6 Unforgettable Places to See in Chiapas, Mexico

For many years, Chiapas was in between the ownership of Mexico and Guatemala. Chiapas was ratified to Mexico by the choice of the people, and what a beautiful area Mexico acquired. Some of the most well known ruins reside here, all within the dense jungle of this tropical location. Keep scrolling to find out some of the best places to visit in Chiapas!

Cañón del Sumidero

Just north of Tuxtla Gutierrez, this massive fissure is a jaw-dropping spectacle. There are two ways to see this place: from above within the National Park, or below in a lancha (tour boat). You can find the lanchas in Chiapa de Corzo, a short drive from Tuxtla Gutierrez. For a fee, they will take you on a tour of the canyon you will never forget. Racing through the waters with the walls of the canyon rising to heights of about 1,000 meters.

With plenty of wildlife in the canyon, you are bound to see a crocodile or two while on the boat tour.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

Only about an hour east of Tuxtla Gutierrez is a place called San Cristobal de las Casas. Although this is no longer the capital of Chiapas, it is still revered as the cultural capital of this amazing state. The Spanish colonial layout of cobblestone streets, and red tile roofs will make you think you have traveled back in time. San Cristobal is at an altitude of 2,200 meters (about 7,000 feet), so don't forget some extra layers for night time! This place is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenes, and has much to offer. Be sure to check out San Cristobal Cathedral within the central park if you need more old colonial architecture to fill your day!

San Juan Chamula

Just outside of San Cristobal de Las Casas, is the small village of San Juan Chamula. Many more mountain views here, along with the high likelihood of hearing one of Mexico's 68 indigenous languages. This area of Chiapas uses the indigenous language of Tzotzil, which is still taught alongside Spanish in schools today!

A true spectacle and tourist attraction in this part of Chiapas is the Church of San Juan Chamula. It is very worth paying the dollar entrance fee to see the inside of this church. 

Tenam Puente

We are now heading farther south in this amazing state. Tenam Puente are Mayan ruins just outside of Comitan, and are a great day trip for any traveler. To hang out in the well maintained fields, and see the old architecture in this place is a very memorable experience. By old, I mean really old; these ruins were constructed around 300-600 AD! Take yourself or your family there for a day of relaxation and wonder.

Lagos de Montebello

We are getting closer to the border of Guatemala, and Lagos de Montebello gives you an introduction into the beautiful nature Central America has to offer. This safe and friendly National Park is a place where people take relaxing day trips all the time. Similar to the boat tours in Cañón del Sumidero, there are boats that will take you around the lakes to get a better view of this nature from the water. Did you know there are over 59 lakes in this massive national park? Check out as many as you can while you are there, and don't forget to go to the Cenote at the very end of the park. Locals will always ask if you want a guide, an extremely cheap option to have some conversation with the people who live off this land.

Cascada El Chiflón

These waterfalls are a fun hike for a great reward. As you continue on the trail by the water, the waterfalls start getting bigger, and much more picturesque. Only about a 2 kilometer hike in, the steepest part is towards the end. Making your way to the top, an enormous waterfall awaits your arrival. You can choose to take a tour, but it is not necessary. Exploring this hike without a guide is both safe and fun! Go at your own pace and enjoy these amazing waterfalls.

The nature of Chiapas

Chiapas, the southernmost state in Mexico, is quite the unforgettable place to visit. The people chose this to be a part of Mexico. What a great addition to an already stunning country. Each state offers its own spin on Latin culture, and Chiapas is no exception. Come enjoy the vast views, and the great people of this cultural mecca. 

'Til next time,

Pete - A Traveling Teacher