Things to do in Chiapas

Its architecture, along with its colonial past and heritage, is visible on every corner, inviting visitors to stroll along its terraces and enjoy the view with a coffee grown by indigenous communities. This colonial town offers many attractions to explore, including the Cathedral of San Cristóbal, museums and vibrant marketplaces. Additionally, it is conveniently located about a one-hour drive away from most other destinations on the list, making it an excellent focal point for exploring the rest of the state of Chiapas.

Exploring the town of Chiapa de Corzo guarantees an opportunity to admire handicrafts and enjoy the local gastronomy. The nearby Sumidero Canyon is a must-see natural wonder located just outside the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez, within a national park of the same name. Accessible by cruise boat, the canyon's towering cliffs are fed by the Grijalva River and offer numerous viewpoints (miradores) where visitors can catch glimpses of spider monkeys, river crocodiles and ocelots.

These five beautiful waterfalls offer the most wonderful scenery, where you can observe the flora and fauna, take pictures, or swim in its waters. These are not as high as some of Palenque’s sites, but they are less crowded, making it an ideal place to do fun things in the water or simply find some peace.

The Lagos de Montebello National Park is the first ever Chiapas national park, and it was classified as a Biosphere Reserve in 2009. It includes over 59 lakes with radiant colors that go from emerald green to deep blue; some might even look purple or reddish black. Taking a guided tour through Montebello Lakes will allow you to admire its beauty while also learning about its rich history, and some of the lagoons are suitable for swimming and even kayaking.

Visit one of the tallest waterfalls in Mexico. Falling from over 120 meters (400 ft), El Chiflón Waterfall offers an astonishing view and the possibility to dive into its turquoise waters. It is surrounded by various hiking trails where you can do rappelling and further explore the area. The entrance fee is only $50 MXN pesos ($2.50 USD).

An itinerary in Chiapas would not be complete without a few days in the Lacandon rainforest, the largest tropical woods in America and the area with the richest biodiversity in Mexico. In this natural wonder, you will find spider monkeys, ocelots, macaws (guacamayas), jaguars, and a wide variety of plants and flowers.

The 'forest of fog' and the tropical jungle of Soconusco are natural spaces that concentrate the major biodiversity of Central and North America. It is a perfect place to admire orchids, observe beautiful birds, learn to craft beautiful pieces, and enjoy coffee made by indigenous people.

Located just one hour’s drive away from Tuxtla, this is one of the best day-trips in Chiapas. To access El Aguacero waterfalls, you must walk a short jungle path and go down a huge staircase that has 750 stairs (which, of course, you must later use to get back to the top). But the workout is absolutely worth it. Entrance fees start at $50 MXN pesos ($2.50 USD).

Bonampak means painted walls in Maya, a name that alludes to the many incredible murals it contains. This archaeological site is filled with history and is surrounded by the Lacandon rainforest, which has beautiful vegetation and wild animals. To get to these ancient ruins, you must take a trip through the Selva Lacandona and a boat ride through the Usumacinta River all the way from Palenque.

Some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in Chiapas, this archaeological site is famous for its pyramids and temples. However, that is far from being its only attractive feature. It holds 124 texts that narrate the alliances and wars of its people. It is located relatively near Bonampak, so the journey to get there is similar.

At 35 meters high (over 200 ft), The Cascada de Misol-Há falls into a nearly circular pool that goes 25 meters (82 ft) deep, and its calm waters are perfect for swimming. It is located in the same National Park as Roberto Barrios Waterfall and Agua Azul Waterfall.

Located only 30 minutes away from San Cristóbal de las Casas, these Tzotzil villages are known for their colorful markets and rich Mayan culture. Here, you will find unique traditional hand-woven textiles made by the town’s women, and you can visit the town's church to experience their traditional Mayan rituals.

Agua Azul Waterfalls, known as Cascadas de Agua Azul, is a true natural wonder and a Biosphere Reserve. It consists of a series of small waterfalls scattered across a broad area, cascading in a sequence to form pools of turquoise blue waters suitable for swimming. It is an excellent location for a short hike that leads to a viewing platform, offering opportunities to admire the waterfalls and observe some of the region's wildlife species, including exotic birds and monkeys.

Known for its beautiful views and clear waters, Cenote Chukumaltik is located near the town of Comitán, south of San Cristóbal de las Casas. It is popular among travelers and locals alike, and it might just be the ideal place to relax and enjoy your natural surroundings. The entrance fee to use the cenote is around $30 MXN pesos ($1.50 USD) for adults.

Surrounded by tall mountains and a rainforest, this lagoon has rich wildlife, including crocodiles, turtles, and many species of fish and birds. It is a great place to take a boat trip, or to explore the ancient Mayan caves.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds the ruins of one of the most powerful ancient Mayan cities, alongside Chichén Itzá in Yucatán and Calakmul in Campeche. You can visit impressive architectural masterpieces, including El Templo de las Inscripciones and El Palacio, which are surrounded and protected by the Lacandon rainforest.

A full-day plan made especially for those who seek adventure, Sima de las Cotorras is a popular sinkhole in a space that holds several sinkholes due to the tectonic and erosive forces typical of this area. It is over 140 meters (460 ft) deep, where you can try ziplining and rappelling. It also holds a huge colony of green parrots. The entrance fee is $50 MXN ($2.50 USD).

Discover the enchanting ancient city of Yaxchilán with our exclusive guided tours. Nestled deep in the lush jungles of Chiapas, Yaxchilán is a stunning archaeological site renowned for its well-preserved temples, intricate stelae, and majestic river views. As you explore the labyrinthine ruins, you'll be transported back to the heights of the Maya civilization, with expert guides providing fascinating insights into its rich history and culture.

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Pueblo de Tzimol with our carefully curated cultural tours. Located in the picturesque highlands of Chiapas, Tzimol offers a unique glimpse into traditional Mexican life, with vibrant local markets, charming colonial architecture, and welcoming communities. Explore the town's historical landmarks, participate in artisanal craft workshops, and savor authentic regional cuisine.

Experience the thrill of rafting in Lacanjá with our exhilarating adventure tours. Set in the heart of the Lacandon Jungle in Chiapas, Lacanjá offers an unforgettable white-water rafting experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Navigate the exciting rapids of the Lacanjá River, surrounded by lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Our experienced guides ensure a safe and thrilling journey, perfect for both seasoned rafters and beginners.

Join us for a captivating bow and arrow workshop in Nahá, nestled in the serene Lacandon Jungle of Chiapas. Led by indigenous Lacandon Maya artisans, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the ancient art of bow and arrow crafting. Gain hands-on experience as you carve and assemble your own traditional bow and arrows, using time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Canto de la Selva hiking tours, set in the heart of the lush Lacandon Jungle in Chiapas, Mexico. This guided hike takes you through pristine rainforest trails, where you'll encounter a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, cascading waterfalls, and serene river landscapes. Our knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the jungle's ecosystem and the unique biodiversity of the region.