Mexico’s Chiapas state delivers the country’s most authentic cultural experiences through well-organized day tours. Indigenous village visits showcase the fascinating mix of Mayan traditions and Catholic practices still alive today. Natural wonders like Sumidero Canyon and Montebello Lakes offer jaw-dropping views and photo opportunities.
I especially love the village tours to San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán ($75) for their no-nonsense approach to local life and excellent local guides. The Sumidero Canyon boat tour ($65) ranks as another favorite, combining wildlife spotting with dramatic 3,000-foot cliff walls.
Most tours include comfortable transportation and English-speaking guides, though quality varies. Budget between $65-99 per person.
Let’s explore the best tour options in Chiapas.
Key Points
- The San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Tour offers a structured cultural experience with a focus on Tzotzil Maya beliefs and handicrafts.
- The Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa De Corzo Tour provides a convenient way to see two top attractions in one day with guided transportation.
- The Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Lakes Tour showcases the stunning natural beauty of Chiapas but may have language barriers for non-Spanish speakers.
- The Misol Ha & Agua Azul Waterfalls Tour highlights two impressive waterfalls but is only offered in Spanish.
- Chiapas tours generally offer structured experiences with local guides and transportation, catering to a range of budgets and interests.
San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour
Though situated just a short drive from San Cristobal, the San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural traditions of these Tzotzil Maya communities.
Over the course of 5 hours, participants can explore the indigenous churches, observe local handicrafts, and sample traditional cuisine.
While some reviews note the experience may not feel as “authentic” as expected, the tour provides a chance to witness the blending of ancient Mayan beliefs and modern Catholic practices.
With round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a local guide included, this tour allows visitors to experience these indigenous villages in a respectful and structured manner.
Read our full review: San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour Review
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Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa De Corzo: Day Tour From Tuxtla
This day tour from Tuxtla Gutiérrez takes visitors to explore the stunning Sumidero Canyon and the historic town of Chiapa de Corzo.
Priced at $99 per person, the 6-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided boat ride through the canyon, and time to explore Chiapa de Corzo.
The tour is limited to 14 participants and is offered in both Spanish and English.
Highlights include the canyon’s towering cliffs and waterfalls.
Chiapa de Corzo offers regional cuisine and a picturesque fountain.
While reviews are mixed, the tour provides a convenient way to see two of Chiapas’ top attractions in a single day.
Read our full review: Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa De Corzo: Day Tour From Tuxtla Review
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San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Day Tour
One popular day tour from San Cristobal explores the stunning Chiflon Waterfalls and the serene Montebello Lakes. Priced at $69 per person, this 12-hour small-group tour takes visitors to see the turquoise waters and “angel’s wings” formation at Chiflon.
Next, they’ll travel to Montebello Lakes, a collection of 52 crystal-clear lakes surrounded by pine forest, where they can swim and ride a traditional wooden raft.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, but it’s not suitable for those with certain health conditions.
While the overall rating is 4/5, non-Spanish speakers may face a language barrier with the live tour guide. Those seeking English support should consider alternative tour companies.
Read our full review: San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Day Tour Review
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Misol Ha and Agua Azul Waterfalls Tour From Palenque
The Misol Ha and Agua Azul Waterfalls tour from Palenque takes visitors on a 6-hour journey through the stunning natural landscapes of the region.
Priced at $65 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While the tour is only offered in Spanish, the group size is limited to 14 participants.
Highlights include the 20-meter-high Misol Ha Waterfall and the turquoise-colored Agua Azul Waterfalls, with approximately two hours to explore the latter.
Customer reviews indicate a friendly guide but some communication issues and lack of informational guidance.
Read our full review: Misol Ha and Agua Azul Waterfalls Tour From Palenque Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Chiapas offers a diverse array of tours that showcase its rich indigenous culture and stunning natural landscapes. From visiting traditional villages to exploring breathtaking waterfalls, these tours provide an immersive experience for travelers. Whether you’re interested in culture or outdoor adventures, Chiapas has something to suit every traveler’s interests. These tours are a great way to discover the unique wonders of this captivating region of Mexico.