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Chiapas Is the Key to Understanding Mexico's Rich Indigenous Heritage

Steeped in Mayan heritage, the country’s southernmost state is Mexico at its most unexpected.

As I stood outside the Iglesia de San Juan de Bautista in the village of San Juan Chamula in Chiapas, Mexico, I marveled at the artistry of the traditional dress worn by the congregants filing in. Women of every age showed off ornately embroidered black sheepskin skirts and sashes and blouses the color of Easter eggs. It was a reminder of Chamula's status as a stronghold of ancient Tzotzil and Tzeltal Mayan culture — and the resilience of its native communities , which were exploited and displaced after the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century.

Shyly, I poked my head inside the church. The haze of copal incense smoke, flickering candlelight, and the low hum of prayer drew me in. At first, the religious cues felt familiar enough. Worshippers knelt amid thousands of candles as rays of morning light streaked through windows into the cavernous space. But as my eyes adjusted to the dim glow, I realized everything else was unfamiliar. There were no pews, no formal mass, no crucifixes. Instead, saints with the iconographic power of Mayan deities lined the walls. Sewn onto their clothing were mirrors, which are thought to reflect the sins of onlookers and to serve as gateways to the spirit world for true believers.

Like most Indigenous groups in the largely agrarian southern state of Chiapas, the Chamulans believe they live at the center of the earth. Their religion, Mexican syncretism, worships the forces of nature, the animals of the jungle, and the planets in the sky. It's combined with a form of Catholicism that places John the Baptist above Christ. From my position at the back of the church, I watched a middle-aged shaman attend to a young boy whose head was wrapped in white gauze. Rocking back and forth, she took his pulse as his parents hovered, their eyes closed in prayer.

Chiapas is almost entirely forested, rising gently, and then precipitously, from the Pacific coastal jungles to the central highlands, before reaching 13,850 feet at the peak of the Sierra Madre de Chiapas. More than 25 percent of the state's roughly four million inhabitants are Indigenous, and most of its 12 ethnic groups trace their roots to pre-Columbian Mayan peoples.

Following Mexico's independence in 1821, a small landowning elite replaced the colonial rulers, and most of the farmers (except those who joined farming collectives) transitioned from slavery to serfdom. Linked with Guatemala during the colonial era, Chiapas only became part of Mexico in 1824 and never attracted the kind of investment in industry and infrastructure of other, more mineral-rich states.

Today Chiapas is, on paper, the country's poorest state, and yet I didn't come across a single panhandler — only a handful of vendors who asked for a "donation" when they hadn't succeeded in closing a sale. Nor did I encounter a single unreturned smile. Unlike in densely populated cities to the north, I saw an almost familial sense of community everywhere I looked.

For travelers, Chiapas' isolation and rugged landscape are both a gift and a curse (there are no direct flights from the U.S., so most visitors connect through Mexico City ). There's also a lingering wariness due to the legacy of the Zapatista anti-globalization uprising that paralyzed the Mexican government in 1994, for which the region has become synonymous.

But now, with more travelers interested in understanding Mexico's Indigenous heritage (and thanks to a few truly excellent hotels and restaurants), the region is being recognized for its cultural and creative offerings. In Chiapas, travelers will find a bewitching mix of ancient and modern culture that's distinct from any other in the country.

Planning a Trip

If it's your first time in Chiapas, you'll need five to seven days to cover the region's dizzying trifecta of craftsmanship, nature, and archaeology — and have enough hang time in dreamy San Cristóbal de Las Casas, the state's third-largest (and arguably most beautiful) city. Plan to spend the first three or four nights in the San Cristóbal highlands, where you can take half and full-day trips to visit weavers, ceramists, and markets. You can also witness ceremonies in the Indigenous municipalities of Zinacantán, Chamula, and Tenejapa.

San Cristóbal's historic center, meanwhile, offers abundant shopping, eating, and cultural experiences. It can also be a base for day trips to national parks and natural attractions like El Chiflón waterfall, where the main cascade drops 393 feet. It's hard to wrap your head around the region's extreme microclimates: on the same day, you might need a puffer jacket in the morning as you set out from the San Cristóbal highlands and end up sweating through a tank top in the afternoon as you hike through the waterfall mist in El Arcotete National Park. You'll also want to make pilgrimages to the spectacular archaeological sites of Toniná and Palenque.

Though I had fantasies of renting a car and crisscrossing the region on my own , I quickly realized there was too much ground to cover. Even if you speak Spanish and trust your navigational skills, you will want the political, cultural, and historic context a skilled guide can offer. That's why I enlisted the tour operator Journey Mexico , both for the deep knowledge of their seasoned local guides and for their help with logistics. Here's my suggested itinerary, broken down into regions.

Tuxtla Gutiérrez

You will likely connect through Mexico City by plane to Chiapas's state capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, but will probably want to stay in the region's de facto cultural capital, San Cristóbal de Las Casas (about an hour's drive away). Take an early flight so you can hit the awe-inspiring — if touristy — Sumidero Canyon en route to San Cristóbal. Formed 35 million years ago by cracks in the earth's crust and erosion by the Grijalva River, Sumidero is a showstopper on a par with Yosemite's El Capitan. If you have the energy after your flight, you can even hire a boat for a two-hour ride from Chiapa de Corzo along the Grijalva — the waters of which reach eerie depths of up to 860 feet — to the Chicoasen Dam and back. A welcome reprieve from the heat, the boat trip takes you within arm's length of waterfalls, spider monkeys, ocelots, and crocodiles sunning themselves along the riverbanks.

Chiapa de Corzo, about 30 minutes east of Tuxtla, is an iconic Spanish colonial town that's also worth a quick lap. The colonnaded square centers on a 459-year-old fountain that's dedicated to a group of Indigenous resistance fighters who are said to have jumped to their deaths in Sumidero Canyon rather than surrender to the invading Spanish army.

San Cristóbal de las Casas

The city, which was a Spanish stronghold against Mayan freedom fighters in 1528, is quickly nipping at Oaxaca 's heels as Mexico's artisan capital. With a growing number of stylish boutique hotels and destination restaurants, the place has graduated from a backpacker haven to a destination for the creative arts. Its colonial-style buildings, with their wooden colonnades and red-tiled roofs, as well as its cobblestoned pedestrian streets, have also helped to draw its growing community of artistic expats (as well as its left-leaning politics). In Chiapas, there's nowhere else like it.

San Cristóbal is easily navigated on foot, and I ducked in and out of museums, stores, and cafes without much planning. At night, the streets, bars, and restaurants came to life with locals and tourists. It felt like a college town, only for grown-ups, with its mix of tradition, political charge, and sense of optimism.

On my second day, I met Margarita Cantu while she was replenishing some pieces from her clothing line at the beautiful boutique inside Hotel Bo . The 40-year-old Monterrey, Mexico-born artist and designer works with some 150 weavers from nearby communities for her women's clothing and home goods line, Omorika. After starting her career in fashion in New York City, she arrived in San Cristóbal 12 years ago for a month-long stint to learn traditional weaving techniques — and never left. She told me it was "the mix of conflicts and traditions that make every day interesting" that kept her in town.

Amatenango del Valle and Zinacantán

About an hour's drive south of San Cristóbal I visited the small town of Amatenango del Valle. It's where Juana "Juanita" Gómez Ramírez has her studio showroom, Taller y Galería Artesanal. She is something of a celebrity ceramist, known for her intricately painted sculptures of jaguars and fish, and her operation is a big source of employment in the community.

And in Zinacantán the next day, I visited the home of Catalina Pérez Hernández, who weaves textiles using the traditional backstrap loom (appointments with her are offered exclusively through Journey Mexico). Her shop has an impressive selection of embroidered textiles from the area, and for 100 pesos (about $5), she will invite you back for lunch in her kitchen, where her sister makes the most delicious corn tortillas I have ever eaten. She serves them with bowls of black beans, salsa, and raw onions, and each one is covered with embroidered linen. As in most places in the region, tortillas are made in the traditional manner, a laborious process that involves drying the maize on the husk and then cooking it overnight in lime water.

Toniná and Palenque

One of my favorite parts of this trip was the drive from San Cristóbal to Toniná en route to Palenque. As I was winding my way down from evergreen forests to sultry jungles, the pine trees competed with banana trees for position along the road, the temperature rose, and every once in a while, I was left stunned by the dramatic views.

The truly spectacular Toniná is an archaeological site etched into a hillside. The stepped pyramid presides over the lush Ocosingo Valley; inside, the ceremonial core features a labyrinth used in religious rituals.

Palenque, meanwhile, is a magnificent Mayan city of the Late Classic Period (around A.D. 600–900) that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Its temples and palaces were abandoned after the ninth century. You'll see the delicate craftsmanship that went into the mythological reliefs in the Temple of Inscriptions; the building ingenuity of the elaborate civic, religious, and residential complex; and the architectural innovation of the palace's pointed vaults.

After you've walked the site for a couple of hours, head to the parking lot. You can hire a guide to take you deeper into the jungle, where smaller, lesser-known temples are hidden among the flora. Seeing the sophisticated relics of Mayan civilization emerge from these wild, impossibly verdant surroundings is enough to take your breath away.

Exploring Chiapas

Bookmark these favorite places across Chiapas, from San Cristóbal de las Casa to Palenque, to plan your own trip through this beautiful Mexican state. You will find our favorite restaurants, hotels, and must-see things to do.

• Casa Lum : This hotel's restaurant is worth a visit for the octopus with cauliflower and chorizo.
• Centro Cultural de los Altos : Occupying an old convent, the city's main museum traces regional history from the pre-Hispanic era to the evangelization of the Indigenous people.
• Eklektik : This shop has a nicely curated selection of local pottery and textiles, including women's and men's shirts, scarves, shawls, and bags.
• El Tacoleto : Locals consider this the best taqueria in town. It's ideal for a quick lunch of tacos al pastor.
• Hotel Bo : With its handmade furniture and local textiles, this hotel is one of those gems that puts a city on the map.
• Hotel Guayaba Inn : This tastefully appointed property feels traditionally Mexican, with its timbered ceilings and stucco construction, four-poster beds, and tile-lined bathrooms.
• Maho Japones : In the historic center, you'll find the Esquina San Agustín, a food-hall-style collection of stylish restaurants and bars, including this outstanding sushi spot.
• Museo Jtatik Samuel : In addition to celebrating the life of Samuel Ruiz, the bishop of the Diocese of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, who championed land and human rights of Indigenous people, this museum houses some of the finest examples of textiles from the Oxchuc region of Chiapas.
• Nostalgia : Go for a Michelada — prepared with a homemade tamarind mixture — at cocktail hour on the patio overlooking the public library.
• Tarumba ; A small menu from chef Jorge Gordillo — who comes from a neighboring village — is served at Hotel Sombra del Agua .
• Tierra y Cielo : Chef Marta Zepeda gives her elevated spin on the classics, such as quesadilla de tinga, in a chic dining room.
• Xut El Restaurante : Casual Chiapan dishes like chile relleno and chicharrón de queso are served with flair, as is a regional take on a tuna tartare.

Amatenango del Valle

• Taller y Galería Artesanal: Juana Gómez Ramírez and her team of artisans produce some of the best ceramics in the country. They are known for their depictions of jaguars, which still populate the jungles of Chiapas.
• El Huachinango Feliz : Seafood is made into phenomenal ceviche and soup and served in an airy dining room.
• Quinta Chanabnal : Run by an Italian-German scholar of Mayan hieroglyphics, this hotel gets high marks for its warm service and excellent food. Doubles from $139.

How to Book

This trip was planned by Journey Mexico , which has a network of expert local guides and can arrange all the logistics for a customized itinerary. five-day trips from $2,000 per person.

Chiapas Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to chiapas mexico, chiapas travel guide contents.

Location | Getting There | Where to Stay  |  Things to Do  |  Chiapas Tours  |  Chiapas Safety  | Chiapas FAQ

Chiapas travel guide

Chiapas mexico: at a glance.

Mayan culture abounds in Chiapas, one of the most unique states in Mexico.

Though not as well known as some other Mexico travel destinations, those in the know flock to Chiapas to escape the crowds, enjoy the beautiful nature and Mayan Ruins, stroll the colorful colonial streets, eat delicious foods and drink the famed Chiapas coffees.

Chiapas Mexico: Know before you go

• ✈️ Airport: Tuxtla Gutiérrez International Airport (code: TGZ)

⏰ Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Chiapas — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico for info on the process.

What’s the best time to visit Chiapas Mexico?

Cities in Chiapas: The best time to visit the cities (including  San Cristobal de las Casas , Tuxtla Gutierrez, Comitan and  Palenque ) is from  November to May , during the dry season. Chiapas is on the cold side, so make sure you’re packing layers if you visit in winter.

Coastal Chiapas: On the coast of Chiapas, the dry season months of November to March are best. Keep in mind that if you visit during other months, it will be quite hot and humid, and mosquitoes are certainly an issue, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray 🦟

Where is Chiapas Mexico located?

Chiapas is a state located in Southern Mexico, and borders the states of Oaxaca and Tabasco, and the country of Guatemala to the east. These two states are popular with culture travelers and backpackers alike.

Those continuing on to Central America from Mexico often have Chiapas as a last stop, as you can do a land crossing into Guatemala from this state.

Chiapas Map

What’s the best airport for Chiapas Mexico?

Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport (code: TGZ) is the largest airport in Chiapas, located in the state’s capital city of Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico.

It is about one hour from San Cristobal de las Casas , the city frequented most by visitors to Chiapas state. ▶︎ BOOK AIRPORT SHUTTLE NOW!

You can also fly into the small Palenque International Airport  (code: PQM), located in the Palenque pueblo magico (magic town). Here, you’ll find Palenque Mayan Ruins , a UNESCO World heritage Site, and some of the best Mayan Ruins in Mexico.

What’s the best way to get to San Cristobal de las Casas?

The safest, most-stress free, easiest and best way to get from Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport to your hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas is via private shuttle. ▶︎ BOOK NOW!

You can also rent a car , take a colectivo (small, shared van), or taxi. Note: There’s no Uber in Chiapas Mexico.

If you’re not headed to San Cristobal, you can take connecting ground transportation to other parts of the state via bus .

Where to stay in Chiapas Mexico

The vast majority of visitors stay in San Cristobal de las Casas (usually just called San Cristobal), located in the center of Chiapas state.

From here, you’re about five hours by car from both Palenque and Comitan, two other popular cities to visit outside of San Cristobal. Though the main airport is in Tuxtla Gutierrez, very few visitors stay there.

San Cristobal de las Casas

Located way up in the mountains in Chiapas state, you’ll find  San Cristobal de las Casas . This  pueblo magico  (magic town) lives up to its magical name — and is very popular with nature and culture lovers, backpackers and digital nomads.

Is San Cristobal de las Casas worth visiting? This is a popular place for travelers seeking “real” Mexican culture. However, it also has a posh side, with amazing San Cristobal hotels with spas — so San Cristobal appeals to many types of travelers.

Palenque, Chiapas Mexico

There is the pueblo magico (magic town) of Palenque Mexico, and the famous Palenque Mayan Ruins within the town. When people refer to Palenque, they often mean the ruins, and not the town itself.

Is Palenque worth visiting? The Palenque Ruins are a must see in Chiapas! It is nice to stay for the night in the town of Palenque , though there isn’t much to see besides the ruins and the surrounding jungle nature.

Comitan, Chiapas Mexico

Comitan de Dominguez (usually just called Comitan) is a charming town about two hours south of San Cristobal. Enjoy the sounds of marimba music in the air, as you stroll its colonial streets and enjoy the local Chiapas food.

Is Comitan worth visiting? Comitan is the perfect home base to stay in for those who will be exploring southern Chiapas. If you want to see the Bonampak and Yaxchilan Mayan Ruins, they are both near Comitan.

Best things to do in Chiapas Mexico

There is a seemingly endless amount of things to do in Chiapas, one of the best vacation spots in Mexico.

The majority of them are in or near San Cristobal de las Casas, the main tourism hub, but for those who venture off the beaten path, there’s even more to Chiapas! Click on any image below to learn more ⤵

Sumidero Canyon

Agua Azul Waterfalls

Bonampak Ruins

Palenque Ruins

San Juan Chamula

Montebello Lakes

El Chiflon Waterfalls

Chiapa de Corzo

Best chiapas tours.

Tours in Chiapas are a great way to see the main cities and their surrounding areas — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Chiapas, this is the best way to get around because taxi fees add up quickly! 💡 Note: If you do want to have a car in Chiapas, make sure to check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico .

Below, you’ll find the most popular and best tours in San Cristóbal de las Casas and the surrounding areas — including Palenque Mayan Ruins, Sumidero Canyon, Agua Azul and El Chiflon Waterfalls, and more.

Is Chiapas safe for travelers?

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Chiapas if you stick to the popular places like San Cristobal de las Casas , San Juan Chamula , and the Chiapas  pueblos magicos  (magic towns) of Palenque and Comitan de Dominguez.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

That’s not to say bad things still don’t happen in those parts of Chiapas; they do. As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Chiapas Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico. So what can you do?

• If you’re renting a home with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

What’s the Chiapas weather like?

The main travel destinations in Chiapas are located in the northern and central part of the state — in the Central Highlands. These cities have temperatures that hover around 60-70°F (15-21°C) all year long.

However, the jungle and rainforest areas like Palenque, and the coast of Chiapas, see much hotter temperatures and high humidity.

☀️ san cristobal de las casas weather

Is Chiapas expensive?

No — Chiapas is actually one of the most budget-friendly places to live and cheap places to travel in Mexico.

It has been popular with backpacker and budget travelers for decades, but in the last few years, Mexico digital nomads have begun flocking to San Cristobal de las Casas for its low prices and good quality of life.

How many days do I need in Chiapas Mexico?

If you’re sticking to San Cristóbal de las Casas and the surrounding areas, four full days would suffice. With that amount of time, you can see the main sites including Palenque Mayan Ruins, the Agua Azul waterfalls, Sumidero Canyon and more.

For those who want to do some Chiapas off the beaten path travel, plan for at least one full week in Chiapas and venture to the coast. The best beaches in Chiapas — Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo — are often empty, and you can really get away from it all.

Is Chiapas worth visiting?

Yes — Chiapas is a unique Mexico destination that many types of travelers will love. Nature enthusiasts will adore the waterfalls, lakes, caves and mountains, while artists and fashionistas can shop in the Chiapas mercados (markets) to buy colorful Mayan textiles and handicrafts.

If you’re interested in Mexican and Mayan culture, you must visit Chiapas Mexico!

Is there political unrest in Chiapas Mexico?

For the most part, Chiapas is safe for travelers, though Chiapas locals have a history of clashes with the Mexican government (for very justifiable reasons, btw).

However, tensions have been quiet for over a decade — though there are often bloqueos , which are protests where locals shut down the roads.

If you stick to the most visited places in Chiapas —  San Cristobal de las Casas , San Juan Chamula , Tuxtla Guitierrez, Zinacantan, and the Chiapas  pueblos magicos  (magic towns) of Palenque , Comitan de Dominguez and Chiapa de Corzo, you should be safe while traveling to Chiapas.

Chiapas Mexico podcast

🎧 Love podcasts? Have a listen to Episode #782 of The Amateur Traveler Podcast, where I was featured to speak about my experiences and best tips for traveling to Chiapas Mexico! It may just be the only Chiapas podcast out there.

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

24 Best Things to Do in Chiapas Mexico: 2024 Local’s Guide

There are plenty of things to do in Chiapas, Mexico to warrant spending at least a week here. However, Mexico’s southernmost state is often overlooked from most people’s Mexico itineraries. 

Word about Chiapas has only started getting out in recent years and most people that take the time to venture here only do so to experience the majestic ruins of Palenque or the colonial architecture of San Cristobal de Las Casas. For the most part, Chiapas remains largely untapped. 

That isnt necessarily a bad thing though, as Chiapas, steeped in Mayan history, indigenous cultures, and gorgeous nature, offers a more authentic Mexico travel experience than you could ever obtain in places like Cancun or Tulum. 

This guide to the best things to do in Chiapas has been written by a British Travel Writer based in the Yucatan. (Me!) I have explored Chiapas extensively over several visits to the state and have used my knowledge to create the most comprehensive Chiapas travel information you can find anywhere online. 

Rest assured, you are in good hands here 😉 

Table of Contents

24 Best Things to Do in Chiapas Mexico

Chiapas is a unique destination, quite unlike anywhere else in Mexico. After you have spent a while in Mexico, you will start to note that each of the country’s 32 states is like a little independent nation in itself, each with its own distinctive cultures, regional cuisine, etc. 

Chiapas sits in the south of Mexico. It shares its borders with Guatemala to the south, the Mexican states of Oaxaca and Veracruz to its west, and Tabasco to the north. Chiapas is perhaps best known for its indigenous populations which help give the region a distinctly different culture than what you will find elsewhere. 

There are 68 different indigenous groups in Mexico, that speak more than 350 different languages and dialects. More than 25% of Chiapas´ four-million-strong population belongs to an indigenous group, and there are 12 different ethnic groups that live in the state. (With the  Tzotzil and Tzeltal Mayan being the largest and perhaps best known). 

Chiapas is one of the poorest states in Mexico, but you shouldn’t let that concern you. Chiapas is safe for the most part , and the people here are among the friendliest in Mexico, eager to show travelers the beauty of their homeland. 

Visit the Pueblo Magico of Chiapa de Corzo 

The charming little town of Chiapa de Corzo is one of four Pueblo Magicos in the state of Chiapas. Pueblo Magicos are Mexican towns and settlements that have been recognized for their unique beauty, charm, culture, and gastronomy. Generally speaking, when you see that somewhere has been designated as a Pueblo Magico, you know that it is a worthwhile place to visit. Most people overlook Chiapa de Corzo when they are traveling through Chiapas, or they only stop by briefly as part of a day trip to the Sumidero Canyon. 

However, the little town is well deserved of a day or two´s exploration in itself. This is one of the oldest towns in the Americas.

It dates back to 1528 and was one of the first places that the Spanish colonizers settled when they arrived in Chiapas. They later realized that the intense desert heat was too much for them and moved their main settlement to San Cristobal. However, they left many beautiful churches and structures in their wake. 

Start your day in the Zocalo – the charming central square of Chiapa de Corzo surrounded by porticoed buildings and quaint cafes. The piece de resistance of the square is ¨La Pila¨ – a diamond-shaped fountain in its center.

An exploration of the unsuspecting side streets leads you to magnificent, centuries-old churches and thought-provoking street art. Stop for breakfast at Jardines de Chiapa Restaurant (Francisco I. Madero 395, San Jacinto, 29160) and stroll along the riverfront.

The hilltop ruins of the Templo de San Sebastian are not to be missed. From up here, you can enjoy spectacular panoramas of the town and wider Chiapas below.

Best Chiapa de Corzo tours

If you are traveling to Mexico in January , your time in Chiapa de Corzo will be particularly special. Every year, the Fiesta Grande is hosted here in honor of three Catholic saints.

The festival is famous for its Parachico dancers that wear traditional clothing and painted wooden masks as they dance their way through the town. This dance is so culturally important that it has even been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Throughout the year, you may enjoy exploring Chiapa de Corzo with the aid of a guide who can give you more in-depth information about the town and its various districts. Several reputable Chiapa de Corzo tours are detailed below for your information.

• Chiapa de Corzo & Sumidero Canyon day tour from Tuxtla Gutierrez
• Sumidero Canyon, Chiapa de Corzo and San Cristobal tour
• Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa de Corzo tour from San Cristobal

Spend a long weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas 

San Cristobal de Las Casas is the main raison d’etre that most people decide to visit Chiapas. The town was founded in 1528 and named ¨Villa Real de Chiapa¨ Its name has changed various times over the centuries before being given its current name in 1848.

Spending three to four days here allows you enough time to explore the town itself, but you may want to base yourself here for as long as a week. San Cristobal is a convenient base for taking day trips out to other parts of Chiapas.

The free walking tour is a good way to get your bearings in the city. It departs at 10 am daily from the wooden cross in front of the cathedral in the Plaza de la Paz.

There are many gorgeous catholic churches scattered throughout San Cristobal which will take your breath away, even if you are not remotely religious. A fun way to explore the town is to mark different churches on your map and enjoy exploring the offbeat neighborhoods that they lead you through.

The beautiful white and yellow Iglesia del Cerro de Guadalupe is a charming 19th-century church perched on top of a hill. If you ascend the 79 steps to the church at the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramas over the town.

Equally worthy of your attention is the Iglesia de San Cristobalito. The views from up here are unparalleled. However, conquering the hundreds of steps to the top is no mean feat.

Learn about the religious practices at San Juan Chamula Church

The San Juan Chamula Church is one of the most unique churches in the world. From the outside, it looks no different from any other Mexican catholic church.

Its crisp white facade is decorated with green fixtures and detailing, and colorful, intricate azulejo tiles. It is when you step inside the church that things get interesting.

Chiapas locals visit the San Juan Chamula church when they or their loved ones become sick. They light candles and pray to a saint of their choosing in the hope that their loved ones become better.

Generally, the more candles a person uses, the sicker they are. A lot of people here cannot afford access to modern medicine or they are suspicious of it. So, they turn to religion instead.

A blend of Catholic and indigenous practices is used during rituals here. Many indigenous people believe that they get sick as a result of people looking at them with envy or sending negative energy their way.

So, they sit and drink bottles upon bottles of fizzy drinks such as Coca-Cola as they pray and force themselves to burp as they believe that burping expels evil. Sometimes chickens are sacrificed in exchange for the person becoming better.

Best Chamula tours to take in 2023

You can take a Colectivo (shared minivan) from San Cristobal to Chamula. However, for the best experience, you should visit with a tour guide.

A number of reputable Chamula tours are detailed below for your consideration. It is advisable to reserve your spot online in advance as places do sell out! Most combine a trip to Chamula with a visit to nearby Zinacantan.

• Chamula & Zinacantan day trip from San Cristobal
• Indigenous villages of Chiapas day trip

Experience indigenous cultures in Zinacantan

Zinacantan is one of the best places to visit in Chiapas, particularly if you are interested in learning about indigenous cultures. The little town is home to around 45,000 inhabitants, many of whom are Tzotzil.

The town’s original name was ¨Tzinacantlān¨ which is of Nahuatl origin and means “land of bats”. However, it was modified to Zinacantan as the Spanish colonizers could not pronounce its original name.

Today, Zinacantan is home to several beautiful churches that use a blend of Catholic and indigenous practices in their worship. Stop by the Iglesia de San Lorenzo and the Capilla El Señor de Esquipulas.

This region is famous for growing flowers. Whenever you step inside any of the churches of Zinacantan, you will be met with the fragrant aroma of hundreds of colorful flowers and garlands that decorate every wall and ceiling.

Many stunning, vibrant textiles are also produced here. You may be interested in stopping by the indigenous women’s textile cooperative on the outskirts of town.

More than 60 women work together to create unique garments and the existence of this cooperative has helped to massively improve the lives of the residents of the village. They donate a portion of their earnings to fund the education of the younger generations.

Recommended Zinacantan tours

Take a boat tour of the magnificent Sumidero Canyon

Chiapas is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful natural scenery in Mexico. The Sumidero Canyon, set inside the national park of the same name, is a dramatic gorge that was formed more than 35 million years ago.

Start by taking a boat tour along the Río Grijalva where you will pass through areas surrounded by towering 1km high cliffs. It takes approximately 2 hours to sail along the 64km length of the river.

Many endangered species call the canyon home, along with crocodiles, spider monkeys, and many exotic, colorful birds. If you are lucky, you will see them as you sail around the canyon. There are also numerous hiking trails that weave around the scenery here and offer spectacular panoramas over the canyon, with Chiapa de Corzo and Tuxtla Gutierrez shimmering in the distance.

Recommended Sumidero Canyon Tours

It is very difficult to tour Sumidero Canyon independently. One of the best things to do in Chiapas is to take a Sumidero Canyon tour that starts in Chiapa de Corzo, Tuxtla Gutierrez, or San Cristobal.

Many tours include pick-up and drop-off from/to your hotel. This takes a lot of stress out of managing the logistics of how to get from A to B.

A number of reputable Sumidero Canyon tours are detailed below for your consideration. Book online in advance to secure your place.

• Sumidero Canyon full day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas
• Sumidero Canyon and San Cristobal de las Casas day trip from Tuxtla Gutierrez
• Tour of Sumidero Canyon, Chiapa de Corzo and San Cristobal de las Casas
• Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas

Visit a coffee plantation

An interesting fact about Mexico that you may not be aware of is that the country is the world’s largest producer of organic coffee. In general, Mexico is one of the largest coffee producers in the world.

Chiapas, along with Veracruz and Oaxaca, is one of the country’s largest coffee-growing regions. Mexican Chiapas coffee tends to have a strong, distinct taste and while it may be relatively unknown internationally, you will note that many cafes and restaurants across Mexico stock and serve it.

If you are a major coffee aficionado, one of the best things to do in Chiapas is to visit one of the coffee plantations in the area. Many plantations offer tours and tastings.

They often also have tourist accommodations on site where you can stay in gorgeous rural cabins in the mountains overlooking the plantations. Most Chiapas plantations are concentrated around Ocosingo and near the Sierra Madre mountains in the southern part of the state.

The Hamburgo plantation is a good choice, although it is tricky to reach unless you are renting a car in Mexico. It is located high in the Sierra Madre mountains, close to the town of Huixtla.

The plantation was founded in 1888 by German Arthur Edelman. It has been passed down through his family for more than 100 years and is currently managed by the fifth generation. There is also a spa and restaurant on-site.

Marvel at the spectacular Arco del Tiempo 

The Arco del Tiempo del Río La Venta ” (Arch of Time of La Venta River )is a spectacular natural stone arch 180 meters high that is one of the tallest arches in the world. The arch is currently on the ¨tentative¨ list for UNESCO, to potentially be added as a natural wonder of the world. The breathtaking natural archway sits in the lush, dense jungles of the Reserva de la Biosfera Selva El Ocote in Northern Chiapas. It is about as off the beaten path as you can get in Chiapas, with less than a handful of tourists visiting the area each month. 

The archway wasn’t even designated as a tourist destination at all until 2010, when a group of Italian travelers that had stumbled across the Arco del Tiempo and fell in love with the surrounding biosphere reserve, convinced the locals to build huts to promote ecotourism. The archway is more than 80 million years old and was formed by limestone dissolution and erosion by rain and wind. Petroglyphs (ancient wall carvings) created by the indigenous Zoque communities that lived here approximately 5,000 years ago can be found along the arch. 

Getting to the Arco del Tiempo is no easy feat – doing so requires a 4-hour trek through the jungle with the help of a local guide. Rappelling, swimming, and kayaking are among the activities that you can enjoy when you arrive. Rather than heading back the same day, you can choose to camp in the grounds of the archway or in the jungle just above it. 

Swim in the crystalline waters of Cenote de Chukumaltik 

Most travelers to Mexico have never heard of Chukumaltik cenote and their trips often center around the ¨Instagram famous¨ cenotes in the Yucatan, such as Cenote Suytan and Cenote Ik Kil. But ask any Chiapas resident where the most beautiful place to go swimming is and chances are they will all give you the same answer: Cenote de Chukumaltik. 

Cenote de Chukumaltik translates to mean ¨hidden beauty¨. This is a fitting title as this natural sinkhole awaits in the middle of nowhere, escaping the eyes and attention of most tourists. 

The open cenote has a diameter of approximately 200 meters and a depth of 70 meters. You could easily spend a day swimming and snorkeling in its refreshing crystalline waters which are backed by the luscious green jungles of Chiapas. Chukumaltik awaits approximately 36 minutes (27km) south of the city of Comitan de Dominguez, not too far from the Mexico-Guatemala border. Not only is the cenote beautiful in itself, but even more treasures await beneath the surface of its warm waters – including a petrified forest, sulfur chimneys, and a submerged statue of the Virgen de los Dolores with her hands together in prayer. If you do not have access to a vehicle, the best way to get to Chukumaltik is to organize a taxi ride from Comitan. You can take the bus headed to Cascadas de Chiflón and get off at Chucumaltik junction but it is quite a ways from the cenote and you will have to wait by the side of the road for a while (which can be almost unbearable when it’s hot) and hitchhike or wait for a ride. 

Explore the Toniná Ruins

The Toniná Ruins (meaning ¨House of Stone¨ in Tzeltel Maya is a pre-Colombian city that was built by the Ancient Mayans in the Mexican state of Chiapas. Although small, it is filled with impressive and well-preserved temples and pyramids and is believed to have been a rival city of Palenque. 

Archeologists believe that Toniná originally went by the name of ¨Po¨. The Acropolis here is one of the tallest Mayan structures in Latin America and at a height of 241 feet, it is significantly higher than the famous ¨El Torre¨ at the ruins of Ek Balam , and the Ixmoja pyramid at the Coba Mayan ruins in the Yucatan. 

Tonina/Po thrived during the Classic Period (400-900 CE). Notable structures to look out for here include the Pok-ta-Pok ball court at the Great Plaza, which contains ornately carved structures of Mayan lords that were captured by the city leaders, the Altar of Sacrifices, various tombs, and an ¨Altar of the Underworld¨.

The ¨Altar of the Underworld¨ contains a labyrinth that is extremely rare to find in Mayan cities. (There is one more at Oxkintok in the southern part of the Yucatan state ). 

The entrance fee for visiting the Toniná Ruins is 70 MXN pesos and the site entrance includes admission to the Toniná museum which contains artifacts and statues recovered from the city and helps you to put the things you see here in more context. 

Spend an afternoon in Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is the bustling capital city of Chiapas and while it is no great beauty, it is worth stopping by here briefly on your way to/from Chiapas’ Ángel Albino International Airport if your schedule allows. 

The Cristo de Copoya is a 62m high Catholic cross with an image of Jesus Christ carved out of its center. It sits on the top of Mactumactzá Hill in the southern part of the city, and you can enjoy sweeping vistas of Tuxtla and the wider region from the top. 

As you make your way around the city, you will see it peeping out above the various structures. There is some great street art scattered around Tuxtla, even in the most unsuspecting industrial and residential neighborhoods and much of it is politically motivated and thought-provoking. 

Stroll down Calzada de la Revolución, one of the city’s oldest streets, and stop at the Regional Museum of Anthropology and History of Chiapas to learn more about how Southern Mexico has developed through the decades. Traditional markets like the Mercado Juan Sabines or the Municipal Public Market are great places to people-watch, witness signs of traditional daily life, and sample Mexican cuisine. When the sunsets, you can head to the Parque de la Marimba to watch or join in with older Chiapas residents as they dance to traditional music played on the marimba. The marimba is often referred to as being ¨the ancestral voice of Chiapas¨.

You will no doubt hear it played over the radio in various taxis, restaurants, and coffee shops. If you want to learn more about the instrument and how it fits into local culture, you can stop by the Museo de la Marimba (Calle Novena Pte. Sur S/N, El Cerrito). 

Sink your toes into the golden sands of Chiapas beaches 

A lot of visitors to Chiapas aren’t even aware of the fact that the southernmost state offers dozens of beaches to choose from. The sheer mention of Chiapas is so synonymous with rugged outdoor adventures, waterfalls, and ruins that few people realize there are any beaches here at all!

In reality, the western coast of Chiapas features over 250km of undisturbed natural coastline, and gorgeous beaches and coves that boast soft, powdery-white sand, and clear cerulean waters. Puerto Arista Beach is one of the most popular. 

It is backed by picturesque palm trees and mangroves and is considered one of the most critical places in Chiapas for the conservation of sea turtles. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and palapa-style huts here where you can sample the regional cuisine, fresh seafood dishes prepared with fish caught earlier the same day, or ice-cold micheladas. 

If you prefer something a little quieter and more secluded, you will love Boca del Cielo (¨mouth of heaven¨ beach). This sleepy little fishing village is well worth the effort to get to and few people take the time to venture here. 

It is backed by the clear blue waters of La Jolla Lake on one side and the endless horizons of the Pacific Ocean on the other. A trip here is more about relaxation than anything else, and having the opportunity to laze around on the beach in a hammock, watching gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, and simply admiring the view. 

Explore the ruins at Palenque

The Palenque ruins are undoubtedly among the best Mayan ruins in Mexico. The site dates back to the Early Classic period (A.D. 200-600) and was also known as ¨Lakamha¨ in the Ancient Itza language. It flourished during the 7th century under the rule of Pakal.

Palenque sits in the heart of the Tumbalá mountains. You can climb the ruins here and for your efforts, you are rewarded with spectacular views of the jungle below.

The site is expansive and worthy of 2-3 hours of your time. Palenque is one of the world’s most studied Mayan ruins and it was just as important as Chichen Itza, Edzna , and Mayapan .

Recommended Palenque tours

Palenque is relatively remote and somewhat tricky to get to. It is advisable to visit the site on a tour.

Many reputable local tour operators offer day trips from San Cristobal de Las Casas to Palenque. They usually combine a trip to the ruins with a visit to some nearby waterfalls.

A selection of the best Palenque tours is detailed below for your consideration.

• From San Cristobal: Agua Azul and Palenque day trip
• From San Cristobal: Palenque, Agua Azul and Misol-Ha day trip

Take a boat out to the Yaxchilan ruins

Visiting the ruins at Palenque can feel like a bit of an effort. At first glance, it seems like there is little else of interest in the area nearby. Palenque town is not a tourist destination in itself, although it is home to several hotels and restaurants.

If you opt to stay overnight in Palenque, you can then consider taking a day trip out to Yaxchilan and Bonampak ruins. The Yaxchilan ruins are some of the most difficult to reach but they are well worth the effort.

To get here, you need to board a boat and ride along the Usumacinta River. Much of Yaxchilan has been reclaimed by the jungle and is massively overgrown. It looks just as you would expect a site that has been abandoned for thousands of years to look. Yaxchilan sees just a fraction of the tourists seen by the likes of Palenque and Chichen Itza.

This is, in part, because the ruins require so much effort to get to. Only a small handful of tourists pass through here every day.

Yaxchilan was occupied between 250 AD and 900 AD. Its location right on the river made it an important city for trade and commerce.

Recommended Yaxchilan and Bonampak tours

It would be very difficult to try and get to Yaxchilan independently. Your best bet is to travel with a tour guide.

Several reputable tour options are detailed below. Most tours combine a trip to Yaxchilan with the nearby ruins of Bonampak.

• Yaxchilan and Bonampak ruins and Lacandon jungle tour from Palenque

Stop by the Bonampak archeological site

The Bonampak archeological site is small, and at first glimpse, it may not seem as impressive as Palenque or Yaxchilan but don’t be fooled. The most fascinating thing about this site is that it is home to several extremely well-preserved, colorful painted murals.

In fact, ¨Bonampak¨ is Mayan for ¨painted walls¨. In one of the main structures here, nestled deep in the heart of the jungle, are three rooms that are painted from floor to ceiling.

These are the best-preserved Mayan murals in the world and Mayan paintings like these are extremely rare. The murals depict scenes from everyday life in a Mayan civilization – celebrations, sacrifices, and religious ceremonies.

It is better to visit Bonampak as part of a tour. Most companies combine a trip to the ruin with a trip to Yaxchilan.

Venture off the beaten path to the city of Comitan

The city of Comitan de Dominguez is a pueblo magico in the southernmost part of Chiapas state. It sits right beside the Guatemalan border and a visit here is one of the best things to do in Chiapas if you want to venture far off the beaten track and experience local life.

Comitan’s pre-Hispanic name was Balún Canán meaning “Nine Stars”. The settlement was founded in a swamp by a large group of Tzeltal Indians.

In 1486 it was subdued by the Aztecs who changed the name to “Comitlan” derived from a Nahuatl word meaning “Place of potters”. Spanish colonizers changed the name to Comitan, which was easier for them to pronounce.

The ¨de Dominguez¨ aspect of the name was added in 1915 in honor of Dr. Belisario Dominguez, a beloved doctor, and politician. Comitan does not offer a huge amount in terms of things to see and do; You could easily explore most of the town on foot in half a day.

However, it makes a great base for exploring many of the southernmost ruins, lakes, and parks in Chiapas. If you base yourself in Comitan rather than San Cristobal, your journey time to the likes of Montebello Lakes and the El Chiflon waterfalls is much shorter.

Trek through the Lacandon Jungle

The Lacandon Jungle is an area of rainforest that is easily accessible from Palenque. It stretches from Chiapas, Mexico, all the way down to Guatemala.

You will pass through a section of the jungle if you want to travel to the ruins of Yaxchilan and Bonampak. However, if you want to delve deeper into the wilderness and learn about the indigenous Lacandon Maya tribe that inhabits the jungle, as well as have the chance to view its endemic flora, fauna, and animals, you can book a jungle trek.

Many local companies offer Lacandon Jungle trekking tours. Some are led by members of the Lacandon tribes and others include an overnight say at a jungle camp.

Visit the ruins at Tenam Puente

A visit to the ruins at Tenam Puente is one of the best things to do in Chiapas if you have a keen interest in Mayan history. The Mayan city is just 11.6km south of Comitan and is accessible via Colectivo.

Tenam Puente comes from the Nahuatl word  tenamitl  meaning fortification. The site dates back to the early post-classic period (900-1200 AD) until it was eventually abandoned. Like many Mayan cities, nobody is certain about the reasons why it was abandoned.

Many artifacts that have been recovered from Tenam Puente are on display in the small Museo Arqueológico de Comitán in the Comitan city center. This is well worth visiting if you have time.

Unfortunately, the museum information is only displayed in Spanish so if you cannot speak/read Spanish, it doesn’t give a huge amount of context. However, some of the old Mayan masks and artifacts recovered from Tenam Puente are so ornate and intricate, that it would be a shame to miss the chance to view them.

Head out to the forgotten ruins of Chinkultic

The ruins at Chinkultic are located 45.5km south of Comitan, close to the Guatemalan border. Unless you are driving in Mexico , they are difficult to get to independently.

The site dates back to 600 AD and contains several temples and pyramids that you can climb. From their peaks, you have incredible views across Southern Chiapas, with Guatemala in the distance.

The Chinkultic ruins are small. You only need an hour or two to explore them so a visit here is best combined with a trip to the nearby Montebello lakes.

For the time being, very few tours run to the region. If you do not have a vehicle, your best bet to reach the site is to go by taxi.

Ask your hotel reception/accommodation host to provide you with the details of a taxi driver that they trust. Then, you can negotiate a price with the driver for them to wait for you while you explore the site and then drive you back to Comitan.

There is a colectivo that you can take. However, it does not run all the way to Chinkultic. Instead, you need to go to Mobtelello Lakes and then try and hitch a ride from there.

Take a day trip to El Chiflon Waterfalls

The El Chiflon waterfalls are among the most popular day trips that you can do from San Cristobal de Las Casas. This collection of tiered waterfalls awaits in the southern part of the state, close to Comitan.

There are five waterfalls here. The most famous is called the Cascada de Vela Novia (the bridal veil) because its crystal clear water cascades over the edge of a cliff, giving the appearance of a bride’s veil.

You cannot swim in the waterfalls. However, there is a river nearby where you can swim so be sure to bring your swimsuit to make the most of the falls on a hot, humid day. There are also several hiking trails that lead you through the breathtaking natural scenery of the area.

Recommended El Chiflon tours

• San Cristobal: El Chiflon waterfalls and Montebello day tour
• Tuxtla Gutierrez: El Chiflon waterfalls and Montebello day tour

Spend a day at Montebello Lakes

The Lagos de Montebello (Montebello Lakes) is a complex of 59 natural lakes situated at the Mexico-Guatemala border. Some fall on the Mexican side of the border, others await in Guatemala.

This is one of the best places to visit in Chiapas if you enjoy the great outdoors and getting back to nature. You can take a boat ride on some of the larger lakes and many hiking trails weave throughout the area.

Many local tour companies include a trip to Montebello lakes with their El Chiflon tours. However, the lakes are also very easy (and cheap!) to get to independently.

You can take a Colectivo from Comitan to the lakes for just 20 pesos ($1 USD!) Pack some snacks or some Mexican street food and have a picnic on the banks of one of the lakes.

Sundays at the lake provide a great people-watching opportunity. Most Mexicans have the day off work and you will see lots of local families having picnics, camping, and swimming in the lakes.

Marvel at the Agua Azul waterfalls

There are several spectacular waterfalls that you will likely pass on your way to Palenque. Namely, Agua Azul, Misol-Ha, and Roberto Barrios.

If you are participating in a Palenque tour that departs from San Cristobal, they will typically include a brief stop at one or multiple of these sites. The Las Cascadas de Agua Azul is the most popular of the falls.

As the name suggests, the clear water here is a fabulous shade of turquoise blue. This ethereal shade is due to a combination of carbonated salts that exist in the water.

Fortunately, the salts do not affect or harm your skin in any way so you can safely and comfortably enjoy swimming in the pools at the base of the falls. Many tour buses stop at Agua Azul each day and unfortunately, the site is becoming increasingly crowded which can somewhat detract from the magic of visiting the site.

If you are touring Chiapas independently, you may prefer to visit the lesser-known cascado Roberto Barrios. The falls are an hour’s drive from Palenque and are accessible via Colectivo.

Visit the Sima de las Cotorras sinkhole 

The Sima de las Cotorras sinkhole (chasm of the parakeets) is a Chiapas cenote that sits in the El Ocote Biosphere Reserve in Western Chiapas. As the name suggests, the huge sinkhole is home to thousands of colorful birds but its most famous residents are its bright green parakeets (cotorras). Every morning at around 4.30 or 5 am, the sinkholes’ resident birds wake up with the sunrise and take flight, fluttering out of the caverns and decorating the sky with hundreds of different colors. Not only is Sima de las Cotorras located in the very heart of the Chiapescan jungle, but there is a separate jungle located at the base level inside of it. Many of the trees and flowers here are native to Mexico and some of them are not found anywhere else – they are exclusive to this unique sinkhole. The only way to go inside the sinkhole is by rappelling down it. 

Various tour companies offer fully-supervised rappelling tours from Tuxtla and San Cristobal. If you are afraid of heights or nervous about the safety of rappelling, it is reassuring to know that you are with professionals that will watch and guide you the entire time. 

The Sima de las Cotorras is open from 7 am until 5 pm daily, but many tour companies will get you to the site before that so that you can watch the sunrise, see the birds coming out of the chasm, and enjoy a traditional Mexican breakfast before you start rappelling. 

Part way down the rim, you can find hundreds of cave paintings (petroglyphs) that were likely created by the local Zoque communities some 10,000 years ago. The sinkhole is 520 feet wide and 460 feet deep. 

Trek to the Aguacero Waterfalls 

Although El Chiflon Falls may be the most popular waterfalls in Chiapas, they are not the only worthwhile cascadas in the state. The Aguacero Falls could easily give them a run for their money, and this spectacular, underrated gem is nestled in the heart of the Ocote jungle. 

The falls are approximately an hour away from Tuxtla Gutierrez. Once you arrive at the site, it’s a short trek down 749 stone steps to the Cañón Río La Venta (La Venta River Canon). From there, you need to wade through the knee-deep waters of the river as you make your way to the falls. If you ever wanted to feel like a real-life Indiana Jones, the Aguacero Falls are your opportunity to do just that. While the Falls themselves are beautiful (even if they do not have the same ethereal-looking turquoise pools of water that El Chiflon and Agua Azul have), the jungle that encompasses them is equally fascinating and filled with caves and tunnels to explore, natural rock pools to bathe in, and mossy rocks to sit on while you revel in the view. 

Fall in love with the Reserva de la Biosfera La Encrucijada

La Encrucijada is a series of mangrove forests and estuaries that have been recognized as a biosphere reserve since 1995. The mangroves here are among the best in Mexico, with some of the trees reaching heights of up to 35km tall – making them among the tallest in Latin America. 

Sailing through the mangroves with local fishermen and admiring the flora, fauna and wildlife here is the best way to experience the biosphere reserve. (It is similar in some ways to Celestun or Rio Lagartos in the Yucatan ). 

Many of the plants that are found here are endangered and on the bird of extinction. Various migratory birds pass through the reserve each year, notably the waterfowl from Canada and the north of the United States. 

Nearby, on the coast of Barra Zacapulco, turtles come ashore onto the beaches to lay their eggs during the hatching season which takes place every year between August and October.  

Tapachula 

If Comitan de Dominguez is overlooked, the border town of Tapachula is even more so. Most travelers to Chiapas only see passing through the settlement as a necessary evil on the journey across the border into neighboring Guatemala. 

However, Tapachula is home to a population of 353,706 inhabitants and provides some great opportunities to immerse yourself in Mexican traditions and culture. Mexico’s southernmost city is known as the ‘Pearl of the Soconusco´and is an important place for the production and trade of flowers and fresh produce. 

The Miguel Hidalgo Central Park is a nice place to walk around while the Museo de Tapachula gives insight into the region’s history. (Although the exhibits are mostly in Spanish).

From here, you can also take day trips out to the Izapa ruins or the Tajumulco volcano. 

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Chiapas in 2024

Have you been to Chiapas, Mexico? Do you have any additional suggestions in terms of the best things to do in Chiapas Mexico? 

If you are visiting Mexico for the first time, you may enjoy reading this list of Mexico travel tips to know before you go . Safe travels! Buen Viaje! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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Your Ultimate Guide to Chiapas, Mexico

04/13/2021 by Emily Becker 2 Comments

There’s something about Chiapas that gives my heart that little pitter-patter. Maybe it’s the landscapes, the incredible coffee, or the plentiful opportunities for adventure. Between the thick jungles, remote beaches, and high mountain peaks, this state in Mexico has so much to offer.

If you’re not convinced to come to Chiapas yet, here’s a better idea of what’s in store:

Table of Contents

Waterfalls You’ll Fall in Love With

You may have seen the waterfalls of Chiapas posted all over Instagram and Pinterest . Crystal clear pools nestled in the mountainous jungles, oh my! What you see online about these waterfalls is the real deal. The areas where you can find these magnificent falls are protected by both governmental and non-governmental organizations and it shows. Here are a few that I personally recommend visiting:

Cascadas El Chiflón

When you go to Chiapas, you cannot miss a trip to El Chiflón. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in Mexico and unlike any other waterfall I’ve seen before. It’s about 2 and a half hours away from both San Cristóbal de las Casas and Tuxtla and 45 minutes from Comitán by car. The distance makes it a great option for a day trip from any of those bigger cities.

As you enter the park, you’ll see a small river below with a trail leading to the waterfalls. Moving along the trail, the waterfalls get bigger until you finally reach the most impressive one, Velo de Novia (the bride’s veil). At the end of the trail, there’s an amazing view of the waterfall and the mist rising from below. From that point, you can see the other trails around the falls, which are awesome to explore as well.

As you make your way back, you can actually zipline over the falls as a fun shortcut. I found it was an exciting way to see everything from above. It costs 200 pesos (about $10 USD) to zipline.

The entrance to El Chiflón is 50 pesos (about $2.50 USD).

Since I arrived in Chiapas, everyone kept telling me I HAD to go to Agua Azul. After visiting, I understand the hype!

Agua Azul, gets its name from the intense turquoise pools both above and underneath the waterfall. It’s considered one of the best waterfalls in Chiapas because of its boisterous power and beauty.

However, I found Agua Azul to be crowded. There were so many food stalls, souvenir vendors, and large tour groups in such close proximity to the waterfall. It wasn’t a deal breaker for me, but it’s something to consider if you’re looking for a more low-key experience.

You can get to Agua Azul from San Cristóbal de las Casas, which is about 4 hours away. If you’re driving through Chiapas independently, it could be a great stop on your way to Palenque from San Cris or just as a quick day trip from Palenque. However, if you want to keep San Cris as your base, this tour picks you up from your hotel and will take you to both Agua Azul and Palenque in the same day.

Entrance to Agua Azul can be confusing. At the entrance to Salto de Agua ecopark (where Agua Azul is located), you have to pay a 10 pesos entrance fee. Then, you’ll have to pay again to actually access the falls, which will be another 20 pesos.

Cascadas Misol-Ha

While the other waterfalls on this list are bright blue paradises, Misol-Ha has a totally different feel. Here you won’t find turquoise pools, but you will find a picturesque waterfall surrounded by bright green vegetation.

Misol-Ha is about 115 feet tall and towers above a pool that you can swim in. You can also follow a small trail that will take you right behind the mighty falls, which has a spectacular view.

This one is located close to Palenque. It’s about a 45-minute drive away and is often included on different tours going out from there. If you’re not into a tour, it’s easy to visit Misol-Ha from Palenque on your own.

This waterfall is another one where you have to pay twice to actually get to it. The first park entrance fee is 10 pesos, and then it’s another 10 pesos to access the falls.

This stunning waterfall and waterway is much more remote than the others and is close to the Guatemalan border. It’s about a 5 hour drive from San Cristóbal de las Casas, but definitely worth the distance!

Las Nubes feels like you’re stepping into the garden of Eden. The lush greenery surrounding the brilliant blue waters with the round boulders above the cascades will take your breath away.

The best part of visiting Las Nubes is swimming in the blue pools above the falls. The water remains cool and refreshing year-round. It costs 30 pesos to enter the park. You can also rent a raft at the tourism center of the park for about $1,500 pesos (about $75 USD), which can fit up to 5 people.

Because of how far away Las Nubes is, I recommend spending a couple days exploring the area. You can easily camp around the park itself, or you can find other accommodation in Lagos de Montebello (see below). I camped nearby and enjoyed it, but another great option is this ecolodge which is right on the river.

Chiapas’ Best Archaeological Sites

Chiapas is located in southern Mexico, bordering Guatemala to the east. In fact, the general region of what is now known as Chiapas was part of Guatemala until 1824. This region of Mexico is known for being the most tied to its indigenous roots, which is evident in the local culture. You can often find local women wearing head-to-toe traditional clothing and there are many ceremonies and rituals that are still practiced here.

Chiapas is rich in indigenous culture and traditions that have been passed down for centuries. If you want a direct look into the past to better understand the roots of Mayan culture, take a trip to an archaeological site and dive head first into the beauty and mysticism of the ancient societies of Chiapas:

The first time I went to Palenque to explore the Mayan ruins there, I was speechless. I’ve been to my fair share of ruins and Palenque is by far my favorite.

The main temple on the grounds has a tomb inside, which used to house the deceased kings of the ancient city. You can go inside the dark, cavelike ruins and see where the kings used to lie. As you make your way through the ruins, I highly suggest hiring a guide. There are a lot of different symbols, sacred geometry, and even paintings which would be difficult to decipher without an expert present.

The city of Palenque has its own airport, which you can fly to from Mexico City. There isn’t a whole lot happening there, but it’s in the jungle and there are quite a few restaurants with traditional dishes to try. If you do go to Palenque, be prepared for humid weather and a lot of mosquitos!

Getting to the ruins from Palenque is as simple as driving there yourself or booking a tour once you get into town. These tours range from 300 to 1,000 pesos, depending on what is included. They are run out of local travel agencies, but you can also book one through GetYourGuide . The entrance fee for the ruins is 75 pesos, plus the 35 pesos fee to enter the surrounding national park where the ruins are.

Meaning “House of Stone”, Toniná is the tallest archeological site in Mexico at 233 feet tall. If you’re ready for the climb of your life, you can trek up the stairs all the way to the top! I visited Toniná back in 2017 and was amazed at the view from the top of the main structure. With the gorgeous mountains in the background, it made the hike up totally worth it.

Toniná isn’t often crowded, and there’s a good chance you will have the site to yourself. It’s not a very well known archeological site yet, so it doesn’t have the same crowds you’d find at Palenque or other popular sites.

The entrance fee for Toniná is 46 pesos, which is cheaper than other big sites. Toniná is located just outside of the city of Ocosingo, which is about equidistant from San Cristóbal and Palenque, making it easily accessible from either of those cities. Tours to Toniná are often included in those which visit other archaeological sites, so it’s rare to find one that will just go there. One of those tours will cost around 500 pesos, which usually includes the park entrance fees.

These ruins have the best preserved Mayan murals that have ever been found. When I saw them I couldn’t believe how old they were and it felt like I took a step back in time. The murals are the main focal point at Bonampak, and it’s worth hiring a guide to explain what they mean. There are some powerful images in the murals that give you an inside look at the ancient Mayan culture.

You can get to Bonampak from either San Cristóbal de las Casas, or more easily from Palenque. I recommend Palenque because it’s geographically closer and there are far more tours available. Taking a tour as opposed to tackling the ruins on your own won’t give you the same freedom of being on your own schedule, but it takes a lot of the pressure off.

If you decide to visit on your own, the park entrance fee to the park itself is 45 pesos, plus 25 pesos to enter the ruins themselves.

Located close to Bonampak, a trip to Yaxchilán will take you deeper into the jungle. The area around the ruins is one of the most sparsely populated places in all of Mexico, giving it some serious Indiana Jones vibes.

Yaxchilán is famous for the Maya hieroglyphs that are carved into the stones of the temples. These glyphs tell the story of the different dynasties of the ancient city. It’s fascinating to learn about these ancient civilizations and also interesting to ponder how much the world has changed since then!

Both Bonampak and Yaxchilán are off the beaten path and you won’t find the flocks of tourists like you will at many ruins in the Yucatan peninsula , for example. A tour that will take you to both of them from Palenque will cost around $40 USD, which doesn’t include a guide. Last time I went, I paid $10 USD at each place for a Spanish-speaking guide. If you don’t speak Spanish, you can ask for a guide who speaks English.

Getting to Yaxchilán is quite a journey and one you can take at your own risk. It involves crossing a river by boat, which can be expensive if you’re traveling alone. The entrance fee to the town itself is about 30 pesos, and there’s another fee to enter the ruins of about 30 pesos.

For ease, safety, and cost, I recommend doing a tour that will take you to both Yaxchilán and Bonampak which includes park fees and transportation.

Tenam Puente

Tenam Puente is just outside the small city of Comitan. The name literally translates to “defensive bridge” and was primarily used as a trading hub for nearly 1,000 years. You can climb the tallest temple there and get an awesome view of the scenery surrounding the site. There are also a few ball courts where the ancient Maya people used to play the sacred ball game.

One of my favorite things about visiting Tenam Puente was how empty it was when I went. Even though it was semana santa , or spring break, there were only a few groups of tourists in the entire site. It was at Tenam Puente that I felt much more connected to the spirit of the site and was able to sit with the peace and calm at this once-bustling city. If you can get a little bit of space, it’s cool to do a short meditation at the top of the temple.

The cost to enter the ruins is 45 pesos. If you’re curious about the Mayan ball game, consider hiring a guide who can take you through the courts and explain how it’s played.

Historic Towns

San cristóbal de las casas.

If you’ve read our post all about San Cristóbal de las Casas , you already know that San Cris has a very special place in my heart. It’s a charming colonial city high up in the mountains of Chiapas and a hub for artisans, yogis, and creative people of all kinds.

San Cris serves as a great base when visiting Chiapas because of how central it is. From here, you can easily take a day trip in any direction to visit ruins, waterfalls, and nature parks. Additionally, there is a wealth of history and culture here. With plenty of museums to visit and long pedestrian streets to stroll, you can spend a good amount of time here. I came here 4 years ago while traveling and I’ve just come back to stay – it has a magnetic quality!

San Cris is about an hour’s drive from the capital city Tuxtla Gutierrez, where the nearest airport is. If you’re renting a car to travel through Chiapas, I recommend doing so in Tuxtla as there is (literally) only one place in all of San Cris to rent a car. If you come during high season (around spring break and December), there is a chance that the rental company will be out of cars to rent.

San Juan Chamula

You’ll see signs all over the place about tours to visit San Juan Chamula as soon as you get to San Cris. This charming and mystical small town is only about a 20-minute drive from downtown San Cris and can be easily visited via taxi.

San Juan Chamula is known throughout the region as THE place to go to experience the heart of indigenous culture in Chiapas. The main attraction is an old church where priests, shamans, and local observers go to practice their sacred religious rituals. One of these rituals involves drinking Coca Cola and burping as a way of ridding the body of bad spirits. Yes, burping!

The cemeteries sprinkled throughout the town are a unique feature of Chamula. The grave sites at these cemeteries seem to pop up out of nowhere. In fact, it’s common practice in many indigenous communities here to bury loved ones in their own backyard. As buildings change hands or are knocked down, the graves remain.

It is important when visiting Chamula to be respectful of the local culture and customs. There is a very heavily-enforced rule at the church in Chamula that no phones or photography is permitted. There are signs outside that advertise this rule, and it applies to other sacred places there, too.

The first time I visited Zinacantán, I fell in love. This small town is best known for its handwoven textiles and traditional clothing. You’ll see women weaving fabrics by hand on a traditional waist loom. It’s fascinating to watch them carefully move the threads in and out of one another. It made me appreciate the meticulous care put into the garments. Read more about our favorite ways to support women when we travel here .

Most people in Zinacantán live off the textiles and clothing sold there, making it a great place to purchase souvenirs. That way, you can directly support the hard work of the artisans. The vibe of this town is much more laid back than San Juan Chamula, which made it easier to strike up a conversation with the locals.

There is a beautiful church in the center of Zinacantán that is definitely worth taking a peek at. During Catholic holidays, the church is filled with flowers which fills the space with a delightful floral aroma. There is no explicit “no pictures” policy at this church. However, it’s best to avoid taking pictures of people in their place of worship, no matter where you go. Stick to taking pictures of the architecture, the art, and the altars, but avoid snapping pictures of locals in the church.

You can easily go to both San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán in the same day on your own or with a tour. This one will bring you to both and even includes a traditional drink!

Chiapa de Corzo

Do not, I repeat, do NOT go to Chiapas without going to Chiapa de Corzo! I might be partial to this magical town because of its delicious food, but there’s something for everyone there. If you want to get a taste of Mayan culture, this is the place.

Chiapa de Corzo is famous for its large festive celebrations including Dia de Los Muertos at the end of October as well as Christmas and Easter. Hang out in the main plaza and catch a glimpse of the dancers called parachicos moving together in synchronicity while wearing wooden masks and traditional wigs.

Beyond the cultural richness of the town, Chiapa de Corzo is located right next to Cañon del Sumidero. This canyon can be explored by boat while floating down the Sumidero river. There you might catch a glimpse of the crocodiles, monkeys, and birds that inhabit the area while you gaze up at the towering walls of rock. This tour includes both Chiapa de Corzo and Cañon del Sumidero and operates out of San Cristóbal, which is just a 45-minute drive away.

Comitán de Domínguez

Comitán is the best base for exploring the wonders of southern Chiapas, as it is closer to many of the waterfalls mentioned above. This quaint town is known for its famous Christmas celebrations every year. The best part of visiting Comitán is how down-to-earth and non-touristy it is. Walking through the streets, you’ll likely see very few foreigners and not a whole lot of English happening in general, so be prepared if you don’t speak Spanish!

There also always seems to be music playing. The most common music to hear in the plaza is Marimba, which tends to illicit large crowds of dancing people. Join in if you can!

While you’re there, don’t miss the Rosario Castellanos Cultural Center, which hosts different art, music, and language workshops for the local community. It also has a theater, cafe, and bookstore inside and is right behind the Museo Arqueológico de Comitán. This museum is free and has some pretty neat artifacts from nearby ruins.

Coffee Farms

You don’t have to be a coffee connoisseur to know a great cup of coffee when you taste one. I’ve been ruined for life now because after tasting the coffee here in Chiapas, there is no going back. Whether you’re an expert on all things coffee or merely an enthusiast (like me!), here are a couple places where you can try some delicious brews and see where it all comes from:

This coffee farm is by far the most famous on the Ruta del Café here in Chiapas. It can be found about an hour north of Tapachula in southern Chiapas and has its own hotel and resort attached. The hotel is a bit of a splurge to stay at, but you can easily take a day trip there from Tapachula and just tour the farm. There is nothing quite like sipping the freshest coffee you’ve ever tasted with the backdrop of rolling green hills.

Finca Hamburgo

This coffee plantation is one of the oldest in Chiapas and was founded by a German family. The hotel on the grounds has some amazing views of the coffee plants and mountains, which are covered in green vegetation.

They also have tours of the facilities where you can learn about the coffee making process, the machinery, and the different varieties of plants on the farm. At the end of the tour, you’ll get to try some of the freshest brews directly from the farm itself. Sounds like a dream!

Finca Hamburgo is a bit more remote than Argovia at about two hours north of Tapachula in the heart of the coffee region. Both of these places would make an excellent day trip from Tapachula, but could also be made into a longer trip if you fancy staying for a while at one of the hotels.

A Beach Destination Unlike Any Other

If you’re into the kind of destination that does NOT include big resorts and crowded beaches, the coast of Chiapas is for you. Boca del Cielo and Puerto Arista are the closest beaches to San Cristóbal de las Casas–about 4 hours away by car.

To get to the beach from San Cris, you will take the long and winding highway 190D for about 3 hours to reach Tonalá. This small city is the last place where you can find a grocery store and the best pit stop to stock up on snacks and drinks if you want to bring anything with you to the beach.

From there, you can drive (or take a taxi) to Puerto Arista where you’ll have to cross a lagoon by boat to get to the long strip of beach where you’ll find a few hotels spread out along the coast.

My favorite place to stay there is Entremares which has A-frame cabins and a geodesic dome. The rest of the buildings are built from earth and sand, which contributes to the overall eco-friendly vibe of the place.

The biggest draw of Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo is the neat contrast of the lagoon with the mountains in the background and the grey beach on the other side of the isthmus. In this area you can take a dip in the lagoon and then walk for 5 minutes to then jump into the ocean. The best of both worlds!

Because of how remote this beach is, I recommend booking your accommodation ahead of time and clarifying with your host on how to get there. Boats that cross the lagoon are relatively cheap during the day (around $3 per person, per trip) but can increase at night.

Bonus: Lagos de Montebello

Imagine pulling up to a misty lake surrounded by pine-filled mountains after sleeping in the car for several hours only to realize you’ve stumbled upon paradise. That’s exactly what happened to me when I went to Lagos de Montebello while on a packed full-day tour.

This dreamy lake has a few small islands on it and is part of a chain of lakes along the Guatemalan border. Because of the altitude it gets quite chilly, especially during the winter months. I went in December when it was freezing cold outside! When the air is cold, the temperature of the water in the lake remains a few degrees warmer, creating steam above the lake.

The main activity at Montebello is floating around on a wooden boat, which are the same ones the Maya people used to cross the lake. From there, you’ll take a couple stops at different islands on the lake and you can even go for a swim!

Before You Go

Since Chiapas is still relatively off the beaten path, there are a few things to keep in mind before traveling there.

• Road Blockades: It’s commonplace to be driving on the highway in Chiapas and see that a road has been blocked by demonstrators. If you’re taking a road trip, be prepared to take an alternate route if you find yourself in a long traffic jam due to a blockade.
• Children Selling Souvenirs: You can expect to see many children selling trinkets, bracelets and other souvenirs in Chiapas. While some people feel called to purchase from those children, I don’t recommend it. Check out this article or do your own research before deciding for yourself.
• Photography: As I said above, please be mindful when taking photos in Chiapas. Many travelers feel inclined to take photos of or with local children without the parent’s consent. Here’s an article to provide some perspective.
• Language: While other places in Mexico may cater more to an English-speaking crowd, there are many places in Chiapas where it may be difficult to find an English speaker. Knowing a few key phrases goes a long way here, so no need to become absolutely fluent. Try downloading the offline Spanish-English and English-Spanish dictionary on the Google Translate app in case you need a translation in a pinch.
• Leave No Trace: The principle values of Leave No Trace are not limited to national parks in the USA. Organizations are working hard to keep the natural beauty of Chiapas free of pollution. Consider this while traveling and try to avoid single-use plastic whenever possible!
• Supporting Local Communities: Chiapas has plenty of opportunities to buy directly from artisans. That being said, there are plenty of big stores selling cheap dupes of local handicrafts. If you want to read more about supporting local women and artisans, check out our post about it.

Wondering how to fit all these sites into one trip? Here’s a map of each of the places mentioned so you can start planning:

Chiapas feels like it carries the heart and soul of what Mexico once was. Going out to these remote places to take in the natural beauty of the landscape brought me a lot of solace during a time when everything else felt like it was being turned upside down. Chiapas is often overlooked as travelers tend to favor the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, but that is what has allowed it to maintain its originality. Next time you get the itch to visit Mexico, consider coming to bask in the beauty of Chiapas.

About the author: Emily is a Mexico travel enthusiast based in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas. She is a part-time freelance writer for BMTM and part-time doula.

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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03/08/2022 at 7:05 pm

Thanks for this detailed! I am planning to visit San Cristobal in November 2022 with my family. We want to visit Palenque as a day trip with a tour company. Do you feel this is safe to travel on highway 199? I have read some things that are giving me pause, and would love to hear from someone with more experience in the area.

03/10/2022 at 8:07 am

Hi Lily! How exciting that you’re planning to come to San Cristóbal. Visiting Palenque as a day trip from San Cris isn’t possible as the drive is about 6 hours (on a good day with no road blocks), so consider going for a few days at least. One day for travel each way, plus a full day to see the ruins, though I think two days with a guide is the best way to go if you have time.

Traveling on the highways here can be a bit of a wildcard. Right now I believe highway 199 might be a no-go because of some conflicts in one of the towns that it runs through. There are other routes that are safer, but they will take more time. If you want to get more info leading up to your trip, check out the San Cristobal Expats Community Facebook group, as people regularly update the page with their experiences traveling through the region.

I hope this is helpful and will give you some peace of mind about coming to Chiapas. I have lived here for about a year and a half and think it’s one of the most magical places in Mexico. Have a wonderful trip!

Chiapas: Top 15 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in chiapas: the 15 best places to visit.

Are you planning to visit Chiapas on your trip to Mexico?

That’s a great idea!

Chiapas is a stunning region with nature reserves , archaeological sites hidden in the jungle, traditional communities and colonial cities. It has so much to offer for an unforgettable stay.

To help you plan your trip, I have prepared this guide with all the best things to do and see in Chiapas . It’s a perfect destination to combine with the Yucatan Peninsula on your next trip to Mexico.

In this guide, you will find all the attractions in Chiapas with practical information and my tips so you can make the most of your stay.

So, what are the best places to visit in Chiapas? Where to stay?

Book your tour in Chiapas

• 1.The archaeological site of Palenque

2. The Misol-Ha Waterfall

3. the waterfalls of agua azul, 5. bonampak and yaxchilán, 6. ecotourism in the lacandon jungle, 7. san cristobal de las casas, 8. the sumidero canyon, 9. visit the tzotzil communities, 10. el chiflón waterfalls, 11. montebello lakes, 12. comitan de dominguez, 13. visit a coffee hacienda, 14. tuxtla gutierrez, 15. taste the gastronomy of chiapas, tourist map of chiapas, san cristobal de las casas, comitan de dominguez, tuxtla gutierrez, my tips for visiting chiapas, how to get to chiapas, by colectivo, is chiapas dangerous, what is the best time to go to chiapas, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

If you just want to book an activity in Chiapas at the best price , without reading the article (although I recommend reading it for all the details!), here’s the summary table of the best activities in Chiapas.

The great thing is that for all the activities I present in this article, cancellation policy is flexible.

Simply click on the names of the activities to make your reservation:

Best Things to Do in Chiapas

1. the archaeological site of palenque.

Palenque is one of the must-see places in Chiapas . It was one of the most important Mayan cities, along with Tikal in Guatemala and Calakmul in Campeche .

Surrounded by the jungle, Palenque offers a unique experience of exotic bird songs and monkey howls.

It is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world.

Palenque has many attractions to explore:

• The Temple of the Inscriptions , where the tomb of K’inich Janaab’ Pakal I , a 7th century ruler, was found with valuable artifacts, such as a jade mask. You can see a replica of the tomb at the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City , which is worth visiting if you are in the capital!
• The Palace , which has a magnificent view of the site.
• The Cross Group , with the Temple of the Cross, the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Foliated Cross, related to three deities of Palenque.
• The Museum of Palenque , one of the most important museums of Mayan archaeology with 6 rooms displaying 234 artifacts from the region.

You may also like: How to Visit the Archaeological Site of Palenque

How to visit Palenque:

• You need to pay 2 entrance fees: 97 pesos (includes the ruins and museum) and 85 pesos (entrance to the national park)
• The archaeological zone is open from 8 am to 5 pm, and the museum from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm
• You can get there from the town of Palenque (5 miles) by driving along the Palenque Archaeological Zone Highway for about 30 minutes, or by taking a colectivo (shared taxi) that goes between the town and the ruins.

If you want to visit Palenque from San Cristobal d e las Casas , you can also book this one-day tour that includes pick-up at your hotel, entrance to the Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls , and a guided visit to Palenque.

You can book it here :

Misol-Ha is a spectacular place in Chiapas that you won’t regret visiting! It is a 100 ft waterfall surrounded by a lush jungle that creates a large natural pool where you can swim.

Misol-Ha is close to the ruins of Palenque , the Agua Azul waterfalls and the Mayan site of Toniná .  You can easily do the whole tour in one day.

If you want to save time and hassle, I suggest you book this tour (click here!) , which includes pick-up from your hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas , visit to Misol-Ha, Agua Azul and Palenque.

Fun Fact Misol-Ha and Palenque were the main filming locations for the movie Predator (1987) with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The Agua Azul waterfalls are one of the most stunning sights in Chiapas.

The water has a magical color because of the high concentration of limestone in the Yax-Ha river , which feeds the waterfalls.

Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to enjoy the natural pools!

How to visit Agua Azul:

• The entrance fee is 80 pesos (2 tickets of 40 pesos), open from 8 am to 6 pm
• If you are driving from Palenque : take highway 199 Palenque-Ocosingo and after 40 miles turn right on the road leading to Agua Azul (there is a blue sign).
• If you are taking public transport from Palenque : take a colectivo to Ocosingo (1h30, 80 pesos) and tell the driver that you are going to Agua Azul. He will drop you off at the intersection of the road to Agua Azul. You can either take a cab from there (30 pesos) or walk 2.5 miles
• If you want to join a guided tour, you can book this one (click here!) that includes pick-up from your hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas, visit to Palenque, Agua Azul and Misol-Ha.

Toniná is a hidden gem in Chiapas that you should visit. It is an archaeological zone with an impressive 7-story temple or Acropolis that has many altars, temples, houses and palaces.

You can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the surroundings if you climb the 260 stairs to the top of the pyramid.

Did you know that the pyramid of Toniná is taller than the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacán and the Pyramid of Cholula in Puebla ? It is 250 ft high!

Toniná has many attractions to see, such as temples, sculptures, murals, labyrinths, two Mesoamerican ball game courts and a museum. To make sure you don’t miss anything on your visit, it’s worth hiring a guide .

How to visit Toniná:

• The entrance fee is 75 pesos (also includes the museum), guide service (optional) costs about 200 pesos
• The closest town to Toniná is Ocosingo. You can take the ADO bus from San Cristóbal or Palenque to Ocosingo (2h30 or 2h50), then a combi from Ocosingo to Toniná (20 min)
• If you are driving, you need to get to Ocosingo by taking Highway 199 from San Cristobal or Palenque. After Ocosingo, take Highway 218 and turn left on the road to Toniná (25 min).

Bonampak , which means “painted walls” in Mayan, is a small Mayan site that flourished from the 6th to the 9th century. You should visit it if you want to see some amazing Mayan art.

It is famous for its incredible murals in the three rooms of Structure 1 or “ Temple of Murals ”. They show the life of the time, such as priests and nobles, war and prisoners, human sacrifices, dancers, customs, etc.

These murals are priceless because they are the most complete representation of a pre-Hispanic civilization discovered so far!

Bonampak was a vassal of Yaxchilan , an important city that dominated the region and today is known for its sculptures, considered masterpieces of Mayan art.

Yaxchilan is located only 12 miles away, on the banks of the Usumacinta River , which forms the border with Guatemala.

How to visit Bonampak and Yaxchilán:

It is not very easy to get there on your own…

• There is no public transportation
• To reach Bonampak , you can drive up to a certain point, but then you have to take a van from the community of Lacanjá.
• To reach Yaxchilán , you can only take a boat (40 min) from Frontera Corozal .

So the best option is to take a tour to Bonampak and Yaxchilán from Palenque , which includes pick up at your hotel, the guide and entrance fees to the sites, the river ride, breakfast and lunch.

You can book it here:

The Lacandon Jungle is one of Mexico’s most amazing rainforests and a must-see in Chiapas!

It became a Natural Monument in 1992, protecting the animals that inhabit its 4357 hectares, such as the jaguar and the eagle, which were symbols of power for the Mayas, as well as various species of monkeys, parrots, toucans, etc.

In this lush jungle, you can meet the Lacandones and experience their daily life surrounded by nature.

What to do and see in the Lacandon Jungle:

• Explore the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve , a pristine and well-preserved area of the jungle
• Spend a night at the Top Che ecotourism center run by a Mayan family
• Visit the archaeological sites of Bonampak , Yaxchilan and Lacanja
• Go to the Las Nubes ecotourism center (40 pesos entrance fee) to see the waterfalls and walk along the trails until you reach the viewpoint
• Visit the La Guacamaya ecotourism center (free entrance) which is involved in the conservation of the scarlet macaw . They offer tours on the Lacantun River and trekking excursions to fund the center

My tip If you like adrenaline, you can take this tour in the Lancandon jungle (click to book!) from Palenque with hiking and rafting .

San Cristobal de las Casas is the cultural capital of Chiapas , located 7,000 ft above sea level.

It is a colonial city that was founded in 1528 by Diego de Mazariegos. It has preserved its traditional charm and authenticity with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, churches and markets.

Its architectural richness reflects the greatness of this city that was the capital of Chiapas until 1892.

What to do and see in San Cristobal de las Casas:

• The Zócalo , the main square of the city, and the cathedral
• The Guadalupe Church , which you can reach by climbing 79 steps. It offers a beautiful view of the city
• Na Bolom , a cultural association located in a lovely colonial house that works for the preservation of the Lacadon culture
• The Textiles of the Maya World Center which displays 500 beautiful Mayan textile pieces from Chiapas and Guatemala
• The Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzman , a stunning example of baroque architecture in Chiapas
• Visit the markets: the Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías for sweets and souvenirs, the Mercado de Artesanías de Santo Domingo for handicrafts or the Mercado Viejo to experience local life
• The Calle Real de Guadalupe with shops and restaurants

The Sumidero Canyon is a natural wonder of Mexico , a national park and a Ramsar site. It is one of the highlights of Chiapas !

It is a geological fault formed 35 million years ago and crossed by the Grijalva River . You can take a boat ride to enjoy the amazing scenery.

You will see birds sunbathing (there are 195 species in the area!), some monkeys and crocodiles, and many natural formations.

Its most famous attractions are the Cave of Colors with a sculpture of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Christmas Tree , a waterfall named after its shape.

Besides the boat ride , I highly recommend you to go up to the viewpoints to have a view from above. It is even more impressive!

• Check out my Complete Article About the Sumidero Canyon , where I explain how to get there on your own or with a tour, take the boat ride and go to the viewpoints!

How to visit the Sumidero Canyon:

• By boat : you can take a boat ride from one of the four docks: Unidad Deportiva, Cahuaré, Belisario Domínguez and Chiapa de Corzo. If you go by yourself, you will have to wait for the boat to fill up with other passengers.
• By car: you can drive to the viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the canyon from above. The viewpoints are La Ceiba, La Coyota, El Tepehuaje and Los Chiapa.

How to get to Sumidero Canyon If you don’t have a car, it is quite complicated to get to the Sumidero Canyon , especially to the viewpoints.

The best option in this case is to join a tour like I did. It is a small group tour that includes transportation, a boat ride on the Grijalva river and a visit to the viewpoints, with free time in Chiapa de Corzo.

To book , click here on the name of the tour that suits you better (the only difference is the departure point):

• Sumidero Canyon Tour from San Cristobal de las Casas
• Sumidero Canyon Tour from Tuxtla Gutierrez

If you want to experience the culture of the tzotzil people , you should visit these two communities near San Cristobal de las Casas :

• Zinacantán is a small town known for the beauty of its traditional clothing . You can learn about the textile production process in a workshop and visit the church of San Lorenzo .
• San Juan Chamula , whose inhabitants wear black or white lamb’s wool clothing. Its church is a fascinating mix of Mayan and Catholic rituals in a mystical atmosphere . It is a must-see in Chiapas!

I invite you to read My Article about Zinacantán and the Complete Article about San Juan Chamula !

My tip They are autonomous communities with their own laws and the police have no authority here.

It is very important to be respectful and not take any photos of the people or the inside of the church of San Juan Chamula.

How to visit San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán:

• By car: from San Cristóbal, take the Puerto Caté-San Cristóbal Highway (25 min).
• By public transportation: colectivos go from the San Cristobal municipal market (25 pesos).
• You can join a tour from San Cristóbal de las Casas that includes transportation, a visit to Zinacantán with a demonstration of traditional weaving and a tasting of pox (a local alcoholic drink), and a visit to San Juan Chamula to discover its church and cemetery.

Book it here:

El Chiflón was one of the best surprises of my trip to Chiapas!

It is a beautiful natural site in Mexico located between the mountains and the rainforest.

It has 5 turquoise waterfalls , fed by the San Vicente River: El Suspiro, Ala de Angel, Velo de novia (the highest, 395 ft), Arcoiris and Quinceañera.

The park has a trail of about 1 mile that lets you see all the waterfalls in the middle of nature. It is easy for everyone to enjoy .

• Check out: My Complete Article about El Chiflón with all the practical information

How to visit El Chiflón:

• Entrance fee to El Chiflón : 80 pesos, option to zip-line (200-650 pesos, price varies according to the length you choose).
• There is a campground and cabins at El Chiflón if you want to spend the night there
• To get there from Comitán de Domínguez , take highway 226; or a colectivo to Socol or Tuxtla and ask the driver to stop at El Chiflón (45 min), then walk for 10 min.
• To get there from San Cristóbal de las Casas , take the 190 and then the 101 (2h20). To get there by public transport, you have to go through Comitán de Domínguez first.

If you don’t have a car, the best option is to take a tour to Cascadas El Chiflón because the distances are long!

It includes transportation from San Cristobal de las Casas , a visit to Lagunas de Montebello and free time for you to explore El Chiflón. Book it here:

The Lagunas de Montebello National Park is a vast natural area of 23 square miles that has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

The park is very big (with 59 lakes !) and of course you can’t see them all. These are the lakes I recommend you to visit in Montebello Park :

• Lake Tziscao is the largest and deepest lake in the park, located on the border with Guatemala . You can find cozy cabins and small restaurants where you can spend the night.There are small restaurants and cabins to spend the night .
• Lake Pojoj boasts an Orquídeas Island, which you can access by renting a raft (100-150 pesos, depending on the duration) or a kayak (1h, 80 pesos)
• Cinco Lagos consists of five interconnected lakes that offer the most breathtaking view of the park . You can enjoy a raft ride or  rent a cabin there.
• Lake Montebello is the perfect place to conclude your visit to the park. It has a charming atmosphere and you can relax in the small restaurant with a cup of typical Mexican chocolate by the lake.

Check out: My Complete Guide to Visit the Lakes of Montebello!

My tip El Chiflón is a convenient stopover if you are traveling to Montebello Park from San Cristobal.

How to visit the Lagunas de Montebello National Park:

• Getting there from Comitán de Domínguez : 1 h by Highways 190 and 307. If you go by public transport, the colectivo (1h15) leaves every hour from Calle 13a Sur Poniente and stops at Cinco Lagos. Be careful not to miss the last colectivo or you will be stuck!
• Getting there from San Cristóbal : there is no public transportation. You have to take Highway 101 to Comitán de Domínguez and then Highway 307 (total 4h-4h30).

If you are staying in San Cristobal de las Casas , the most convenient way is to join a tour because there is no direct public transportation and, even if you have a car, the road is long and has many curves and bumps.

I recommend this tour that includes transportation, a visit to the Lagunas de Montebello and El Chiflón . Click on the name of the tour:

• El Chiflón + Lagunas de Montebello Tour from San Cristobal de las Casas
• El Chiflón + Lagunas de Montebello Tour from Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Comitán de Domínguez is a city in the south of Chiapas that will delight you with its gothic, baroque and art nouveau architecture. It is also a city with a rich gastronomy, famous for its typical distillate, the Comiteco , which you can pair with spicy butifarra sausage.

Some of the attractions that you can enjoy in Comitán de Domínguez are:

• Mercado 1 de Mayo , a market that has been operating for over 100 years. There you can sample jocoatol, a fermented corn drink, and atole de granillo, a corn-based beverage with sugar and cinnamon.
• Stroll through the streets to see the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, the Chapel of San Sebastian, the Church of San Jose, the Juanchavin Theater and the Municipal Palace.
• The charming neighborhood of Caralampio , where you can see colorful houses and murals.
• The Hermila Dominguez de Castellanos Art Museum
• A coffee break on the terrace of the Rosario Castellanos Cultural Center , which is housed in a former convent from the 16th century.
• The House-Museum of Dr. Belisario Domínguez , who was a prominent politician who gave his name to the city.

From Comitan, you can also explore the Mayan ruins of Tenam Puente and Chinkultik , the waterfalls of El Chiflon , or dive in the cenote Chucumaltik !

How to get to Comitán de Domínguez:

• From Tuxtla Gutierrez : by car (2h45) take Highway 190D and then Highway 190; or by ADO bus (3h20)
• From San Cristóbal de las Casas : by car (1h50) take Highway 190; or by ADO bus (2h).

If you want to discover more of Comitan de Dominguez and its surroundings, you can join a tour that includes hotel pick-up , lunch and a visit to the stunning waterfalls of Las Nubes in the Lacandon jungle. To book this amazing experience, just click on the tour name below:

• Comitan + Las Nubes Tour from San Cristobal de las Casas
• Tour Comitán + Las Nubes from Tuxtla Gutiérrez

If you are a coffee lover, you should visit a coffee hacienda in Mexico . Coffee was introduced to Mexico in the 18th century and today it has a controlled designation of origin in the states of Veracruz and Chiapas , which is the largest coffee producer in the country.

You can visit several coffee farms that welcome travelers and offer more than just a cup of coffee. You can also enjoy ecotourism activities , such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and staying overnight at the farm.

You can follow the  Coffee Route  to explore the farms of Irlanda, Argovia, Hamburgo and La Chiripa, where you can learn about the history and culture of coffee production. You can also discover natural attractions like the San Francisco waterfall , which is a hidden gem in the jungle.

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is the capital city of Chiapas and a lively place with an airport. It can be a great starting or ending point for your trip through Chiapas.

Some of the attractions that you can enjoy in Tuxtla Gutiérrez are:

• Marimba Garden Park , where people gather from 7 pm to dance to the rhythm of the marimba, a musical instrument invented in Chiapas.
• The Marimba Museum, located right in front of the park, which tells the history and evolution of this instrument.
• The regional museum , which displays the history and culture of Chiapas from pre-Hispanic times to the present day.
• The Faustino Miranda Botanical Garden
• The Cathedral of San Marcos, which has a stunning façade that is illuminated by a show of lights, sounds and colors from Thursday to Sunday at 8 pm.

And if you want to taste the famous Chiapas coffee I recommend Café Avenida , an emblematic place on Avenida Central that has been serving delicious coffee since 1936!

Chiapas is a paradise for food lovers , as it offers a variety of typical dishes and drinks that reflect its rich and diverse culture.

Some of the dishes that you should try are: sopa de pan , a hearty soup with bread, egg and plantain; tamal chiapaneco , a corn dough filled with chicken, pork or cheese and wrapped in banana leaves; queso relleno , a cheese ball from Ocosingo, stuffed with pork and cooked in tomato sauce.

Another delicacy is tascalate , a refreshing drink made with roasted corn, cocoa, achiote and cinnamon.

Finally, there is pox , a traditional liquor made from corn, sugar cane and wheat, used in Mayan ceremonies for 2000 years.

It is quite strong (39% to 53%), so I suggest you start with a milder one that is infused with fruit. You can find them at  La Posheria in San Cristobal de las Casas, a cozy place that offers different flavors of pox and other local products.

Here you have a map with the main tourist attractions of Chiapas !

Where to stay in Chiapas?

• The Coffee Bean Hostel : A very cozy hostel with nice common areas, a restaurant and bar, a garden, terrace with hammocks, pool tables and several breakfast options, starting at 12 $usd in a shared dorm!
• Parador Margarita : Only 3 blocks from the main square and the bus station, it is a small haven of peace with a garden and very comfortable beds. Wifi and breakfast are included, only 46 $usd per night!
• Hotel Diego de Mazariegos:   A magnificent 18th century mansion with a preserved Mexican colonial style, a charming interior courtyard with a fountain and classic decoration in warm tones. The hotel has two restaurants and a bar. Wifi and breakfast included, from only 73 $usd per night!
• Casa Lum Hotel Boutique: My favorite hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas ! It is a small and sophisticated hotel decorated between modernity and traditional design. Includes a great restaurant, a terrace with a panoramic view over the city and a garden. A few steps from the main square, it is the ideal place for lovers, from 164 $usd per night!
• Corazon del Café: A hotel very close to the Plaza de Armas, with modern and comfortable rooms, good wifi and restaurant. From 40 usd per night
• Hostal Tres Central: Is a cozy and colorful hostel , it has a terrace with hammocks and a view over the mountains. Shared dorms and private rooms, very clean and with wifi. It offers the best value for money in town for its category, from only 13 usd!
• Hotel Madrid:  If you are looking for a little more comfort, this hotel is very well located in the center of Tuxtla Gutierrez, a few steps from the Marimba Garden and the main square. King bed and breakfast included, from only 35 usd per night!
• Marriott Tuxtla Gutierrez Hotel:  A high-end hotel at very affordable prices with very comfortable beds, very good wifi, gym, pool, restaurant open also for dinner. With breakfast buffet, starting at 73 usd per night!

If you want to explore Chiapas on your own , you should follow these tips:

1. Rent a car

Based on my personal experience, I would advise you to rent a car if you want to explore Chiapas on your own.

Public transportation in Chiapas is very challenging, as the distances are long and the options are limited. You may be able to take a colectivo (shared taxi) to your destination, but you may have trouble finding one to take you back!

Chiapas is not like the Yucatan Peninsula , where you can easily find buses or colectivos.

The good news is that there are many tours available from San Cristobal de las Casas , Tuxtla Gutierrez and Palenque that can take you to the most important places to see in Chiapas. However, if you want more freedom and flexibility, renting a car is the best option.

2. Plan your distances well

Chiapas is a large state with many attractions, but some of them are far apart.

For example, it can take you 4 to 6 hours to drive from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque, or from Palenque to Bonampak and Yaxchilan.

It is important to plan your itinerary well and avoid driving too much in one day. 

3. Never drive at night

For safety reasons, it is advised not to drive or travel at night on the road in Mexico.

Chiapas is no exception, especially on Highway 199 (Palenque-San Cristóbal) and Highway 307 (Palenque-Bonampak, Yaxchilán). These roads are not well lit and may have potholes, animals or other hazards.

It is better to drive during the day and reach your destination before dark.

4. Have a map with you

With so many forests, jungles and isolated places, the GPS signal and network can be easily lost in Chiapas .

It is always a good idea to download maps to your phone , but if you are going to Chiapas on your own, it is best to have a paper map as well. You can buy one at any bookstore or tourist office in Chiapas.

5. Bring the right clothes

In Chiapas, you can experience different climates and temperatures in one day .

You can be cold in the morning and then sweat from the heat and humidity in the afternoon. That’s why it is very important to pack light and comfortable clothes, but also a warm sweater or jacket for the evenings.

And don’t forget a good repellent because mosquitoes are voracious!

To get to Chiapas, you need to take a flight to Cancun or Mexico City first, as there are no direct international flights to Chiapas.

There are 3 airports in Chiapas : Tuxtla Gutierrez (the largest), Palenque and Tapachula.

From Mexico City:

• Going from Mexico City to Tuxtla by bus takes 14h (TAPO or Central del Norte) or 1h30 by plane with Viva Aerobus, Interjet, Aeromexico.
• Going from Mexico City to Palenque by bus takes 17h (TAPO or Central del Norte) or 1h10 by plane with Interjet. Palenque airport is 2 hours from the city.

From Cancun:

• Going from Cancun to Tuxtla takes 18h30 by bus or 1h40 by plane with Viva Aerobus or Volaris. The other companies pass through Mexico City.
• Going from Cancun to Palenque by bus takes 13h30. You can also go by plane but passing through Mexico City.

To find a cheap flight to Cancun or Mexico City , I recommend you to use our flight comparator in partnership with Skyscanner, it’s the guarantee to pay the best price!

How to get around Chiapas?

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Chiapas and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

ADO buses are very convenient for getting around Chiapas because they reach many destinations, the seats are comfortable and there are even some night buses.

It is best to buy your ticket in advance on their website as they are usually cheaper than at the station.

The colectivos are shared vans that make the same trips as the buses, but departures are more frequent.

And the great advantage (which is very practical) is that you can ask the driver to get off on the way (ex: El Chiflón, Misol-Ha, Agua Azul).

As I explained above, there is an airport in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Palenque and Tapachula.

But there are no flights between these destinations in Chiapas.

Chiapas has a history of conflict with the Zapatista movement , but today Chiapas is safer than many other Mexican states.

You can walk the streets and visit the tourist attractions of Chiapas , but of course, always be careful as in any trip.

It is also important to avoid driving at night.

The best season to go to Chiapas is the dry season (January to June) and avoid the rainy season (May to September), when you can admire the turquoise water!

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• TOP 35 Things to Do and Must See Attractions in Mexico – All the best places to discover
• El Chiflón Waterfalls (Chiapas): How to Plan Your Visit
• How to Visit San Juan Chamula , the Mystical Town of Chiapas
• Montebello Lakes (Chiapas): The Ultimate Guide + My Tips
• Palenque : The Ultimate Guide to the Maya Ruins
• San Cristobal de las Casas (Chiapas): Top 15 Things to Do
• Sumidero Canyon (Chiapas): The Definitive Guide
• Zinacantan : A Guide to the Tzotzil Community in Chiapas
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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The Top 10 Things to See and Do in Chiapas, Mexico

Chiapas is typically known as Mexico’s most southern, most impoverished and most mysterious state. Full of jungle ruins, wildlife, strange regional specialities and a mix of cultures, we’ve got the best of the region’s can’t-miss activities for your next trip to Mexico .

Discover secret Mayan ruins, cruise through towering canyons and visit indigenous Tzotzil towns on our five-day Mini Trip in Chiapas .

The archeological ruins of Palenque are the remains of one of the Mayan people’s most important cities. Surrounded by thick, lush vegetation, the ruins are a great place for visitors to hike through and practice bird watching. Particularly famous are the structures of the Templo de las Inscripciones, the Gran Palacio, the Templo XI and the temples of la Cruz Foliada, de Sol and del Conde, as well as a Mayan ball court .

San Cristóbal de las Casas is Chiapas’ most visited and loved mountain town where you will find a variety of attractions for every kind of tourist. Take some time to wander through the town’s main plaza, visit its hilltop churches and see the sprawling municipal market selling local fruits, vegetables and regional cuisine. It’ll be best to plan on staying for a few days to enjoy all the eating, art, culture and music in one of Mexico’s most beautiful towns.

Chinkultic ruins

One of Chiapas’ less frequented archaeological sites, the Chinkultic ruins once made up a Mayan city from the 3rd to 9th centuries. The site is now known for its stelae carvings of the town’s rulers, a ball court and a large cenote (natural well) into which the city’s people used to throw offerings. The ambiance at Chinkultic is extremely serene because of the humid forest surrounding the ruins—it’s not a widely known place and you might just find yourself exploring it alone.

Cascadas de Agua Azul

For a luxurious and relaxing time, head to the Cascadas de Agua Azul located a four-hour drive from San Cristóbal. The waterfalls and naturally-made swimming pools are a product of the series of limestone beds on the Xanil River and the water’s intense blue color is due to the amount of limestone and other minerals in the river, which are most visible during the dry season. In the surrounding area, you’ll find cabins, restaurants and hiking opportunities which you can take on with or without a guide.

Cañón del Sumidero

Make sure to check out the Sumidero Canyon near both Tuxtla and Chiapa de Corzo. The 25-kilometre (16-mile) reservoir is best seen by boats that leave from either Chiapa or Embarcadero Cahuaré, which is only 5 kilometres (3 miles) north of Chiapa along the road to Tuxtla. There is much flora and fauna to appreciate, from monkeys, crocodiles and birds to the breathtaking waterfalls and oddly shaped rock formations.

Zinacantán is a fascinating indigenous region in the Los Altos area of Chiapas. The Tzotzil Mayan people from the area are particularly know for their colorful and intricately embroidered huipils (a kind of tunic) and the longer, colored tunics adorned by tassels that are worn by the men of the communty. An open air market held every Sunday focuses on these fashions and the region’s latest in textiles.

Laguna Miramar

One of Mexico’s most beautiful lagoons, Laguna Miramar is full of activities and nature-filled adventures like kayaking, mountain biking, bird-watching and exploring the nearby caves to marvel at ancient drawings. There are restaurants and cabins for rent in nearby communities—the area surrounding the lake has been left undeveloped for the most part, making it even more attractive for tourists who want to take a break in nature.

Chiapa de Corzo

Chiapa de Corzo is an enchanting colonial town just 12 kilometres (8 miles) from Tuxtla Guitérrez and was the state’s first capital. You’ll enjoy a mellow, small town vibe as you drink a cup of delicious Chiapan coffee on the town’s main plaza or wander through the halls of the Santo Domingo de Guzmán ex-convent, which is now a cultural centre. The town is also a great departure point for exploring the Sumidero Canyon and the Chiapa de Corzo archeological site.

The most urban place on this list, Tuxtla is where you need to go when you start feeling overwhelmed by nature and want a dose of city and nightlife. Make sure to try some of Chiapas’ exotic specialities like snails and bee larvae, or regional specialities like carnes parrilladas (a platter of grilled meats) and ground beef tartare. You also won’t want to miss strolling through the Parque de la Marimba one evening as the entire city comes out to sway to music.

Volcán Tacaná

The Tacaná Volcano is Central America’s second highest volcanic peak (second to Volcán Tajumulco in Guatemala) and sits on Mexico’s southern border with Guatemala. Though the volcano last erupted in 1986, it is still considered to be active, though this doesn’t stop hundreds of tourists from visiting it each year or the local people from living on its green slopes in many little villages. Two villages in particular, Santo Domingo and Unión Juárez, draw visitors with their cool weather and local color. Holy Week in the spring is a time when many hikers make the trek up to the summit, so you’ll either want to avoid those days or book your trip for that week, depending on how you feel about crowds.

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10 Magical Places to Visit in the Mexican State of Chiapas

Chiapas is the ultimate destination to put on your bucket list for 2022. This state of Mexico (the southernmost state bordering Guatemala) is home to lush waterfalls, charming colonial towns, jaw-dropping canyons, magical ancient ruins and an endless stream of hidden gems.

I had been wanting to visit this region three years but last year (on my birthday) I had a trip there cancelled due to the pandemic. However, I got the chance to visit this area in 2021 and it turned out to be the adventure of a lifetime. If you are planning a trip to Chiapas, Mexico – and need some inspiration to start building your itinerary – here are the best places to visit:

• Archaeological Site of Yaxchilan
• San Cristobal de las Casas
• Cascada El Chiflon
• San Juan Chamula
• Sumidero Canyon
• Lagunas de Montebello National Park
• Agua Azul Waterfalls
• Zona Arqueologica Palenque

Of course, there are more incredible places to see in Chiapas but these are fantastic reference points to start putting together a travel plan. So in this article, I will be sharing my experiences in Chiapas and providing more detail around what to expect at each of these 10 destinations. Before I get started though, allow me to introduce myself and share my personal story.

My name is Lizzeth Huerta and I was born in the state of San Luis Potosi, growing up in a small town called Santa Maria del Rio. My passion for traveling around Mexico stems from my Dad’s job which always involved some form of travel. Every time he visited a new place, he brought me gifts and something representative of the gastronomy of that destination.

Since I went to university and started working, I decided that I wanted to see those places with my own eyes and have as many experiences as possible around my country. Today, I love nothing more than exploring my own backyard and having new adventures. Follow along @lizzhuertai2.0 .

A Beautiful Adventure in Chiapas

My interest in Chiapas started when I first saw pictures of the waterfalls there. They are considered to be some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mexico, so I wanted to see them for myself. I also wanted to experience the Lacandon Jungle. My trip in Chiapas lasted for eight days and I traveled by plane from Mexico City to Tuxtla Gutierrez. Here are the places I visited:

• Chiapa de Corzo
• Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints
• Cascada El Chorreadero
• Comitan de Dominguez
• Velo de Novia Waterfall
• Tuxtla Gutierrez.

Chiapas is a fascinating state with a rich cultural heritage. You can see the traditions of ancient cultures everywhere. On the other hand, the towns of Chiapas are surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and lush jungle. This state has everything a traveler could dream of and more. It’s a must-visit!

My Favorite Place in Chiapas: Yaxchilan

My favorite place in Chiapas was the Archaeological Site of Yaxchilan. The journey to get there was amazing! I took a boat tour on the Usumacinta River that forms in the Sierra Madre de Chiapas and empties in the Gulf of Mexico. On the way, you enjoy the tropical vibe of the Lacandon Jungle and when you arrive one of the most impressive archaeological sites greets you.

10 Best Places to Visit in Chiapas

1. archaeological site of yaxchilan.

Yaxchilan combines an epic journey to get there on the Usumacinta River with a classic Maya urban complex – a unique expression of the Usumacinta style. This city was once a thriving place back in A.D. 500 and 700 and the history is palpable as you walk around and marvel at its ruins.

2. San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal is a beautiful town with colonial architecture, lovely streets to explore, fantastic gastronomy and mountains surrounding it. Here you can base yourself for many adventures such as the Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour, visiting Cascada El Chiflon and mountain biking.

3. Cascada El Chiflon

Cascada El Chiflon is home to not one waterfall but five! All of them are this beautiful turquoise color, which makes them so inviting and appealing. From San Cristobal de las Casas, the waterfalls can be reached in three hours and from Comitan de Dominguez it takes no more than 45 minutes. I recommend visiting these waterfalls from either of those towns.

4. San Juan Chamula

San Juan Chamula is a hidden gem of Chiapas. The church here is the centerpiece but there is so much more that makes up this destination, like the Tzotzil Maya locals who have been fiercely independent people for centuries. Everything is distinct in San Juan Chamula – from the people, to the traditions and dress, to the architecture and religion.

In fact, I had one of the best experiences of my travels when I visited the church of San Juan Chamula. There is a deep sense of indigenous and Mayan traditions here. The energy of this church is so indescribable that I still think about it today. It generates this unique feeling inside of me.

5. Sumidero Canyon

There are a couple of ways to experience this canyon. You can join a boat tour from San Cristobal de las Casas or find the best viewpoints from up above. The viewpoints are fantastic for photography but if you want to get immersed in the canyon, it’s best to join a boat tour. You won’t regret it!

6. Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Lagunas de Montebello National Park is one of the most unique places in Chiapas. Each lake at the park (59 in total) has a different color and there are a few great cabin accommodations to book in the area. You can enjoy the lakes, hike around the pine forest and even visit a couple of Maya archeological sites. The park was designated a Biosphere Reserve in 2009.

7. Zinacantan

A quaint little town of 30,000 inhabitants, Zinacantan is situated in a valley surrounded by flowers and pine-forested hills. Due to its location in the highlands of Chiapas, this town is a little colder than the other destinations mentioned in this guide. But it’s no less precious and beautiful!

8. Agua Azul Waterfalls

As the name suggests, Agua Azul Waterfalls has this bright blue water that is a stunning visual spectacle to see. This color occurs because of the high mineral content in the water, which is then deposited on the rock. In the rainy season, the water is less blue but it’s still absolutely worth visiting.

9. Bonampak

The ancient Mayan city of Bonampak is home to incredible engravings, sculptures, murals and paintings. These all document the rituals, war practices and politics of the Late Classic Period of Mesoamerican civilization. The main attraction here is an acropolis that sits on a natural hill. You can walk up the stairs to a plaza that is surrounded by platforms.

10. Zona Arqueologica Palenque

Palenque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which achieved this status back in 1987. The various temples of Palenque are breathtaking to explore, even though they only represent a small fraction of how big this city was during the Classic period. I recommend spending at least a full day at the ruins, including a visit to the Palenque Site Museum “Alberto Ruz Lhuillier”.

Gastronomical Delights of Chiapas

The gastronomy in Chiapas is similar to the rest of the country, with the main difference being that some of the garnishes include fried plantain and cheese from the region. There are a few fantastic local dishes to enjoy like tamale balls and pork stews, and also traditional drinks such as pozol – which besides being delicious is very refreshing in the hot climate.

Where to Stay in Chiapas

Basing yourself in San Cristobal de las Casas is a nice idea as you are close to many amazing destinations and you can take several tours from here. Finding a hotel, airbnb or hostel should be no problem at all – just search online and book before you go, or turn up and see what you can find.

In Lagunas de Montebello National Park, I stayed in a cabin that I highly recommend – which includes a delicious breakfast and direct views of Lake Tziscao. The cabins I’m talking about are called Cabanas Junkolal tziscao .

Essential Info for Visiting Chiapas

The roads in Chiapas aren’t the best so I suggest traveling during the day to be safe. Chiapas has a large population of self-government for which they close the roads to protest. It’s important to check for alternate routes in case there is a blockage, since cell phone signal can be unreliable.

In most regions, the climate is hot. However, in San Cristobal de la Casas and nearby places the temperature is lower. It’s important to consider the appropriate clothing for both climates. Thanks for reading and enjoy!

BY LIZZETH HUERTA IG: @LIZZHUERTAI2.0

Author:  Lizzeth Huerta

Lizz Huerta was born in the state of San Luis Potosi, growing up in a small town called Santa Maria del Rio. She is passionate about living life to the fullest, traveling, concerts and being a free soul.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Chiapas, Mexico

The southernmost state in Mexico, Chiapas is a beautiful land of contrasts. Crumbling Mayan ruins lie next to charming colonial cities, and steamy, rainforest-coated mountains give way to epic natural sights such as the glimmering Laguna Miramar and the death-defying drops of Sumidero Canyon.

There is much to discover, and the region’s rich indigenous heritage and culture shines forth wherever you go. Whether it’s the incredible archaeological sites of Palenque and Yaxchilan or the astounding nature on show in Lagunas de Montebello National Park and at Cascadas de Agua Azul, Chiapas certainly won’t disappoint. There’s a lot to fit in, but here are the best places to visit in Chiapas.

Map of Chiapas, Mexico

10. Laguna Miramar [SEE MAP]

Tucked away deep in the confines of Montes Azules National Park, the sparkling blue waters of Laguna Miramar stand out delightfully against the vivid greens of the rainforest that hems it in on all sides.

A biodiversity hotspot, the lake and its surroundings are home to around 20 percent of the different species of fauna and flora to be found in the country, while lots of wildlife such as crocodiles and howler monkeys are also on show.

Due to its secluded nature, Laguna Miramar is a very peaceful place, and camping or staying the night in one of its eco-friendly shelters is a fantastic experience. In addition to horseback riding around the forest, swimming in the lake, and taking a boat trip around its waters, guests can also explore the unexcavated and unspoiled Mayan ruins that lie coated in the jungle alongside part of the lakeshore.

9. Tonina [SEE MAP]

Boasting one of the largest pyramids in the country and a host of impressive stone-carved monuments, the archaeological site of Tonina is fascinating to explore, with lots of crumbling temples, ball courts, and palaces to discover.

Although the site dates back to much earlier, the ancient Mayan city flourished between 600 and 900 AD. It was during this epoch that many of its most eye-catching monuments and buildings were built.

These include the magnificent Temple of Cosmic War, the remarkable Mural of the Four Eras and the towering Temple of the Smoking Mirror. Despite the wealth of beautifully carved sculptures and stuccoes, surprisingly few tourists visit Tonina. As such, you’ll be able to explore the spectacular archaeological site at your leisure with barely another soul in sight.

8. Lagunas de Montebello National Park [SEE MAP]

Located just a stone’s throw away from the border with Guatemala , Lagunas de Montebello National Park is a nature lover’s dream, with its 59 glittering lakes shimmering among the endless pine forests.

As the mineral content of the lakes varies quite considerably, they each have a different color; some appear emerald and turquoise while others take on a darkish ruddy hue.

Outdoor enthusiasts will rejoice at what the national park has to offer up; you can go hiking or horseback riding through the forests or swimming, kayaking, and canoeing in the lakes. In addition, there are also hundreds of half-excavated Mayan ruins for you to check out; seeing them appear before you from amid the dense vegetation is a mesmerizing experience that will make you feel like Indiana Jones.

7. Canon del Sumidero [SEE MAP]

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the state, Sumidero Canyon is simply spectacular to behold; in some places, its steep, almost vertical walls tower up to a kilometer in height. Taking an exhilarating boat trip along the Grijalva River that runs along the bottom of the canyon is a must as you shoot beneath the cliffs and alongside the rainforest-coated banks of the river.

Nestled away in the national park of the same name, Sumidero Canyon was formed millions of years ago. A number of waterfalls, rapids, and beaches can be found along the canyon, which stretches for 13 kilometers. While the scenery is stunning, the canyon also attracts many outdoor enthusiasts and extreme sports lovers, who go rock climbing, rappelling, and mountain biking within the park.

6. Chiapa de Corzo [SEE MAP]

Lying just a short distance away from Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapa de Corzo is a very charming town that has a wonderful relaxed and laidback feel to it. With its lovely central plaza, beautiful riverside waterfront, and impressive colonial-era churches, Chiapa de Corzo has more than enough for you to see and do for a few days, with some excellent street art and lively markets also on offer.

As it is mostly overlooked by foreign tourists, it is a great place to head to if you want to see the authentic side of Mexico. In addition to this, some interesting pre-Columbian ruins of the same name are located not far from the town – as is the spectacular Canon del Sumidero.

5. Yaxchilan [SEE MAP]

Once one of the most important and powerful Mayan cities in the region, Yaxchilan is now home to some of the most impressive ruins in the country, and just reaching the archaeological site is a memorable experience in itself.

Surrounded by dense jungle and perched atop a hill overlooking the Usumacinta River, Yaxchilan is only accessible by boat. Shooting along the river to see its ruined palaces and temples is an incredible feeling which is only magnified by the calls of the howler monkeys as you approach.

Exploring the secluded site is just as magical. Its well-preserved buildings with their intricately decorated facades and sculptures fully convey the power and prestige of the ancient Maya who once lived here. After wandering around Yaxchilan’s many ruins, retreating to the riverfront and taking the boat back feels as if you are resurfacing from a dream as you leave the mysterious ruins in the steamy jungle behind you.

4. Cascadas de Agua Azul [SEE MAP]

Twinkling in the sunlight, the Blue Water Cascades – as they are known in English – are a sight to behold; the vivid blues stand out starkly against the rocks and trees around them. Due to the high mineral content, gleaming white limestone is deposited in the stream’s wake, and this only adds to the beauty of the scene.

Coursing down a series of cataracts and cascades, the waterfalls are a popular place to visit with both locals and tourists alike, as the fresh water is so reinvigorating to bathe in. A peaceful and relaxing place to spend an afternoon, Cascadas de Agua Azul is well worth checking out if you have the chance.

3. Bonampak [SEE MAP]

Due to its remote location amongst endless swathes of dense jungle, Bonampak was only rediscovered by the outside world in 1946 – and what a discovery it was. With its magnificent murals and frescoes that display epic and eerie scenes of war and human sacrifice, the ancient Mayan archaeological site is fascinating to explore, with lots of well-preserved buildings and temples.

While it takes quite a while to get to the site, visitors will be well-rewarded for their effort, as they’ll likely have the incredible ruins of Bonampak almost to themselves.

2. San Cristobal de las Casas [SEE MAP]

Full of incredible colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and lively street markets, the charming San Cristobal de las Casas is a lovely city to visit. Its beautiful setting in a valley surrounded by hills only adds to its picturesque look and feel.

While its many beautiful churches and plazas are certainly worth checking out, many people come to San Cristobal to learn more about the rich indigenous cultures and traditions that continue to shape the city’s identity.

San Cristobal lies at the heart of many traditional villages that are scattered amongst the hills. For people interested in experiencing the authentic, traditional, and indigenous side of Mexico, taking a trip out to some of them is well worth the effort. Offering the perfect balance of history and culture, city and countryside, San Cristobal de las Casas really is a treat to explore.

1. Palenque [SEE MAP]

Home to some of the finest examples of Mayan carvings, sculptures, and architecture, the Palenque archaeological site is mesmerizing to explore, and it is not without reason that it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state.

Rising from the dense jungle, the crumbling temples and pyramids look absolutely stunning. Wandering among the huge buildings that tower over you really does make you feel like you have stepped back in time.

Thanks to the beautiful carvings that can still be seen etched in stone, much is known about the site, so it is well worth hiring a tour guide to take you around. With the cries of howler monkeys echoing in the rainforest and brightly colored parrots flying overhead, visiting Palenque and exploring the Mayan ruins promises to be a memory that will stick with you a lifetime.

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Best places to visit in Chiapas, Mexico: a 1 week itinerary

Chiapas is a naturally and culturally stunning region of Mexico. It has seven distinct geographical regions ranging from the Pacific coastal region, arid plains, high altitude forests, jungle, as well as the Gulf Coast region. In addition to a fascinating geography, Chiapas also has the largest population of indigenous people in Mexico, and is home to very significant Mayan ruins such as including Palenque, Yaxchilan, and Bonampak. I visited Chiapas in the Spring of 2022 during my sabbatical year after travelling around Colombia . This post will highlight what I think are the best places to visit in Chiapas, Mexico on a 1 week itinerary.

• San Cristobal de las Casas
• Transportation
• Where to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas
• Learn about local indigenous groups in Chiapas
• Visit the Sumidero Canyon and Chiapas de Corzo
• Visit Cascadas el Chiflon and Lagunas del Montebello
• Sima Cotorra and Cascada El Aguacero
• Trip costs for 7 days and 6 nights in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas
• Final thoughts on best places to visit in Chiapas Mexico in 1 week

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of these links, I may receive a small percentage at no extra cost to you.

San Cristobal de las Casas:

I decided to base my adventures in Chiapas out of the charming colonial town of San Cristobal de las Casas. While increasingly popular on the Mexican tourist trail, San Cristobal was embroiled in the heart of the Zapatistas movement – when the town was taken over in the 1994 on the day the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was implemented – by Zapatista rebels using the town as a base to launch their revolution.

While the Zapatista rebels were driven out of the town by the government into the fringes of the Lacandon jungle within a few days; killings and violence escalated throughout Chiapas throughout the 90s. Tensions have de-escalated since 2016, when the Zapatistas put forward a candidate for the 2018 election – which effectively ended 20 years of the Zapatistas rejection of conventional Mexican politics.

With its cobbled streets, colorful colonial architecture and myriad of artisan markets; San Cristobal de las Casa is undeniably charming, and is has been rightfully designated as a “Pueblo Magico” by the Mexican government for being one of the most beautiful cities of the country. San Cristobal is rapidly gaining attention on the Mexican tourist track and has become magnet for travelers visiting for a short while – and increasingly – a haven for digital nomads.

The artistry of local and indigenous artisans can be seen in many of the local markets in San Cristobal de las Casas. I could not help but go a little overboard in purchasing beautiful hand-woven scarves, pillow cases, and local amber jewelry at the many local markets in San Cristobal.

San Cristobal de las Casa is the base for many day trips and excursions that take you to stunning natural and culturally significant sites around Chiapas. Note that while all day tours will indicate they have bilingual service – my experience is that the tour is typically carried out almost exclusively in Spanish. For those who do not speak Spanish, either be prepared for a crash-course in the language, or there is always bilingual individuals on the tour who can help translate.

Transportation:

The closest airport to San Cristobal de las Casas is in Tuxla Gutierrez (TGZ), which is about a 2 hour bus ride away from the town. There are several ADO bus services from the TGZ airport directly to San Cristobal de las Casas (approximately $12USD) – but note that the services are limited to a few times daily – so you may want to time your flight accordingly, or be prepared to take a bus first to the bus station in Tuxla Gutierrez, and then another bus from Tuxla Gutierrez to San Cristobal de las Casas.

Where to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas:

I stayed at La Abuelita Hostel , and loved it. The property was very clean, cozy, and very inexpensive only 815 MXN ($41USD) for 7 nights – less than $6USD a night for a dorm bed, and included free coffee and drinking water, as well as very well-stocked kitchen with a wall of free spices and seasonings if you’re cooking. La Abuelita also has a sister property Posada del Abuelito which I’m told is similarly amazing.

Learn about local indigenous groups in Chiapas:

A popular day tour to the indigenous towns of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan was one of the highlights of my visit to Chiapas. The guided tours leave daily from San Cristobal de las Casas, and take you to the two villages, and tell you more about quite vastly different cultural practices of the two groups who live just a stone throw away from each other just outside of San Cristobal de las Casas.

The people of both towns have incorporated elements of indigenous beliefs to the Catholicism that they encountered during the colonial era. As a result they have created their own unique religious practices. In the famous Iglesia de San Juan, chickens are sacrificed inside the church along with offerings of Coca-Cola and hundreds of candles burned as “tortillas” to feed the Saints. Taking photos is strictly prohibited inside the church, but the memory of seeing the hundreds upon hundreds of candles burning row upon endless row next to families sitting peacefully with their offerings on floors covered with pine needles was a truly amazing sight that I will not soon forget.

In Zinacantan, theres is typically a visit to an indigenous household where you can see first-hand how the beautiful patterned fabric that the village is famous for is painstakingly woven thread by thread, and have the opportunity to purchase these handicrafts directly from the indigenous artisans themselves.

Visit the Sumidero Canyon:

The Canyon de Sumidero can be visited on a day tour, and features several viewpoints of the impressive canyon and river below, along with a 1.5 hour boat cruise along the bottom of the canyon. The boat cruise will drop you off at Chiapas de Corzo for a few hours to explore another one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos, before taking you back to your land transport that will drop you off back in the center of the city.

Visit the Casacadas el Chiflon and Lagunas de Montebello:

The Cascadas El Chiflon are some of the most stunning waterfalls I have seen anywhere in the world. The glowing aquamarine waters flow as a calm river linking stunning sets of waterfalls one after the other until you get to the largest waterfall – Cascada del Chiflon. The visit to Cascadas el Chiflon is usually done as a day tour along with a visit to Lagunas de Montebello .

The Lagunas de Montebello are a stunning set of lagoons next to the Guatemalan border. You’re given time to visit the Lagoons, as well as cross the border on foot on a little “cul-de-sac” of little shops and souvenir stores that dips into Guatamala. No passport checks, the cul-de-sac leads right back to Mexico, and I imagine it was built with the sole purpose of tourism in mind. Worth the cross border jaunt if you want to quickly check another country off your list with a little 10 minute walk into and out of Guatamala.

Sima de las Cotorras Rappelling Adventure and visit to Cascada Aguacero:

This rappelling and ziplining adventure to the Sima Corterra – a 150 meter deep sinkhole that is now home to thousands of parrots and other bird species – starts early in the morning with a 4am pick-up from San Cristobal de las Casas. The drive will take approximately 2.5 – 3 hours to Sima Corterra. The driver will take a break mid-way through at a gas station to fill up, and also for you to take a washroom break and buy snacks.

The rappelling adventure includes a 50 meter rappel about 1/3 of the way into the sinkhole, followed by a harnessed walk along the walls of the sinkhole. The adventure ends with a zipline across the sinkhole back to the start point.

No experience or equipment required – everything you need will be provided to you. It would be a good idea to wear running shoes or trainers – flip flops would be a very bad idea.

You’ll complete your visit at Sima Corterra around midday, and the tour will then continue with a visit to Cascada El Aguacero, a stunning waterfall that takes about 45 minutes to hike down to from where your driver drops you off. Not to worry the trail is easy and well-marked. If it is a hot day, make sure to bring ample water, and some snacks, as there are no vendors down by the waterfall.

Trip costs for 7 days and 6 nights in San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas:

Accommodations: $29.45USD

Flights from Santa Marta (SMR) to Tuxla Guiterrez (TGZ) Airport: $281.50USD

Mexico prepaid-SIM card with 2GB (Valid for 15 days*) $6.43USD

SIM card refill at OXXO additional 5GB valid for 30 days* $14.90USD

Souvenirs and gifts $75.50USD

Food and drinks: $65.77USD

Transportation: $12.02USD

Excursions: $106.55USD

Total: $592.12USD

*Note that you can refill SIM cards very easily in most OXXO and 7-11 convenience stores located all over Mexico. Usually refilling the SIM will create another 30 days of validity. Just make sure to take a photo of the card information that comes with the SIM card blister so you know your phone number and PIN unlock code

Final thoughts on best places to visit in Chiapas Mexico in 1 week:

Chiapas completely blew my mind with its beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and affordability. I had originally only planned to stay in Chiapas for 1 week, but ended up continuing my travels for an extra week in Palenque which I will cover in a separate post. If you take off the cost of the flights and my spending on souvenirs and gifts, my time in Chiapas only cost $33.59USD per day – and that includes the cost of excursions and eating like a queen for a week. A wonderful and highly recommended trip for sure!

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16 Unmissable Things To Do in Chiapas, Mexico

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 18, 2024

Categories Mexico , North America

Looking to visit Chiapas, Mexico? This state in the South of Mexico is incredible! Check out the best things to do in Chiapas + useful travel tips.

Chiapas is the southernmost state in the country of Mexico and is still quite a hidden gem. If you’re looking to escape the crowds of Yucatan, you’ll find Chiapas way more authentic and less touristy .

But what is Chiapas known for besides being home to a large number of Mayan ruins? This region of Mexico contains the largest population of indigenous people in the country.

It’s one of the only places in the world where you can explore old ruins and colorful colonial towns on the same day.

Chiapas in Mexico also contains several natural wonders such as the Canyon del Sumidero and the Sima de Las Cotorras . So, are you curious? Let’s take a closer look at what to do in Chiapas, and everything this incredible Mexican state has to offer!

Table of Contents

WANDER AROUND SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

San Cristobal de Las Casas is widely considered to be th e cultural capital of Chiapas and is one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations.

The reason why it’s so popular is because it still retains the appearance of an old, colonial Spanish village. It boasts red-tiled roofs and cobblestone streets which reminded me a bit of the streets in Puebla .

It also has a very strong indigenous population , with many of its people using clothes and customs from pre-Columbian times. Because of this, visiting San Cristobal is much like taking a step back in time .

There are also a number of markets to be found in San Cristobal, making it the perfect place to go shopping while you’re in Chiapas.

Things you can’t miss in San Cristobal de Las Casas include:

• Wandering around the historic center , where you’ll find the Zocalo and the Cathedral.
• Visiting the museums, among which stand out Na Bolom and Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya .
• Browsing through the bustling markets .
• Taste the traditional Mayan drink, Pox .

CLIMB PYRAMIDS AT THE PALENQUE RUINS

If you really want to see some history, you have to visit the Palenque Ruins . This is an ancient Mayan city that still stands in near-perfect condition.

It’s one of the most thoroughly investigated Mayan sites today, thought to contain some of the best examples of Mayan sculpture and architecture in the world.

READ ALSO: A Day Trip to Palenque from San Cristobal de las Casas

However, it’s also one of the ruins of which the least information is known. Most of what has been discovered came from hieroglyphic inscriptions . It’s supposed to have had its heyday in the 7th century , though the reasons for its decline are unclear.

In fact, it was hidden by the dense jungle for many centuries , as nature took over the pyramids when humans left. The excavated area spans a total of 2.5 square kilometers, but that’s believed to be only only 10% of the city!

In Palenque there are many gorgeous temples and palaces that you must see for yourself. The best part of all is that you can climb these pyramids, unlike most other Mayan ruins in Mexico .

If you’ve ever wanted to catch a glimpse of how the ancient Mayans lived, this is your chance. Check out HERE how to get to Palenque, Mexico + other useful info for your visit.

➤ The Chiapas: Agua Azul, Misol-Ha & Palenque Tour lasts a full day. You’ll visit the jaw-dropping Agua Azul waterfalls, and then head to Misol-Ha through the tropical jungle. Finally, step foot in Palenque, exploring the ancient site with a professional guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

FEEL SMALL AT THE CANYON DEL SUMIDERO

The Sumidero Canyon is a massive canyon located near Chiapa de Corzo. This natural attraction is as old as the Grand Canyon in the United States and a popular tourist spot in the region. It ranks high on the Chiapas things to do list!

While you’re there, you can take a boat tour of the canyon in which you’ll see waterfalls, caves, and animals such as crocodiles and spider monkeys. The canyon walls, which are over a thousand meters high, are a wonder to look at!

The canyon is also surrounded by a national park, popular for extreme sports such as rappelling, spelunking, and mountain biking.

➤ Check out this Cañon Del Sumidero, Miradores from San Cristobal de Las Casas . You’ll travel to the stunning natural park, where you’ll marvel at the walls, and look out for the wildlife. You’ll also enjoy a boat ride along the river, and visit the city of Chiapa de Corzo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

VISIT MISOL-HA WATERFALL AND AGUA AZUL

Two of Chiapas’s most impressive natural wonders are the Misol Ha waterfall and Agua Azul waterfalls . Agua Azul is a series of cascades while Misol-Ha is a single waterfall with a height of 35 meters. You can’t miss them when you visit Chiapas!

Both sites are only an hour away from each other and can –be visited on the same day either from Palenque or San Cristobal de Las Casas. They both feature clear, blue waters and pools that you can swim in. 

READ ALSO:  Misol Ha, Agua Azul, and Palenque Ruins: a Day Trip from San Cristobal de Las Casas

➤ This Agua Azul and Palenque Day Trip From San Cristóbal is a full-day excursion. It takes you to explore the waterfalls, and includes a visit to the Palenque ruins with a professional guide, all entrance fees covered. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

HORSEBACK RIDING TO CHAMULA

Chamula is another indigenous town near San Cristobal with its own language and customs. The town is surrounded by beautiful forests and hills. What better way to explore this countryside than by going on a horseback riding tour?

You’ll be greeted with many views of the spectacular Chiapas countryside . The ride itself lasts for about an hour and a half, and it doesn’t require any previous horseback riding experience. Although if you have some, you probably won’t hurt like me the next day!

A couple of agencies that offer the experience are Chultot Viajes Turisticos , and Chambajlum Tour Operator .

After the ride, you’ll be able to experience the unique culture of Chamula , which leads to the next point.

WITNESS THE RELIGIOUS RITUALS IN SAN JUAN CHAMULA

Visiting Chamula is much like seeing a country within a country . This municipality enjoys autonomous status within the country of Mexico.

Visiting it is one of the best ways to see how indigenous people live today. It’s an entirely unique culture with its own language, clothes, and architecture.

The people here also have fascinating religious beliefs, influenced by Catholicism and Paganism . This is best exemplified in Templo de San Juan , a colonial style church in which people kneel to pray on hay, surrounded by hundreds of tea light candles.

At the same time, they offer their Gods a variety of goods such as Coke bottles and chickens . Witnessing one of the rituals here is truly a magical sight to behold and something you can’t afford to miss.

A  reminder: you are not allowed to take photos or videos inside the temple. Please respect the rule!

➤ If horse riding isn’t for you, check out the  Tour to San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan . You’ll explore the historic center of San Cristobal de las Casas, and then head to the villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan with a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ An alternative is this Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples . In a few hours, you’ll discover the country life of the region, visiting local towns. Learn about the culture and traditions of the Tsotsil Mayans, and ride along stunning landscapes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

RAPPEL DOWN THE SIMA DE LAS COTORRAS

Sima de Las Cotorras is a huge sinkhole located in Chiapas, but unlike the cenotes, this isn’t filled with water but with a forest.

Along with being an incredible natural wonder in its own right, it’s also home to thousands of Mexican parrots . Every morning, you can see these parrots fly out of the sinkhole at once, which is a sight unlike any other.

This makes Sima de Las Cotorras a popular destination for bird watchers around the world.

It’s also a great spot for rappeling if you’d like to try something adventurous… I tried and it was tons of fun but a little scary, especially if you are afraid of heights! On top of all this, the sinkhole also contains a number of wall paintings from the ancient Zoque culture .

➤ Unless you’re willing to rent a car and drive through the countryside (and some sketchy areas), I recommend coming here with a Sima de las Cotorras Tour . Rappel down this incredible spot for an adrenaline rush and some incredible views.  ➥ BOOK IT HERE

SWIM AT CENOTE CHUKUMALTIK

If you follow this blog, you’ll know I’m probably the biggest fan of cenotes , so I couldn’t leave this one out of this guide. Chiapas isn’t famous for cenotes like Yucatan, but you can find a beautiful one here.

Cenote Chukumaltik is a giant sinkhole filled with crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect place for swimming, and it’s also a popular spot for scuba divers.

There are many interesting sights to be seen under the water such as petrified trees , stalagmites of seaweed , and an altar of the Virgin Dolorosa . It’s a great spot for beginners if you’ve never tried scuba diving before.

Cenote Chukumaltik is still somewhat unknown compared to other attractions, so you’ll likely have the place to yourself.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 6 Unmissable Cenotes in Tulum 11 Cenotes You Need to Visit Near Valladolid 11 Incredible Cenotes in Playa del Carmen

SOAK UP THE VIEWS AT EL CHIFLON WATERFALL

If you love nature, then this is something you don’t want to miss. El Chiflon is a chain of five waterfalls that can be found in the municipality of Tzimol. The tallest of these waterfalls is 120 meters high.

Also, if you hike to the top of the aptly named Rainbow Waterfalls , you’ll be greeted with a beautiful view of a rainbow below.

Many people who’ve visited Cascada El Chiflon describe it as one of the most beautiful natural wonders they’ve ever seen.

Along with simply enjoying the sight itself, there are several other activities you can participate in. These include hiking , swimming , and even zip-lining .

➤ The Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Tour from San Cristobal will bring you to discover the remote Chiflon Waterfall (where you’ll be able to swim), then you’ll cross one of the lakes at Montebello Lakes National Park on a raft. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

TAKE A TOUR TO THE COFFEE PLANTATIONS

This is something that coffee lovers like me are sure to appreciate ! Chiapas is famous for its fragrant coffee, boasting lush coffee plantations and around 400 million (!!) coffee plants.

The region grows what’s considered the best quality coffee in the country , besides producing 30% of Mexico’s entire production.

The volcanic soils and climatic conditions play a big part in the exquisite taste and body of the drink. They even earned it the Denomination of Origin in 2003 .

You’ll find that there are many fincas you can visit for a tour around the plantation, some delicious tastings, and coffee shopping.

It’s a good opportunity to learn about the making of coffee, the daily lives of local farmers, and how coffee production impacts the local economy .

Some of the fincas worth checking out include Finca Hamburgo , Finca Irlanda, and Finca Argovia .

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO THE LAGOS DE MONTEBELLO

Lagos de Montebello (Montebello Lakes National Park) is near the Guatemalan border, and consists of 59 beautiful lakes . The colors of these lakes are quite striking due to their unique mineral contents.

The waters you’ll find here are various shades of green and turquoise ; some of them are even purple or reddish black. Many of the Lagunas Montebello are suitable for swimming and kayaking .

The park also features ancient Mayan ruins from the pre-Colombian era. Stand at the top of its main pyramid to get an incredible view of the lakes below.

➤ The Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Tour from San Cristobal will let you soak up the beauty of Chiflon Waterfall (where you’ll be able to swim). Then, you’ll enjoy crossing one of the lakes at Montebello Lakes National Park on a raft. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

HIKE UP VOLCÁN TACANÁ

Volcán Tacaná is an active volcano that can be found on the border of Mexico and Guatemala, and it’s one of the highest peaks in Central America.

There are two different paths to the summit, one starting in Mexico and one in Guatemala. The Mexican path is not only easier to get to, but it’s also considered to be one of the best hiking experiences in Central America.

This hike will take you through several different landscapes, including small villages, jungles, and volcanic forests. If you enjoy hiking, then this is something you must try for yourself.

VOLUNTEER IN CHIAPAS 

Have you ever wanted to volunteer somewhere in Mexico but had no idea where to start from? It’s not always easy to look for good volunteer opportunities in Mexico on your own. Besides, agencies can charge even thousands of dollars to find you a volunteer placement.

On Worldpackers, however, there are plenty of opportunities when it comes to volunteering in Chiapas. You can help a local NGO, teach music to children, or work at a hostel in San Cristobal de Las Casas.

READ ALSO: A Complete List of Volunteering Opportunities in Mexico

You simply have to pay a yearly membership that gives you access to thousands of volunteer opportunities all over the world. The best part is that it’s very affordable. The yearly membership usually costs $49, but use this link for $10 OFF .

LEARN ABOUT TEXTILE PRODUCTION IN ZINACANTAN

Zinacantan is a small village in the state of Chiapas, known for its textile production . There’s a great number of textile workshops in town, most of which are family-run, where gorgeous hand-woven garments are crafted.

You’ll find exquisitely embroided blouses and dresses, showcasing designs inspired by their culture , and traditional clothing.

But even more fun than window shopping (or even actual shopping!) is learning about it!

➤ The Customs of Indigenous Villages of Chiapas is a 6-hour experience. A local will introduce you to the traditions and legends of their people, and the history of the town. Visit main landmarks, and learn about textile production with a family of artisans. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

VISIT CHIAPA DE CORZO

Chiapa de Corzo is a small town in Chiapas, known for its namesake archaeological site . The ancient city dates back to pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, and saw its heyday around 600 BC.

The town of Chiapa de Corzo, however, has beautiful attractions of its own. One of the landmarks you can’t miss is the main square, where you’ll find the stunning Fuente Mudejar , built in Moorish style.

Wide open streets surround the plaza , with colorful shops selling everything from traditional garments to the town’s local drink, Pozol.

The Templo de San Jacinto , the picturesque alleys , and the local history museum housed in the former Santo Domingo convent are worth a visit.

➤ A good way to visit is by joining this Chiapa de Corzo: Tradition, Gastronomy, and Canyon del Sumidero . It’s an 8-hour excursion that takes you on a comprehensive tour around town. Learn about the history of the Parachicos, visit traditional houses, and savor local dishes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

EXPLORE THE RUINS OF YAXCHILAN AND BONAMPAK

The Yaxchilan and Bonampak ruins are two of the most hidden Mayan sites, nestled deep in the Chiapas jungle . As such, the archaeological sites are relatively unknown , retaining their authenticity. Besides, getting there is quite an adventure!

A boat ride along the Usumacinta River will take you to Yaxchilan, from where you can reach Bonampack by heading further into the jungle.

The sites date back to approximately 300 AD, and retain fascinating paintings and carvings on the walls. While over 100 structures dot Yaxchilan, it’s believed that 80% of the original city hasn’t been unearthed!

The ruins are fascinating to explore, and the lack of tourists will make you feel like you’re in your very own Indiana Jones movie. You’ll be wandering around ancient structures and the thick jungle like an true adventurer.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

When staying in Chiapas Mexico, it’s recommended that you use San Cristobal as a base . Not only is it an amazing cultural experience in its own right, but it’s also relatively close to the other sites on this list. Book your accommodation by using the map below ⬇

Of all the hotels available in San Cristobal, none are better than Villas Casa Morada . This hotel comes with a number of great amenities including a restaurant, a cafe, a bar, cable TV, and free WiFi.

The rooms also come equipped with a fireplace, and a kitchenette with microwave and refrigerator. Some of them are on two levels.

My favorite part was the fireplace that they kindly helped us light . After over a month on the road, there was nothing better than ordering pizza and beer and having a night of Netflix and chill in front of the fireplace!

San Cristobal de Las Casas can get very chilly at night, so it’s certainly appreciated.

The hotel is also located near many of San Cristobal’s attractions. The Na Bolom Museum is only a five minutes’ walk away, and the Santo Domingo Temple is only fifteen minutes away. All these things make it a great mid-budget option for your stay in Chiapas, Mexico.

Check out RATES & AVAILABILITY for Villas Casa Morada

OTHER MEXICO ARTICLES TO CHECK OUT

8 Top Things To Do in Oaxaca

The One and Only 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary

Isla Holbox, Mexico: The Complete Guide To This Island Paradise

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Thursday 4th of November 2021

Hi Julien! When I wrote this article they weren't selling the activity on the Internet, just in a local travel agency, but this one is the exact tour I went on: https://www.civitatis.com/en/san-cristobal-de-las-casas/indigenas-communities-horse-ride/?aid=8495

Wednesday 3rd of November 2021

Hi Steph, loving all this info, you didn't provide a link to book to horseback ride to Chamula, any chance you remember what tour/service you used for that? thanks!

Aundrea Grieco

Saturday 4th of September 2021

Thank you for this article Steph! Really appreciate it! :) Learned a lot.

Monday 6th of September 2021

So glad it was useful!! :)

Man Everywhere

Friday 10th of January 2020

You need visit Chiapas on this hollydays, during january 9 january 23 all the towns celebrate the parachico fest! YOU SHOULD LOVE IT! it's a super crazy party where you can feel all the love and culture from Chiapas.

MÉXICO: 50 POSTS QUE AYUDAN PARA VIAJAR [1] | Viatges pel Món

Wednesday 8th of May 2019

[…] 12 Unmissable Things To Do in Chiapas, Mexico | Every Steph […]

A Chiapas Road Trip: The Ultimate Itinerary

Many people who visit Mexico have probably never heard of Chiapas. I hadn’t until I visited nearby Oaxaca and started planning our onward journey. Just what is there to do in Chiapas? After a little digging, it became clear that Chiapas is known for two things. Fantastic waterfalls and incredible Mayan ruins. It also became clear that to truly experience everything this diverse state had to offer a road trip of Chiapas was in order.

So we set out on our Chiapas road trip adventure to see if Chiapas was everything it was cracked up to be. We were not disappointed. A stunning state overflowing with waterfalls, deep cenotes, soaring mountains, stunning gorges, and lush green jungles. Hidden amongst this spectacular backdrop are crocodiles, spider monkeys, exotic birds, and the ruins of an ancient and powerful Mayan civilization. Grab your whip and your fedora and let’s get cracking on your own Chiapas road trip.

Helpful Resources We Trust and Love

Accommodation – Booking.com Transport – Bookaway Car Rental – Discover Cars Travel Insurance – World Nomads / SafetyWing Global Health Insurance – SafetyWing Experiences – Get Your Guide

Is Driving in Chiapas Safe?

Before you set out on your own Chiapas road trip, you are probably wondering if it is safe to drive in Chiapas. Well, it can be.

Driving in Chiapas is perfectly safe as long as you take the necessary precautions. While many areas of Chiapas are perfectly safe to travel through there are some parts of Chiapas that are “self-governed”. There is an ongoing “war” between the indigenous population and the government. Currently, there is no military action but the police nor the military are active in these areas.

In these areas, you will often time see children with ropes over the road requesting money or in one case a whole community with nails hammered into a board requesting money. If you were to drive through the rope and injure anyone, it is possible for the local government to detain you using their own customs. If this were to happen, the Mexican government would not intercede.

These types of activities are most frequently encountered on the road between Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas. If you do plan to drive this way, it is advisable to only drive during the day and take plenty of change to give to children and communities along the way. We also recommend buying a bag of candy to hand out to the children as an incentive for them to drop the rope and let you continue. A small price to pay for your freedom.

By taking these necessary precautions, driving in Chiapas is perfectly safe. We spent a month driving through the jungles of Chiapas and never once felt unsafe while driving.

The Two-Week Chiapas Road Trip Itinerary

Exploring Chiapas is no easy feat, with rugged mountainous terrain covered in thick jungle, and often large distances between the sights and attractions. Therefore, driving this state is the perfect way to enjoy it at your own pace, without the expense or rigidity of organized tours. Whether you rent a car in Tuxtla or bring your own (like us).

To properly explore Chiapas by car you need at least two weeks. We spent a month in Chiapas and felt like we only scratched the surface. The distances in between cities and attractions may seem short initially, but when you factor in topes (Mexican speed bumps), the occasional police check, and winding mountain roads, the time spent driving is not commensurate with the kilometers.

Here is our Chiapas two-week itinerary for exploring this natural paradise. A list of all of the best places to visit in Chiapas, what to do in Chiapas, and other tips and tricks that we learned on this road trip of Chiapas.

Day 1- 3: Tuxtla Gutiérrez and Chiapa de Corzo

The starting point for your Chiapas road trip will most likely be the capital city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez as it boasts the state’s only international airport. As we made the drive from Oaxaca, this was also our first stopping point.

READ MORE: The Best Beaches in Oaxaca: A Vanlife Guid e

While Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a large, bustling capital city, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had nearby if you choose to make this your home base for a few days. Here are a few options for what to do in Tuxtla.

Cascada El Aguacero

Start your nature adventure off with Cascada El Aguacero, an hour’s drive west of the city. This federally protected waterfall is located in the El Ocote Biosphere Reserve. To reach the waterfall, you must make your way down the 700-step, concrete staircase which is suitable for all travelers. The journey down should take approximately 20 minutes until you reach the beautiful cascading falls. The return journey is a bit more grueling as you climb back up to the top of the falls. Take snacks or lunch and spend the day soaking up the Mexican sun before heading back to Tuxtla for the evening.

Useful Information

• Entrance Fee: $36 pesos per person
• Distance: 56 kilometers (~ 1h) from Tuxtla Gutiérrez

The Sumidero Canyon

The Sumidero Canyon can be visited in two different ways, and we recommend taking advantage of both.

The Mirador

If you have your own wheels, grab breakfast to take with you and enjoy it at the final mirador overlooking the stunning Sumidero Canyon. If you go just as the gates open there will be few (if any) tourists imposing on your viewing space.

After breakfast, head back down the winding road and stop at the remaining five miradors. The cost to enter is $37 pesos and there are toilets available at the last view point or “mirador”.

Pro-tip: The views over the Sumidero Canyon will make you want to use your drone for some great aerial footage. Be careful if you do this as drones are illegal for tourists in Mexico. While we did not see any police nearby, we have seen tourists stopped in Mexico for the use of a drone.

After enjoying the vantage point of the Sumidero Canyon, take a boat ride to further explore this monumental canyon. Boat rides depart from Chiapas de Corzo throughout the day and cost $230 pesos. Take advantage of the discount on the boat ride when you show proof of payment from your previous entrance at the mirador (must be the same day).

From this vantage point, you will be able to marvel at the 1,000-meter-high walls, spot wildlife such as the American crocodile and the elusive spider monkey, and visit small caves and rock formations. The return trip should take approximately two (2) hours. Make sure to bring plenty of sun protection. The boats are uncovered and can be exposed to the sun depending on the time of day.

• Mirador: $36 pesos
• Canyon: $236 pesos ($200 pesos if you show a same-day entrance ticket for mirador)
• Mirador: Al Sumidero, Las Granjas
• Cañón Del Sumidero

Chiapa de Corzo

• Mirador: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, closed Tuesdays
• Canon Del Sumidero: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Cahuare: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Chiapa de Corzo: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Known as the heart of Chiapa, the town of Chiapa de Corzo is culturally significant not only because it is the starting point for visits to the Sumidero Canyon, but also because it holds one of Mexico’s most lauded festivals. While the city is charming in its own right, visiting during the Fiesta Grande in January is a remarkable experience. The streets come alive with vendors and performers leaving a festive experience not to be missed.

• Distance: 14 kilometers (~20 min) from Tuxtla Gutiérrez

READ MORE: 5 Things to Know About the Fiesta Grande Chiapa de Corzo

El Chorreadero Falls (Cascada de Chorreadero)

Make your last outdoor adventure near Tuxtla Gutiérrez a visit to El Chorreadero Falls. When we visited, the waterfall was just a drizzle, but I can imagine during the rainy season it would be impressive.

The waterfall is fed through an underwater river that descends into a series of pools from a cave. Tours can be arranged to take you deep into the heart of the cave and include adventure activities like rappelling, jumping, scrambling, and more.

The cost to enter is $25 pesos per person. We asked to camp at the gates of the falls (only in a parking lot) and were allowed with no problems or additional payments.

• Entrance Fee: $25 pesos per person
• Address: Carretera Federal Libre a San Cristorbal Km 24+600 Juan de Grijalva
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 6:30 pm
• Distance: 12 kilometers (~ 20m) from Chiapa de Corzo

Day 3 – 4: El Chiflon and the Cenotes of Chiapas

El chiflon waterfall (cascada).

The next stop on your road trip in Chiapas is one of our favorite experiences in Chiapas. And, what we think is the most impressive waterfall in Chiapas (and maybe all of Mexico). El Chiflon is a series of waterfalls culminating at the Velo de Novia (Bride’s Veil) which reaches a height of 120 meters. These waterfalls are not only impressive because of their height and thunder, but also because of the turquoise blue color of the San Vincent River. This personally was my favorite part of visiting these falls. The watercolor is so mesmerizing that it almost looks fake. Like someone dropped a whole lot of water coloring into the river! Soak up the sun, take a dip in the stunning river, and enjoy one of Chiapas’ greatest gifts.

The cost to enter is $50 pesos per person. You can also camp in the parking lot overnight for an additional $70 pesos per car. Plus, it allows you to be the first to enter the falls beating the crowds and busloads of tourists.

• Entrance Fee: $50 pesos per person
• Camping Fee: $70 pesos per car
• From El Chorreadero Falls: 140 kilometers (~ 2h 45m)
• From Tuxtla Gutiérrez: 130 kilometers (~ 2h 30m)

READ MORE: The Best Waterfalls in Chiapas

Cenote Chucumaltik

With the rest of your afternoon, head over to Cenote Chucumaltik just thirty minutes down the way. If you don’t know what a cenote (pronounced say-NO-tay) is, you are not the only one. I had to look this one up too. A cenote is a natural pit, or sinkhole, resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath. Cenote Chucumaltik, in particular, reaches depths of 60 meters and is a stunning blue color. Plus if you time it right, there will be no one around to bother you.

Entrance to the cenote is $30 pesos but you can stay as long as you want. Remember to bring plenty of water as there are no vendors or restaurants here. We also recommend grabbing some lunch and enjoying a picnic at Cenote Chucumaltik. Lastly, make sure to pack your snorkel gear as the scenery under the water is equally as impressive.

• Entrance Fee: $30 pesos per person
• Distance: 22 kilometers (~30m) from El Chiflon

Pit Stop: Uninajab

If you have more time, further down the road from Cenote Chucumaltik is Uninajab. Uninajab is a community with a series of freshwater pools overlooking the valley and La Angostura. It is a great place to visit if time permits. The cost to enter is $25 pesos per person, but you can stay here overnight for no additional fees.

End the day in the charming town of Comitan to rest up and explore the next day. Walk the old town streets, explore the lively main town square, and take in the traditional Mexican culture. We recommend dining at Ta Bonitio for the best meal in the city! Or, if you are looking for something more authentic head, over to El Puerquito for delicious carnitas tacos!

• Distance: 30 kilometers (~40m) from Cenote Chucumaltik

Tenam Puente

The Tenam Puente ruins are small in comparison to some of the other ruins located throughout Mexico but are just as fascinating. The overgrowth from trees and vegetation that provide a canopy over the ruins is unique. Like a bygone era, these ruins that were once forgotten now have a renewed sense of beauty.

We were not charged the entrance fee but be prepared to pay $40 pesos per person for entry which gives you access to the ruins and a small museum.

• Entrance Fee: $40 pesos per person (or free if you are luckily like us)
• Address: A13Km al Suroeste de Comitan Carretera Federal Km190 rumbo a La Trinitaria
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Distance: 15 kilometers (~30m) from Comitan

Day 5: Chiapas’ Freshwater Lagoons

Lagos de colon.

Lagos de Colon is a hidden gem of Comitan, along the Chiapas road trip adventure. Located close to the Guatemalan border, Lagos de Colon is definitely not to be missed. The series of small waterways are filled with crystal blue water surrounded by lush, green jungle. You won’t find many (if any) international tourists here as Lagos de Colon caters primarily to the rural communities and nearby towns. This is evidenced by the flocks of locals that descend upon the lakes to enjoy the cool, refreshing water for family picnics and gatherings.

Follow the road towards the El Lagartero Ruins to explore not only the ruins but the labyrinth of water bodies hidden beneath the tree canopies. This is also an excellent location to camp overnight as the locals leave at 5:00 pm and the parking area under the trees is quiet during the evening.

The entrance fee is $25 pesos per person which includes entry into the El Lagartero Ruins. Palapas can be rented for an additional $100 pesos per day and there are restaurants and tiendas for purchasing food and beverage. Toilets are also available for $5 pesos.

• Entrance Fee: $25 pesos
• Address: 30160 La Trinitaria
• Distance: 66 kilometers (~ 1h 15m) from Tenam Puente

Day 6 – 7: Lakes and Rivers

The next stop on your Chiapas road trip should be the Lakes of Montebello and Las Nubes.

Lagos de Montebello (Lakes of Montebello)

The Lakes of Montebello are a series of 59 different lakes near the Guatemalan border. These lakes are famous for their striking colors ranging from blue to emerald and the impressive forestry surrounding the lakes making them untainted by commercialization and tourism. Entry into the National Park is $36 pesos (January 2020) and then an additional $25 pesos to enter the lakes. Camping is available on the shores of Lake Tziscaco, however, a guard might ask for an additional $25 pesos per person if he is there when you leave in the morning.

• National Park Fee: $36 pesos per person
• Lagos de Montebello Fee: $25 pesos per person
• Distance: 94 kilometers (~1h 40m) from Lagos de Colon to Lago Montebello

Continuing further you will find Las Nubes. The thundering waterfall of Las Nubes along the Santo Domingo Las Nubes is known for its power and breadth. An ecotourism center protects and maintains the falls which are in impeccable condition. Entry is $30 pesos to visit the waterfall for the full day and includes access to toilet and shower facilities. For an additional $100 pesos you can spend the night in your campervan or cabins are available for $1,400 pesos.

We spent the afternoon relaxing by the falls, reading books, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the ecotourism center. If you dare to get in the gorgeous water be prepared as can be chilly!

• Address: Ejido Las Nubes S/N, Las Nubes
• Distance: and 72 kilometers (~1h 40m) from Lago Montebello

Day 8: The Labyrinth of Yaxchilán

How to get to yaxchilán.

It is important to head out early as you start day 8 of your Chiapas road trip as today will be one of the longest driving days on the trip. To reach Yaxchilán, you will need to take a boat from the nearby town of Frontera Corozal which is a four-and-a-half-hour journey from Las Nubes. The drive itself, however, is impressive passing through tiny pueblos with rolling mountains in the background from Guatemala.

Once you reach Frontera Corozal, you will need to pay an entry fee of $30 pesos per person to enter. This act of paying a town levy is customary in Chiapas as the communities take the opportunity to capitalize on international tourists. Once in Frontera Corozal, you will then need to take a boat to the ruins. The boat only leaves when the boat is full (10 people) to share the cost of the boat or wear the entire boat ride (~$1,000 – $1,500 pesos). It seems like a lot to do to get there, so is it worth it? We think yes!

The Yaxchilán Ruins

As you can probably gather Yaxchilán is located on the Usumacinta River making it a dominating power in the Mayan culture. Standard in Chiapa, the ruins are encased by the lush Chiapan jungle which is home to howler monkeys.

What makes Yaxchilán unique is the labyrinth. The labyrinth is the first structure that you will come to once you enter Yaxchilán. Legend is told that the Mayans used the labyrinth to test individuals who wanted to compete on the ball field. Mayans would be sent into the labyrinth after taking a hallucinogenic and if you made it out alive you were deemed fit.

If you are a cultural or ruin aficionado then making a stop at Yaxchilán is a must before heading onwards to one of the most visited ruins in all of Mexico.

• Frontera Corozal: $30 pesos per person
• Boat Ride: $1,000 – $1,500 pesos per boat (can be shared)
• Ruins: $65 pesos per person
• Address: 29935 Frontera Corozal
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (last boat is at 3:30 pm)
• Distance: 250 kilometers (~4h 30m) from Las Nubes

Pro-tip: Camping is allowed in the embarcadero without facilities free of charge.

Day 9: The Ancient Murals of Bonampak

How to get to bonampak.

A day in Chiapas without visiting a waterfall or ruin would be disappointing. Luckily, the next destination is the nearby Bonampak ruins.

As with Yaxchilán, a fee of $35 pesos per person is collected to enter the village of Lancado. This, unfortunately, is not the last payment that will need to be paid before entering the ruins or even getting there. Along the road leading to the ruins, locals set up a roadblock. The roadblock is to stop you from driving to the ruins with your own car and requiring you to take their transportation and of course for a price. The additional transportation will set you back between $100 – $150 pesos per person for round-trip transportation.

The Bonampak Ruins

Bonampak which means “painted wall” in modern-day Mayan is known not for its architecture or size, but for its unique mural paintings. These paintings are displayed within the three rooms of Structure 1. These murals depict the history of the Mayan people who lived at Bonampak. Do not miss the opportunity to visit these unique murals!

• Lancado : $35 pesos per person
• Transportation: $100 – $150 per person
• Ruins: $70 pesos per person
• Distance: 45 kilometers (~1h 15m) from Yaxchilán

Day 10: Chiapas’ Most Impressive Ruins, Palenque

The city of Palenque is less than charming. The main square is nothing special and there are a handful of restaurants or bars. The ruins, however, are worth a visit. The jungle of Chiapas’ rainforest engulfs the ruins of Palenque. Unlike other ruins in Mexico found on windswept hills or desolate fields, this one makes you feel as if you are in an Indiana Jones film. The rays of sunlight peeking through the jungle canopy make you stop and realize just how lucky you are to be able to explore such amazing sites.

The one downside to Palenque, however, is the souvenir vendors that set up shop IN the ruins. No, I’m not talking about outside, I’m talking about ALL over the walkways throughout the ruins. We went just as the ruins opened, so the hawkers were not yet spruiking their wares. They were too busy setting up shop for the busloads of tourists that would arrive later in the morning. Our advice, get there early to avoid the salespeople and the busloads of tourists.

• National Park: $37 pesos per person
• Ruins: $80 pesos per person
• Address: Carretera a Palenque- Zona Archaeologica Km. 8
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Distance: 152 kilometers (~3h) from Bonampak

Pro Tip: For those intending to overland in Palenque be careful. We parked on the streets of Palenque and were woken up to a burglar IN our car. Be smart about where you park and if you can afford it maybe spring for paid accommodation. Luckily the bandit only made out with a camera lens and a raincoat, but it gave us quite the scare!

Day 11: Waterfalls of Chiapas

Today is all about visiting the amazing waterfalls in Chiapas and is one of the most popular things to do in Chiapas. The drive from Palenque to Misol Ha and Agua Azul will take you across the beautiful scenery of the Chiapan mountains and jungle. It will also take you through at least one possible road blockade.

Communities gather at certain points along the road with a wooden board boasting nails protruding upwards to puncture your tires barring your onward journey unless you pay a fine to the community. We managed to get by with only paying $20 pesos, but have heard of people being charged upwards of $200 pesos. Ultimately you have no way of getting around the blockade without driving significantly out of the way as there is only one road leading from Palenque to San Cristobal de las Casas through the mountains. Either way, it is a small price to pay for being able to explore the impressive natural wonders that Chiapas has to offer.

Update: Please exercise extreme caution when traveling the journey between Palenque and San Cristobal. The incident we mentioned above is not isolated. Many people have been victimized by the locals along this route especially those traveling by bicycle.

The second last stop on your nature adventure is Misol Ha. Misol-Ha is just thirty minutes south of Palenque. While the falls of Misol Ha do not have the stunning turquoise blue waters of other waterfalls in Chiapas, Misol Ha is still impressive. When we visited water thunderously cascaded down the thirty-five-meter drop into a deep pool surrounded by lush, green forest. Make sure to bring your swimsuit here to enjoy the cool depths of the waterfall pool.

A concrete walkway has been constructed behind the falls allowing you to get up close.

• Address: Camino a Cascada de Misol-Ha
• Hours of Operation: 6:45 am – 7:45 pm
• Distance: 21 kilometers (~30m) from Palenque

Agua Azul Chiapas

Next, make the hour-long drive down to Agua Azul. It is hard not to be impressed with Agua Azul. Thousands upon thousands of liters of stunning turquoise water surge over a series of sprawling waterfalls. The only drawback is the food stalls, souvenir shops, and tour guides vying for your business and your money. While the overly commercialized aspect detracts some from the natural beauty of Agua Azul, we still recommend making it a stop on your way down to San Cristobal de las Casas.

We were charged an entrance fee of $25 pesos each at the top of the hill before we entered the national park, only to find out that this was a “road usage fee” (despite being provided a ticket stating Cascada entrada). We were asked to pay another $45 pesos each at the falls. While the overall cost is not so significant, the idea of getting scammed at every point (this double-dipping is common through Chiapas) makes you feel like a target and a sap.

• Road Usage (Perhaps Scam): $25 pesos per person
• Waterfalls: $45 pesos per person
• Address: 7V4M+RW Arroyo Agua Azul
• Distance: 44 kilometers (~1h) from Misol Ha

Pit stop: If you have not gotten your waterfall fix yet in Chiapas, the drive to Tonina passes two more small waterfalls that are worth a visit. Find out more in our article The Best Waterfalls in Chiapas .

Day 12: Discover the Ruins of Tonina

Complete your Chiapan adventure with one last visit to a Mayan ruin. The Tonina ruins are located approximately 30 minutes outside of Ocosingo. These ruins, in my opinion, rival the ruins in Palenque probably due to the lack of an oversaturated tourism industry.

The centerpiece of the Tonina ruins is the acropolis which extends over 71 meters tall and provides sweeping views over Chiapas’ countryside. The climb to the top of the vista is worth the visit alone. There is also a labyrinth similar to the one in Yaxchilán if your Chiapas road trip didn’t take you all the way there.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection as the climb up to the top can be slow going on the narrow facade of the acropolis.

The entrance fee is $65 pesos per person available at the kiosk prior to entering the ruins. Guides are also available on-site to learn more about the history of Tonina including its rivalry with nearby Palenque.

• Entrance Fee: $65 pesos per person
• Distance: 77 kilometers (~2h) from Agua Azul

Day 13 – 14: San Cristobal de las Casas

After visiting all of the natural wonders Chiapas has to offer, end your Chiapas road trip in San Cristobal de las Casas . This mountain town is slowly making a name for itself amongst travelers as being a culinary and coffee destination. While you can find traditional Mexican cuisine, the San Cristobal de las Casas specializes in international flavors. Korean to Argentine steak houses, and Indian to Spanish, the booming international food scene in San Cristobal de las Casas is a surprise revelation.

Spend your final days indulging and pampering yourself after long days exploring ruins and waterfalls throughout Chiapas.

Read more on what to do in The Ultimate Guide to San Cristobal De las Casas .

• Distance: 107 kilometers (~2h 40m) from Tonina

Useful Tips for a Road Trip in Chiapas

Before you set out on your road trip of Chiapas, make sure you go over these dos and don’ts.

When Is the Best Time to Road Trip Chiapas?

The best time to visit Chiapas is during the dry season which runs from November to May each year. The weather is a little cooler and less humid during this time as well as making nights more enjoyable.

Do always bring your raincoat when traveling abroad.

Don’t let the weather spoil your holiday!

What Are the Driving Conditions in Chiapas?

Like most of Mexico, driving in Chiapas can be hectic. Mexicans typically do not adhere to passing rules, speed bumps (topes) appear out of nowhere, and impromptu toll booths by communities can make driving stressful at times.

Do keep your speed in check.

Don’t drive at night as the roads are not well lit and topes appear out of nowhere.

Do stop for impromptu toll booths.

Don’t forget your fake wallet with small bills.

Can I Find Gas in Chiapas?

One thing to always be mindful of while on a road trip in Chiapas is running out of gas. One rule of thumb we live by is to keep the tank above one-quarter and to keep a gas can in case of emergency. Gas stations are easy to come by in cities throughout Mexico but are few and far between in more remote parts of the country (like the Chiapan countryside). Gas is often sold in plastic coke bottles from roadside vendors in a pinch.

Do fill up your tank in the city before heading out into nature’s playground.

Don’t find yourself stranded in the jungle of Chiapas without gas or cell service.

Do pay by card at gas stations as they are the one reliable place to use credit cards and bank rewards points!

Don’t forget to tip the attendant for filling your tank.

Is It Safe to Drink the Water in Chiapas?

Water in Mexico is non-potable. We recommend bringing a Platypus water filter to filter your own water. Additionally, carry jerry cans to purchase water at water purifying facilities for cents.

Do ask the gas stations to fill your unfiltered water tank to be filtered later.

Don’t mistake this for clean water and drink it.

Is Chiapas Safe?

We frequently are asked about safety and whether we feel safe overlanding in Mexico. We find that speaking with locals is a great way to make us feel comfortable with our camping spot and to make the locals feel comfortable with a stranger setting up camp nearby.

Do check in with the locals and make sure it is safe to park there.

Don’t park in unlit spots where burglars might be lurking.

Are There ATMs in Chiapas?

Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN not to be confused with the old Mexican peso MXP). There are ATMs in most medium-sized cities and most will charge a small fee for each transaction depending on the bank. We found the fee can be as little as $15 pesos to as much as $60 pesos. Specifically in Chiapas, there are no ATMs at the waterfalls and lakes, so make sure you visit one before leaving Tuxtla, Comitan, Palenque, or San Cristobal de las Casas .

Do carry cash in Mexico as most local restaurants and shops are cash only.

Don’t tip the locals off to you being a tourist and try to pay in your home country currency. (I’m looking at you Mom!)

Is the Mobile Internet Reliable in Chiapas?

In this day and age, we all depend on our cell phones, tablets, and laptops. We need the internet to navigate roads and if you are like us to work on the go. The mobile signal in Chiapas varies significantly depending on where you are located. Expect there to be no cell coverage in between cities especially on the drive from Las Nubes to Palenque and then further on to San Cristobal de las Casas.

Do download offline versions of maps.me or Google Maps.

Don’t rely solely on the internet as the locals usually have the best scoop.

We hope you enjoy your road trip in Chiapas! Thanks for wandering with us!

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From a small town in the USA, I had my first taste of travel when I was 17. Since then, I have traveled to over 80 countries and every continent bar Antarctica. I love to experience new places, cultures, and food. While you may occasionally find me in popular tourist destinations, I tend to gravitate to up-and-coming destinations, hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

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20 Comments

I am planning to visit this year during semana santa (first week of April) Solo female traveller. Will have about 5 full days. Debating about whether to hire a car or pay the $$$ for the tours. Cascada Aguacero, El Chilflon, Palenque the ruints (misol ha and agua azul) area

What do you think? I thought this was 2022 but I saw some people’s comments from 2020! haha

Thanks for reading.

It will be an awesome adventure.

Normally we say swerve the tour and go it alone, BUT Chiapas was not the safest state to travel in Mexico. As we mentioned in the article we had problems with roadblocks, scams, and worst of all we had our car broken into while we were inside in Palenque. While these instances didn’t make us afraid of traveling in the state, they did shake us up a little, and if we were on our own, probably would have ruined the experience. If it were me I would probably shell out for the tour, just for the peace of mind.

Let us know if you have any other questions.

With regard to the date published, thanks for bringing that to our attention, whenever we update something the published date is automatically changed, we will change that to show a published date and a last updated date.

Do not travel the Ruta Maya. Go around. 1000 topes and get extorted by force at least 3 times for passage by local criminals. That’s from San Cristobal to Palenque. I have scars to prove it.Do not bicycle it. Bicyclist have been murdered on this road. By locals. Stay near Palenque. There’s 4 star hotels $40 per night and gorgeous with pools and messages. Go around!

That sounds horrible. We were scammed once and heard of other people being scammed once, but nothing this bad! I will update the article so that other people are aware. Thanks for sharing this valuable information.

I had never heard of this but it looks so beautiful! Now I need to go!!

Yes, add it to your bucket list! Thanks for reading!

This area looks amazing. I’ve never heard of it, but it looks so interesting and beautiful.

It truly is special! Thanks for reading!

What an amazing itinerary! Mexico is one of my favorite countries and even though I want to visit a lot of places there, Chiapas is my dream destination. Plus, I have been to all major Mayan sites except Palenque. I hope to visit soon.

Chiapas is beautiful! Hope you make it soon!

I spent a week in San Cristobal de las Casas a few years back and loved it! We took a lot of trips out, but it looks like there’s a lot more we could do! I’m hoping to revisit in the next year or so.

There is soooooo much to do in Chiapas and all of Mexico!!

I, honestly, had never heard of Chiapas but it looks like some place that I would love to visit someday!

It is such a great place! Definitely add it to your bucketlist!

Wow how beautiful is this place and after reading this I can say you totally sold me on this place. Going into. bucketlist.

Glad you enjoyed! You won’t be disappointed if you visit!

Wow! This is an incredibly informative post and your pictures are just beautiful. Thank you!

Thanks! We really enjoyed our time in Chiapas!

Amazing! You must have had a great adventure!

Yes, you should definitely put Chiapas on your bucket list!

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Chiapas Travel Guide: 13 Things To Do and See In Chiapas Mexico

Chiapas is a state in Southern Mexico known for its mountainous highlands and dense rainforest dotted with colonial little towns and Mayan archeological sites. One of the least touristy places in Mexico , there are lots of things to do in Chiapas. This hidden gem has lots of things to offers for travellers. Chiapas is also a pretty compact state so it is easy to travel around the area.

Where is Chiapas?

Chiapas is located in the most southern part and on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It borders Guatemala on east and southeastern sides, Pacific ocean on the southwest and the states of Oaxaca, Veracruz, Tabasco, and Yucatan from west to northeast.

Flights to Chiapas Mexico

Chiapas has a small international airport that connects the state from other major cities of Mexico. Tuxtla Gutiérrez is about an hour by road to San Cristóbal de las Casas where the majority of the tourists stay. You can take a bus, rent a car or take a cab from the airport to your hotel.

As an alternative, you can also take a bus to Chiapas from Cancun, Merida , Playa Del Carmen and other major cities in Mexico.

Is Chiapas safe?

Chiapas is generally safe but as rule of thumb, be aware of your surroundings, take care of your personal belongings and don’t flash your money around.

Best places to visit and things to do in Chiapas

1. cañón del sumidero.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Lawson (@lawson406) on Mar 24, 2018 at 7:17am PDT

Cañón del Sumidero or Sumidero Canyon is a deep natural canyon surrounded by the Sumidero Canyon National Park. It is a protected area and covers 4 towns in the state of Chiapas. This amazing canyon is best seen from the boats that leave the river from Chiapa de Corzo. Aside from the amazing landscape, this national park also houses endangered and threatened species such as river turtle and American crocodile.

For the prices of the tour from San Cristobal de las Casas, click here .

2. Palenque Mayan Ruins

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by SBodur (@sittinsenegez) on Aug 12, 2018 at 1:14pm PDT

The archeological ruins of Palenque are one of the important sites for Mayans dating from about 600 AD to 800 AD. The ruins are located 6 km from the town of Palenque. Surrounded by thick vegetation, you can also bird watch and check out the falls in the area.

For the prices of the tour to the ruins of Palenque, click here .

3. Cascadas de Agua Azul

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by World Shares (@worldshares) on May 25, 2018 at 5:26am PDT

Cascadas de Agua Azul is a waterfall 69 kilometers from Palenque. Located in the Municipality of Tumbalá, this waterfall is high in mineral content that results to its intense blue color. Its naturally-made swimming pools are a product of the series of limestone beds on the Xanil River. There are restaurants, and cabins in the area if you want to stay overnight. There are also hiking opportunities in the area.

4. San Cristóbal de las Casas

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by San Cristóbal de Las Casas (@sancristobaldelascasas) on Jul 29, 2018 at 1:14pm PDT

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a little charming city known for its colorful buildings. There are several places that you can check out here; the town’s plaza, hilltop churches, museums, local markets, and the Mayan Villages.

San Cristobal is also a good base while in Chiapas. This little town has many tour operators that offer tours around Chiapas. And if that’s not enough, check out the restaurants for authentic Mexican foods.

To check the rates for the tours around the town, click here .

5. Laguna Miramar

Laguna Miramar is a freshwater lake surrounded by the lush forest of  Lacandon Jungle . It is one of the most ecologically diverse areas of  Mexico , containing around 20% of all species.

There are several things to do in Laguna Miramar if you want to take a break in nature. You can kayak, hike, bike, bird watch or explore the caves in the area.

6. Chiapa de Corzo

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Fernanda Miranda (@fermirandas) on Feb 12, 2018 at 7:13pm PST

Chiapa de Corzo is a laid-back town in Chiapas. It is known for its colonial architecture and it’s a good alternative for San Cristobal sans the crowd. There are beautiful churches and waterfront in the area worth checking. Chiapas de Corzo is also a good base to explore Sumidero Canyon and the archeological sites in the area.

7. San Marcos island, Boca del Cielo

Boca del Cielo is one of the few seaside villages in Chiapas and known for its laid-back beach. The island of San Marcos is the main point of interest and it’s short boat ride away from the main village. The island is only 300 meters wide but 10 km long. If you want a quiet beach, this is a good place to relax and just enjoy nature.

8. Las 3 Tzimoleras

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Espiritu Viajero De Mexico (@espiritu.viajero.mexico) on Sep 27, 2018 at 7:07pm PDT

Are you a fan of extreme adventures? Las 3 Tzimoleras is a private eco-ranch in Tzimol that offers canyoneering, rappelling, camping, horse-back riding, ATV and hiking. The main attractions are the 3 beautiful waterfalls in the area where the place is named after.

9. La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve

La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve in Chiapas is an ideal place to disconnect from everything and enjoy the nature. This Biosphere Reserve is a highly dynamic ecosystem where land, fresh water, and salt water meet. It is home to several threatened and endangered species including jaguar, spider monkeys, Rufus kingfishers, green parrots, and agami heron. The place is also home to several iguanas, crocodiles and several migratory birds who use the place as a stopover.

Grupo Turistico Costa Verde is a community-based cooperative tour company in El Castaño that offers a tour in La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve.

10. Lagos de Montebello

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Iván Sánchez (@ivnovich) on May 6, 2018 at 12:44pm PDT

Lagos de Montebello is a national park in Chiapas, Mexico. It comprises 59 multicolored lakes, pine forest, and Mayan ruins. The lakes are famous for its different colors ranging from turquoise to dark green, and purple to reddish black. There are also cenotes and limestones caves in the area.

Lagos de Montebello is about 2.5 hours away from San Cristobal de las Casas. For the tour prices going to Lagos de Montebello, click here .

11. Volcán Tacaná

Volcán Tacaná is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and the second highest peak in Central America. If you like hiking, Tacana is considered one of the most interesting hikes in the region. Along the trail, you’ll find farming villages, ancient magma flows, and lush rainforest. It takes about 10 hours to reach the summit from Union Juarez, Chiapas.  

12. El Chiflon

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by I Like Mexico (@ilikemexico.com.mx) on Apr 4, 2018 at 11:39am PDT

El Chiflon is 5 waterfalls in Tzimol, Chiapas. Famous for its multi-staged cascades and turquoise waters, the waterfalls are surrounded by mountains and rainforest. The activities here range from enjoying a nature tour, scenic views, hiking, zip-lining, or simply relaxing.

For the tour prices going to El Chiflon, click here .

13. Zinacantán

San Lorenzo Zinacantán is a charming little village in the Chiapas Highlands. The Tzotzil Mayan people from Zinacantán are known for their colorful and embroidered tunics. If you want to see these colorful textiles and to help out the local community by buying them, they held an open-air market every Sunday.

How to get around Chiapas

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by San Cristóbal de Las Casas (@sancristobaldelascasas) on Jul 14, 2018 at 8:04am PDT

There are many colectivos in the main towns. Colectivo is a small van that follows specific routes. This is the cheapest way to get around. Most colectivos have a sign on their windshield for their destinations. If you are not sure if they will pass to your destination, just ask them. Or you can either rent a car, take a taxi or join private tours.

Hotels in Chiapas

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Hotel Parador Margarita (@paradormargarita) on Dec 5, 2016 at 1:06pm PST

Chiapas is a very affordable place to travel. You can find decent hotels in Chiapas for less than $50 a night. Below are some of our favorites.

Hotel Posada El Zaguan is a small hotel in San Cristobal known for its nice decorated rooms and quiet location in the center of the city. It is an old house converted to a hotel but very comfortable and clean. To check their latest rates and reviews, click here .

Parador Margarita is known for its beautiful courtyard and traditional Mexican interior. Only 3 blocks from the main square, this place offers the best value in town. To check their latest rates and reviews, click here .

Puerta Vieja Hostel is a good hostel near the main square. If a hostel is your thing, this hostel offers a comfy bed with curtains for privacy, evening activities, tasty breakfast, and awesome social vibe. To check their latest rates and reviews, click here .

If you like what you read, please share! And also follow us through our  Facebook,  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  Pinterest  accounts for updates. Keep on travelling, y’all!

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

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Related topics.

• HISTORIC SITES
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• PREHISTORIC CULTURES
• ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

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24 March 2024 — Penumbral Lunar Eclipse — El Encanto, Chiapas, Mexico

24–25 March 2024 — Penumbral Lunar Eclipse — El Encanto

The animation shows what the eclipse approximately looks like. Stages and times of the eclipse are outlined below.

How to use altitude & direction to find in the sky

The curvature of the shadow's path and the apparent rotation of the Moon's disk is due to the Earth's rotation.

Cloud Coverage (24–25 Mar)

In the past, this day was cloudy 35% of the time (since 2000).

Lunar Eclipses

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Eclipses and Transits Visible in El Encanto

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