15 Wonderful Things To Do In Chiapas, Mexico

If you’re keen to see a culturally diverse, ruggedly beautiful and utterly charming side of southern Mexico, then head to Chiapas. This large state contains a wealth of natural and historical attractions, easily reached independently or via well-organised tours from the main tourist towns of Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas.

So, in this guide, we’ll cover 15 wonderful things to do in Chiapas, Mexico. From waterfalls and swimming holes to ancient Mayan cities and modern indigenous cultures, we’re sure you’ll love Chiapas, Mexico as much as we did.

For more on exploring cities in Chiapas, Mexico, check out Palenque and San Cristobal De Las Casas guides.

About Chiapas, Mexico

Chiapas is a wonderful place to visit in Mexico. Indeed, there are natural wonders in abundance, ancient city ruins to intrepidly explore and a rich and diverse cultural heritage to discover. It’s easily one of our favourite parts of Mexico.

There is evidence to suggest that central Chiapas, Mexico was first inhabited around 7,000 BC. Since that time, the land was cultivated and villages grew. The earliest civilisations thought to occupy modern Chiapas, Mexico are the Mokaya and Olmec peoples. Both of these civilisations pre-date the well-known Mayans.

The Mayan occupation actually began around 300AD. They built their grand cities across much of the south of Mexico, including Chiapas and the Yucatan Peninsula. Many of the ancient cities built in Chiapas, Mexico are concentrated in the Lacandon Jungle, where you’ll find Palenque Ruins and the Yaxchilan and Bonampak Ruins.

But, the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century marked the start of the demise of the Mayan civilisation. However, not all indigenous culture was wiped out, and today, the Tzotzils and Tzeltals people still call parts of Chiapas, Mexico home.

The political capital of Chiapas, Mexico is Tuxtla Gutierrez. Although, nearby San Cristobal de las Casas, to its east, is often dubbed the ‘cultural capital’ of Chiapas, Mexico. In fact, it’s from San Cristobal and Palenque that the attractions in this guide centre around. Indeed, these two Chiapas, Mexico cities have plenty of incredible sites to keep you busy for easily a week or two.

Where Is Chiapas, Mexico?

Chiapas is the southernmost state of Mexico, bordering Guatemala to its south. To the north of Chiapas, Mexico, the state borders Oaxaca, Veracruz and Tabasco.

Feel free to click on the interactive Google Map below to explore Chiapas, Mexico.

15 Wonderful Things to Do in Chiapas, Mexico

Below, we’ll give a brief overview of 15 wonderful things to do in Chiapas, Mexico. Centred around the main hubs of Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas, they include exploring ancient Mayan city ruins, waterfalls, natural monuments and cultural delights. But, we’ll kick things off with a map showing the locations of all 15 things, so you can see where they are located throughout Chiapas, Mexico.

Things to Do in Chiapas, Mexico Map

The below map shows the locations of each of the 15 best things to do in Chiapas, Mexico that we’ll discuss in this travel guide. Numbers 1–8 centre around Palenque, and then numbers 9–15 centre around San Cristobal de las Casas.

1. Palenque Ruins, Chiapas, Mexico

If you’re a fan of ancient Mayan cities (who isn’t?), then the world heritage site of Palenque Ruins has to be up there when it comes to things to do in Chiapas, Mexico. The archaeological site is nestled in the Chiapas jungle and only partially excavated, with the dense trees still keeping much of Palenque’s secrets. There’s a vast complex to explore, as well as a short jungle walk and the Palenque Site Museum at the end. Don’t skip the museum either, as it’s included in the ticket price and also houses many of the incredible artefacts discovered within the ruins.

• Entrance fee: $195MXN ($11USD)
• Opening hours:  8am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 9km // 15 minutes

Read more: Palenque Ruins, Mexico – The Complete Visitor’s Guide

2. Yaxchilan and Bonampak Ruins

If want to see more ancient Mayan cities close to Palenque in Chiapas, Mexico then consider heading to Yaxchilan and Bonampak Ruins. Located around three hours south of Palenque, visiting these ruins involves a boat trip down the Usumacinta River, which separates Mexico from Guatemala. Both sets of ruins are visited on the same tour and are some of the most remote Mayan cities to visit in Chiapas, Mexico.

You can book a tour to see Yaxchilan and Bonampak Ruins from many tour offices in Palenque Town. Alternatively, GetYourGuide offers this incredible Palenque: 2-Day Lacandon Jungle, Yaxchilan, & Bonampak Trip into the Lacandon Jungle to see the ruins. Or, if you’re short on time, the Yaxchilan & Bonampak Ruins and Lacandon Jungle from Palenque 1-day trip might suit you better.

Getting There Independently

It’s not straightforward to reach these ruins in Chiapas, Mexico independently. So, we definitely recommend taking a tour. But, it is possible to get to Yaxchilan and Bonampak Ruins independently. From Palenque, take a bus or colectivo to Frontera Corozal. You’ll pay an entry fee of around $30MXN ($1.75USD) to the town, before hopping in a taxi to the boats. The boat will set you back around $1300MXN ($76USD) unless you’re willing to wait for the boat to fill with other tourists and you split the cost. You’ll then pay the entrance fee to Yaxchilan.

You can only get to Bonampak via official vans. You cannot drive there yourself as the area is protected by the indigenous peoples of the Lacandon. Transportation will set you back around $150–200MXN ($8.50–12USD) per person. Then, you’ll pay the $55MXN ($3USD) entrance fee.

But, considering all the costs and faff of making your own way there, it’s much simpler to take a tour.

• Entrance fee: cost of a tour
• Opening hours:  8am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 146km // 3 hours

3. Misol-Ha Waterfall

Misol-Ha Waterfall is a stunning single-drop cascade set in the spectacular Chiapas jungle in Mexico. The powerful waterfall thunders into a clear blue pool below. Which, as it happens, is also perfect for a swim. So, remember to pack your bathers. A true highlight of a visit to Misol-Ha Waterfall is the chance to venture behind the dramatic cascade. Prepare to get more than a little spray to the face as you wander into the cool cave beyond.

• Entrance fee: $30MXN ($1.75USD)
• Opening hours:  8am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 21km // 30 minutes

Read more: Misol-Ha Waterfall, Chiapas: The Ultimate Travel Guide

4. Agua Azul Waterfalls

The Agua Azul Waterfalls (Cascadas de Agua Azul) are a set of extraordinary waterfalls in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. Certainly, as the name suggests, the colour of the water is a fantastic blue colour. In fact, the name directly translates in English to blue water waterfalls. At Agua Azul Waterfalls, you can take to the riverside walking trail to explore cascade after cascade. Then, be sure to cool off with a dip in the calm pools at the base of the Agua Azul Waterfalls, before wandering the market stalls for souvenirs and a bite to eat.

Certainly, it’s easy to visit Cascadas de Agua Azul and Misol-Ha Waterfall as part of a day trip from Palenque, Chiapas. But, it’s possible to take a tour from San Cristobal too, it’s just a longer day.

• Entrance fee: $40MXN ($2.50USD)
• Opening hours:  8am to 8pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 64km // 1.5 hours

Read more: Cascadas de Agua Azul, Chiapas – How To Visit The Blue Waterfalls

5. Roberto Barrios Waterfalls

If you want a much quieter version of Cascadas Agua Azul, then head to Roberto Barrios Waterfalls (Cascadas Roberto Barrios). Certainly, here you’ll discover an array of waterfalls to enjoy in a less visited part of Chiapas, Mexico that’s really not far from Palenque.

Additionally, there are plenty of swimming holes to cool off in too. With a fraction of the number of visitors that Agua Azul sees, you’ll get a real sense of the Chiapas jungle tranquillity here.

• Entrance fee: $20MXN ($1USD)
• Opening hours: 8am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 32km // 1 hour

6. Welib Ja Waterfalls

The Welib-Já Waterfalls (Centro Eco Turístico Cascadas Welib Hå), located along the Río Chancala (Chancala River) is an oasis of beautiful cascades, dense rainforest and general Chiapas beauty, just 40 minutes outside of Palenque. Here, you can swim, hike and even zipline. And, if you love it so much you don’t want to leave, you can even camp!

• Entrance fee: $25MXN ($1.50USD)
• Opening hours: 7am to 6:30pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 30km // 45 minutes

7. Metzabok Lagoon 

The breathtaking Metzabok Lagoon is well worth a visit for avid nature lovers. Part of the Nahá–Metzabok Biosphere Reserve, the Metzabok Lagoon is a peaceful area of cenotes, caves, forests and rivers. It’s a beautiful off-the-beaten-track part of Chiapas and of course, a great day trip to make from Palenque.

Metzabok Lagoon is another Chiapas activity that is worth doing via a guided tour from Palenque, Mexico. Viator offers this great Metzabok Lagoon Day Trip From Palenque tour which will take care of all the visit logistics.

• Entrance fee: price of a tour
• Opening hours: 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 90km // 2 hours

8. Visit Aluxes Ecopark

On the outskirts of Palenque is the Aluxes Ecopark. Aluxes is a wildlife rescue centre in Chiapas, Mexico that helps to rehabilitate animals, many of which have been victims of trafficking and cruelty. The team at the eco-park also aims to reintroduce natural ecosystems into the area. As such, they have worked hard to plant trees and wetlands, giving new homes to an incredible amount of wildlife, which can be viewed during a visit.

There are many different tour options and chances to help feed the animals. So, it’s a great experience. Be sure to check out the official website for more in-depth information.

• Entrance fee: $150MXN ($9USD)
• Opening hours: 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from Palenque, Chiapas: 3.5km // 7 minutes

9. San Cristobal de las Casas

The small city of San Cristobal de las Casas is worth a visit in its own right, and not just as a base for exploring the wider area. The colonial history and indigenous heritage of San Cristobal means there’s plenty in town to discover. Whether you choose a free walking tour of the city, check out its colourful streets and buildings with a coffee at a streetside cafe, visit the Jade and Amber museums or hike some of its city hills and lookouts, you’ll love your time in San Cris.

Also, be sure to sample some authentic Chiapas, Mexico foods such as tascalate (a cocoa drink traditionally served chilled), pox (pronounced posh, this is a corn-based distilled drink traditional of the Tzotzil Maya) and tamales (a meat or veg-filled masa dough, steamed in banana leaves or corn husks).

Read more: Top 15 Things To Do In (& Around) San Cristobal De Las Casas

9. San Juan Chamula, Chiapas, Mexico

San Juan Chamula is a pretty little town some 3km north of San Cristobal de las Casas. The population of San Juan Chamula is almost entirely made up of indigenous Tzotzil people. In addition, Chamula even has its own police force which is separate from that of wider Mexico. Certainly, it’s a wonderful cultural visit. Be sure to check out Templo de San Juan. It’s a quaint and colourful church where pine needles carpet the floor and incense fills the air.

It’s certainly simple enough to take a colectivo from central San Cristobal to Chamula. Alternatively, just join an organised tour for a half-day trip, like this Chamula and Zinacantán Day Trip from San Cristóbal on GetYourGuide.

10. El Chiflon Waterfalls

Cascadas El Chiflon (El Chiflon Waterfalls) are a series of five outstanding waterfalls located 100km south of San Cristobal in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. They include Cascada Suspiro, Cascada Ala de Angel, Cascada Velo de Novia, Cascada Arcoiris and Cascada Quinceañera.

Indeed, each of the waterfalls at El Chiflon will blow you away. The brilliant turquoise blue of the water is rich and intense in colour. As well as marvelling at the stunning waterfalls, there’s also the opportunity for a spot of swimming and ziplining. Certainly, it’s a worthy Chiapas, Mexico day trip.

• Entrance fee: $50MXN ($3USD)
• Opening hours: 7:30am to 5pm, seven days a week
• Distance from San Cristobal de las Casas: 100km // 2.5 hours

Read more: Cascadas El Chiflon, Chiapas – Visit 5 Incredible Waterfalls

11. Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Lagunas de Montebello National Park, simply known as Lagos de Montebello, is one of the most tranquil, picturesque and naturally beautiful places you can visit from San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas, Mexico. Within the national park is an array of pretty lakes and woodlands. Indeed you can hike, kayak and swim at Montebello. So, it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Chiapas, Mexico.

• Entrance fee: $60MXN ($3USD)
• Opening hours: 7am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from San Cristobal de las Casas: 144km // 3 hours

Read more: How To Visit Lagos De Montebello (Montebello Lakes) In Chiapas

12. Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas, Mexico

Cañon del Sumidero (AKA Sumidero Canyon) is one of the most breathtaking natural landmarks you can see in Chiapas, Mexico. Towering vertical walls and a deep winding river cut through this incredible scar on the earth’s crust. It’s truly magnificent and, of course, an absolute hero attraction in this area of southern Mexico.

One of the best ways to explore the canyon is by taking a 2-hour boat tour along the Grijalva River. In addition, you can also visit some excellent miradors along the top edges of the canyon walls. You’ll see the special ‘Christmas Tree Waterfall’ and spot crocodiles on the edge of the river.

• Entrance fee: tour price
• Opening hours: 8am to 5pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from San Cristobal de las Casas: 90km // 2 hours

Read more: Cañon del Sumidero – An Epic Tour From San Cristobal, Chiapas

13. Chiapa de Corzo

Chiapa de Corzo is a lovely pueblo magico that sits at the southern end of the Sumidero Canyon. Indeed, if you take a Sumidero Canyon tour from San Cristobal de las Casas, you’ll likely spend an hour or so here. But, if you want to visit independently of Sumidero Canyon, it’s certainly possible.

Wander through the main central square – Plaza de Armas Angel Albino Corzo and enjoy its clock tower and fountain. The grand plaza is also surrounded by trinket stalls, souvenir shops and places to grab some food. It’s a place of colour and culture within easy distance from San Cristobal.

There are regular colectivos running between San Cristobal de las Casas and Chiapa de Corzo, so access is very simple. In addition, if you don’t want to take an organised tour of Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal, you can arrange to take a boat trip yourself from Chiapa de Corzo.

• Distance from San Cristobal de las Casas: 53km // 1 hour

14. El Arcotete Eco Park

El Arcotete Eco Park is a quick 20-minute ride away from San Cristobal in Chiapas, Mexico and features an outstanding natural limestone arch. This grand archway has been carved out by the freshwater river that flows through it and it’s truly beautiful. Certainly, at the Arcotete Eco Park, you can enjoy short hiking trails, caves, ziplining and quaint picnic spots. So, it’s an attraction not to miss as you explore Chiapas, Mexico.

• Entrance fee: $10MXN ($0.60USD)
• Opening hours: 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from San Cristobal de las Casas: 7.5km // 20 minutes

15. Grutas de Rancho Nuevo

A short drive out of San Cristobal de las Casas brings you to a quiet nature reserve of pretty woodlands and dramatic caves in Chiapas, Mexico. Indeed, Grutas de Rancho Nuevo is a wonderful place to enjoy some of the outstanding natural attractions Chiapas, Mexico, has to offer. The caves (grutas) are explored along a carved pathway where you’ll admire impressive stalactites and spot the resident bats. You can also go horse riding and ziplining. There are adult-friendly giant slides too!

• Entrance fee: $40MXN ($2USD) [access to caves only]
• Opening hours: 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week
• Distance from San Cristobal de las Casas: 13km // 20 minutes

How to Get to Chiapas, Mexico

So, now you know about 15 wonderful things to do in Chiapas, Mexico, let’s take a look at how to get to Chiapas in the first place.

By Bus

Certainly, one of the most convenient ways to get to, and around, Chiapas in Mexico is by taking the bus. Specifically, the ADO bus company is one of the safest and most reliable ways to travel in Mexico and is the transportation of choice for many travellers, including Dan and myself.

Tickets can be purchased directly on the ADO website, using Busbud or by booking directly at the ADO bus terminal of the town you’re travelling from. If your only two bases in Chiapas, Mexico are Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas, then expect some long bus journeys. But, that’s why you’ll want to use the services of a comfortable bus company like ADO.

By Rental Car

Of course, renting a car and driving yourself around, Chiapas, Mexico is one of the easiest ways to visit. Indeed, with some of the incredible sites in Chiapas, Mexico at least a couple of hours away from Palenque and San Cristobal, you might prefer the comfort of having your own wheels.

If you want to hire a car in Mexico, then we recommend using DiscoverCars.com. You’ll find a variety of cars on Discover Cars, which are very easy to book online, with a great cancellation fee if needed.

Note: if driving yourself to Palenque from San Cristobal, you’ll just need to be mindful of the road between the two cities, that passes Ocosingo. That’s because the road between Palenque and San Cristobal, via Ocosingo, is notoriously dangerous. Armed gangs frequently patrol the road, often demanding cash or even robbing tourists as they pass through. Dan and I even saw a police escort accompany a tourist minibus as it headed that way. So, think very carefully about taking this route if you’re driving yourself between San Cristobal and Palenque, and vice versa.

By Plane

If you’re travelling by air to Chiapas, Mexico, then you’ll be pleased to know that Palenque has an airport. Palenque International Airport is located in the northwest of the city and you can take many domestic flights from other parts of the country to get here. The nearest airport to San Cristobal is Angel Albino Corzo International Airport located outside of Tuxtla Gutierrez.

Dan and I typically get the ball rolling with a search on Skyscanner for some of the best flight deals around. You can check flights to and from Chiapas, Mexico here.

Where to Stay in Chiapas, Mexico

Dan and I stayed in Palenque and then San Cristobal de las Casas as we explored Chiapas, Mexico. The two small cities are perfectly positioned to see many of the main natural attractions, as well as offer some cultural and historical gems.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the best budget, mid-range and luxury options for accommodation in both Palenque and San Cristobal in Chiapas, Mexico.

Where to Stay in Palenque

• Budget – Hotel Naj Kin: Dan and I stayed at Hotel Naj Kin and enjoyed the location and the private room, which is equipped with a bathroom.
• Mid-range – Hotel Maya Rue: the very reasonably priced Hotel Maya Rue offers simple yet comfortable decor and a great breakfast to start the day.
• Luxury – Casa 5 Bed & Breakfast: luxury doesn’t break the bank balance in Palenque, with a stay at Casa 5 Bed & Breakfast providing guests with a garden, air-conditioned rooms and a private bathroom.

Where to Stay in San Cristobal de las Casas

• Budget – La Abuelita Hostal: San Cristobal de las Casas has some wonderful hostel options, with La Abuelita Hostal one of the best. Guests love the location, the cleanliness of the facilities and the speedy wifi.
• Mid-range – El Hostalito 14: Dan and I stayed at El Hostalito 14 and can highly recommend it. The location is fantastic, the rooms and separate private bathrooms are comfortable and the price is very reasonable. Of course, if you’re happy to share a dorm room, then El Hostalito 14 becomes a very budget-friendly option too.
• Luxury – Hotel Bo: if you want to visit San Cristobal, Mexico in luxury, then look no further than Hotel Bo. This beautifully designed hotel in the historic centre of San Cristobal de las Casas comes with its own restaurant, private parking and on-site gym.

FAQs

What Is the Best Town in Chiapas Mexico?

Well, this is completely down to personal preference. But, for Dan and I, we loved San Cristobal de las Casas. It’s a beautiful colonial city with plenty to see and do.

Where to Stay in Chiapas, Mexico?

The two main cities to stay in whilst exploring Chiapas, Mexico are Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas. However, due to their proximity to some of the attractions, Comitan and Tuxtla Gutierrez are increasingly popular places to stay.

Is Chiapas, Mexico Safe?

On the whole yes. But, there are some areas (such as the road between Palenque and San Cristobal via Ocosingo) that can encounter issues. If in any doubt, always err on the side of caution. Don’t wander in quiet areas after dark, don’t be flashy with your gear and keep an eye on your personal belongings. It’s the same as travelling anywhere really.

Is Chiapas a City or a State?

It’s a state.

How to Pronounce Chiapas, Mexico

It’s pronounced Chee-ah-pas.

What Is Chiapas, Mexico Known For?

Exceptional Mayan Ruins, incredible natural scenery and wonderful culture. The food’s good too.

Travel Essentials For Chiapas, Mexico

These are our travel essentials for exploring Chiapas, Mexico. You should also pack swimming gear and insect repellant.

To find out more about all of the gear that we use and recommend, read our guides about our favourite travel gear, camera gear and hiking gear. Otherwise, read our comprehensive travel packing checklist.

If you have any more trip ideas or tips for travelling through Chiapas, Mexico, drop them in the comments below for other travellers.