Finest Locations, Ideas & What To Count on

Chiapas is commonly neglected by vacationers in favor of extra widespread locations like Cancun or Mexico Metropolis. However for those who’re a little bit of an explorer, it’s possible you’ll effectively contemplate it one of the crucial fascinating areas of Mexico.

Nestled within the southernmost a part of Mexico near Guatemala, Chiapas affords a singular mix of journey, tradition, and pure magnificence. Though it’s one of many poorest and least developed states, it’s additionally the place you will get closest to the indigenous cultures of Mexico.

Within the journey information to Chiapas, I’ll let you know the whole lot you could know. From the charming colonial cities to the traditional Mayan ruins, there may be a lot to find and expertise in Chiapas, so let’s get into it.

What to Count on in Chiapas Mexico

In case you’re in search of the standard lay-on-the-beach or stay-at-the-resort trip that lots of people affiliate with Mexico, Chiapas might be not the place for you. Nonetheless, in case you are a lover of journey, tradition, and breathtaking surroundings, then you may have come to the precise place.

Chiapas (pronunciation: chee·a·puhs) is likely one of the most unusual states in all of Mexico. Having one of many greatest indigenous populations and being one of many least developed areas, it generally jogs my memory a bit extra of close by Guatemala than of the comparatively wealthier Mexican states.

Chiapas has a wealthy historical past formed by each Mayan and Spanish influences and is dwelling to a various mixture of indigenous cultures, pure wonders, and colonial cities. Many areas of Chiapas are semi-independent, giving Chiapas its personal distinctive id.

Chiapas has two very completely different climatic zones: the tropical lowlands and the delicate subtropical highland local weather. Sooner or later you is perhaps sweating it within the jungles, the following it’s possible you’ll end up having fun with a cool breeze among the many pine timber. So remember to pack for various climate circumstances!

Chiapas is worthy of a visit by itself, although it will possibly additionally completely join the areas of Oaxaca and the Yucatan for those who’re on a much bigger Mexico journey.

It’s one of many final stops many backpackers make when touring by Mexico and all the way down to Central America, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a fixture on the backpacker path. From the colourful and soulful metropolis of San Cristobal de las Casas to the traditional ruins of Palenque, each nook of Chiapas is stuffed with surprise and discovery.

Finest Excursions in Chiapas

It’s fantastic to discover Chiapas independently, although sure experiences are higher with (or solely sensible with) a guided tour. Be sure you preserve some area in your itinerary for these extremely worthwhile excursions.

• Sumidero Canyon: You shouldn’t miss seeing the spectacular surroundings in Sumidero Canyon! This tour will choose you up out of your resort in San Cristobal and take you to the viewpoints. The boat tour between the canyon’s partitions is an outstanding expertise.
• Palenque Ruins and Waterfalls: Visiting the Mayan ruins of Palenque and the close by waterfalls will allow you to see a number of of the perfect highlights in northern Chiapas in a single day. Whereas a few of these sights will be seen utilizing public transport, it takes a lot longer, so a tour is essentially the most environment friendly sightseeing choice in Palenque.
• San Juan Chamula: A go to to this small Tzotzil group could also be one of the crucial distinctive journey experiences you’ll ever have. The group mixes Catholicism with native beliefs and also you’ll have an opportunity to witness their historical rituals. You possibly can be a part of a small-group full-day tour departing from San Cristobal.

The way to Get to Chiapas

There are a number of completely different choices for attending to Chiapas, relying on the place you’re coming from.

By Bus

In case you’re already in Mexico, essentially the most handy method is by bus. A number of bus firms supply routes to Chiapas from main cities like Cancun, Oaxaca, and Mexico Metropolis. However take into account that the bus rides will be lengthy.

From the Yucatan: Some of the widespread routes is from Cancun to Palenque, which takes round 11 hours. It’s an extended journey, however the views alongside the way in which are effectively price it. (In 2024, Mexico inaugurated the Tren Maya, a practice that connects Cancun to Palenque in simply 4 hours. On the time of writing they’re nonetheless understanding the kinks, so the service shouldn’t be so dependable, however that is anticipated to enhance.)

From Oaxaca: One other widespread journey for vacationers is from Oaxaca Metropolis or Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca to San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas. This bus trip takes round 12.5 hours. Sadly, there aren’t any locations of main vacationer curiosity that may assist break up the journey. I’ve achieved this journey twice now: each occasions I took an evening bus in order to not lose an excessive amount of time.

By Air

You can even snag a home flight to the airport in Tuxtla Gutierrez. When trying to find flights it’s possible you’ll must seek for its official identify: Ángel Albino Corzo Airport.

There are additionally a handful of flights to Tapachula airport within the very south of the state. Nonetheless, don’t depend on there being flights to/from Palenque, as this airport closed through the pandemic and hasn’t reopened since. The closest airport to Palenque is in Villahermosa in neighboring Tabasco state.

For these coming from exterior of Mexico, the best method to get to Chiapas is by flying into Mexico Metropolis after which taking a connecting flight or bus all the way down to Chiapas.

From Guatemala

Chiapas is a well-liked cease for these touring overland by Central America. In case you’re coming from Guatemala, you’ll almost certainly take an in a single day bus or a neighborhood ‘hen bus’. The border crossings is usually a bit hectic; anticipate delays. You will discover particulars on cross-border buses right here.

Issues to See and Do in Chiapas

Chiapas is a a singular state in Mexico—a technique, you may have Mayan ruins hidden within the lowland jungles, and the opposite method, you may have among the tallest mountains within the nation. You possibly can anticipate some fantastic selection and plenty of nice issues to see and do.

Right here I’ll give an summary, however remember to dig into my particular guides with extra element.

San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal is the preferred metropolis in Chiapas, and for good purpose. Its colourful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and full of life markets make it a must-visit. Situated within the central highlands of Chiapas, it has a powerful indigenous presence, making it an extremely fascinating cultural hub.

It’s additionally tremendous low cost right here. You possibly can simply discover funds lodging and scrumptious road meals for a fraction of the associated fee in comparison with different cities in Mexico. It actually makes it so exhausting if you begin out in Chiapas since you’ll assume the remainder of Mexico is as reasonably priced, however sadly, that’s not at all times the case. So get pleasure from it whereas it lasts!

You possibly can spend your days strolling across the metropolis, exploring the markets and admiring the structure. The encircling nature is gorgeous, with spectacular caves and climbing trails only a quick bus trip away.

Palenque

One other must-visit in Chiapas is the traditional Mayan metropolis of Palenque. This archaeological web site is surrounded by a lush jungle, including to its mysterious and enchanting environment. You possibly can spend a number of hours wandering by the ruins, imagining what life was like 1000’s of years in the past.

However Palenque isn’t simply in regards to the ruins — it’s additionally a hub for eco-tourism. You possibly can go on guided hikes by the jungle, go to close by waterfalls, and even take a dip in pure swimming pools.

Whereas the city of Palenque lacks the overwhelming appeal of San Cristobal, I’d argue it’s not less than pretty much as good a base for excursions, particularly in case you are into exploring the rainforest environments.

One particular expertise right here is to go to the lands of the Lacandón tribes, the place one of many white-robed locals can present you the fascinating wildlife hiding within the forests.

A great deal of individuals go to Palenque from the Yucatan Peninsula as a result of it’s comparatively shut and the ruins supply a substitute for the well-known Chichen Itza. Many vacationers keep for only one evening solely to see the Palenque ruins. Nonetheless, I extremely suggest spending not less than two days for those who can, if solely to have the ability to go to the exceptional waterfalls.

Sumidero Canyon

The preferred day journey from San Cris is the Sumidero Canyon, situated about an hour and a half away. This spectacular canyon is over 1,000 meters deep and runs for 35 kilometers. Taking a boat trip by Sumidero Canyon is a can’t-miss exercise in Chiapas.

You’ll make your method down the river, with the canyon partitions towering over you, recognizing wildlife and studying in regards to the space’s historical past and geology out of your information. You may even see monkeys swinging from timber and even an alarming variety of crocodiles alongside the riverbank (don’t fear, you’ll be protected).

In case you’re feeling further adventurous, you can too go on a guided hike by the canyon, taking within the views from a special perspective.

Agua Azul Waterfalls

These gorgeous waterfalls function vibrant blue cascading water surrounded by a inexperienced jungle. Many excursions cease right here on their method to Palenque, however it’s additionally doable to go to by yourself in case you are not in an excessive amount of of a rush.

There are a number of completely different ranges of waterfalls to discover and some of them you’ll be able to swim in. It’s attractive, and the water appears to be like like cool blue Gatorade (through the dry season, within the moist season, it’s slightly muddy), however do be mindful this is likely one of the hottest vacationer websites in Chiapas, so it will possibly really feel a bit crowded and commercialized.

If you wish to escape the crowds, I like to recommend visiting early within the morning or later within the afternoon when most excursions have left. You can even examine some lesser-known waterfalls in my information to Palenque.

El Chiflón Waterfall

One other widespread waterfall in Chiapas is El Chiflón, situated close to the city of Comitán. This spectacular set of waterfalls has 5 ranges, with the very best reaching as much as 120 meters. The water is a lovely turquoise colour, and for those who go on a tour, they’ll normally information you to an space to go for a dip.

The El Chiflon tour is usually paired with a cease on the close by Montebello Lakes. The lakes within the nationwide park are multicolored with deep blues and greens, and you’ll take rafts from one aspect of the lake to the opposite.

And for those who want greater than only a hike and a few picture-worthy views, you will get an adrenaline repair by ziplining by the waterfalls.

Go to the Pueblo Magicos of Chiapas

In case you’re unfamiliar with the time period, Pueblo Magicos are small cities or villages in Mexico acknowledged for his or her cultural and historic significance. Fortunate for us, Chiapas is dwelling to six of them!

Every one affords a special expertise, from the colourful streets of San Cristobal de Las Casas to the traditional ruins of Palenque. And with their shut proximity, it’s straightforward to go to a number of Pueblos Magicos in a single journey.

Considered one of my favorites is Chiapa de Corzo, simply because it’s so completely different from every other city. It’s solely a couple of 10-minute drive from the airport, and it’s possible you’ll go by it on the way in which to Sumidero Canyon. With its Moorish-style structure, it feels extra like Seville than a small city in Mexico.

Go to Comitán

Whereas San Cris and Palenque are the principle vacationer highlights within the area, for those who’re in search of someplace good however off the radar, contemplate a keep in Comitán.

I actually loved this untouristy city which has a lovely predominant sq., colonial-era structure, small museums, and a few viewpoints. Most of all it’s an excellent springboard into the extra distant corners of Chiapas, together with the El Chiflón waterfalls and Las Nubes ecotourism space.

Is Chiapas Secure?

Sadly, Chiapas is usually perceived as unsafe on account of political points and previous conflicts (courting again to the Nineteen Nineties!) however has seen enhancements lately.

The federal government has elevated safety measures on highways and roads, making journey to Chiapas safer. Whereas some distant areas could also be experiencing escalations, widespread vacationer spots like Palenque and San Cristobal stay protected.

Notice that sure distant ruins like Yaxchilan, Bonampak, and Tonina could also be inaccessible on account of ongoing issues. Relaxation assured, excursions don’t depart for these websites except the security state of affairs is assured. In case you’re planning to go by your self, be sure you’re correctly knowledgeable by native sources earlier than heading off.

With that stated, Chiapas is a protected state to go to as a vacationer total, notably when venturing alongside the established vacationer path.

How Many Days Do You Want in Chiapas?

This actually depends upon the tempo of your journey and what number of locations and belongings you need to see and do! Many vacationers simply get caught in San Cristobal de las Casas for every week or extra, simply absorbing the relaxed vibe and exploring the encircling villages.

For a well-rounded journey, I like to recommend spending not less than 5 days in Chiapas. This might offer you sufficient time to go to a number of of the Pueblos Magicos and see among the predominant sights, like Sumidero Canyon and Palenque. Nonetheless, when you’ve got the time and suppleness, it’s at all times price extending your keep to completely embrace Chiapas.

What’s the Value of Touring in Chiapas?

Probably the greatest issues about Chiapas is that it’s a budget-friendly vacation spot. Lodging, meals, and actions are all the costs you’d anticipate in Mexico. A snug funds for a day can be round $30-50 USD, which might cowl a pleasant resort or Airbnb, three meals, and a few actions or transportation.

In fact, this price can range relying in your journey model and preferences. If you wish to keep in luxurious lodging and dine at high-end eating places, the associated fee will improve accordingly. However total, Chiapas is a superb place to discover with out breaking the financial institution.