Full Day Tour of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall

Exploring the Full Day Tour of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall

If you’re looking to escape the charm of San Cristóbal de las Casas and dive into some of Chiapas’ most captivating natural sights, this full-day tour promises an adventure filled with waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and lush jungle scenery. While it’s not perfect, the experience offers some truly memorable views and a taste of authentic Mexican nature.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the chance to see two major highlights — the spectacular El Chiflon Waterfall and the vibrant Lagunas de Montebello — all in one day. Plus, the tour’s emphasis on comfort and safety with recent vehicles and qualified drivers makes it a practical choice for a full-day excursion. That said, a potential drawback is some reported logistical hiccups, like late pickups and cramped transport, which can affect the overall experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value scenic natural beauty and don’t mind a long day with some waiting and variable comfort levels. If you’re eager for authentic landscapes rather than luxury, this could be a good fit. However, those seeking a more relaxed or highly organized experience might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: Expect impressive waterfalls and colorful lagoons that make for memorable photo opportunities.
• Comfort with safety: The tour uses recent model vehicles with air conditioning and includes traveler insurance.
• Time commitment: It’s a long day, about 12 hours, including transportation and sightseeing.
• Mixed reviews on logistics: Some travelers have experienced delays or cramped rides, so flexibility is key.
• All main entry fees included: You won’t have to pay separately once you’re there.
• Authentic experience: Focused on natural highlights rather than overly commercialized attractions.

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off early, at 8:00 am, with a pickup at your hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas. The promise of a recent model vehicle with air conditioning and a qualified driver is reassuring, especially given the nearly 12-hour duration. This focus on comfort and safety is a significant plus, especially for travelers who worry about long bus rides.

However, some reviews, like that of Sarah in January 2025, mention logistical issues: the van was 15 minutes late for pickup, and then broke down early on the trip. They had to switch to a smaller vehicle, which led to a cramped ride for 15 people. While these instances seem to be exceptions, they are worth noting because they can impact the rhythm of your day.

Stop 1: Cascada El Chiflon

The first major stop is the El Chiflon Waterfall, located within the ecotourism center. After about two and a half hours of travel, you arrive at this impressive natural spectacle. The highlight here is climbing 800 steps to the top of the waterfall, which offers unbeatable views — a rewarding challenge that many travelers find worth the effort.

You’ll also walk 1.5 kilometers through lush jungle, encountering waterfalls like El Suspiro (25 meters), Ala de Ángel (over 30 meters), and the Velo de Novia (more than 120 meters). The turquoise waters of these falls make for fabulous photographs and a chance to connect with raw nature.

While the tour includes entrance fees, some visitors mentioned the itinerary doesn’t always match what was initially advertised, which can be frustrating if you’re expecting a specific sequence of sights. Despite that, the spectacular views and the chance to climb the waterfall are universally appreciated, with many describing the scenery as “love at first sight.”

Stop 2: Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello

The second part of the trip takes you to the Lagunas de Montebello, roughly two hours away. This national park is renowned for its variety of lagoons, each uniquely colored—from turquoise to black—due to the surrounding flora and mineral content.

Here, you’ll have around six hours to explore. Many travelers enjoy the opportunity to rent rafts and visit small islands within the lagoons, adding a playful element to the visit. There’s also time to relax, take photographs, or grab a bite at local eateries.

The admission tickets are included, which simplifies things; however, the overall experience depends on weather and crowd levels. The lagoons’ vibrant hues are best appreciated on sunny days, making this stop a visual treat for those who love nature’s color palette.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides transportation with insurance, a park bracelet, and admission tickets to both attractions, making it relatively straightforward to enjoy without worrying about extra costs onsite. However, breakfast and lunch are not included, so plan to bring snacks, or eat before and after the tour.

Some travelers mention that the group size can be up to 50 people, which might feel crowded at times, especially on bus trips.

The Experience on the Ground

While the scenery is the main draw, the actual comfort of the ride can vary. The logistical hiccups—like vehicle breakdowns and cramped spaces—may detract from the otherwise beautiful experience. Yet, the scenic vistas of waterfalls and lagoons often overshadow these inconveniences.

Authenticity and Value

At $60 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering it includes transport, entrance fees, and a full day of sightseeing. For those eager to tick off two of Chiapas’ most iconic natural sights, the cost is reasonable. But it’s essential to weigh this against the possibility of delays or discomfort, as some reviews highlight.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day, enjoy nature photography, and are flexible with logistics. It’s perfect for those wanting a guided experience that covers major sights without the hassle of planning transportation or entry tickets.

Conversely, if you’re seeking a more relaxed pace or highly organized experience with guaranteed comfort, this may not be the perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

This tour packs in some of Chiapas’ most visually striking landscapes — waterfalls, turquoise lagoons, and lush jungle. The views are undeniably the highlight, drawing visitors who appreciate natural beauty and outdoor activity. It’s a cost-effective way to combine two major attractions in a single day, especially if you’re staying in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

However, be prepared for some logistical uncertainties; delays or cramped transportation can occasionally mar an otherwise stunning experience. If you’re flexible, patient, and excited by natural scenery, this trip offers plenty to love.

For travelers eager to see the breathtaking waterfalls and colorful lakes of Chiapas, this tour can deliver memorable images and stories, provided you keep expectations realistic and pack some patience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The pickup begins at 8:00 am from your hotel in San Cristóbal de las Casas, so plan to be ready on time.

Is transportation comfortable and safe?
Yes, the tour uses recent model vehicles with air conditioning and includes traveler insurance. However, some reviews report breakdowns and cramped rides, so flexibility is key.

Are entrance fees included?
All admission tickets for El Chiflon and Montebello Lagoons are included in the price.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing. Food for lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking up to 1.5 kilometers and climbing 800 steps at El Chiflon, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is around 50 travelers, which can feel crowded during transportation or at popular spots.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long duration and physical activities like climbing when planning for children.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Some reviewers mention that the itinerary might not match the description or vary slightly, so be prepared for minor adjustments.

In essence, this tour offers a fantastic chance to see some of Chiapas’ most striking natural sights in one day. It’s perfect for those eager to photograph waterfalls and lagoons, and who are comfortable with some logistical unpredictability. If you value authentic scenery over luxurious comfort, this trip could be a memorable highlight of your Mexican adventure.