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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.

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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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Justin Foulkes

Chilly pine-forest highlands, sultry rainforest jungles and attractive colonial cities exist side by side within Mexico’s southernmost state, a region awash with the legacy of Spanish rule and the remnants of ancient Maya civilization. Palenque and Yaxchilán are evocative vestiges of powerful Maya kingdoms, and the presence of modern Maya is a constant reminder of the region’s rich and uninterrupted history. The colonial hubs of San Cristóbal de las Casas and Chiapa de Corzo give way to sandbar beaches and fertile plots of coffee and cacao in the Soconusco, and for outdoor adventurers, excursions to Laguna Miramar and the Cañón del Sumidero are unmissable.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palenque Ruins

Ancient Palenque stands at the precise point where the first hills rise out of the Gulf coast plain, and the dense jungle covering these hills forms an…

Jungle-shrouded Yaxchilán has a wonderfully atmospheric setting above a horseshoe loop in the Río Usumacinta. The control this location gave it over river…

Templo de las Inscripciones Group

As you walk in from the entrance the vegetation suddenly peels away to reveal many of Palenque’s most magnificent buildings in one sublime vista. A line…

Templo de las Inscripciones

Perhaps the most celebrated burial monument in the Americas, this is the tallest and most stately of Palenque’s buildings. Constructed on eight levels,…

The towering ceremonial core of Toniná, overlooking a pastoral valley 14km east of Ocosingo, is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in…

Chinkultic Ruins

With a dearth of other tourists, this is one of those magical archaeological sites where the sense of wild atmosphere is as enthralling as the stories…

Zona Arqueológica de Iglesia Vieja

Believed to be the regional capital of the Zoque during the Classic period, these ruins were inhabited between AD 250 and AD 400. The site's most…

San Cristóbal de las Casas

An atmospheric museum-research center, Na Bolom for many years was the home of Swiss anthropologist and photographer Gertrude Duby-Blom (Trudy Blom; 1901…

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Wildlife & Nature

Nov 16, 2015 • 3 min read

The diversity of Chiapas extends to its geography and environment, a fertile green expanse of bird-rich tropical lowlands laced with hidden waterfalls,…

Chiapas and beyond

11 Cool Things to Do in Chiapas, Mexico

There were a lot of things that we were expecting from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas: fun things to do, low prices, a colorful city in San Cristobal, and mountain views.

What we weren’t expecting was to discover a destination that appears to be designed for outdoor lovers like us.

If you love waterfalls, wildlife, and bargains, here are are the best things to do in Chiapas–and why you need to visit immediately!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

The Best Things to Do in Chiapas

Stare in wonder at el chiflon..

Rainbow Falls at El Chiflon became our new favorite waterfall the second that we laid eyes on it.

Enormous and cascading into a beautiful turquoise pool, one of our favorite aspects of the Rainbow Falls is that rather than falling in one giant bucket of water, it falls along the cliff it runs over–the effect is beautiful.

Some of the smaller waterfalls at the park were also beautiful, and reminded me forcibly of the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia.

Hike to El Chilfon and don’t want to head back down?

Don’t worry: as long as you didn’t go up the “wrong” (left) side like us, you can zipline most of the way back down!

Our wrong turn worked to our benefit, however–looking at where the viewing platform is on the opposite side of the waterfall, I think that we got the better view.

When we head back to this area at some point in the future, visiting El Chilfon again will be one of our first things to do in Chiapas, Mexico.

Enjoy the beauty of the Lagos de Montebello.

I never expected to find a view that reminded me of the karst cliffs of Thailand while in Mexico–but the Lagos de Montebello fit the bill.

These lakes are said to often be covered in mist, which held true for when we visited, but they were still beautiful (even if we didn’t feel up for the kayaking, which is one of the most popular Chiapas travel experiences there).

Go horseback riding in the countryside.

I have always loved to ride horses and took several years of lessons as a teenager, and Chiapas is the perfect place to explore on horseback.

Our three-hour tour took us through farmland, forest, and small villages–and most notably, the Templo de San Juan (more on that below).

Both a plus and a minus: the guides were very hands-off, and let us essentially do what we want, including trotting and cantering at will.

As an experienced rider, I adored the experience, but as many of our group members had never been on a horse before, I also found it fairly risky.

Make sure that you stay safe and know your own limits because you’ll need to set them yourself.

Visit the unforgettable Templo de San Juan.

Enormous amounts of incense. Chanting in a language that was not Spanish or Latin (it’s Tzotzil, the local indigenous language).

No pews. Straw all over the floor.

Hundreds of candles burning directly onto the ground, no candle holders in sight. A chicken in a box, waiting to be sacrificed at the end of a ritual.

No priests. Very few crucifixes. Plenty of statues of saints. One small Jesus statue off to the side of the altar.

Is this a Catholic church?

That’s what the Templo de San Juan, considers itself, but it is, without a doubt, the most unique house of worship that I’ve ever entered.

The church, which is located in the village of Chamula, strictly bans all photography inside and was vehement about enforcing it–and yet I have never wanted to take photos so badly in my life.

Climb the ruins of Palenque.

Not all of the incredible ruins in Mexico are available to climb anymore, including the famous pyramids at Chichen Itza.

That is for the best– Angkor Wat is a great example of a world-class site that is being damaged by its numerous visitors.

That being said… it’s still incredibly fun to climb ruins, and when you find sites (usually lesser-known ones) that let you scramble over them, it’s a blast.

Palenque is a perfect example of this–the best views of the city are from sitting on top of some of its buildings.

Admiring this view was one of our favorite things to do in Chiapas!

Discover the colors of San Cristobal.

It’s easy to overlook the city of San Cristobal in all of the nature that surrounds it, but there are plenty of things to do in San Cristobal , and the city itself is also worthy of some attention.

San Cristobal makes a perfect base for travelerss visiting Chiapas, Mexico.

The city is reasonably priced has plenty of transportation and tourism companies available to arrange excursions, there are tons of food and dining options.

This is where ee had our first Pad Thai since Asia–definitely not as good as on Koh Tao, but still great!

Most strikingly, San Cristobal de las Casas is so colorful , making it a joy to explore.

Climb behind beautiful Misol-Ha.

Sitting at the base of Misol-Ha is like sitting at the bottom of a cavern: there’s so much beauty above you.

Want to explore an actual cave?

For 10 pesos, you can explore the cave situated behind Misol-Ha–just be prepared to get very wet on your way there!

Take a boat ride through Sumidero Canyon.

I love canyons–they’re a great reminder of how enormous the Earth really is.

The walls of Sumidero Canyon reach over a kilometer high in some points, and there’s nothing more relaxing than enjoying a slow boat ride through it.

… As long as you’re not scared of alligators, that is!

We spotted a couple of adults and one baby sunning themselves during our cruise through the most famous canyon in Chiapas.

Get underground at the Grutas de Rancho Nuevo.

This striking cavern is beautiful enough for the first 350 meters–but if you want to have an unforgettable (if potentially terrifying) adventure, you can continue into the cave further than the light will follow you.

That’s right: armed with a flashlight and helmet, you can continue a bit further into the cavern to experience absolute darkness.

If you’ve never experienced the absolute complete darkness that a cave offers before, it’s definitely a memorable experience!

Visit El Arcotete Eco Park.

Whether you want to explore caves, try your hand at ziplining, or even go rock climbing or rappelling, you can find it at El Arcotete Eco Park, which is located an easy 15-20 minute ride from San Cristobal.

Go swimming at Agua Azul.

Just like the smaller waterfalls at El Chiflon, Agua Azul gave me Croatia flashbacks–this time to Krka National Park , complete with the option to swim at the bottom of the falls.

Keep in mind that you can’t swim just anywhere: some areas are much more dangerous than others, so be sure to follow the signs!

How much does it cost to visit Chiapas, Mexico?

Chiapas is one of the most affordable states in Mexico for travelers hoping to backpack Mexico on a budget .

Three-hour horseback riding tour? $10 USD.

A full-day trip to El Chiflon and Lagos de Montebello, including entrance fees? $16 USD.

Tour of the Sumidero Canyon, including transportation there and back? $15 USD.

The prices here are so low that with a moderate budget, you can easily do an excursion a day without breaking a sweat.

Don’t start checking off the best things to do in Chiapas without travel insurance! We use and recommend Safety Wing for their affordability, ease of purchasing & the clarity of their contract!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

23 thoughts on “11 Cool Things to Do in Chiapas, Mexico”

Grandpa enjoyed looking at your pictures on his new IPad. Have a lot to learn using the new toy.

Oh, we’re so glad to hear that! We love you and miss you. Looking forward to calling as soon as we can get strong enough Wifi.

I loved this blog post! found it on pinterest when I typed in Chiapas. Where all did yall stay during your trip?

Thanks, Calle! We stayed in an Airbnb in San Cristobal de las Casas. I definitely recommend San Cristobal–it’s the perfect place for exploring Chiapas, and a great city in its own right.

I was wondering the same thing – good to know! Pretty easy and affordable taking taxis around to all of your destinations?

Very! We used a combination of taxis and group tours in shuttle buses/vans to get around. All were easy to use and very affordable.

Hi, great post…I will be reading a lot more of your blog…I am planning a 3 week trip to Mexico in August, and 4-5 days in Chiapas (do you think it’s enough to explore Chiapas?). Are the tour prices really that cheap? I can see you’ve been there just this year? What is the best way to get there from Mexico city? Are the buses ok, or is it better to fly? Thanks, Everton

Hey Everton! 4-5 days is definitely enough to get a solid taste of the area, though you’ll be leaving some things undone–all the more reason to come back later!

Yes, the tour prices really are that cheap, at least as of January 2017.

We took a bus from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal, so didn’t come directly from Mexico City. ADO buses should be able to get you between the two points fairly easily (though it’s a long ride!). We had nothing but good experiences with ADO buses–they were all clean, modern, and efficient, included a/c and some even had charging stations in the seats. I don’t see any reason to fly unless you are very worried about time.

Hope you have an awesome time!

That’s great Kate, thanks for the tips. One more thing. Do you know if the tours from San Cristobal to Palenque allow you to take your luggage? I was thinking to do a tour to Palenque, but then stay in Palenque instead of returning to San Cristobal, which means we’ll have to take the lugagges. I couldn’t find any info on this on the internet…Thanks

Anytime, Everton!

Our tour guide let us bring our luggage and didn’t even bat an eye when we asked, and I imagine most others will react similarly. We were in a sedan, and they just through our bags in the trunk. Chiapas is a pretty casual place–if you tell the tour company what you’re looking for, I’d say the odds of them turning your money away are very slim!

Thats awesome to know, my plans should work then…Thanks Kate

Happy to help, Everton!

where did you stay ? thank you !

Hi Paul! We stayed in this Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13079917

The layout was a bit odd–half of it was separated by a private outdoor space–but we liked it well enough. 🙂

what company did you use for your horseback riding tour

Honestly, I have no idea! We just booked from one of the many tourist agencies in town. The people in our group came from several different agencies/hotels/hostels–essentially, they just combined us into one tour. Not sure if the horseback riding team had an official company name or not.

Jeremy and Kate ..I am a Scotsman who lives in Chiriqui Panama, was thinking of a trip to Chiapas and other places in Mexico ..I’m a seasoned traveller and use hostels etc

My question is when you done the trip to Panama did you use the TICA BUS , THEY GO FROM Panama to Chiapas ..if you did how did you find it, there web site is quite good and I like the idea that you can plan some time in other countries as well ,they seem quite flexable.

Thanks in Advance Donald

Nope, I’m not familiar with Tica Bus. We used local buses in some areas and booked shuttles through tourist agencies on the ground in others, but we booked everything as we went!

Hi, thanks for your post. My husband, daughters (11 & 13) and I are spending two weeks in Chiapas in July. We’re planning on spending a few days each, in about 4 or 5 cities, and visiting many of the places you listed. I’m not sure when you were there last, but I was wondering whether the Central American migrants are impacting traffic (e.g. walking on the highways) or whether you encountered blockades? We’ll have rental car. I speak Spanish and have driven in Mexico City and other cities in Mexico, but I’m a little anxious about the state of the roads (narrow? pot-hole ridden?). It seems to make more sense for us to rent a car (cost and flexibility) vs. taking a bus everywhere. Did you make it to Frontera Corozal or Yaxchilan? Thanks!

Hi Norma! We were in Chiapas in early 2017, so I’m not sure if there are any incredibly recent issues, but I suspect the odds of running into an issue with travelers on foot/blockades in Chiapas is minimal. I’d recommend asking a local before you arrive (maybe at your hotel or your Airbnb host?) and seeing if they know of anything recent.

Best I can remember, the roads weren’t incredibly well maintained (LOTS of speed bumps, and yes narrow in places), and there weren’t street lights everywhere, so things got very, very dark on the road. If you’re used to driving in Mexico I wouldn’t rule out driving as a possibility, but just go in with caution.

We didn’t make it to Frontera Corozal or Yaxchilan on our last trip, but maybe next time! We’d love to return to Chiapas.

It’s probably too late for your own trip, I was back in Chiapas around 2008, Commandante Zero was running for president in a balaclava. There were blockades of a sort, Mostly stop and searches on the buses. But the agents kept well away from me, in a way that was almost awkward. Near the border, taxi cab drivers fought over taking north, because the minute the immigration agents see a white person in the taxi, they’ll leave it alone. Many local Mestizo Mexicans HATE immigrants from Guatemala and further south. I had a conversation in Spanish with a local man who complained that the “Indios guatemaltecos” didn’t know Spanish (many only speak dialects of Mayan and other indigenous people) and didn’t want to learn, they were only there to take their jobs! Sound familiar? When migrants on the trains go through towns in Guatemala, children throw candies, when they pass the border, children throw rocks at them. You will not run into immigrants on the roads, because they rightfully fear the locals and the federales. It gets much worse, I was naive and thought Mestizos could not be racist against the indigenous people. I was very wrong. Maybe things have changed, but I doubt it. Be prepared to encounter barefoot children offering to shine your shoes. Heartbreaking.

Thanks for this informative blog post! Do you remember the tour company you used for the horseback riding to the indigenous villages & San Juan Chamula church?

Not only do I not remember, but I’m also pretty sure I never got a name in the first place! We booked it through an agency in town (not sure which one), but like in many places around the world, our actual tour group was composed of people who had booked at different places around town.

I have no doubt you’ll be able to find plenty of agencies in town offering the tour. We definitely recommend taking it! 🙂

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• Exploring Chiapas, Mexico: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Here is your Chiapas Travel Guide, for a land of breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage. In this comprehensive Chiapas travel guide, we invite you to embark on an extraordinary journey through some of the region’s most captivating destinations. From the colonial charm of San Cristobal de las Casas to the ancient ruins of Palenque and Yaxchilán, and the natural wonders of Agua Azul and Misol-ha, Chiapas offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered.

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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.

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Wednesday 8th of May 2019

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

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!

Plan Your Trip to Chiapas: Best of Chiapas Tourism

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10 Best Places to Visit in Chiapas, Mexico

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024

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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México » States » Chiapas

Tourism in CHIAPAS

Chiapas is a benchmark for tourism in Mexico. Magical region that being one of the most beautiful and visited, it remains at the same time virgin and paradise in many aspects.

History and archeology offer the traveler infinite possibilities, with itineraries that cover sites of great importance and size such as Palenque where Pakal, one of the most illustrious rulers of the classical Mayan period, ruled, or other more simple and unknown but equally surprising. The subsoil of Chiapas hides under the roots and the lush jungle, innumerable cities, and each hill can be a pyramid that the vegetation has devoured.

The sensation experienced by adventurers, archaeologists and profaners of pyramids is still felt when we get goose bumps when we find worked stones under the roots of a tree, or the entrance to a temple covered with lianas.

Its territory is home to five major Mayan cities, in fact in Chiapas there are some of the most significant Mayan sites in Mexico, such as Yaxchilán, whose lost city in the jungle we reached after going up the Usumacinta River, the largest river in Mexico, on a barge; or the temples of Bonampak, whose wall paintings are the best preserved from the Classic Maya period.

Other sites such as Toniná have their ceremonial and spiritual importance, their appeal, being a sacred space raised on an impressive mountain of seven platforms that the Mayans raised to control the valley and get closer to the gods. Further south, not far from the Pacific coast of Chiapas is the archaeological zone of Izapa whose stelae bear witness to the oral tradition that narrates the myths of the Popol Vuh.

Other highlights of the vast area of the sites are the Mayan acropolis of Tenam Puente; the natural environment of Lagartero, on the border with Guatemala; the Archaeological Zone of Chincultik with its ceremonial nucleus and the sacred cenote, or that of Chiapa de Corzo where the oldest inscribed stela in Mesoamerica was found.

Tourist Attraction in CHIAPAS

Palenque is a Chiapas city of Mayan origin, head of the municipality of the same name located in the north of the state. The indigenous population is formed mainly by the Chol, Tzeltal and Lacandon ethnic groups. The municipality borders Guatemala to the southeast, has three border sectors with the state of Tabasco and is also a neighbor of the Chiapas municipal entities of Catazajá, La Libertad, Ocosingo, Chilón and Salto de Agua. The closest cities to Palenque are Villahermosa, Tabasco, located 145 km to the west and San Cristóbal de las Casas, which is 219 km to the south.… Read More

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial towns. Through its peaceful cobblestone streets, flanked by houses with slanted red tiled roofs and patios full of flowers, one discovers religious monuments with influence from Mexican and Central American colonial art, giving it a peculiar frontier town character. Indigenous people come to its busy markets from the surrounding hamlets to offer textiles, ceramics, fruits and vegetables.… Read More

Ecotourism and Adventure in Chiapas

Ecotourism in Chiapas is currently one of the most popular tourist trends in the state, with activities that try not to alter nature, thus preserving the ecosystem, flora and fauna, while encouraging sustainable development processes in indigenous communities that remain in the region. Responsibly enjoy a vacation in Chiapas and discover the hidden secrets of the state such as impressive natural sanctuaries and indigenous communities in the heart of the jungle where ancestral traditions still try to survive.… Read More

Beaches in Chiapas

The Chiapas coast offers beautiful beaches where you can do a wide variety of water sports. There are beaches of great beauty that are characterized by their tranquility and that are ideal for you to relax and enjoy nature. However, it must be taken into account that many of them face the open sea, so the waves tend to be high and you must be careful to enjoy these waters. Part of the coastal area is immersed in the La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve, so if you are a lover of venturing into nature, this is one of the places with more options, where you can find some of the largest red mangroves in all of America that are located in a series of estuaries that make the landscape unique.… Read More

Archaeological Sites in Chiapas

In Chiapas the forests and the jungle are a beauty, spectacular settings for archaeological sites. The incredible nature that accompanies many of these areas is a plus. Visits to archaeological sites are part of nature tourism, due to the opportunity to walk around diverse natural environments. In several of these places you can see animals, or hear them. They are places that also give us the opportunity to connect with nature, and that hand in hand with culture is an excellent combination.… Read More

Magical Towns in Chiapas

Chiapas has 4 Magical Towns: San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Chiapa de Corzo, Comitán de Dominguez and Palenque, this recognition is given to the localities that have a special charm and unique symbolic attributes that allow to highlight the character and identity of the town, which they are manifested through their cultural heritage. Some of these characteristics can be: history, architecture, gastronomy and crafts, making your stay a magical moment.… Read More

Gastronomy of Chiapas

Chiapas food has certain features of authenticity, it is a gastronomic mosaic made up of its natural biodiversity, where each place prints its own characteristics, defines tastes and creates habits; varies in each region; Likewise, it is nourished by the diversity of Mayan ethnic groups and the Zoque of Olmec origin that when combined with Spanish cuisine by the influx of Dominican monks; It results in an immense variety of dishes of miscegenation typical of the State.… Read More

Tapachula and Tonala

Tapachula and Tonalá will amaze you with their beautiful buildings, their people and their traditions, colonial monuments, and breathtaking landscapes. Tapachula is also known as “La Perla del Soconusco” (The Pearl of Soconusco), it is a modern city with beautiful buildings built in a classic style. Located just next to the border with Guatemala, almost at the foot of the volcano Tacaná. Tonalá is a city in the southwest of Chiapas and head of the IX Istmo-Costa region; considered the third city in economic importance of the state; It is located in the transition of the Pacific Coastal Plain and the Sierra Madre de Chiapas.… Read More

Tuxtla Gutierrez

It is the capital city of the State of Chiapas. Its climate is hot and semi-humid. Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a modern city where culture and traditions of Chiapas blend together. The streets in Tuxtla contain a combination of past and present. It is a beautiful city surrounded by lush vegetation. In downtown there is the Central Park and the beautiful Marimba Park. During the evenings you can stroll around this park and enjoy the marimba music played at the gazebo. There are many natural wonders nearby Tuxtla and the city offers very good touristic infrastructure, but most of all, the city offers the warm and kindness of the people.… Read More

Arts and Crafts in CHIAPAS

Shops in Chiapas offer a wonderland of handicrafts. Chiapas is famous for its wide variety of crafts, and some of them are produced based on an antique Pre-Hispanic tradition.

The indigenous people of Chiapas are known for their fine weaving skills that have been handed down from generation to generation. The beauty delicacy and exclusivity from this manufacture faithfully follow the traditions, the weavers are trained since they are little girls. Cotton and wool textiles are found in daily use, and designs and symbolisms vary from one community to the other. Flower motifs, animals and men figures bond together give a special significance to the owner of this unique fabrics. Today, these textiles are raw material for a new line of stylish dresses, inspired by beautiful embroidery and fabrics.

Experts have considered amber from Chiapas as the most beautiful for its texture, transparency and great variety of colors. Yellow is the most known color, but there are also less known ones such as red, cognac, green and pink. There is beautiful jewelry made out of ambar. Among the traditions amber was thought to chase away evil spirits.

Amatenango village is famous for its clay pottery; they create jugs, small animal figures like jaguars and doves, and flowerpots among others. Other communities famous for its pottery creations are Ocuilapa, Suchiapa, and San Cristóbal de Las Casas. In the Lacandon Jungle the natives still make clay incense burners decorated with the face of a Lacandon deity like in the pre-Hispanic era.

Wood Carving

The artisans of Chiapa de Corzo produce excellent wood carvings, including sculptures, boxes, crosses and the traditional Parachico mask; in tableware, boxes, toys, masks and rattles, the artisans of Chiapa de Corzo are known by its singular perfection and beauty, along with a variety of bright colors. The tsotsil artisans produce excellent woodcarvings, furniture and traditional toys. In root carving, artisans from Tecpatán are unique. In the area of the Lacandon jungle the natives produces sticks and filled them with seeds, so when they moved them, the sticks sound like the rain.

In Palenque some skilled craftsmen, experienced in Mayan culture, make detailed sculptures, lintels and stone carvings reproductions. In Chiapas there are important deposits of Jade near the border with Guatemala, and the artisans create nice pieces and jewelry.

Metalwork and Saddlery

San Cristóbal de las Casas is famous for its colonial-style wrought iron works used for balconies, window gates, benches, lamps, among other things. Beside, San Cristóbal along with Comitán create beautiful objects of leather like saddles and horsemanship and charreria items, as well as wallets, belts, bags, portfolios, suitcases, etc. Waxworks (Candles): In San Cristóbal de las Casas, in La Merced District there is an ancient tradition to create exquisitely beautiful works of wax. The artisans’ hands transform the paraffin into subtle flowers with delicate leaves, sprinkled with gold dust.

Meetings and Conventions in CHIAPAS

Chiapas has become one of the most attractive locations for congresses and conventions both national and international. There are several cities with a solid hotel infrastructure and a wide variety of venues.

Tuxtla Gutierrez is a safe and modern city where nature and tradition come together, showing the zoque essence. The city offers a wide range of hotels, quality services, transport facilities, museums and shopping centers. The city is connected by air to most major cities in the country, and by land there are several bus lines that travel across the state. The specialist DMC Magazine has considered Tuxtla Gutiérrez as one of the top 10 destinations for small events.

You will love the Chiapas Polyforum and Convention Centre, a striking, contemporary complex of buildings. With 3,300 m2 distributed over nine rooms, offering capacities ranging from 50 to 1,500 people. The auditorium has a capacity of 3,875 spectators and features a cutting-edge audio system and computerized lighting; this is one of the most modern and exciting entertainment venues in the Southeast of Mexico.

San Cristóbal de las Casas offers hotel accommodations for small and medium-size groups with facilities for all tastes and needs. This Magical Town features colorful traditions, crafts, festivals, cuisine and cultural attractions as one of the oldest and most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico. The town will fill your event with its magic and two venues: The Casa Mazariegos Convention Centre, with a total area of 1,825 m2 and four rooms; and The Carmen Convention Centre, a part of a cultural complex including the Fine Arts building and the Public Library. This restored colonial building offers 2,300 m2 of meeting and event space; he large multipurpose room offers 1,243 m2 with a capacity of 1,250 people.

Tapachula is also a beautiful destination surrounded by incredible natural wonders complemented with good tourist infrastructure. There are non-stop flights to Mexico City and other destinations in Mexico. The Hotel Loma Real Tapachula International Convention Center is one of the largest and best-equipped venues in Chiapas. It has the capacity to organize events of up to 1,500 participants in beautiful rooms surrounded by gardens.

Chiapas offers the best pre and post event activities, you can enjoy an adventure in the jungle along the Cañón del Sumidero National Park, La Venta River Canyon, or in the Tacaná Volcano; or you can live the Mayan culture in Palenque, Bonampak, Toniná.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau of Chiapas (OCV) supports the organization of events with information, paperwork and negotiations.

Guided Tours in CHIAPAS

Flights & hotels in chiapas, more tourist attractions in mexico.

• Ecotourism and Adventure

Mexico is one of the best countries for Ecotourism as it has a great variety of flora and fauna, as well as a large number of refuges for extraordinary species. You can enjoy recreational activities of appreciation and knowledge of nature through contact with it, such as: stargazing, observation of natural attractions, wildlife and bird watching. Throughout México there are more than 176 protected natural areas, 5 of them considered by UNESCO as Natural Heritage of Humanity. Just for this and much more, we believe that Mexico is a Paradise for Ecotourism.… Read More

• Traditions in Mexico

It is practically impossible to make a meticulous, and above all, accurate selection of the places to visit in Mexico. Each place that our country houses is unique and beautiful in its own way. Mexico, with its nearly 2 million km², has a large number of scenarios to offer, as well as endless activities to do. Do not lose your way and enter the places to visit in Mexico. In Mexico, apart from the beaches and its famous archaeological sites, there are many other really interesting sites and activities that you should know. In the surroundings of the main cities you will find places full of culture and tradition, where you can spend relaxing, interesting and fun vacations. On your trip through Mexico you cannot stop obtaining souvenirs, the crafts that are made here are of the highest quality and recognized worldwide. A shopping tour cannot be missed.… Read More

• Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Zones are the cultural past of every Mexican. You will be amazed at the ambient, nature and the environment that surrounds them. Climbing to the top or being around it will take us back in time to admire every detail. México is a country of culture and traditions, many of which we have inherited from the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of this vast territory, although it is true that there were more settlements in the central and southern part of the country, it is also possible to find some archaeological remains in the north. … Read More

The Gastronomy of Mexico has a great diversity of typical dishes, which is why it was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The basic and representative ingredients of Mexican dishes are: corn, coriander, chili, beans, piloncillo, nopal and tomato. Mexican cuisine is also characterized by its sauces, which serve as an accompaniment to traditional dishes, prepared based on spices.… Read More

On the Beaches of Mexico you can immerse yourself in the intense blue ocean of the Pacific bays, sunbathe on the shore of the warm and transparent waves of the Caribbean Sea in Quintana Roo or even rest on the beautiful coasts of the Gulf of Mexico. Mexican beaches hide wonderful secrets for the traveler. By visiting them, in addition to enjoying the excellent climate and water activities, you can discover splendid archaeological sites and interesting colonial cities without traveling long distances.… Read More

• Magical Towns

A Magical Town is a place with symbols and legends, towns with history that in many cases have been the scene of transcendent events for our country, they are places that show the national identity in each of its corners, with a magic that emanates from its attractions ; visiting them is an opportunity to discover the charm of Mexico. The Magical Towns Program contributes to revalue a set of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation and that represent fresh and varied alternatives for national and foreign visitors. A town that through time and in the face of modernity, has conserved, valued and defended its historical, cultural and natural heritage; and manifests it in various expressions through its tangible and intangible heritage. A Magical Town is a town that has unique, symbolic attributes, authentic stories, transcendent events, everyday life, which means a great opportunity for tourist use, taking into account the motivations and needs of travelers.… Read More

States Of Mexico

Mexico has an incredible diversity of landscapes, where the beauty of its beaches, internationally recognized, stands out. In its vast territory of coasts, there are beaches of unparalleled beauty, and colorful landscapes. A large network of first-class hotels and tourist services is available to visitors to these beaches. Mexico is also mystical places, dotted with archaeological testimonies inherited from its original inhabitants. Monuments made by the Mayas, Aztecs and Toltecs are located in magical landscapes, like lighthouses in an ocean of natural beauty. They offer visitors buildings that tell their history, and museums that collect their cultural heritage. And that keep alive ancestral traditions, in ceremonies and festivals, where you can enjoy cultural activities and entertainment.… Read More

• Capital Cities

Folklore, gastronomy, literary culture, art and exhibitions, is what you will find in the capitals of the states of Mexico. To the north, colonial Mexico, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, the Sonoran desert and the California peninsula. To the east Veracruz and the gulf. To the west Acapulco, Oaxaca and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. And to the south the Riviera Maya and the pyramids of Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm and Cobá in Yucatán, Palenque in Chiapas, the cenotes, and the Central American jungles.… Read More

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• States of Mexico
• Animal Rescue in Mexico

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.

• North America
• Top 10 Things See Chiapas...

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

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.

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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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Mexico holds historic election in race largely overshadowed by violence

MEXICO CITY — Voters in Mexico participated in the country’s largest election ever — casting votes Sunday to fill more than 20,000 local, state and federal positions and almost certainly electing their first female president.

Isis Victoria Duarte, a senior law student, got up early and arrived at a polling site in Mexico City about two hours before it opened at 8 a.m.

“Today is an important election,” Duarte said. She was the third voter to cast her ballot.

Duarte said she was excited to vote for a female president "because it shows how far we have come as a country."

One of the two front-running presidential candidates — Claudia Sheinbaum, of Morena, Mexico’s governing political party, and Xóchitl Gálvez, of the opposition coalition Broad Front — is expected to make history as Mexico’s first female president. Jorge Álvarez Máynez, the Citizen Movement party’s presidential candidate, was running a distant third in the polls.

“It’s a necessary change. It’s long overdue,” Marc Siegel, a Mexico City resident, said after having voted Sunday afternoon about the prospect of a female president.

Polls closed at 6 p.m. local time.

In the U.S., there was frustration after thousands of Mexican nationals, who for the first time were granted the right to vote in person at selected consulates across several states, reported standing in line for more than 8 hours to participate in the historic vote.

Many of them were not allowed to vote after polls closed while they were still standing in line. From New York to Chicago and Los Angeles,  voters protested the long waits  and the lack of organization at these polling sites after they had gone through the registration process and some had driven hours to vote.

The road to one of the most consequential elections in Mexico’s history has been marred by rampant violence.

Criminal groups have taken over large parts of Mexico as they fight for territory to traffic drugs into the U.S., make money from migrant smuggling and extort residents to fuel their illicit enterprises.

As of noon local time, four hours after polls officially opened, nearly 88% of voting booths had been “successfully installed,” according to Mexico’s National Electoral Institute. The institute said voting could not take place in person at 170 polling places,  mostly in Chiapas  and Michoacan, citing security problems.

A man running for local office in Michoacan was gunned down on Saturday night, just hours before Election Day. The Mexican state's Attorney General's Office identified him as Israel Delgado Vega. According to a news release, the candidate died at the scene while "those responsible fled."

Violence against political figures has persisted throughout this election cycle, resulting in a 150% increase in the number of victims of political violence since 2021, according to an analysis from Integralia , a public affairs consulting firm that researches political risk and other issues in Mexico. So far, at least 34 of political candidates have been killed in this election cycle.

That has greatly dismayed Mexican voters, leading most of them to cite security as a top issue of concern. About 6 in 10 Mexican adults consider their cities to be unsafe because of robberies or armed violence, according to a survey Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography published in April.

“Violence is present in everyday life, everywhere,” Duarte said.

Some Mexicans decided to nullify their votes by writing in the name of one of the more than 110,000 people who are missing for president, the Associated Press reported.

Isolated incidents of violence took place on Election Day after a bloody campaign process .

In the city of Querétaro, the governor said assailants tried to burn ballots at a polling place. Videos about the incident surfaced on social media. Municipal civil protection officials said they responded to the incident . The National Electoral Institute said Sunday afternoon the polling site " is already operating normally. "

In the central state of Puebla, local police made arrests after four armed assailants tried to enter a school being used as a polling site to steal ballots.

Juan José Alonso, a voter in Mexico City, said he had "never seen so many people coming out to vote so early." He said he believes that's because people are trying to avoid potential violent incidents.

“The insecurity caused by drug trafficking is a big problem, but I think people are increasingly aware of it," he said in Spanish.

Sheinbaum, the former mayor of Mexico City and a physicist and climate scientist, has said she plans to combat violence by continuing the policy of “hugs, not bullets,” implemented by her mentor, outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, which does not directly take on the cartels as previous administrations had been.

Before López Obrador, "there was at least a rhetorical intention by the Mexican government and the local governments to do something" about the violence, said Tony Payan, director of the Center for the U.S. and Mexico at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy. "But ever since Mr. López Obrador took office at the end of 2018, that discourse has completely shifted. ... These criminals feel that they can do almost anything they want to and the state will not go after them."

López Obrador’s policy has not significantly reduced killings over the past six years, when, Mexican government data shows, at least 102,400 homicides have been reported.

But the data also shows that the strategy of López Obrador’s predecessors, pursuing drug lords in an all-out war, did not improve safety, either.

Gálvez, a center-right candidate who is a tech entrepreneur and has served as a senator, has been working to convince voters that health care access and economic development have stalled under Morena and that crime rates remain high.

She has also tried to position her party — a coalition of traditional political parties that had long governed Mexico, such as the conservative National Action Party, or PAN; the small progressive Democratic Revolution Party; and the old-guard Institutional Revolutionary Party, or PRI — as the change Mexico needs to unite an increasingly polarized country.

"I will like to see some level of change," said Aaron Carreras, who voted in Mexico City, "but it doesn't have to be a big revamp."

Mexico’s next president will have an important role in resolving issues that are priorities for the U.S., such as immigration and foreign affairs, as well as determining the future of the trade deal that has made Mexico the U.S.’ largest trade partner .

Nicole Acevedo reported from New York and Guad Venegas, Kayla McCormick and Albinson Linares from Mexico City.

Nicole Acevedo is a reporter for NBC News Digital. She reports, writes and produces stories for NBC Latino and NBCNews.com.

Guad Venegas is a Telemundo correspondent, covering the California region.

Kayla McCormick is a producer for NBC News.

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CONOCE LOS RESULTADOS

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Elecciones Chiapas 2024 en vivo hoy: ¿Cómo van las votaciones para gobernador?

¡llegó el momento los resultados del prep representan una certeza para los millones de ciudadanos que hoy emitieron su voto en chiapas, ¿cómo va el conteo.

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¡Conoce los resultados ! Uno de los momentos más importantes y más esperados de hoy, 2 de junio , se da con los resultados del Programa de Resultados Electorales Preliminares , mejor conocido como el PREP , mismo que emite el Instituto Nacional Electoral (INE). Es gracias a esta herramienta, que la ciudadanía de Chiapas podrá conocer resultados preliminares de las votaciones en tiempo real a través de internet, ¿cómo van las votaciones para gubernatura ?

• Eduardo Ramírez (Morena, PT, PVEM).
• Olga Luz Espinosa (PAN, PRI y PRD).
• Karla Irasema Muñoz (Movimiento Ciudadano).

🗳️ #Chiapas busca gobernador | #Elecciones2024MX Los poco más de 4 millones de personas que están llamadas a votar en #Chiapas son para elegir al nuevo gobernador de la entidad. https://t.co/6Ut5WOQqdq Los contendientes son: Eduardo Ramírez Aguilar Olga Luz Espinosa Morales… pic.twitter.com/2wcpTlVfEn — Fuerza Informativa Azteca (@AztecaNoticias) May 24, 2024

¿Cómo funciona el PREP en Chiapas?

Al igual que en el resto del país, el PREP en Chiapas es un mecanismo que va generando, poco a poco, información preliminar de los resultados. Contiene imágenes y datos de todas las Actas de Escrutinio y Cómputo de las casillas del país.

¡Tómalo en cuenta! AÚN NO SON RESULTADOS OFICIALES, ya que el sistema avanza conforme se recibe la información, acta por acta, a partir de las 7 de la tarde del 2 de junio y por un periodo de 24 horas, hasta que todas las actas estén computadas.

Resultados PREP elecciones en Chiapas 2024 en vivo

¡Cerraron las casillas en Chiapas ! El PREP habilitó una página para que en punto de las 20:00 horas puedas consultar los resultados previos.

Eduardo Ramírez, representante de Morena, PT, PVEM, lleva la ventaja con 76.1990% y el 57.4146% de la participación ciudadana.

00:30 HORAS:

Eduardo Ramírez, candidato de Morena, PT, PVEM mantiene la ventaja en el PREP Chiapas con un 7.6165% de la actas capturas, ¿cómo van los demás aspirantes?

• Olga Luz Espinosa Morales - 14.5192%
• Karla Irasema Muñoz Balanzar - 4.5639%

00:15 HORAS:

Con el 6.5160% de las actas capturadas, el PREP Chiapas indica que Eduardo Ramírez es el candidato que lleva la delantera con 76.7261% .

23:15 HORAS:

El candidato Eduardo Ramírez, abanderado de Morena, PT, PVEM continúa en la primera posición con 75.7647% a prácticamente el 5% de actas computadas.

22:30 HORAS:

¡Sigue adelante! Las candidatas Olga Luz Espinosa y Karla Irasema Muñoz no parecen recuperarse, porque con 133 actas capturadas y el 59.3380% de participación ciudadana, el candidato de Morena, PT, PVEM permanece a la delantera.

21:45 HORAS:

Con 56 actas capturas y el 59.2734% de la participación ciudadana, el candidato de Morena, PT, PVEM sigue a la cabeza, con el 71.6479% .

21:15 HORAS:

El candidato Eduardo Ramírez, abanderado de Morena, PT, PVEM, mantiene la ventaja con un 70.7007% . Hasta ahora van un solo 34 actas capturas.

20:45 HORAS:

Instituto de Elecciones y Participación Ciudadana anunció que en punto de las 20:30 dio inicio de manera oficial el PREP en Chiapas . A solo unos minutos de haber iniciado, el candidato Oscar Eduardo Ramirez Aguilar , representante de Morena, PT, PVEM va la cabeza con un porcentaje de 72.4970%.

20:00 HORAS:

Los resultados del PREP ya arrancaron en México; sin embargo, en Chiapas aún no hay cómputos de boletas electorales.

No olvides revisar el siguiente enlace: https://www.iepc-chiapas.org.mx/prep-2024

Eduardo Ramírez lleva la ventaja en el PREP de Chiapas

Ante la ventaja del PREP de Eduardo Ramírez , el candidato de Morena anuncia que festejará en la Casa de Campaña ubicada en Tuxtla Gutiérrez.

Para quienes me preguntan dónde vamos a festejar, ahorita nos vemos en la Casa de Campaña ubicada en la 12 Poniente Norte 198, de Tuxtla Gutiérrez. iGracias Chiapas! — Eduardo Ramírez (@ramirezlalo_) June 3, 2024

¿Hasta qué hora estarán abiertas las casillas en Chiapas?

¡Ya no hay tiempo! Las casillas en Chiapas y en todo México cerraron en punto de las 18:00 horas , pero, ¿qué pasa si dan las seis de la tarde y sigues en la fila? No te preocupes porque el INE indico que los funcionarios de casilla tendrán que atender a todo aquel que se encuentre en la lista nominal.

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Bullets before ballots: Dozens of Mexican candidates have been killed as cartels seek more control

N oé Ramos was chatting with voters, sharing breakfast with supporters of his mayoral reelection bid in his hometown in northern Mexico.

“It’s something very special that people give me a glass of water, that they invite me to have a taco, to have a tamale,” Ramos said in a Facebook livestream last month featuring him at an outdoor table in El Mante in Tamaulipas state. “It motivates me to keep on working to make things better. … I will not defraud them.”

An hour later, Ramos was dead. An attacker approached him on the campaign trail and stabbed him multiple times.

The same day, April 19, a mayoral candidate in the southern state of Oaxaca was found dead, two days after he was reported missing.

The slayings of at least 30 candidates have provided a chilling backdrop to Mexico's June 2 elections, as criminal gangs seek expanded control in states where cartels already wreak havoc . The country's largest vote ever, with more than 20,000 posts up for grabs and a marquee contest that will almost certainly see Mexico choose its first female president , has led to one of the bloodiest election cycles of recent times — and one in which voters say they are most worried about public safety.

On Wednesday, the last official day of the Mexican campaign, another mayoral candidate was killed — in the western state of Guerrero, among Mexico's most violent. José Alfredo Cabrera, an opposition hopeful in the municipality of Coyuca de Benítez, was shot dead at his closing campaign rally, authorities said. Video circulating online showed a smiling Cabrera greeting supporters as a hand holding a pistol appears at the back of his head. What sound like repeated shots are heard among screams from the crowd as the video loses focus. Authorities did not immediately verify the authenticity of the video, but the governor's office confirmed the candidate's slaying.

The killings this cycle, documented by human rights groups and others, haven't reached the four dozen killings of candidates before the 2018 election , but the Mexican consultancy Integralia has declared the current campaign season the most violent in modern Mexican history when also taking into account threats, disappearances, kidnappings and other acts of intimidation — against not only office-seekers, but also current and former public officials and “collateral” victims such as family members.

Integralia counted 560 victims of political violence as of May 1 — compared with 389 victims during the 2017-18 campaign and 299 in the 2020-21 midterms. It specified 316 attacks or threats against candidates as of an updated report May 28.

The violence this year, as in other recent election cycles, has not targeted big-name candidates for the presidency, gubernatorial posts or other high-profile positions. Rather, those seeking municipal offices are in the crossfire.

“It’s the Tip O’Neill phenomenon: All politics are local,” said David Shirk, a political scientist at the University of San Diego, referring to the late congressional leader from Massachusetts. “Mayors and mayoral candidates are essentially under siege because they are a critical point of influence and protection for criminal actors.”

Gangs seek to finance their own nominees — and then strong-arm or eliminate opponents. Crooked mayors can deliver corrupt cops and other benefits to criminals seeking dominion over smuggling routes, extortion targets, municipal budgets and other opportunities in their territories, or plazas . Local politicians can be more vulnerable to cartel pressure than governors and other high-ranking lawmakers.

“Organized crime needs some kind of understanding with the authorities,” said Carlos Bravo Regidor, a Mexican political analyst. “That may be a kind of negotiation that can be friendly, or skirts legality, or involves bribes and collusion — or it can be violent, with threats, extortion or direct aggression.”

And buying politicians is far more certain than working through the democratic process.

“Criminal organizations need guarantees,” said Bravo Regidor. “Uncertainty doesn’t guarantee that the winner will be someone who agrees with the deals they have made.”

Of course, being on a gang payroll is no assurance of longevity. Rival factions may come calling in a country where organized crime is highly fragmented.

"The real dilemma that a lot of candidates and officials face is this: If they are in the pocket of one criminal group, will they draw fire from another?" said Shirk, who heads the Justice in Mexico program at the University of San Diego.

Another factor, of course, is protection: Hopefuls for local posts seldom have the bodyguards that accompany higher-level candidates.

The violence has prompted the Mexican military to bolster security, dispatching more than 3,450 troops tasked with protecting some 554 aspirants, with the largest deployments for presidential and gubernatorial office-seekers, according to the secretary of defense. Still, there is no federal escort for most candidates, who often seek out protection from state and local police forces, or hire private bodyguards.

“Political violence is out of control and there is no real possibility that state or federal authorities can protect those who seek help,” wrote columnist Raymundo Riva Palacio in Mexico's El Financiero newspaper. "And the form in which these cartels have been empowered , with the help of some politicians … leaves everyone exposed."

On the morning of April 1, Bertha Gisela Gaytán outlined how, if elected mayor of her home city of Celaya, she would target ever-mounting violence . Then she took to the streets of the industrial hub with supporters. It was the first day of her campaign.

A hit squad lurked. At least one assailant opened fire at point-blank range, according to police and witness comments to the media. The killers drove off on a pair of motorcycles. Images of Gaytán’s body lying face down on the street with blood flowing from her head were soon online.

Gaytán, a 47-year-old lawyer, had sought protection from federal authorities but had yet to receive it.

“We had hopes that she would make a difference because she said she was going to combat the narcos ,” said María Celorio, 32, a resident of Celaya — which, like much of the central state of Guanajuato, has become an organized-crime battleground, registering some of the country’s highest homicide rates. “Instead, they killed her.”

Federal security was finally forthcoming for Gaytán — at her funeral, which featured phalanxes of troops guarding Celaya's cathedral.

"Today we mark an absurd death, a death provoked by killers who believe they dominate society," eulogized Father César Corres Cadavieco. "By cowardly criminals capable of finishing off a life that is an inconvenience to their own interests."

Gaytán was a member of the ruling leftist Morena party of outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador — as were 10 of the candidates slain so far in the electoral season, the most of any party. But analysts said that may just reflect Morena’s domination of Mexican politics, not a targeting of its candidates for ideological motives.

Campaign violence tends to be concentrated in states such as Guanajuato, Guerrero, Tamaulipas and Michoacán, where cartels hold sway across vast swaths of territory.

In the Michoacán city of Maravatío on Feb. 26, gunmen killed two mayoral candidates — from opposing political parties — seven hours apart. Both were shot in their vehicles. Authorities blamed organized crime but never clarified if the slayings were connected.

A sharp rise in violence has battered the southern state of Chiapas in recent months, killing scores and forcing hundreds from their homes. Mexico’s two major criminal syndicates — the Sinaloa cartel and the Jalisco New Generation cartel — are at war in a conflict to secure drug- and migrant-smuggling corridors from neighboring Guatemala, across jungles, rivers and mountains.

A series of attacks on mayoral candidates and their entourages in Chiapas this month have left at least 16 dead, including Lucero Esmeralda López Maza, 28, mayoral hopeful in the municipality of La Concordia, along with her sister. Three other mayoral aspirants from towns across Chiapas were injured in three other attacks, officials said.

On May 12, a total of 11 people, mostly from one family, were massacred in the town of Chicomuselo, some 20 miles from the Guatemala border.

The isolated town is not far from one of the campaign’s most puzzling scenes: During a visit by Claudia Sheinbaum, the presidential front-runner, men in ski masks approached her vehicle and asked for help in bringing peace to Chiapas. They soon left, assuring the candidate that they were not fifis — a derogatory term for wealthy snobs popularized by López Obrador, Sheinbaum’s political mentor. No one was hurt in the encounter, but the peculiar incident dramatized the potential vulnerability of even the best-protected candidates.

“Very strange,” Sheinbaum said afterward.

Chiapas’ Catholic bishops have declared that “there are no conditions for elections to take place” in much of the state. Many terrified office-seekers across Chiapas have dropped out.

Many candidates and local party officials in Chiapas and Tamaulipas that The Times reached out to did not respond to requests for comment or said they did not want to discuss the issue.

On a recent visit to Chiapas, López Obrador denied that the state was “in flames.” Some have blamed the outgoing president's policies for an expansion in gang control in parts of the country. But he rejects allegations that his "hugs not bullets" approach — avoiding clashes with cartels in favor of funding social programs providing alternatives beyond a life in crime for impoverished youth — has exacerbated violence.

Even when authorities make arrests — which analysts say is all too rare — law enforcement actions can leave more questions than answers

This month, the chief prosecutor in Guanajuato state said seven suspects had been arrested in Gaytán's slaying. But authorities clarified neither the motive nor who orchestrated the killing.

Prosecutors in the cartel-dominated border area of Tamaulipas — widely considered a "narco state" — announced the arrest of a suspect in the stabbing death of Ramos, the mayor seeking reelection in El Mante. Authorities portrayed the suspect as a lone-wolf drug user and former butcher with a criminal record who believed himself to be “an avenger of God," according to official statements and media accounts.

That didn’t explain how the assailant, reportedly requesting a selfie with the candidate, managed to get close enough to stab Ramos, whose campaign had hired private bodyguards — in part because of a public history of threats against Ramos going back to at least 2022.

"I'm scared because we don't know why this happened," Ramos' widow, Sheyla Palacios, told a Tamaulipas TV station about her husband's assassination.

Palacios has taken Ramos’ spot on the ballot, running for mayor of the city of 70,000. Now state police are stationed outside Palacios’ home with security officials inside, she has said. She campaigns at choreographed events, escorted by armed guards.

Voters understand the need for extreme caution, even at the cost of sacrificing intimacy with constituents, Palacios says. “The people on the streets say they are with me, they hug me," she said in the TV interview. "They give me words of encouragement, they pray for me.”

Times special correspondent Cecilia Sánchez Vidal contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times .

MEXICO ELECTIONS 2024

Elections in Mexico 2024: how to check the quick count and the PREP live?

Here’s how you can check the quick count and prep live, as the 2024 mexican election results are released on sunday, 2 june..

On June 2, elections were held in Mexico, with voters heading to the polls to elect a new President of the Mexican Republic and local and subnational officials. Let’s take a look at how to check the results of the quick count and the PREP, which indicate trends in this electoral process.

More than 19,000 positions are being voted on, with particular emphasis on the election of governors in the states of Chiapas, Mexico City, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, Puebla, Tabasco, Veracruz, and Yucatan.

Check the quick count and PREP

As a part of the Preliminary Electoral Results Program (PREP), the INE developed a tool that allows users to obtain preliminary voting results starting on election night.

The PREP will begin operating at 8:00 PM on June 2 and will be available for online consultation from that time. To use the tool, visit the official PREP website . Once the PREP is up and running, the page will constantly update, allowing for the viewing of real-time results.

The differences between quick count and PREP

The quick count and the PREP are two different processes used in Mexican elections to provide information on electoral results quickly and preliminarily. These are the main differences:

Quick Count

• It is a statistical method designed to provide a quick and reliable estimate of election results.
• It is based on a representative sample of voting records to predict the overall outcome of the election.
• It is conducted on the same day as the election and aims to provide a reliable projection of the final results before the official count is completed.
• Its main objective is to provide early information about the trend of the electoral results, but it is not the official result.

PREP (Preliminary Electoral Results Program)

• Real-Time Results : It shows the results at the polling station level as they are received and processed, allowing citizens and political parties to follow the progress of the count in real time.
• Preliminary Data : The data from PREP is preliminary and can change as the official count progresses. Therefore, they are not final results and may be subject to changes.
• Transparency : PREP provides transparency to the electoral process and helps detect irregularities or inconsistencies in the preliminary data that may require more detailed review.

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Evo Morales y Alberto Fernández se reúnen con Claudia Sheinbaum

El expresidente de bolivia se asumió como observador de las elecciones al margen de las registradas ante el ine..

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Invitado por Morena y al margen de las misiones registradas ante el INE, el expresidente de Bolivia , Evo Morales , se asumió como un observador de las elecciones, visitó urnas en Iztapalapa y en la noche visitó a Claudia Sheinbaum.

En su cuenta de X, el exmandatario andino se refirió a su encuentro con la candidata presidencial de Morena, a quien llamó “la flamante presidenta electa de México”.

Escribió Evo Morales que, como siempre, la vio “muy humilde y con mucho compromiso” y que compartieron “la alegría de su triunfo” junto con el expresidente de Argentina, Alberto Fernández, y el cineasta franco chileno Marco Enríquez-Ominami.

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La Misión Observación Internacional de Transparencia Electoral se desplegó en Chiapas, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, Nuevo León, Puebla, Veracruz, Yucatán, Estado de México y la Ciudad de México.

El excanciller de Chile, Heraldo Muñoz, al frente de la misión de la Organización de los Estados Americanos (OEA), participó en el acto de apertura de la jornada en el Instituto Nacional Electoral (INE).

El jefe de los observadores internacionales dio seguimiento a la instalación de las casillas y considero que la “alta afluencia de público habla muy bien del pueblo mexicano porque está ejerciendo su derecho a votar, está ejerciendo la soberanía popular”.

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En entrevista, Heraldo Muñoz dijo que la misión había constatado condiciones para que las y los mexicanos voten libremente y en paz.

Los observadores de la OEA en México confirmaron la instalación y la apertura de las casillas de votación en diversos puntos del país, destacando la visita del ex canciller de Chile a un centro de votación en Iztapalapa.

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