San Cristobal de las Casas is a colorful colonial town in the heart of Chiapas. The town is a perfect starting point to explore Mexico's Indigenous cultures, with a bustling market selling handicrafts, textiles, and food. Visitors can also appreciate the intricate architecture of the town's cathedral and other religious buildings, trek up to the mountain-top Rancho Nuevo viewpoint, or visit the nearby Indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan to experience traditional Mayan life.
Palenque is famous for its ancient Mayan ruins, set amidst the jungle in the heart of the UNESCO Mundo Maya Biosphere Reserve. Visitors can wander around the former ceremonial center and explore the Palace, the Temple of the Inscriptions, and the tomb of the legendary ruler Pakal the Great. The site is surrounded by hiking trails and streams, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Sumidero Canyon is one of the most stunning natural wonders of Mexico, a steep gorge created by the Grijalva River. Visitors can take a 2-hour boat ride around the canyon to admire its cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife, including crocodiles and spider monkeys. Afterward, they can visit the nearby town of Chiapa de Corzo, known for its traditional architecture and handicrafts, as well as its delicious local cuisine.
El Chiflon Waterfalls and Lagos de Montebello National Park are a perfect way to end the trip with a complete immersion in nature. El Chiflon boasts a 360-foot waterfall, majestic cliffs, and jungle vegetation. Lagos de Montebello has more than 50 lakes with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by pine and oak forests. Visitors can swim, hike, or horseback ride the trails around the lakes.
To make the most out of the itinerary, renting a car or hiring a private driver with a knowledgeable guide is the best option as there is limited public transportation between these locations. Rental car prices vary from $35-$55 per day, and private driver prices range from $150-300 per day, depending on the company and car model.
For those with more time, consider adding a visit to the Yaxchilan ruins, which requires a 2-hour boat ride through the Usumacinta River. For those with less time, choose between Sumidero Canyon or Chiapa de Corzo. As Chiapas is a very biodiverse state, bring proper clothing and repellent depending on the season (May to June is the best time for waterfall swims but not for mosquitoes). Finally, be aware of the local customs of the Indigenous communities.
The two nearest airports to San Cristobal de las Casas are Chiapa de Corzo International Airport (IATA Code: TGZ), located 43 mi away, and Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport (IATA Code: TGZ), located 48 miles away.