From Palenque: Palenque, Agua Azul Waterfalls and Misol-Ha

Traveling through Chiapas, Mexico, often means balancing the allure of its ancient Mayan ruins with the breathtaking natural beauty of waterfalls and lush landscapes. This tour, offered by Apasionado x Chiapas Travel, promises a day packed with history, nature, and vibrant scenery, all within a manageable price point. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a snapshot of the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines cultural exploration at the Palenque Archaeological Site with the refreshing energy of Misol-Ha and Agua Azul Waterfalls. The tour’s structure allows you to sample some of Chiapas’s most iconic sights in one day, making it a solid choice for those on a tight schedule or just eager to get a taste of the area.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour can feel a bit rushed—especially if you’re someone who prefers to spend more time soaking in each spot. The long travel times between sites might be a deterrent for travelers looking for a more relaxed pace. Also, the experience is geared toward those comfortable with shared transportation and basic amenities, as some reviews mention discomfort and organization hiccups.

This tour suits travelers who want a balance of cultural and natural sights, appreciate efficient logistics, and are okay with a busy day. If you’re after a day filled with scenic waterfalls, ancient ruins, and a chance to see some of Chiapas’s most famous sites, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines archaeological exploration with stunning waterfalls.
• Value for Money: Around $75 per person, including entrance fees and transportation.
• Full Day Experience: Approximately 10 to 12 hours of sightseeing.
• Group Transportation: Shared vans, which can mean some discomfort or delays.
• Natural Highlights: Waterfalls with unique striking blue hues and impressive heights.
• Cultural Exposure: The ancient Palenque ruins bring history to life.
• Organizational Factors: Punctual pickups and clear itinerary, with some noted delays.
• Review Insights: Generally positive about scenery and value, but some find the day too long and logistics imperfect.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Start: Palenque Archaeological Zone

Your day begins at 8:00 A.M., when a friendly guide picks you up from your hotel in Palenque. This early start is typical for day trips, giving you a full day ahead. Once at the Palenque ruins, you’ll have about three hours to wander around the sprawling site. These ancient Mayan structures—temples, palaces, and sculpted stelae—are visually stunning and steeped in history.

We loved the way the ruins are set amid lush jungle, giving a real sense of stepping back in time. Travelers frequently comment on the beauty of Palenque’s architecture and the surrounding greenery. One reviewer praised the organization, noting that despite a bus breakdown that caused delays, the tour managed to keep everyone on schedule. This shows that the tour provider values punctuality and clear directions—important for making the most of limited time.

Mid-Morning: Transition to Misol-Ha

After the archaeological visit, a roughly one-hour van ride takes you to Misol-Ha Waterfalls. Here, you’ll have about 50 minutes, giving enough time to feel the spray of the 50-meter cascade, snap some photos, and enjoy the invigorating breeze. The waterfalls are a perfect spot to cool off after the morning’s archaeological exploration.

The reviews indicate that many find Misol-Ha a relaxing stop—though some note it’s a short visit (about 45 minutes). If you’re craving more time for swimming or exploring, keep in mind the schedule is tight, and this may limit your options.

Afternoon: Agua Azul Waterfalls

Next, a two-hour van ride delivers you to Agua Azul, where you’ll have around 2.5 hours. This is arguably the highlight for many: the dazzling, turquoise-blue waterfalls flowing through a lush jungle landscape. It’s a spectacle of nature that pictures hardly do justice. You can walk along the river, take photos, or buy souvenirs in the market area.

One traveler remarked that the waterfalls are “nothing special” compared to other sites, but most agree that the vibrant colors and the sound of rushing water make this a memorable stop. The 2.5 hours given here is enough for a good walk and some shopping, but if you’re eager to swim, do check if that’s feasible within your allocated time.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Return: Heading Back to Palenque or San Cristobal

The final leg involves a roughly two-hour ride back, with stops in San Cristobal de las Casas if booked that way. Some reviews mention the long travel time—up to 12 hours total—and it’s true that this can be exhausting. However, the convenience of transportation and the chance to see these sights without the hassle of logistics is a big plus for many.

The Experience of Transportation and Organization

Transportation is provided via shared vans, which keeps the cost affordable but can impact comfort. Some travelers note that the vans are old or uncomfortable, and delays sometimes occur due to waiting for other buses or seat availability. One reviewer said, “The van is uncomfortable, old, and dirty,” and criticized the long wait times, especially when heading to San Cristobal.

However, the tour operator does seem to prioritize punctuality and clear instructions, helping to minimize confusion. You’ll want to be ready in your hotel lobby 10 minutes early, and bringing essentials like comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash will enhance your experience.

Price and Value

At around $75 per person, including entrance fees and ground transportation, this tour offers decent value—particularly for travelers who want a straightforward way to see these key sights. The cost covers transportation, entry tickets, and a basic insurance policy, making it a convenient package.

Some reviews argue that the day feels too long for the value, especially with limited free time at each site. Yet, others feel this is a fair trade for the coverage and convenience, especially for first-timers or those unfamiliar with Mexican transportation systems.

The Reviews: Perspectives from Travelers

Most travelers appreciated the stunning scenery at Agua Azul and the impressive ruins at Palenque. One said, “Great organization, even though we had a bus breakdown,” highlighting the tour’s reliability despite minor hiccups. Others pointed out that the shorter visits at Misol-Ha and Agua Azul might leave some wanting more time for swimming or relaxing.

A few critiques mention the long hours in transit—up to 12 hours in a day—which may be tiring for those with limited stamina. Some found the experience more like a shuttle service rather than a full guided tour, citing discomfort with the vans and delays in return trips.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who are eager to see Chiapas’s top highlights with minimal planning. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind long travel days and shared transportation, and who prioritize seeing the sights over lingering at each one. If you’re interested in balancing history, natural beauty, and cultural insights in a single day, this tour offers good value.

However, if you prefer more leisure or a private guide, or if mobility is an issue, you might find this tour less suited to your needs. It’s also better for those comfortable with quick visits rather than extended exploration.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Palenque offers a practical way to experience some of Chiapas’s most iconic sites—the majestic Palenque ruins, the breathtaking Misol-Ha Waterfalls, and the colorful Agua Azul Waterfalls. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to see a lot in one day without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets themselves.

While the itinerary is packed and the long hours in transit can be tiring, the scenery and historical sites deliver authentic and memorable moments. The tour’s value is enhanced by the inclusion of entrance fees and the convenience of pickup and drop-off. Keep in mind that logistics may not be perfect, and some stops are brief, but overall, it provides a balanced glimpse into the natural and cultural treasures of Chiapas.

If you’re a traveler seeking a straightforward, affordable way to enjoy Chiapas’s highlights with a reasonably organized experience, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for a busy day and some long drives. For those craving deeper exploration or more relaxed pacing, consider extending your stay or choosing a tour with more flexible timing.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour departs at 8:00 A.M. from your hotel in Palenque, so plan to be ready a little earlier for pickup.

How long is the total duration?
The entire day is approximately 10 to 12 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

What sights are included in the tour?
You’ll visit the Palenque Archaeological Zone, Misol-Ha Waterfalls, and Agua Azul Waterfalls.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes all entrance fees for the sites visited.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended.

Is food included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so you should bring or plan to buy food during the day.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking and site terrain.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I have a guide during the tour?
The tour is guided in Spanish; there is no mention of a local guide at each site, but the tour operator provides basic narration and organization.

This comprehensive review aims to help you decide if this day trip from Palenque matches your travel style and expectations. It combines practicality with honest insights, ensuring you’re well-informed about what to expect—and what to consider—before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: