Chiapas Explorer

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Tour Overview

Embark on the Chiapas Explorer tour and immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of Mexico. Begin your journey with a breathtaking boat ride through the towering cliffs of Sumidero Canyon, where you can marvel at the diverse wildlife. Explore the ancient Mayan city of Palenque, renowned for its intricate architecture and carvings. Discover the vibrant indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, and witness traditional loom weaving techniques. Enjoy the stunning multicolored lakes of Montebello and the refreshing Chiflon Waterfall. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the La Venta Museum, showcasing the fascinating Olmec culture. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, all guided by knowledgeable local experts. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Sumidero Canyon: The imposing 1000-meter-high cliff rising above the Grijalva

  • Sail down the peaceful waters of the canyon and admire the natural gems of mother nature

  • Palenque: Old Mayan city, protecting the rich Mayan architecture, sculpture, roof comb, and bas-relief carvings

  • Montebello Lakes: the most scenic spot in the National Montebello Park, a protected area located in the state and enjoy the spectacular views over its multicolor lakes with tones ranging from midnight blue to turquoise

  • Visit the indigenous villages San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan

  • Refreshing bath in Agua Azul waterfalls surrounded by rainforest

  • Explore the archaeological site of Bonampak and navigate along the Usumacinta River to visit Yaxchilan

  • Admire the Olmec culture at the La Venta Museum with its exhibition of 36 outdoor monoliths

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival Tuxtla Gutierrez – Sumidero Canyon – San Cristobal (80 Km – 1.5 Hrs)

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas

Accommodation Name: Mansión de los Angeles or similar 3*, Casa Mexicana or similar 4*

Upon your arrival at Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport, meet and greet is followed by the transfer to Sumidero Canyon, one of Mexico’s outstanding natural phenomena (In order to participate on Sumidero Canyon boat tour, please make sure your arrival arrangements are not later than 01:00 pm). Once in Sumidero Canyon we embark on the boat to experience 2-hours boat trip along the imposing canyon bed. Find yourself dwarfed by the sheer scale of its high walls, covered in thick vegetation. Admire the beautiful wildlife, such as crocodiles, monkeys, and birds and the great variety of flora of the surrounding rainforest. After the boat ride, we continue to San Cristobal de las Casas with drop-off at your hotel.

Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 2 : San Cristobal – San Juan Chamula And Zinacantan – San Cristobal (30 Km – 1 Hr)

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas

Accommodation Name: Mansión de los Angeles or similar 3*, Casa Mexicana or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up early to your breakfast, meet your guide and get ready for the visit of the indigenous villages San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Your guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you to see the whitewashed cathedral with colorful ornamentation and pine-scented is a real marvel and the candlelight in the interior evocates the spiritual atmosphere. The towns are almost entirely inhabited by Tzotzil Maya, a tribe with their unique language and specific way of clothing. Try regional drink in Zinacantan and learn the loom waste weaving techniques which are dating back to pre-Columbian times. Taste traditional hand-made tortilla and once back in San Cristobal de las Casas, learn about the historical sites during the city tour where you can admire marvels of the colonial architecture. After this half-day tour transfer back to San Cristobal and the rest of the afternoon at leisure. 

Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 3 : San Cristobal De Las Casas - Montebello Lakes & Chiflon´S Waterfall – San Cristobal De Las Casas (230 Km – 5.5 Hrs)

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas

Accommodation Name: Mansión de los Angeles or similar 3*, Casa Mexicana or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise and shine early in the morning and enjoy your breakfast at the hotel. Approx. at 8:00 am departure towards Montebello lakes. En route you will visit a small community in Amatenango de Valle, “The Toen of Potters” and you will learn the traditional way of mud crafting. Further on continue to Montebello Lakes and Chiflón´s waterfall, stunning natural phenomena, refreshing bath under the waterfall wake up your senses and leave memorable experience. Return to San Cristóbal around 7:30 pm and the rest of the day at leisure. 

Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 4 : San Cristobal – Palenque (230 Km – 5.5 Hrs)

Location: Palenque

Accommodation Name: Tulija Express or similar 3*, Chan Kah or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will be departing from San Cristobal de las Casas early in the morning at around 4:00 am and you will be heading towards Palenque, one of the most beautiful areas conserving Mayan heritage. En route, you can take a refreshing bath in Agua Azul waterfalls surrounded by rainforest and feel the energy of the natural wonder. Upon your arrival at Palenque, visit the temples of Palenque. This archaeological site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it boasts some of the finest Mayan architecture, sculpture, roof comb, and bas-relief carvings. Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of the premises, admiring its beauty and gathering interesting information. You will check in to your hotel at approx. 6:00 pm and the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Palenque.

Day 5 : Palenque - Bonampack And Yachilan - Palenque (328 Km – 6 Hrs)

Location: Palenque

Accommodation Name: Tulija Express or similar 3*, Chan Kah or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise and shine early in the morning and at around 6:00 am you will be departing towards the archaeological site of Bonampak, to continue with your Mayan heritage discovery. Afterward departure for the jaguar shield where you embark to navigate one hour along the Usumacinta River and visit the Archaeological site of Yaxchilan. You will be back in Palenque in the late afternoon and the rest of the day at leisure. 

Overnight in Palenque.

Day 6 : Palenque – La Venta – Departure Villahermosa (407 Km – 5.5 Hrs)

Location: Villahermosa

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your last morning breakfast at the hotel in Palenque, after which you will be departing towards Villahermosa, located on the riverbank of Grijalva and Carrizal. En route, you will visit the La Venta Museum, where you can admire the Olmec culture, with its exhibition of 36 outdoor monoliths, among which the Head of Jaguar, the Monkey Looking at Heaven, the Humanized Jaguar, and many other. At a convenient time we will make the transfer to Villahermosa airport. (Estimated arrival at Villahermosa airport is at 5:00 pm, please arrange your flight accordingly)

What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    Operated with Spanish and English-speaking local guides in each destination on a shared basis during the activities.

  • Accommodation

    5 nights' hotel accommodation.

  • Accommodation Options

    Day 1, 2, 3 in San Cristobal de las Casas: Standard Hotel Category = Mansión de los Angeles or similar 3*, Superior Hotel Category = Casa Mexicana or similar 4*. Day 4, 5 in Palenque: Standard Hotel Category = Tulija Express or similar 3*, Superior Hotel Category = Chan Kah or similar 4*.

  • Optional Extra

    Pre-night in Tuxtla Gutierrez: Deluxe Hotel Category: Marriot Tuxtla Gutierrez or similar 5*; bed and breakfast basis and shared transfer from TGZ Airport to the hotel with Spanish-speaking assistance.

  • Meals

    5 Breakfasts.

  • Transport

    Arrival shared transfer in an air-conditioned bus from Tuxtla Gutierrez airport, departure shared transfer in an air-conditioned bus to Villahermosa Airport, and shared transportation in an air-conditioned bus throughout the tour.

  • Entrance Fees & Activities

    All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Sumidero Canyon boat tour (Day 1), San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan sightseeing tour and San Cristobal de las Casas city tour (Day 2), Montebello Lakes and Chiflon’s waterfall sightseeing tour, Amatenango del Valle visit (Day 3), Agua Azul waterfalls, Palenque ruins (Day 4), Bonampak and Yaxchilan Sightseeing tour (Day 5), La Venta Museum (Day 6). ...more ...less

  • Other

    Meet & Greet.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Domestic nor International flights are not included.

  • Drinks

    Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise) are not included.

  • City Tax

    City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.

  • Unmentioned Visits

    Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.

  • Additional Drinks and Fees

    Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. are not included.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Mexico. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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Please Note

  • Day 1: In order to participate on Sumidero Canyon boat tour, please make sure your arrival arrangements are not later than 01:00 pm. 
  • Day 2: Taking photos in temples in San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, is prohibited. 
  • Due to the general maintenance works of La Venta Park, we will visit the Carlos Pellicer Cámara Regional Museum of Anthropology instead.
  • Day 6: Estimated arrival at Villahermosa airport is at 05:00 pm. Please arrange your departure flights accordingly. 
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
  • Guests may be mixed with other guests of other nationalities, but the guide in the vehicle will speak English and Spanish.
  • There is no guarantee that you will be part of the same group during the tour.
  • The assigned guide and group size may change during the itinerary.
  • Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
  • In many hotels in Mexico, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1, 2, 3 San Cristobal de las Casas

  • Standard Hotel Category = Mansión de los Angeles or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Casa Mexicana or similar 4*

Day 4, 5 Palenque

  • Standard Hotel Category = Tulija Express or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Chan Kah or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA

Pre-night in Tuxtla Gutierrez:

  • Deluxe Hotel Category: Marriot Tuxtla Gutierrez or similar 5*; bed and breakfast basis and shared transfer from TGZ Airport to the hotel with Spanish-speaking assistance

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably with shared transfers in air-conditioned buses, including arrival transfer from Tuxtla Gutierrez airport and departure transfer to Villahermosa Airport. Shared transportation is provided throughout the tour.

Accommodation

Enjoy 5 nights of hotel accommodation with options ranging from standard 3-star hotels like Mansión de los Angeles and Tulija Express to superior 4-star hotels such as Casa Mexicana and Chan Kah. Optional deluxe pre-night stay at Marriot Tuxtla Gutierrez.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1, 2, 3 San Cristobal de las Casas

  • Standard Hotel Category = Mansión de los Angeles or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Casa Mexicana or similar 4*

Day 4, 5 Palenque

  • Standard Hotel Category = Tulija Express or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Chan Kah or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA

Pre-night in Tuxtla Gutierrez:

  • Deluxe Hotel Category: Marriot Tuxtla Gutierrez or similar 5*; bed and breakfast basis and shared transfer from TGZ Airport to the hotel with Spanish-speaking assistance

Check out our Q&As

  • What languages are the local guides fluent in during the activities?

    The local guides are fluent in both Spanish and English.

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 5 nights of hotel accommodation. In San Cristobal de las Casas, you can stay at either Mansión de los Angeles (3-star) or Casa Mexicana (4-star). In Palenque, the options are Tulija Express (3-star) or Chan Kah (4-star).

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes 5 breakfasts.

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes shared transportation in an air-conditioned bus throughout the tour. There are also shared transfers from Tuxtla Gutierrez airport upon arrival and to Villahermosa Airport upon departure.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour?

    Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes the Sumidero Canyon boat tour, San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan sightseeing tour, Montebello Lakes and Chiflon's waterfall sightseeing tour, Agua Azul waterfalls, Palenque ruins, Bonampak and Yaxchilan sightseeing tour, and La Venta Museum. ...more ...less

  • Is there a meet and greet service included in the tour?

    Yes, a meet and greet service is included upon arrival at Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport.

  • What should I wear during the tour?

    Comfortable and light clothing is recommended. Visitors should avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent are also recommended.

  • Are there any restrictions on photography during the tour?

    Yes, taking photos in temples in San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan is prohibited.

  • What time should I arrive to participate in the Sumidero Canyon boat tour?

    You should make sure your arrival arrangements are not later than 01:00 pm to participate in the Sumidero Canyon boat tour.

  • What time should I arrange my departure flight on the last day?

    You should arrange your departure flight from Villahermosa airport after 05:00 pm, as the estimated arrival at the airport is at 05:00 pm.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Monday

Apr 02, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$1413 (USD)

Thursday - Tuesday

Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
$1413 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025
$1413 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 10, 2025
$1413 (USD)

Wednesday - Monday

Apr 09, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Thursday - Tuesday

Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Wednesday - Monday

Apr 23, 2025 - Apr 28, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Thursday - Tuesday

Apr 24, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 25, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 01, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Wednesday - Monday

Apr 30, 2025 - May 05, 2025
$1386 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Mexico requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services mexico charges.

    At 6 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Chiapas Explorer

6 Days Starting in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico and ending in Villahermosa, Mexico

Visiting: San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque, Villahermosa

Tour code:

354229

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

10-99

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish
From: $1386 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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