El Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes National Park Day Trip

Traveling from San Cristóbal de las Casas to explore the natural splendors of southern Mexico offers a fantastic escape from urban life. The El Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes National Park tour promises a full-day adventure through some of the region’s most photogenic and ecologically significant sites. Whether you’re an avid nature lover, a photographer eager for epic shots, or simply seeking a break from sightseeing city streets, this trip has a lot to offer.

What we love about this tour is how it combines two very different, yet equally beautiful, natural attractions: the surreal, colorful lakes of Montebello and the thunderous heights of El Chiflon Waterfalls. The fact that all entrance fees and transport are included simplifies planning, making it a straightforward way to see spectacular sights without the hassle of logistics. However, be mindful that the day can be quite long and the guide’s language skills may vary, which is worth considering if you’re looking for detailed, English-speaking commentary.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, appreciate natural scenery, and don’t mind a full schedule. If you’re traveling with family or in a group that enjoys moderate walking and outdoor exploration, it fits well. Just keep in mind that the experience might be less relaxing if you’re expecting a leisurely, unhurried day or if clear communication in English is crucial for you.

Key Points

• Two major highlights: the vibrant, uniquely colored Montebello Lakes and the impressive El Chiflon Waterfalls.
• All-inclusive package: covers entrance fees, transportation, and guided commentary, reducing stress for travelers.
• Long day but rewarding: approximately 13 hours from start to finish, so prepare for a full-day adventure.
• Mixed reviews on guidance: some praise knowledgeable guides and good food, while others point out communication issues.
• Excellent photo opportunities: stunning scenery at both stops makes for memorable pictures.
• Weather considerations: cloud cover or rain can affect the lakes’ colors and waterfall visibility.

What to Expect From the Itinerary

Montebello Lakes National Park: A Kaleidoscope of Colors

Your day begins early with a pickup from your hotel around 8:30 am, so be ready for an early start. After approximately three hours of travel, you’ll arrive at Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello. Here, the main attraction is the cluster of 4 to 6 lakes, renowned for their crystal-clear waters that shift from pale blue to violet, emerald, and turquoise. These hues are caused by a combination of soil composition, vegetation, and the way light refracts through the water, creating scenes that look almost surreal.

As you stroll along the lakes’ edges, you’ll notice the dense flora surrounding the area—orchids, bromeliads, juniper, cedar, and mahogany trees—all thriving in the lush landscape. The guide will likely explain the region’s botanical diversity and the geological factors behind the lakes’ unique colors. This stop usually lasts about 2 hours, giving enough time to take photos, enjoy a short walk, or simply soak in the scenery.

El Chiflon Waterfalls: A Thunderous Finale

After a hearty breakfast or snack (if you bring your own or purchase at the park), the journey continues toward the El Chiflon Waterfalls. The drive should take around three hours, giving you a chance to appreciate the changing landscape as you head into the mountainous terrain. Once there, you’ll see a series of waterfalls cascading over nearly 5,000 feet of terrain, culminating in the Bridal Veil Waterfall, which drops more than 300 feet.

You’ll have roughly two hours to explore the area. If you’re feeling energetic, you can hike closer to the waterfalls or climb to the highest vantage points for those impressive breeze moments. From these heights, you’ll get breathtaking views and fantastic opportunities for photos—you’ll love the way the mist mixes with the sunlight. The guide will likely share information on the local flora and fauna, further enriching the experience.

Practical Details and Traveler Tips

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, making logistics one less thing to worry about. The group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, which fosters a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours, but it also means you should book well in advance—most travelers book about 62 days ahead.

Pricing and Value

For $85 per person, this tour packs quite a punch—covering entrance fees, guided commentary, and transportation. Considering how costly individual entrance fees and taxi fares can be in remote areas, the all-inclusive price offers good value, especially for travelers who prefer hassle-free arrangements.

Timing and Pace

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am and wraps up around 9:30 pm. This means you’ll be on the move for most of the day, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a busy schedule. Expect a lot of walking and some uphill sections at El Chiflon, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Weather and Comfort

Be prepared for potential weather changes—an umbrella or raincoat can be handy if rain threatens, which can also influence the lakes’ vibrancy. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection, particularly if the day is clear and sunny.

Authentic Experiences and Notable Feedback

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ knowledge and professionalism. Allen G. shared that their guide was especially well-informed, making the experience “unbelievable” and adding a layer of richness to the visit. The included lunch at a well-maintained restaurant was also appreciated, as it’s not always guaranteed on full-day excursions.

However, not all reviews were glowing. Marcus_K noted that the communication could be improved, citing an earlier pickup time than expected and a guide who spoke no English—an important consideration for travelers who want detailed commentary in their language of choice. The long hours—starting at 7:30 am and ending around 9:30 pm—also make it a demanding day, especially for those unaccustomed to extensive travel.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see multiple natural highlights in one day without the hassle of organizing their own transport. It appeals to those who enjoy outdoor walks, photography, and learning about local flora and geology. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and are flexible regarding guide language, this tour offers a memorable glimpse of Mexico’s natural beauty.

People less suited to this trip include those seeking a relaxed pace, travelers with mobility issues, or visitors who prioritize guided commentary in English.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfalls is a solid choice for those eager to witness some of Mexico’s most colorful lakes and powerful waterfalls in one go. The inclusion of transport and entrance fees makes planning easier, while the scenic stops promise plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments.

While the long hours and variable guide language might be a drawback for some, the natural beauty and the chance to learn about the region’s flora and geology make this tour worthwhile. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want an active, engaging day out with all logistics handled for them.

This tour offers a rewarding balance of adventure, scenery, and convenience—perfect for nature enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making the experience more convenient.

How long is the travel time to each site?
From San Cristóbal, it takes about three hours to reach Montebello Lakes and another three hours to get to El Chiflon, so plan for a full day.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the national park and waterfalls are covered in the price.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and possibly rain gear. Snacks and meals are not included unless specified.

Is the guide bilingual?
Reviews suggest that guide language skills might vary; some travelers found the guide spoke no English, so consider this if language is important.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult, and some walking or hiking may be involved.

In summary, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic adventure into some of Mexico’s most striking natural landscapes. It’s a great option for travelers who value guided ease, stunning vistas, and a full, active day—just be prepared for the length and potential language limitations.