Palenque: Bonampak Site and Rafting in the Lacandona Jungle

Travelers looking for a unique mix of adventure and archaeology in Chiapas might find this tour an intriguing choice. It combines exciting white-water rafting with a visit to the famous Mayan site of Bonampak, known for its remarkably preserved murals. The tour is offered by EcoExperiencias México and costs $249 per person, lasting approximately 13 hours.

While this experience offers some genuine highlights, it’s not without its quirks. The guided river trip is a real highlight, especially if you’re fond of nature and wildlife. The visit to Bonampak offers a glimpse into Mayan art and history, with murals that have survived for over a millennium. However, some reviews point out logistical issues, like long waits and unclear schedules, which are worth considering.

This adventure is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, especially non-swimmers who love nature, and are comfortable with a full day in the sun. If you’re seeking a well-organized, seamless experience, this might not be the ideal choice — but for authentic moments in the jungle, it can deliver.

Key Points

• Adventure and culture combined: Rafting and archaeological exploration in one day
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Wildlife spotting: Keep your eyes open for monkeys and other jungle creatures
• Long day with early departures, so prepare for a full schedule
• Mixed reviews highlight a good experience but note some logistical frustrations
• Value: Includes transportation, meals, guide, and activities for the price

This 13-hour tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Palenque, typically in an air-conditioned minivan. The journey to the Lacanjá River in the Lacandona Jungle involves a brief stop for breakfast along the way — a simple but welcome start to fuel your day. The ride itself, while comfortable, is sometimes criticized for the shuttle’s comfort level, as one review mentions “not the most comfortable” vehicle, which can be a concern if you prefer smooth travels.

Once at the river, you’ll get your rafting gear and receive instructions from your guide, who’s generally acknowledged as knowledgeable. The Lacanjá River flows through lush jungle scenery, offering a fantastic setting for a water adventure. As you paddle along, you’ll see monkeys playing in the branches and may catch glimpses of other jungle inhabitants. The river’s nature does add an element of unpredictability, with a few ‘exciting drops’ that make the trip memorable without being overly challenging.

The guide’s explanations about the river’s ecology and safe rafting techniques add some educational value, especially if you’re eager to learn about local flora and fauna. Rafting here is suitable for families or beginners — it’s not overly strenuous but offers enough thrill to keep it interesting. One traveler described it as “not difficult at all,” making it a good family outing, though some found the shuttle discomfort and waiting times less appealing.

After this aquatic adventure, the tour heads to Bonampak, a site dating back to around 580 AD. The highlight here is the Temple of Murals, which boasts some of the best-preserved Mayan paintings you’ll find anywhere. Walking through the archaeological site, you’ll notice how the murals vividly depict Mayan life, rituals, and mythology, giving you a tangible sense of the past.

One reviewer noted, “Johnny was a super raft guide,” but also mentioned that the guided walk through the jungle was not always well-organized. Some travelers felt they had to figure out what they were booked for, and that the schedule was unclear. The visit to Bonampak itself is relatively short — about an hour — but the murals are well worth the time, especially if you’re interested in Mayan art.

Lunch is included in the tour, offering a hearty meal to recharge after a busy morning. The return journey to Palenque concludes the day, with many praising the overall experience but acknowledging some logistical hiccups. The trip’s value hinges on appreciating the mix of adrenaline, history, and nature — a package that appeals to adventure-seekers and archaeology buffs alike.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned minivan, which generally ensures comfort, though some reviews mention the shuttle’s limited comfort. The group size is capped at 14 participants, fostering a more intimate and personalized atmosphere. This smaller group setup allows for better interaction with guides and a less crowded experience.

Timing-wise, departures are flexible, with reservations allowing you to choose a start time based on availability. Be prepared for a long day, starting early in the morning; the tour ends back at your accommodation around evening time.

The package covers pickup and drop-off, transportation, local guide, rafting equipment, adventure insurance, breakfast, and lunch. These inclusions make the trip reasonably priced considering the activities and logistics involved.

However, additional expenses, such as extra food or optional souvenirs, are not included. Travelers should bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sandals, and a camera. It’s worth noting that non-swimmers and people with certain health conditions are advised against participating, and pregnant women are not recommended.

A key selling point of this tour is the expert guide, who enriches the experience with local knowledge, especially during the rafting and site visit. One traveler praised the “great family fun” and the “exciting drops,” emphasizing the fun of navigating the river. Another review pointed out logistical flaws, citing a lack of clear communication and long waiting times, which suggests travelers should be prepared to adapt.

Despite some organizational frustrations, many found the stunning jungle views and the remarkable murals of Bonampak to be unforgettable. The combined nature and cultural elements bring a well-rounded taste of Chiapas’ natural beauty and ancient history.

This experience works well for those eager to combine adventure with cultural discovery. It’s particularly suited for families, nature lovers, and those comfortable with a full day outdoors. Travelers wanting a more seamless, well-paced day might consider alternative options, especially if they prefer driving themselves or want a more flexible schedule.

For adventure lovers and history enthusiasts, this tour offers a rare chance to experience both white-water rafting and Mayan murals in one day. The expert guides generally keep things informative and engaging, and the chance to see monkeys in the wild adds a special touch.

On the flip side, the experience has some logistical issues, like waiting times and unclear schedules, which have been frustrating for some. The shuttle comfort can also be a concern if you’re sensitive to long rides or bumpy transport.

In terms of value, the price includes meals, transportation, gear, and a guided tour, making it fairly comprehensive. But travelers should weigh the long hours and potential organizational hiccups against the memorable views and cultural highlights.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize authentic outdoor experiences and are prepared for a full day of activity and some unpredictability. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and culturally enriching adventure, it could be worth your while — especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of rough-and-tumble and long travel days.

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan is included from your Palenque accommodation and back.
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult and should be comfortable with outdoor activities.
Do I need to be able to swim? Yes, swimming ability is required, as rafting is part of the experience.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sandals, and a camera are recommended.
Is lunch provided? Yes, a lunch is included in the tour.
Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
How long is the rafting trip? The exact duration isn’t specified, but it includes exploring the river and enjoying the scenery.
What is the group size? Limited to 14 participants for a more personal experience.
Are guides bilingual? Guides speak Spanish; English details are not specified.
Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues? No, it is not recommended for pregnant women or people with certain physical conditions.

In essence, this tour offers a solid combination of outdoor adventure and archaeological discovery. While it may not be perfect in every logistical detail, the unique experiences — like spotting monkeys and viewing ancient murals — make it a worthwhile option for those keen on authentic encounters in Chiapas.