of indigenous villages of Chiapas
I grew up with the traditions and legends of indigenous and mestizo peoples of Chiapas, where I come from. I learned them from my grandparents, parents and later, during my university career, I delved into diferent historical and social aspects. I also lived a historical moment in my town, witnessing the armed revolution of the EZLN (Zapatistas).
My passion for traditions and legends continues to be more and more alive and I enjoy sharing it with visitors from Chiapas. I have shared it for 10 years, receiving very positive comments.
THIS TOUR CAN BE MODIFIED AND ADOPTED TO YOUR INTERESTS.
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Rafting Lacandona Jungle with Hiking Archaeological Zone of Lacanja
Our rafting activity in the Selva Lacandona is, without a doubt, the most scenic in the entire country. It takes place all year. It is also ideal to do it with the family (from December to May it can be done by children over six years of age) and it lasts 4 hours.
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Chiapas Indigenous Villages and Mountain Bike Tour
Learn about the indigenous cultures of the Chiapas Highlands while experiencing a thrilling bike ride through the mountains. Departing from Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristóbal de las Casas, ride through beautiful mountains and nature across single-track terrain. Experience the traditions and lifestyle of the people who belong to the Tzotzil tribe. This active cultural tour will show you one of the most fascinating regions in Mexico. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
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Hiking and Trekking
The mountainous landscapes of Chiapas offer excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking adventures, including trails in the Sumidero Canyon National Park.
Tour to the Viewpoints, Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo
Departure from San Cristobal de las Casas.
Pick up starts at 9:00 am, we pick up passengers at their hotel. Pick up time 30 minutes. This tour is in Spanish.
Our first stop is the viewpoints of the Sumidero Canyon to enjoy the spectacular panoramic views.
We will take a boat to travel along the Grijalva River and observe the Sumidero Canyon, duration approximately 2 hours.
We will arrive to Chiapa de Corzo where you will have time to visit the Mudejar style fountain, the Santo Domingo Church and buy handicrafts made in the region. At the end of the tour you will have time for lunch. We will depart at 5:00 p.m. from Chiapa de Corzo to arrive at approximately 6:00 p.m. in San Cristobal.
Recommendations: Have breakfast before the tour.
Important: Only on Tuesdays we do not visit the Miradores del Cañón because they are closed to the public.
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Trekking in Chiapas Indigenous Peoples
We will discover the real country life of the region, along non-tourist trails that you can only enjoy walking, with its landscapes, crops and its people it will be an experience that you will remember for a lifetime, you will know their unique culture and tradition of the Tsotsil Mayans in a tour of 12km with a total ascent of 400 meters. this and more in this cultural adventure.
Minimun 2 persons
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Hiking Chiapas Exploring caves
Between the mountains of the highlands of Chiapas and next to the fogotic river, among pines, oaks, bromeliads and abundant vegetation, we will walk the trails that connect two unique caves, these are the little-known dragon caves and the Arcotete ecotourism park. with a distance of 7.5 km and a total ascent of 350 meters.
Minimum of 2 people
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5-Day Chiapas Adventure from San Cristobal
Travel to Chiapas and enjoy a tour for 5 days and 4 nights. Live a wonderful adventure touring the main places of greatest tourist attraction in the State, visit the wonderful waterfalls of Agua Azul and Misol Ha, the archaeological zone of Palenque, a boat tour in the amazing Cañon del Sumidero, know the magical town of Chiapa de Corzo, Chiflón waterfalls and Montebello lagoons.
Do not miss the opportunity to admire these natural beauties, in addition to enjoying a pleasant stay for four nights of lodging in one of the Hotels in the wonderful Magical Town of San Cristóbal de Las Casas.
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Experiencing Indigenous Cultures
Chiapas is rich in indigenous cultures with communities like San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán offering insights into traditional customs, art, and rituals.
San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán Indigenous Communities
With Chiapas Viajes you will enter the heart of the Mayan-Tzotziles indigenous communities. No doubt an experience that you can not miss.
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Visit to San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan Indigenous Communties from San Cristobal
A unique experience to live with natives of the communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan and learn a little of their traditions.
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Tzotzil charm Unique tour of Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula
This Tour starts at 9:30 am.
Immerse yourself in a unique experience and discover the culture and history of the indigenous peoples of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán!
This tour begins from the cafeteria "Al Grano Café" in San Cristóbal, later you will go to San Juan Chamula, where you will discover the beauty of the typical costume made with lamb's wool, being a true work of art; You will visit its main temple dedicated to San Juan Bautista, a place considered mystical and sacred by the inhabitants.
Later you will visit Zinacantán, where the women wear typical costumes with a diversity of hand-woven flowers. It is a show rich in culture and traditions of these indigenous peoples. In addition, you will visit the church of San Lorenzo Mártir, and you will learn about the technique of the waist loom. At the end of the day you will return to San Cristóbal.
- Please consider taking your breakfast and lunch in San Cristóbal de Las Casas (Food not included)
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Indigenous villages; Zinacantan and San Juan Chamula.
The tour to indigenous peoples in Chiapas, is a cultural excursion that will allow you to know the history, customs and traditions of our ancestors in this region of Chiapas
Departure: 9:30 AM.
Approximate return: 1:30 p.m.
I mean
Reception in Agency or Hotel.
Visit to the town of San Juan Chamula.
For two hours (We made a walk to the surroundings of the town, Later the church is visited, with the possibility of observing the rituals that take place inside it, free time to tour the square.)
Visit the town of Zinacantán.
For one hour (visit to a local indigenous family)
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Exploring Caves
Chiapas has several fascinating caves like the Cave of the Swallows and the Cave of the Crystal Sepulcher that attract adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
El Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons Day Trip
This tour combines two of the best natural wonders of Chiapas into one day trip. Depart from San Cristòbal de las Casas to the magnificent El Chiflón Waterfalls, a series of falls that plunge nearly 400 feet into turquoise waters. Take a dip in the falls' many watering holes and climb 800 steps up to the highest point. Then continue on to Montebello Lakes, a series of 59 multi-colored lakes in a national park that's been designated a biosphere reserve. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
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Rancho Nuevo Caves and Arcotete Ecotourism Center
Departure at 10:00 a.m. Return Approximate 14:00 hrs
Visit to the caves of rancho nuevo is a cave system located within a coniferous forest, you can enter this impressive cave where you can see stalactite formations, others outside it, horseback riding is allowed, and it provides excellent spaces for camping , trekking.
Discover the natural spaces around San Cristóbal, come and discover the El Arcotete Ecotourism Park, nestled in a pine forest, discover that love story hidden in its imposing stone arch and enjoy the wonderful view of its caves.
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Canyoning El Chorreadero Cave
Our canyoning product in Cueva El Chorreadero is the most complete and exciting adventure tourism activity you will find in San Cristóbal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
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Adventure through the Arcotete, Mamut and Rancho Nuevo Caves
Are you ready for an adventure in the hidden heart of nature? Immerse yourself in the geological wonders of San Cristóbal de las Casas, where you will find formations up to 40 meters high that exhibit unique rock formations with stalactites and stalagmites that look like giant bones. But that's not all: the exuberant vegetation and fauna make this place even more surprising. And if that's not enough, you're going to explore the caves of El Mamut, El Arcotete and Rancho Nuevo! Discover a huge cave with winding paths filled with impressive rock formations and beautiful underground halls. But the fun does not end there, the park offers additional activities such as zip lines, horseback riding, and walks among the ocote trees. Do not miss the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience!
- Please consider having your breakfast in San Cristóbal de Las Casas (Food not included)
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