Ultimate 8-Day Chiapas Adventure: From San Cristóbal to Hidden Waterfalls
Region: North America
Country: Mexico
Overview
This 8-day adventure through Chiapas combines cultural exploration, natural wonders, and thrilling activities. From the colonial charm of San Cristóbal de las Casas to the pristine waters of Las Nubes , this itinerary takes you through some of Mexico’s most stunning landscapes and remarkable archaeological sites.
Key Information
- Duration: 8 days
- Starting Point: Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport
- Ending Point: Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport
- Best Time to Visit: November-April (dry season)
- Highlights:
Day 1: Arrival & San Cristóbal de las Casas
Begin your Chiapas adventure by settling into the charming colonial city of San Cristóbal de las Casas. This magical town, with its red-tiled roofs and cobblestone streets, serves as the perfect introduction to the region’s rich culture and history.
- Arrive at Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport
- Take express shuttle to San Cristóbal de las Casas
- Optional visit to botanical gardens and caves
- Evening exploration of the colonial town center
- Dinner at local restaurants
Day 2: Sumidero Canyon
Prepare for a day of dramatic landscapes as you explore one of Mexico’s most impressive natural wonders. The towering walls of Sumidero Canyon rise up to 1,000 meters above the Grijalva River, creating a spectacular backdrop for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Sumidero Canyon
boat tour
- Tip: Consider skipping the viewpoints to save time
- Return to San Cristóbal
- Dinner at Pachamama (try the empanadas!)
Day 3: El Chiflón & Montebello Lakes
Today marks the beginning of your guided adventure through Chiapas’s most stunning water features. You’ll witness the powerful cascade of El Chiflón waterfall and explore the multicolored Lagos de Montebello (Lakes of Montebello), showcasing nature’s incredible palette.
Start of 5-day guided tour :
- Visit El Chiflón waterfall
- Explore
Lagos de Montebello
- Cross the Guatemala border at the international lake
- Evening arrival at Las Nubes campamento
Day 4: Las Nubes & Jungle Camp
Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Las Nubes , where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet lush jungle. This day combines gentle morning exploration with an afternoon of adventure as you transition to your riverside camp.
Morning:
- Sunrise walk to Las Nubes hanging bridge
- Traditional breakfast at camp
- Guided hike through Las Nubes
Afternoon:
- Drive to river put-in
- 1-hour kayak journey to Campamento Rio Ixcan
- Evening hike to spot wildlife (including Scarlet Macaws)
Day 5: Río Lacantún Kayaking
Adventure calls as you paddle through one of Chiapas’s most scenic river routes. The Río Lacantún offers a perfect blend of peaceful floating and exciting discoveries, including ancient Maya artifacts hidden along the riverbanks.
- Early morning start (6:00 AM)
- Light breakfast
- 4-hour kayaking expedition
on Río Lacantún
- Hidden Maya rock carvings adventure
- Transfer to Campamento Ocosingo
- Traditional dinner at camp
Day 6: Yaxchilan & River Rafting
Experience an unforgettable combination of archaeology and adrenaline as you explore the mysterious ruins of Yaxchilan and tackle the exciting rapids of Río Lacanjá . This day perfectly balances cultural discovery with outdoor adventure.
- Morning boat trip to Yaxchilan ruins
- Thrilling waterfall rafting
experience
- Series of 1-3 meter drops
- Swimming and relaxation time
- Jungle hike back to camp
- Evening dinner at camp
Day 7: Ruins & Waterfalls
Your final full day of exploration takes you through some of Chiapas’s most significant archaeological and natural sites. From the vibrant Maya murals of Bonampak to the majestic ruins of Palenque , this day showcases the region’s rich historical legacy.
Packed day of sightseeing:
- Morning visit to Bonampak ruins (famous Maya murals)
- Explore Palenque archaeological site
- Visit Misol-Há waterfall
- Walk behind the waterfall
- Optional cave exploration
- Evening return to San Cristóbal
Day 8: Departure
Take time to reflect on your Chiapas adventure as you enjoy a leisurely morning in San Cristóbal before heading home. Use these final hours to pick up last-minute souvenirs or simply soak in the colonial atmosphere one last time.
- Morning at leisure in San Cristóbal
- Transfer to Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport
- Departure
Planning Tips
Booking:
- Reserve your 5-day tour in advance
- Book accommodations in San Cristóbal early
What to Pack:
- Quick-dry clothing
- Water shoes
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof bags for electronics
- Headlamp for camping
Physical Preparation:
- Moderate fitness level required
- Activities include hiking, kayaking, and rafting
Weather Considerations:
- Pack for varying temperatures
- Rain gear recommended
- Sun protection essential
Final Thoughts
This 8-day itinerary offers an perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural wonders. From the colonial streets of San Cristóbal to the hidden Maya ruins accessible only by water, each day brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences in one of Mexico’s most diverse states.