Top Things to do in Chiapas
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What to do and see in Chiapas, Chiapas: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours
Discover the best top things to do in Chiapas, Southern Mexico including Palenque Archaeological Site from Villahermosa, PALENQUE MAYAN RUINS (Private), PALENQUE RUINS, AGUA AZUL and MISOL-HA WATER FALLS (Private), Indigenous Villages Chamula Zinacantan Leaving From Tuxtla., Chiapa de Corzo: tradition, gastronomy and Cañon del Sumidero, Customs of indigenous villages of Chiapas, Na Bolom Museum (Archaeological, photographic archive, Lacandon culture, nursery), 5 Days Mayan Heritage visit Tulum Kohunlich Chicanna Becan Misol-Ha Palenque Edzna Uxmal and Chichen Itza, Tour to San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan, Visit to San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan Indigenous Communties from San Cristobal.
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1. Palenque Archaeological Site from Villahermosa
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Visit the incredible archaeological site of Palenque, declared as a World Heritage list by UNESCO. Your tour includes guided visits to the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Temple of the Foliated Cross, and the palace belonging to Maya royalty. If option selected, take in the beauty of the mountain landscapes around Palenque and visit Cascadas de Agua Azul, where you'll descend on foot to the stunning waterfalls, with time for swimming in a deep pool at the base of jungle-covered cliffs (if the weather allows). Travel on an air-conditioned vehicle round-trip to Villahermosa.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Local guide, Entrance Fee
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By pedroCali
We had a great tour with Juan Carlos. He was very knowledgeable and had a wonderful personality. We had an awesome time on the tour at Parque La Venta and then got to see more artifacts at the museum. Definitely recommend!
2. PALENQUE MAYAN RUINS (Private)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Located on the first rise of the Tumbala mountains, Palenque archaeological site looks out over the Usumacinta River flood plain. Here you’ll be confronted by the largest Mesoamerican step pyramid, the Temple of Inscriptions, spotted with hieroglyphics that have contributed significantly to the study of Mayan civilization. It is considered one of the most emblematic mayan site having been the empire of Pakal, Governor, Warrior and God of Mayan Civilization.
Inclusions: Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Everything not included in the list "What`s Included".
Reviewed By nparmelee
Salvatore was very knowledgeable and gave us a great day! He was flexible in the order we did things, suggested Tulum first before it got too hot, then lunch, Coba and then a Cenote. For us this was perfect! We all (2 couples) felt like we learned something and got some great insights to the Mayan culture and lively conversation during the drives. Absolutely recommend this tour!
3. PALENQUE RUINS, AGUA AZUL and MISOL-HA WATER FALLS (Private)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Located on the first rise of the Tumbala mountains, Palenque archaeological site looks out over the Usumacinta River flood plain. Here you’ll be confronted by the largest Mesoamerican step pyramid, the Temple of Inscriptions, spotted with hieroglyphics that have contributed significantly to the study of Mayan civilization. It is considered one of the most emblematic mayan site having been the empire of Pakal, Governor, Warrior and God of Mayan Civilization. The Misol Ha Waterfall is a worthy representative of the eco-tourism of Chiapas, which offers a unique experience where the interaction with the flora and fauna of the place is the most important element. The Cascadas de Agua Azul (Spanish for “Blue Water Waterfall”) are found near the Municipality of Tumbalá, in the middle of the Chiapas rainforest. It consists of many cataracts following one after another in the Cascadas de Agua Azul Natural Park. The larger cataracts may be about 6 meters (20 ft.) high.
Inclusions: Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes
Exclusions: Everything not included in the list "What`s Included"
Reviewed By nparmelee
Salvatore was very knowledgeable and gave us a great day! He was flexible in the order we did things, suggested Tulum first before it got too hot, then lunch, Coba and then a Cenote. For us this was perfect! We all (2 couples) felt like we learned something and got some great insights to the Mayan culture and lively conversation during the drives. Absolutely recommend this tour!
4. Indigenous Villages Chamula Zinacantan Leaving From Tuxtla.
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
See the color and traditions as you visit the local indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan where you will have plenty of time to wander around the local artisan markets and peek inside the beautifully preserved churches. Your tour includes transport, a professional guide, and a "mini-lunch" of beans, handmade tortillas, organic coffee, and a drink typical of the region.
Inclusions: Driver, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Mini traditional lunch (beans, organic coffee, hand made tortillas and drink typical of the region), Professional guide, Entrances Fees to the Villages
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified
Reviewed By lfreede
So beautiful, an amazing experience and a perfect day! Almost didn't see it because of the wind, so it is not always a guaranteed excursion. The government can close it, even if it is a beautiful day, but the winds are higher. They opened after we thought we would miss it. Don't miss it!
5. Chiapa de Corzo: tradition, gastronomy and Cañon del Sumidero
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
The town of Chiapa de Corzo is much more than a jetty to take the boat to the Cañon del Sumidero! This town has history and tradition from pre-Hispanic times that its people proudly celebrate every year during the two weeks of January: the Fiesta Grande. The Parachico dance has been designated an Intangible CULTURAL HERITAGE by UNESCO since 2009. This year the Parachicos parade and dances have been CANCELED due to the pandemic, but the town will celebrate during January with family and friends. We invite you on a tour all year round to learn about the history of the Parachicos and legends, to visit traditional houses and the ARTISANS who work to prepare the Fiesta Grande. We are going to savor local dishes such as pepita con tasajo and pozol which have their origin in pre-Hispanic times! We will start with a tour on the BOAT (2.5 hours NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE) through the Sumidero Canyon.
Inclusions: Private transportation
Exclusions: Speed-boat in the Sumidero Canyon, Lunch
Reviewed By Charlotte C
It was definitely a great idea to book this tour to discover more about the surroundings of San Cristobal and the traditions of the people who live there. My favorite part was the visit of the hand-made textiles managed by amazing entrepreneurs women. We got the chance to dress with traditional clothes as you can see on the picture! Rudy is a true passionate guide, which made the tour even more interested. The fact that it’s only very small group (we were 3 and I think the maximum is 4) made it more interactive between us and also less intrusive for the people who live in the towns we visited.
6. Customs of indigenous villages of Chiapas
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 19 reviews
I grew up with the traditions and legends of indigenous and mestizo peoples of Chiapas, where I come from. I learned them from my grandparents, parents and later, during my university career, I delved into diferent historical and social aspects. I also lived a historical moment in my town, witnessing the armed revolution of the EZLN (Zapatistas). My passion for traditions and legends continues to be more and more alive and I enjoy sharing it with visitors from Chiapas. I have shared it for 10 years, receiving very positive comments.
Inclusions: entrances, Private transportation, Breakfast
Exclusions:
Reviewed By 321phoebea
Words cannot describe how amazing this tour with Experiencias Chiapas is. I would recommend it to everyone. Rudy is the most kind, knowledgable and patient guide. He is so happy to answer all of your questions (in perfect English!) and he allows the day to flow very naturally allowing time for each person to complete their pottery and ask anything! Also it was great that he just takes small groups (only 3 of us when I went) because this makes the experience feel a lot more relaxed and authentic. I came away with not only an insight into the ladies' clay pottery techniques but knowledge on their culture too. Not to mention the BEST food I've had in Mexico that the ladies prepare for you to sit around a table and enjoy with them! The ladies do not push it at all (because they're just passionate about their art) but I would recommend bringing some cash because once you get there you'll definitely want to buy some of their beautiful pottery. I don't want to give too much away... but long story short YOU HAVE TO DO THIS EXCURSION. I will be sure to recommend this experience for years to come! Thank you!
7. Na Bolom Museum (Archaeological, photographic archive, Lacandon culture, nursery)
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 8 reviews
We are a non-profit Civil Association. Funded by a museum, hotel and restaurant. Where 43% of our income is allocated to social programs. Such as: Climate change, Lacandón medical fund, culture and heritage, Mayan artisan program and research and archives.
Inclusions: Restroom on board
Exclusions: Lunch
Reviewed By Sandy S
We had hoped that the museum in this former seminary offer deep insights into the cultures of the indigenous peoples of the mountain villages. However, the displays focused more on the life and explorations of the founder, Blom, and his photographer wife. Her portraits of the Mayan people are worth a isit in themselves.
8. 5 Days Mayan Heritage visit Tulum Kohunlich Chicanna Becan Misol-Ha Palenque Edzna Uxmal and Chichen Itza
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 10 reviews
This 5 days tour has been specially created for all those people interested in knowing more about the south east of Mexico. A trip back in time to learn more about one of the greatest civilization ever: The MAYAS. We will visit: Tulum, Kohunlich, Chicanna, Becan, Misol-Ha, Palenque, Edzna, Uxmal and Chichen Itzá and a few beautiful colonial towns along the way. Our hotels rates are 3 star comfortable hotels for 4 nights. The type of vehicle used for this trip is regularly a comfortable Ford Transit Van with capacity of either 6 or 12 people depending on the number of reservations.
Inclusions: 4 nights accommodation. Hotels: Calakmul Xpujil (Night 1), Nutuntun Hotel (Night 2), H177 Hotel (Night 3) and Gran Real Yucatan or Los Aluxes Hotel (Night 4), All admissions to the archaeological sites, All activities, Driver/guide, Guaranteed departure with at least 2 passengers booked.
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Meals during the trip are NOT included but our staff will surely recommend some great places where to eat along the way., Gratuities
Reviewed By Bettybetty714
I dealt with Pepe for the reservation piece and he was very professional. I traveled with a party of 7 family members. We decided to go with private tours to go at our own pace and have the flexibility of customizing. We took a private tour to Chichen Itza one day and a private tour to Coba and Tulum another day. Manuel was our guide and Jose was the driver and both a pleasure to have. Manuel was extremely knowledgeable.
9. Tour to San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Join this original tour of San Cristobal de Las Casas, a mix of Indigenous and local villages full of colors and traditions. San Cristobal is made up of a series of traditional barrios (neighborhoods), each of which is known for a particular trade or custom, such as ironworking, carpentry, and woodcarving. On this tour, you will visit San Juan Chamula village who owns a church unlike any other. The picturesque, centuries-old Iglesia San Juan has whitewashed walls and a brightly painted entrance that looks out upon the town square. After you will visit Zinacantan village, you'll have the opportunity to learn all about the work of the women of Zinacantán, who weave uniquely beautiful textiles with a special loom attached to their belts. Having admired the traditional hupiles (ponchos) and blankets, you'll then have the opportunity to taste the local fare and try a local dish.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Professional guide
Exclusions: Food and drinks
10. Visit to San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan Indigenous Communties from San Cristobal
Overall Ratings
3.8 based on 13 reviews
A unique experience to live with natives of the communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan and learn a little of their traditions.
Inclusions: Local taxes, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, spanish driver
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Guide
Reviewed By Tigerlileeee
My only regret in all my time in Mexico. Was told I’d be picked uo at my hostel at 8 AM and dropped off at my hostel at 8 PM. Was told to bring a swimsuit. First half of day was fine, driving then enjoying El Chiflon (although the tour description says that the lakes come first and the waterfall after). The nature itself is incredible but DO NOT take this tour from this company. My advice - if at all possible take a collectivo, go on your own & camp there!! After the waterfall, it was more driving and then our driver says we are going to stop for lunch. He pulled over on the side of the highway where there are a lineup of five eateries that literally have photocopied the exact same menu on their wall. Which means you have the option of one. This photocopied menu had only four options. Meat, meat, meat, or cheese. I bought a beer and since I didn’t have smaller change, handed the lady a 50 pesos bill. She cracked open the beer for me, took my money, walked away, I took a sip and she never came back. 50 pesos for a beer. I was expecting 20 tops! Truly highway robbery. Incidentally, only about half a kilometer further down the highway there are numerous restaurants with vegan, vegetarian, meat, and seafood options available to please everyone’s pallet but this was not offered as an option. WHY? We continued on our way driving until eventually coming to the Montebello Lakes. We were told ahead of time that there would be an option to rent a small wooden boat to take you around the lake. We arrived at the lakes at 4:10 PM. This can be confirmed by the timestamp on the first photograph I took there which was the first thing I did upon arrival. You get out of the bus and are funneled down a staircase which leads to a concrete platform that ends in water with all the wooden boats lined up against it. No beach, no sand, no water access. We were told we had one hour. One hour to choose to pay the additional for the boat or sit on our butts on the concrete platform and do nothing. No swimming allowed. In order to swim, you have to pay the additional for one of the boats who then will take you to a beach where they permit you to swim. It is a monopoly. Everyone was under the impression that after sitting in a hot bus sweating for 8 hours minus the 2 hrs @ the waterfall in order to reach the lakes, of course we would be able to swim in the “crystal waters”! This is not the case. 7 persons in our group, after being really upset by this, eventually decided to give in and just rent the boat. That meant they were a couple minutes late returning. But only a couple. Meanwhile, Antonio the driver loads the rest of us into the van and drives away. Since I was the only one on the tour who didn’t speak a word of Spanish, I was not in a position to stop him. He drove up the highway a ways and told people they could get out and take a photo before coming back approximately 20 minutes later. The group of 7 were ranging between furious and about to bawl. They were absolutely freaking out because they thought that they had been altogether abandoned near the Guatemala border. Antonio laughed. We then left around 5:30 to drive back to San Cris where we arrived at 8:40 PM. Antonio at that time then Merli parked the van somewhere in the city and told us to get out. When I protested that I had paid to be dropped off at my hostile he extremely sarcastically said, “Finished!” & told me to get out of the van. Interesting that he knew this word since the entire day I hadn’t a clue what was going on as he made no effort to tell me even through sign language where we were, where to go, how long we would be there or anything. I had to ask for interpretation from fellow guests. At this point, having taken multitude of photos throughout the day, the battery on my phone was at 4%. I rely on my phone for directions. If my phone had of been dead I would’ve had no way to message anyone or find my way back to my hostile that night. Thankfully, it held out to 2% battery power by the time I found walked back to my hostel. I followed up this tour with a visit to their office and spoke with who I presume to be the manager. He listened to me and then he called Antonio. He came back and told me that “Antonio said” we were at the lakes for four hours, that drop off to the hostel was not included, and that no one ever told me I could swim at the lakes. Clearly Antonio knows he can lie and say whatever he wants about what happens on the trips and that his boss will believe him over any customer. Even when faced with proof of my photographs timestamp. The manager couldn’t care less that his driver was rude to me, he couldn’t care less about the suggestion of having more options to eat that would please more people would make his business better, he couldn’t care less that his trip description is misleading and has no intention of changing it, and he couldn’t care less that Antonio left seven people behind to think that they were stranded. Lagunas de Montebello is absolutely stunning. El Chiflon waterfall is the prettiest I’ve seen in my life. That’s Gods work. This review is for the company and the men. They deserve zero stars. Please don’t support such bad business.
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