El Chiflón Waterfalls: Complete Guide to Chiapas' Most Beautiful Cascades
Region: North America
Country: Mexico
Hidden in the diverse landscape of Chiapas lies one of Mexico’s most spectacular waterfalls: El Chiflón. This series of stunning cascades tumbles down limestone cliffs in various shades of turquoise and blue, culminating in the impressive Velo de Novia (Bridal Veil) - a 120-meter drop that creates a mesmerizing spectacle worth every step of the climb.
We’ve visited El Chiflón twice now, each time as part of different adventures through Chiapas. Our first visit was meant to be part of a day tour combining El Chiflón with Lagos de Montebello . While we didn’t complete the full tour due to illness, it turned into an unexpected adventure as we navigated our way back to San Cristóbal using local combi transportation (more on that later!). Our second visit was during an incredible 5-day tour of the Lacandón Jungle , where El Chiflón served as a perfect stop on our journey into the heart of Chiapas.
Getting There
There are several ways to reach El Chiflón, and we’ve experienced a few of them firsthand:
1. Organized Tours
The most straightforward option is joining a tour from San Cristóbal. Tours typically come in two varieties:
- Day Tours: Usually combined with Lagos de Montebello , these tours offer a comprehensive experience of the region’s natural wonders
- Multi-Day Tours: Like our Lacandón Jungle adventure , where El Chiflón serves as a stunning stop along a longer journey
2. Public Transportation
For the adventurous traveler, public transportation offers an authentic and budget-friendly experience. Here’s how:
- Take a colectivo from San Cristóbal to Comitán (about 2 hours)
- From Comitán, catch another colectivo to El Chiflón (45 minutes)
Personal Experience: When we had to leave our tour early, we discovered this route back to San Cristóbal. While it required some basic Spanish and patience, it turned into one of our most memorable adventures, giving us a chance to interact with locals and experience real Mexican transportation.
3. Rental Car
If you prefer flexibility and independence:
- About a 2-hour drive from San Cristóbal
- Well-maintained roads
- Ample parking at the site
- Allows you to combine with other nearby attractions at your own pace
El Chiflón Waterfalls
El Chiflón features a series of stunning waterfalls that cascade down limestone cliffs in various shades of turquoise and blue. As you begin the journey, you’re greeted with an inspirational message that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The sign’s message about discovering your limits perfectly captures the spirit of climbing to the top of these magnificent falls.
The San Vicente River is the lifeblood of this natural wonder, carving its path through the limestone landscape over countless millennia. The river’s crystal-clear waters start high in the Sierra Madre mountains before making their dramatic descent through El Chiflón. The way the sunlight plays off the water creates an ever-changing display of blues and greens that photographers dream about.
The Hiking Experience
The trail at El Chiflón is well-maintained with concrete steps and pathways. While steep in places, it’s manageable for most fitness levels. The first waterfall you encounter is Cascada de Angel, a beautiful introduction to what lies ahead. This initial cascade serves as a perfect warm-up for the grander falls to come, and many visitors pause here to catch their breath and take in the views. The sound of rushing water fills the air, creating a natural soundtrack that accompanies you throughout your climb.
As you continue climbing, you’ll reach Cascada El Suspiro, where the true power of the falls becomes apparent. The viewing platforms here offer spectacular photo opportunities with the falls framed beautifully by the surrounding vegetation. The mist from the falls creates a refreshing natural air conditioning, which is particularly welcome during the heat of the day. Local flora thrives in this microclimate, with lush ferns and tropical plants clinging to the rocky cliffs.
The path winds its way up through the jungle, offering periodic glimpses of the valley below. Each turn reveals new perspectives of the falls, and the changing angles make it impossible to resist taking photos at every platform. The sound of the falls grows louder as you ascend, building anticipation for what’s ahead.
The cascades become increasingly impressive as you ascend, with El Suspiro offering one of the most photogenic spots in the park. This particular section of the falls creates a powerful display of nature’s force, with water thundering down the rocky face and creating a constant rainbow in the mist. The viewing area here is perfectly positioned to capture both the raw power of the falls and the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Finally, you reach the park’s crown jewel - Velo de Novia (Bridal Veil). This magnificent 120-meter waterfall creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it plunges into the crystal-clear pool below. The name comes from its resemblance to a bridal veil as the water gracefully falls in a wide, delicate curtain. Standing at the uppermost viewing platform, you can feel the raw power of the falls as the water crashes down below. The constant mist creates rainbows that dance in the sunlight, making every moment here feel magical.
For the adventurous, there’s an optional zip line offering a thrilling return to the bottom - but bring cash! We learned this the hard way when we couldn’t ride because we’d left our money in the tour van. The zip line costs around 300 pesos per person (as of 2024) and credit cards aren’t accepted. The zip line provides an exhilarating perspective of the falls that you can’t get any other way, soaring past the cascades with the rushing water beside you. It’s an unforgettable way to complete your El Chiflón adventure, combining the perfect mix of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Swimming and Facilities
One of the best parts about El Chiflón is the opportunity to swim in the lower pools during dry season. The water is refreshingly cool and crystal clear, though swimming may be restricted during rainy season (typically May-October) due to strong currents. Always check current conditions and follow posted signs before entering the water. When swimming is permitted, we recommend:
- Wearing water shoes (the rocks can be slippery)
- Bringing a change of clothes
- Using the changing rooms near the entrance
- Keeping valuables in a waterproof bag
- Following all posted safety guidelines and lifeguard instructions
The site is well-developed with:
- Clean restrooms
- Food vendors and restaurants
- Souvenir shops
- Lockers for rent
- Picnic areas
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
El Chiflón is a natural treasure, and as visitors, we can help protect this spectacular waterfall and its inhabitants. During our visit, we were delighted to encounter some of the park’s most charismatic residents - a family of wild raccoons that have made their home among the trails and trees.
While these raccoons are undeniably cute and seem quite comfortable around humans, it’s important to remember they’re wild animals. We observed them skillfully navigating tree branches and eagerly enjoying some watermelon left by other visitors. However, feeding wildlife can be harmful as it makes them dependent on human food and may alter their natural behaviors.
As visitors, we can help protect this spectacular waterfall and its wildlife:
- Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and protect vegetation
- Pack out what you pack in - never leave trash behind
- Use biodegradable sunscreen (especially if swimming) to protect aquatic life
- Support local communities by buying from local vendors
- Follow park guidelines and safety instructions
- Respect wildlife - observe from a distance and never feed them
- Keep food secured to avoid attracting animals
- Maintain a quiet environment to avoid disturbing natural behaviors
The park’s ecosystem is delicate and interconnected. From the raccoons in the trees to the fish in the pools below the falls, every species plays an important role. By practicing responsible tourism, we can help ensure that future generations can enjoy El Chiflón’s natural beauty while protecting its diverse wildlife.
Final Thoughts
El Chiflón represents one of Chiapas’ most spectacular natural wonders. Whether you’re climbing to the top for breathtaking views of Velo de Novia, swimming in the refreshing pools below, or capturing the perfect photo of the turquoise cascades, this destination offers something special for every type of traveler.
While it’s possible to visit as a day trip from San Cristóbal, we recommend giving yourself plenty of time to fully enjoy the experience. The site’s well-developed infrastructure makes it accessible, while still maintaining its natural beauty and charm. It’s a perfect example of why Chiapas is becoming increasingly recognized as one of Mexico’s most remarkable destinations for nature lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is El Chiflón waterfall? The main waterfall, Velo de Novia (Bridal Veil), is 120 meters (394 feet) high, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Chiapas.
How do you get to El Chiflón waterfall from San Cristóbal? You can reach El Chiflón by organized tour (most common), public transportation (colectivo to Comitán, then another to El Chiflón), or rental car (2-hour drive on well-maintained roads).
Can you swim at El Chiflón waterfall? Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas during dry season (typically November-April), particularly in the lower pools. However, swimming is often restricted during rainy season (May-October) due to strong currents and higher water levels. Always check current conditions and follow posted signs and lifeguard instructions before entering the water. The water is refreshingly cool and crystal clear, but can be chilly year-round.
How much does El Chiflón cost? As of 2024, entrance to El Chiflón costs 50 pesos per person. Additional activities like zip-lining cost extra. Bring cash as cards aren’t always accepted.
How long is the hike at El Chiflón? The main trail to Velo de Novia is about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) one way, with approximately 800 steps. Most visitors take 30-45 minutes to reach the top, depending on fitness level and photo stops.
What is the best time to visit El Chiflón? Visit during dry season (November-April) for clearer waters and better weather. Arrive early (before 11am) to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
Is El Chiflón worth visiting? Yes, El Chiflón is consistently rated as one of Chiapas’ most beautiful waterfalls. Its impressive height, turquoise waters, and well-maintained facilities make it a must-visit destination.
Do you need a guide for El Chiflón? No, a guide isn’t necessary as
