23 Amazing Things To Do In Chiapas (Picked By A Pro!) 2024
It may be one of the poorest states in Mexico but by any other measure Chiapas has to rate close to the top. Whether it be natural beauty, pretty towns, ancient history, or food culture, it’s a winner in our books.
We spent three weeks in Chiapas recently during our epic 100-day Mexico road trip and looking back, we could have stayed a month or more and loved every minute of it.
There are so many things to do in Chiapas and you will discover an incredible part of Mexico that has managed to avoid becoming another crowded Mexico tourist trap like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta or Cabo. It’s authentic Mexico!
23 Best Things To Do In Chiapas
There are so many things to do in Chiapas that a month may not even be long enough to fully experience everything on offer. One thing is certain, you will want to come back after your first visit.
Chiapas
A State of Wonder
Search for your ideal activity or tour. With so much to choose from it’s not a matter of IF you will find something, but HOW will you find time to do everything you want to do!
Explore the natural wonders of Chiapas
1. Take a boat ride through Sumidero Canyon
One of the most spectacular natural attractions of Chiapas, if not all of Mexico, isSumidero Canyon, or CaΓ±Γ³n del Sumidero. It is as old as the Grand Canyon and almost as impressive, but in a different way.
The best way to experience Sumidero Canyon is to take a boat tour where you will see waterfalls, caves, and animals such as crocodiles and spider monkeys.
In some sections the canyon walls climb to heights approaching 1000 metres, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Sumidero Canyon is an iconic part of Chiapas and one of the many natural wonders the state has to offer.
The most impressive part of the boat trip is cruising through the spray beneath the incredible Christmas Tree Falls. While the full boats quickly came, saw, and left, we had our guide bring us in from all angles to get the best possible experience. Not to mention great photos.
2. Visit the beautiful Montebello Lakes
If youβre into nature and national parks, Lagunas de Montebello has to be high on your list of things to do and see in Chiapas. Located near the Guatemalan border the lakes are a dazzling attraction.
Montebello features almost 60 stunning green and turquoise lakes and lagoons, many of which you can swim and kayak. Due to the mineral content of the water, the colours vary, from blue-green to purple-black.
Montebello Lakes are commonly visited as a day trip from San CristΓ³bal, but there is so much to do here we recommend staying a night. There are limestone caves to explore, even nearby Mayan ruins to discover.
3. Feel the power of the waterfalls at El Chiflon
We love a good waterfall, so without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Chiapas has to be a visit to Cascada El ChiflΓ³n is the most spectacular waterfall in Mexico, and arguably one of the best in the world.
You will find a series of increasingly impressive waterfalls beginning near the park entrance as you make your way along the path through lush jungle. There are places to swim and plenty of amazing photo spots.
El Chiflon can be reached as a day trip from San Cristobal but we highly recommend that you stay in the nearby town of Comitan and head to the waterfalls early to avoid the tour crowds.
4. Swim under the waterfalls at Misol-Ha and Agua Azul
Another two of Chiapasβs most impressive natural wonders are the Misol Ha waterfall and Agua Azul waterfalls. They are very different as Agua Azul is a series of cascades while Misol-Ha is a single 35-metre drop waterfall.
Both sites are only an hour away from each other and are usually combined as a day trip from either Palenque or San Cristobal de Las Casas. It is possible to swim in the clear, blue waters and pools at both locations.
5. Relax in the pools of Cascadas Roberto Barrios
Cascadas Roberto Barrios lives in the shadow of the more famous Agua Azul, and while they are similar in that they are both a series of beautiful small waterfalls, we believe it has two advantages:
- It is much easier to reach Roberto Barrios as it is closer to one of the other major attractions of Chiapas, the wonder that is Palenque. Whereas Agua Azul is a longer distance from wherever you may be staying.
- The second reason is that, while Agua Azul may be a more visually stunning option when the weather is right, it can become less appealing after rain as the water turns from blue to muddy brown.
Cascadas Roberto Barrios is less likely to be affected by storm-water and manages to keep its beautiful colours for more of the year.
6. Go caving at Arcotete, Rancho Nuevo & Grutas del Mamut
In the surrounding area of San CristΓ³bal you will find some amazing natural wonders that you probably never even considered, and you should find out why they are popular with the locals.
Each of these locations offers activities such as climbing, hiking, and spelunking. Check out Grutas del Mamut with a huge cave system and a particular rock in the shape of a mammoth, which is where the caves get their name.
Rancho Nuevo is the most popular and features an enormous network of caves that goes down over 500 metres. It makes for an unusual and exciting experience.
Chill out in the magical towns of Chiapas
7. Wander around San Cristobal de las Casas
Chiapas is home to one of Mexico’s most beautiful towns, San Cristobal de las Casas. This magical place is filled with cobblestone streets lined with colourful buildings, and there are plenty of pedestrian-only streets as well.
Not only is it a pretty town but the local markets are incredibly lively, the food scene fantastic, and traditional and indigenous culture flows through its veins. And yet somehow it has still avoided a huge influx of tourists.
Find out the reasons you need to visit San Cristobal and why we rate it as our favourite town in Mexico.
8. Surround yourself with nature at ComitΓ‘n
It seems that almost all of the surprisingly small number of travellers that visit Chiapas tend to spend their time based in the capital, Tuxtla, San Cristobal, or Palenque.
But there is another town that is ideally located to visit many of the best natural attractions of Chiapas, ComitΓ‘n. And it has virtually no international tourism coming through, which means more authentic old Mexico.
ComitΓ‘n has a pretty town centre, some impressive architecture, and a great traditional food scene. It is a great place to add to any road trip through Chiapas and also the best place to stay if you are visiting El Chiflon.
Discover the ancient ruins of Chiapas
9. Climb the pyramids of Palenque
While Chiapas has more than its fair share of incredible ancient ruins, there is one that stands as the most important, and justifiably so. We found Palenque to be more impressive than places like Chitzen Itza, and without the crowds!
It is one of the extensively investigated Mayan sites in Central America, with dozens of impressive buildings. The archaeological site is already huge but it is believed only about 10% of the entire original site has been excavated.
Palenque was abandoned for centuries and nature had almost completely taken over the entire site. It is a special place and one that should be on every Chiapas travel itinerary.
You will be approached by people offering their services as a guide when you arrive at the entry gates. We have always found that the few dollars you pay them are more than worth it for the information and stories they share.
10. Be awe-struck by the murals at Bonampak
History, art and architecture buffs have to visit Bonampak. The murals there are like nothing you will find at any other Mayan site. They are so well-preserved that it feels like stepping back in time.
The details are incredible; you can see the Mayan rituals, ceremonies, and even battles all painted on the walls. Itβs a real eye-opener into how the Mayans lived and what their society was like.
Getting to Bonampak is an adventure in itself because itβs deep in the Lacandon Jungle. You can visit as part of a day trip from Palenque, use public transport or drive yourself.
Most tours will also take you to the nearby site of YaxchilΓ‘n.
11. Go on an adventure to YaxchilΓ‘n
Deep in the jungle, not far from Bonampak you will find the ancient Mayan city of YaxchilΓ‘n. Approaching it is like something out of an Indiana Jones movie!
Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the impressive temples and intricate carvings. These carvings tell stories of the rulers, battles, and rituals of the ancient Maya, they are very detailed and haunting.
YaxchilΓ‘nβs location makes it feel even more special. Itβs surrounded by dense jungle, and the whole site has this mystical, untouched vibe. While wandering through the ruins, you hear howler monkeys in the trees and see all kinds of tropical birds flying around.
The isolation of the site adds to the sense of stepping back in time. Itβs not just the history that makes YaxchilΓ‘n special; itβs the whole atmosphere. The combination of nature and history is just magical.
The best way to visit YaxchilΓ‘n is on a day trip from Palenque, which will usually also include a visit to the equally amazing Bonampak.
12. ToninΓ‘ – the often overlooked Mayan city
Halfway between San Cristobal and Palenque is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites weβve ever seen, and what makes ToninΓ‘ so special is its incredible architecture.
Itβs actually one of the tallest structures in the Mayan world, and visiting it is an adventure in itself. As you ascend the terraces, you can explore temples, palaces, and ball courts along the way. Itβs an awe-inspiring reminder of how advanced and powerful the ancient Maya were.
What really struck us about ToninΓ‘ is how off-the-beaten-path it feels. Unlike some of the more famous Mayan sites, ToninΓ‘ is quieter and less crowded, which gives you the chance to really soak in the history and atmosphere.
Most visitors to Chiapas will use buses to travel between the major towns and drive straight past so many amazing sites. Most of the people who get to experience ToninΓ‘ stumble upon it on a road trip. We did!
ToninΓ‘ was one of the last Mayan cities to resist the power of other dominant city-states, and you can feel that sense of defiance and strength as you walk through the ruins.
Experience the traditions and culture of Chiapas
13. Meet the weavers of ZinacantΓ‘n
One of the most amazing cultural experiences you can have in Chiapas is to visit the village of ZinacantΓ‘n. What really makes this place special is the incredible weaving tradition that the local Tzotzil Maya women have preserved for generations.
It feels very humbling to watch these master weavers at work, creating the most stunning textiles youβve ever seen. The colours are so vivid and the patterns so intricateβitβs mesmerizing to watch them weave on traditional backstrap looms, just as their ancestors did.
The best way to visit ZinacantΓ‘n is on a day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas, which is just a short drive away, making it super easy to get to. The tour usually includes a visit to nearby San Juan Chamula.
The locals are incredibly welcoming, and theyβll happily show you around, explain the weaving process, and even let you try your hand at it if youβre interested.
14. Mix with natives at San Juan Chamula
For a unique and unusual experience, you have to visit San Juan Chamula, an autonomous town where they practice a mix of Pagan and Catholic beliefs, and even speak their own language rather than Spanish.
This town is like nowhere else, especially because of its unique church, which is the heart of the community. From the outside, the church looks pretty typical, but once you step inside, itβs a completely different world.
There are no pews; instead, the floor is covered in pine needles, and candles are everywhere, flickering in the dim light. The smell of incense fills the air, and youβll see locals performing rituals that can be strange and even confronting to some visitors.
What is wonderful about San Juan Chamula is how strong the indigenous culture is, with people still wearing traditional clothing, and keeping their language and customs alive despite centuries of outside influence.
The best way to visit San Juan Chamula is as a day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas, which is only about a 20-minute drive away, making it super convenient. It is usually combined with a visit to ZinacantΓ‘n.
If you go, itβs important to be respectfulβthis is a sacred place for the Chamula people. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the church and during rituals, so be sure to respect their rules.
Eat, drink and stay in Chiapas
15. Take a cooking class in San Cristobal
We love taking a cooking class whenever possible when we travel to a new location. It is a great way for you to get a deeper appreciation of the history and culinary traditions of a place.
The best cooking experience can be found in San Cristobal at the El Tzitz cooking school. It is one of the best food experiences we have ever had and we are sure you will love it as much as we did.
You will be taken on a tour of the local market by a lovely lady named Irma, collect all of the ingredients for your meal, and maybe even be convinced to try some of the more unusual items on display, like “booty” ants!
You will then return for the class, which is held in a beautiful house with a garden that overlooks the town, and have the privilege of recreating recipes that have been passed down in Irma’s family for generations.
16. Try the traditional dishes of Chiapas
The food in Chiapas is full of flavours that are deeply connected to the regionβs indigenous and colonial history. Standout dishes include tamales de chipilΓn with their unique herb flavour, and cochito, a slow-cooked, spiced pork dish.
Another must-try is my favourite snack, pan compuesto, a small crusty roll filled with seasoned meats, pickled vegetables, and sometimes beans, offering a perfect blend of flavours and textures.
Exploring the local markets, especially in San Cristobal de las Casas, is the best way to experience this vibrant culinary culture.
Youβll find everything from tascalate, a refreshing drink made with toasted corn and cacao, to pepita con tasajo, a combination of squash seeds and beef that blends indigenous and Spanish influences. And donβt miss out on sopa de pan, a hearty bread soup thatβs a local favourite.
17. Check out a coffee plantation
Chiapas is renowned for its high-quality coffee, and touring the plantations offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture behind your morning cup.
As you walk through the lush hills, youβll learn about the traditional methods used to cultivate and harvest the beans. Many of these plantations have been family-owned for generations, and the passion and dedication to producing the finest coffee are evident in every step of the process.
The plantations often work hand-in-hand with indigenous farmers, who play a crucial role in growing and harvesting the beans. Youβll hear stories about how the coffee industry has shaped the regionβs economy and culture.
Many plantations offer guided tours where you can see the entire coffee-making process, from picking the ripe cherries to roasting the beans. And of course, no visit is complete without tasting the final productβfresh, aromatic coffee thatβs bursting with flavour.
18. Stay in a fairytale cabin
If you are the type of traveller that loves to find a unique stay somewhere on your trip then we have just the place for you in Chiapas. It’s a fairytale cabin built right on the edge of a small waterfall.
The Canto del Agua Ecolodge has a variety of accommodations, including a few very special options. They also have several activities, a pool, a nice restaurant, and strong cocktails. It’s a hidden gem!
We Recommend…
Canto el Agua Ecolodge
For a special experience book the room with the river view. It is a bit of a hike from reception and may not be suitable for anyone with mobility issues. But laying in bed, watching a waterfall outside your window is amazing.
Free Things To Do In Chiapas
Not everything in Chiapas costs money… although even the things that do are always incredible value. You can spend days wandering around pretty towns, exploring the magnificent natural beauty, or taking in the views.
19. Learn about the Zapatista revolutionaries
When you visit Chiapas, you should learn about the Zapatista revolutionaries. The Zapatistas are more than a historical movement; theyβre a living force for indigenous rights and social justice.
Visiting their autonomous communities, known as “caracoles,” you can see how theyβve built their own self-sustained systems, from education to healthcare, all grounded in principles of democracy and equality.
Their commitment to preserving their culture and fighting for their rights is inspiring. Visiting one of their communities gives you an understanding of their ongoing struggle and the power of grassroots movements.
If youβre based in San Cristobal de las Casas, itβs easy to arrange a visit to a Zapatista community, but itβs important to approach with respect and an open mind.
20. Drive around the Sumidero Canyon viewpoints
If you are travelling through Chiapas on a road trip then a day around Sumidero Canyon is an absolute must.
The canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Mexico, and a great way to appreciate its grandeur is by exploring the viewpoints, or miradores, that overlook the canyon.
At each viewpoint youβll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the towering canyon walls and the river winding far below. Each viewpoint offers a unique perspective, and the sheer scale of the canyon is awe-inspiring.
Some of the miradores, like La Ceiba and Los Chiapa, offer particularly spectacular vistas, where you can see the canyon stretching out for miles, surrounded by mountains and blanketed in green.
If youβre staying in nearby Tuxtla GutiΓ©rrez, the drive to Sumidero Canyon is easy and makes for a perfect day trip. Be sure to bring your camera because the views are absolutely picture-perfect.
As an added bonus, and for a break from the incredible scenery, add a visit to the historic town of Chiapa de Corzo. It’s the perfect place to grab some lunch before your next amazing viewpoint.
21. Join a free walking tour of San Cristobal
One of the best ways to introduce yourself to a new town is with a walking tour, and taking a free walking tour in San Cristobal de las Casas is an experience you shouldnβt miss!
The tours are usually led by knowledgeable locals who bring the townβs past to life with fascinating stories and insights. Our guide was a local artist who, at the end of our tour, took us to see her work in one of the many galleries.
As you wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets, youβll visit beautiful landmarks like the Cathedral of San Cristobal, colourful markets, and hidden spots that you might not discover on your own.
The guides do an amazing job of showing you both the highlights and the lesser-known gems of San Cristobal.
The best part? These tours are free! Well… kind of. The guides work on a tip basis, and we have never been on a walking tour anywhere in the world where they didn’t earn a very good tip. It’s still much cheaper than the prices advertised for paid walking tours.
They usually last a couple of hours, and you can join a group any day of the week, which makes it super convenient. Itβs a fun, informative, and engaging way to start your journey in one of Chiapasβ most enchanting towns.
22. Lose yourself in the markets of San Cristobal
The markets here are the heart and soul of the community, bursting with colours, sounds, and the traditions of Chiapas.
As you wander among the stalls, youβll find an incredible array of handmade goods, from beautifully woven textiles and intricate beadwork to pottery and fresh local produce.
The Mercado de Dulces y ArtesanΓas, in particular, is a treasure trove of local crafts, where you can pick up unique souvenirs directly from the artisans who made them.
What makes the markets in San Cristobal so special is the deep connection to the indigenous cultures of the region. Many of the vendors are Tzotzil and Tzeltal Maya women who carry on centuries-old crafting traditions.
The Mercado de Santo Domingo is another must-visit, located right next to the stunning Santo Domingo Church. Here, the variety of crafts on offer is incredible, and itβs the perfect place to find something truly unique while supporting the local community.
Walking through these markets isnβt just about shoppingβitβs a sensory experience that immerses you in the local way of life.
23. Use the walking / bike tracks leading to Palenque
You may not be aware but Palenque is actually not just the name of the famous Mayan archaeological site, but also the name of the nearby town. And they are a few kilometres from each other.
Beside the road that leads to the ancient site is an excellent walking / cycle track that is a great way to get some exercise in a safe and scenic way. The path sits between the road and dense jungle where you can hear birds and the occasional howler monkey.
Keep in mind that while the walk is quite nice and also flat, if you are also planning to walk around the ruins you will certainly be exceeding your daily steps goal!
Best Time To Visit Chiapas
The best time to visit Chiapas is during the dry season, which runs from November to April, with sunny days and cooler temperatures, especially in the highlands like San Cristobal de las Casas.
With less rain, youβll have better conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, visiting ancient Mayan ruins, and enjoying the local markets and festivals that are so integral to the regionβs culture.
Visiting during this time also means you can experience some of Chiapasβ most culturally significant events. If youβre there in early January, you can witness the Fiesta Grande de Enero in Chiapa de Corzo, a lively festival filled with traditional dances, music, and parades.
Holy Week (Semana Santa), typically in March or April, is another fantastic time to visit, as towns like San Cristobal come alive with elaborate processions and religious ceremonies.
While the dry season is the most popular time to visit, travelling in the off-season, from May to October, has some benefits. The landscape is lush and green from the rains, and there are fewer tourists, making it easier to explore popular sites without the crowds.
However, there may be more rain, especially in the afternoons, and some remote areas might be harder to access. Whenever you choose to visit, Chiapas is a destination that offers something special year-round.
How To Get Around Chiapas
The most common way to travel between cities and attractions is by bus. The bus network in Chiapas is extensive, with companies like ADO offering comfortable and reliable services connecting major destinations such as Tuxtla GutiΓ©rrez, San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque, and beyond.
The buses are a great option if youβre looking for an affordable and convenient way to see the region, with the added bonus of scenic views along the way.
For more flexibility, renting a car is a fantastic option, especially if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path areas like the smaller indigenous villages or remote natural wonders.
The roads in Chiapas are generally in good condition, though they can be winding and mountainous in places, particularly around San Cristobal de las Casas.
Having a car gives you the freedom to set your own pace, stop for those hidden gems, and visit places that arenβt as easily accessible by public transportation, like the various miradores overlooking Sumidero Canyon or the hidden waterfalls scattered throughout the region.
Within the cities and towns, getting around is easy and affordable thanks to local taxis and colectivosβshared vans that operate on set routes.
In places like San Cristobal de las Casas and Comitan, the towns’ compact size makes it easy to explore them on foot, which is often the best way to soak in the colonial charm and laid-back atmosphere.
FAQs
You may have a few more questions before making your final decision on whether Chiapas is the right choice for you, so let’s see if we can answer them and convince you this is a place you need to experience.
What is Chiapas best known for?
Chiapas is best known for its incredible blend of natural beauty, rich indigenous culture, and ancient history.
You can experience nature at its most spectacular in places like Sunidero Canyon, Montebello Lakes, and the many waterfalls. Not to mention the incredible jungle.
In addition to its natural beauty, Chiapas is renowned for its deep-rooted indigenous cultures, particularly the Tzotzil and Tzeltal Maya communities, and this cultural richness is evident everywhere.
Chiapas is also famous for its ancient Mayan ruins, with Palenque being one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, plus diverse locations like ToninΓ‘, Bonampak and YaxchilΓ‘n, among others.
How many days do you need in Chiapas?
To experience the highlights of Chiapas we recommend a minimum of 10 days, but to really immerse yourself and enjoy more of what Chiapas has to offer, you need at least double that.
It is possible to get a taste of San Cristobal in just a long weekend, and the same can be said about exploring Palenque. If you try to see everything in a week you will be left wishing you had more time.
Are there beaches in Chiapas?
Chiapas has a substantial coastline dotted with some attractive beaches. And while they are popular with locals, their distance from”civilised” Mexico and difficulty to get to, mean very few tourists visit.
They are gradually becoming more popular as travellers look for beach destinations that are not as crowded and rowdy as destinations along the Riviera Maya, Baja or Puerto Vallarta and nearby coastal towns.
What are the best months to visit Chiapas?
November to April is the best time to experience great weather in Chiapas and is also the time of year that sees a large number of special events and celebrations across the state.
The downside is that this time of year is high season and the more popular locations will have larger crowds than during the rest of the year. Keep in mind that Chiapas is rarely overcrowded compared to other parts of Mexico.
Best things to do in Chiapas – Our Opinion
With so many incredible things to do in Chiapas, it can be difficult to decide which things to do in the time you have to do them. What isn’t a difficult decision is whether you should go there at all.
Chiapas is not only a place that offers plenty to every type of traveller, but it offers those things at some of the lowest prices found anywhere in Mexico.
If you ask us to choose our favourite thing to do in Chiapas, I’m afraid we wouldn’t be able to answer. There were simply too many things we did here that have become highlights of our recent 6-month Mexico trip.
For anything else you would like to know about this underrated part of Mexico, Visit Chiapas has got you covered.
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