2 Day Lacandon Jungle, the Lost City and Bonampak Ruins

If you’re dreaming of exploring ancient Mayan sites surrounded by vibrant rainforest, this 2-day tour from Palenque offers an engaging blend of history, nature, and community connection. While it’s not a backpacker’s budget trip, for those interested in a well-organized experience that balances archaeological marvels with eco-friendly lodging, it’s worth considering.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is how it combines visiting iconic ruins like Bonampak with deeper immersion into the Lacandon Jungle and local Mayan culture. The chance to stay overnight in an ecolodge and live with a Lacandon Maya family adds an authentic, personal touch that many travelers seek. On the downside, the tour’s schedule can be quite packed, and the 6:00 a.m. pickup might not suit late risers. It’s best for curious travelers who want a guided, small-group adventure that covers archaeological and ecological highlights in two days.

If you’re comfortable with a moderate physical pace and eager to explore beyond typical tourist spots, this tour will likely satisfy your appetite for adventure and cultural insight. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy organized tours with all logistics handled, but who also want some time to connect with nature and indigenous traditions.

Key Points

Well-rounded experience combining Mayan ruins, jungle trekking, and local community visits.
Includes all entry fees, meals, and lodging, offering convenience and value.
Small group size ensures more personal attention and less time waiting.
Authentic cultural experience living with a Lacandon Maya family.
Moderate physical activity with walking, hiking, and exploring waterfalls.
Limited to travelers over 12 and not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Bonampak

The first highlight of this tour is the visit to Bonampak, a site known for its extraordinary murals. Discovered in 1946, these murals vividly depict Mayan rituals, ceremonies, and everyday life, making it a priceless window into the past. You’ll have around 2 hours to walk through the site, marvel at the detailed paintings, and absorb the atmosphere of a relatively unspoiled archaeological site.

Many reviews mention the murals as a standout feature. One traveler noted, “The murals are breathtaking, and you get plenty of time to appreciate the artwork and imagine what life was like.” The setting is equally impressive—set amid the thick jungle, it feels like stepping into a forgotten world. The site is quite accessible and well-preserved, making it a manageable visit even for those with moderate mobility.

Pro Tip: Bring a camera and some binoculars if you like getting close-up shots of the murals. It’s also wise to wear comfortable shoes since the site involves some walking on uneven terrain.

Journey into the Lacandon Jungle and the Lost City of Lacanjá

After exploring Bonampak, the tour continues into the Lacandon Jungle, one of the most biologically diverse rainforests in Mexico. The drive itself offers a scenic transition from archaeological exploration to ecological immersion. Once in the jungle, you’ll trek for about 2-3 hours, visiting streams, waterfalls, and endemic flora and fauna.

The highlight here is the Lost City of Lacanjá, a lesser-known Mayan site that’s often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts. We loved the way the guide described it as “a hidden gem,” giving us a chance to imagine what the site might have looked like in its prime without the crowds. The jungle setting adds a sense of adventure and discovery, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

You’ll encounter refreshing streams and waterfalls, perfect for a quick cool-down. The lush scenery, combined with the sounds of the jungle, creates a mesmerizing backdrop for exploration.

Authentic Experience: Spending time living with a Lacandon Maya family in the ecolodge in Lacanja Chansayab adds cultural depth. You might find that hearing stories and customs firsthand is the tour’s most meaningful aspect.

An Overnight Stay in the Ecolodge

The ecolodge in Lacanja Chansayab offers a cozy, eco-friendly retreat. The cabins come with private bathrooms and a simple but comfortable atmosphere. Many reviews mention the peacefulness of the setting, with some noting that “it’s wonderful to wake up surrounded by jungle sounds.” Living with a local family introduces a level of authenticity that’s hard to achieve through other tours.

Evenings at the lodge are relaxed, and you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s adventures. It’s a perfect way to disconnect from modern life and get a glimpse of traditional Mayan hospitality.

Note: The tour includes all meals, so you don’t need to worry about finding food in the middle of the jungle. Breakfast, in particular, gets good comments for being hearty and satisfying.

The Second Day: Cenote Corcho Negro and Jungle Hiking

The following morning, you’ll hike for about 2 hours through the jungle to reach Cenote Corcho Negro. This natural sinkhole offers a refreshing break in the lush surroundings. Many travelers enjoy swimming or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear waters, and the opportunity to see the jungle flora up close is a bonus.

Post-lunch, the tour wraps up by around 1:00 p.m., giving you time to grab a meal before heading back to Palenque. The final transfer usually occurs around 4:30 to 5:00 p.m., which allows for a relaxed pace, especially after the more active morning.

Practical Tip: Bring biodegradable insect repellent and extra clothes to stay comfortable during the hike and swim.

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Logistics and Value

At $299 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering it covers transportation, all entry fees, meals, and lodging. The small group size (limited to 12 participants) enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and easier social interactions.

The tour’s schedule is designed to maximize what you see and do, but be prepared for early mornings and some physically active parts, especially the jungle treks. It’s ideal for those who enjoy moderate hikes and are ready for an adventure that combines archaeology, ecology, and local culture.

The guide’s bilingual services on the first day ensure you’ll understand the sites and stories, though the second day’s guide is only in Spanish. This might be worth considering if language is important for your experience.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour is a well-balanced introduction to the diverse attractions of Chiapas—from ancient ruins and vibrant murals to lush jungles and indigenous communities. It offers an excellent way to see some major sites without feeling too rushed, with the added bonus of staying overnight in an eco-friendly setting.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours with a mix of history and nature, and those open to a physically active but manageable itinerary. If you want to escape the crowds, connect with local culture, and learn about the natural beauty of Chiapas, this experience offers good value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What’s the best way to prepare for the jungle treks?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, and biodegradable insect repellent. The tours involve walking on uneven terrain and some swimming.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes five meals, including a breakfast buffet on the road, which helps keep you energized for the activities.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking, trekking, and exploring uneven sites, it might not be suitable for those with back problems or limited mobility.

Is it suitable for children?
No, the tour is recommended for travelers over 12 years old, due to physical activity and tour logistics.

Will I get enough time at each archaeological site?
Most reviews mention about 2 hours at Bonampak, which generally provides a good balance of exploration without feeling rushed.

What is the lodging like?
You’ll stay overnight at an ecolodge with cabins that have private bathrooms. It’s basic but comfortable, with a focus on eco-friendly living.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Does the tour include guide services throughout?
Yes, a bilingual guide is provided on the first day, with the second day’s guide in Spanish.

This tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Chiapas’ most intriguing sites, perfect for travelers eager to see ancient ruins, experience jungle life, and learn about indigenous culture—without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: