Palenque: Yaxchilán and Bonampak 2 Day Tour

Travelers looking to combine history, adventure, and a touch of wilderness will find this two-day tour from Palenque to visit the iconic Yaxchilán and the striking Bonampak ruins quite intriguing. While the price tag of $185 per person might seem steep at first glance, it includes many essentials — transportation, park entrance fees, meals, and local guides — making it a reasonably good deal for those craving an authentic jungle adventure.

What really sells this experience are two things: First, the chance to see ruins in their most natural state amidst dense jungle—a view most travelers at Palenque never get. Second, the opportunity to experience the Lacandon Jungle’s vibrant ecosystem and interact with local Lacandon culture.

However, a potential downside is the lengthy wait times on Day 2, as some reviews mention waiting several hours for pickup or transportation. This could be frustrating if you’re hoping for a tightly scheduled trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love adventure, archaeological sites, and a taste of rural life. If you’re okay with early mornings, potential delays, and rustic accommodations, you’ll likely find this tour a rewarding experience rather than a polished tourist trap.

Key Points

• Authentic archaeological experience in lush jungle settings.
• Includes transportation, meals, and jungle guide, offering good value.
• Long wait times on Day 2 noted by some travelers, which could impact your schedule.
• Night in jungle cabins provides a rustic, immersive feel.
• Waterfalls and hiking through the Lacandon Jungle add an active dimension.
• Mixed reviews on food and driver caution, so expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Itinerary

Day 1: A Early Start into the Heart of the Jungle

The tour kicks off at 5:30 am in Palenque — a pretty early start, but ideal for maximizing the experience. After a quick breakfast stop en route, the journey takes you to the Corozal border dock, where you’ll board a boat to reach the Yaxchilán archaeological site. Expect to spend some time on the water, which is a unique way to arrive at a remote ruin, surrounded by floating vegetation and the sounds of jungle.

Yaxchilán is famous for its well-preserved stelae and intricate carvings, and seeing it by boat gives you a sense of how important this site was in ancient times. The ruins are often described as being in their “purest and most natural state,” largely untouched by modern tourism. Many reviews emphasize how you truly feel like you’ve stepped back into the ancient world, with the jungle closing in around the stone structures.

After exploring Yaxchilán, you’ll head further into the jungle to visit Bonampak, renowned for its vivid murals and well-preserved temple structures. The site is smaller than Palenque but offers a striking glimpse into Maya life and art, especially the murals depicting rituals and ceremonies.

Lunch is included and served in the jungle, giving you a taste of local flavors in a rustic setting. The afternoon offers some leisure time before moving to your jungle cabin for the night — a simple but authentic accommodation that immerses you in the surroundings. Many reviews mention that dinner is included here, with some praising the delicious food and tapas, though a few note that the portions can be small.

Day 2: Jungle Hiking and Waterfalls

Early breakfast kicks off Day 2, after which you’ll set out on a hike through the Lacandon Jungle to reach the Mactunina River waterfalls. The walk offers a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the lush flora, with the waterfalls providing a refreshing reward after the trek. This part of the trip is perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits in pristine environments.

Following the hike, a hearty lunch wraps up the adventure, after which you’ll return to Palenque. However, some travelers have experienced significant delays on this day, with waits up to five hours reported. This can be a downside if you’re eager to get back early or have plans afterward. The tour concludes with a return transfer to your hotel in Palenque.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers a fair range of inclusions: transport from your hotel, entrance fees, meals, boat transfer, accommodation in jungle cabins, and a guide for the jungle hike. These elements contribute to a seamless experience, especially for travelers not wishing to arrange transport and meals on their own.

However, personal expenses such as souvenirs, extra drinks, or tips are not included. The tour does not specify whether drinks are provided during meals or at the camp, but reviews suggest that additional costs for drinks and internet might be necessary — a common feature in more rustic setups.

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The Experience of Traveling with Selva Azul Chiapas

The provider, Selva Azul Chiapas, seems to deliver a genuine experience rooted in local culture and natural beauty. The guides are praised in some reviews for their knowledge, adding value by helping you understand the sites and the environment. The inclusion of local Lacandon transportation hints at an effort to support community-based tourism.

Transportation logistics are a mixed bag—while the boat transfer and jungle drives are part of the package, the waiting times on the second day have been a common complaint, suggesting that planning for extra patience might be wise.

Authentic Encounters and Practical Tips

Our favorite aspect of this tour is the chance to see Yaxchilán and Bonampak in their natural jungle surroundings. Unlike more crowded sites, these ruins feel more like explorers’ discoveries, especially when accessed by boat and after a jungle hike.

The rustic jungle cabins offer an authentic stay, but they are basic, with some reviews mentioning squalid facilities and uncomfortable bathrooms. Bringing your own insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and sun protection is essential, especially since you’ll be in the rainforest for much of the day.

Food is generally well-received, with some travelers noting the quality and flavor of the meals. However, the portions might not satisfy everyone, and the lack of fruit during meals was highlighted as a downside.

The tour’s early start and long waiting periods on the second day are practical considerations. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to avoid lengthy waits, this might not be the ideal fit. Still, for those eager to see key Maya sites and explore the jungle environment, the trade-offs are worth it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventure-seeking travelers with a love for history and nature. If you’re keen to see archaeological sites in their most natural environment and don’t mind rustic accommodations or early mornings, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Those interested in culture and local communities will appreciate the chance to encounter the Lacandon people and their way of life.

However, if comfort, punctuality, or luxurious accommodations are priorities, this tour might fall short. It’s more about the authentic experience than polished service.

Final Thoughts

This two-day journey from Palenque to Yaxchilán and Bonampak offers a unique blend of archaeology, jungle adventure, and culture. It’s a great way to escape the typical tourist crowds and see how the Maya civilization truly thrived in their natural habitat.

The price is justified by the included transport, meals, and guided hikes, but be prepared for some logistical hiccups and basic accommodations. The knowledgeable guides and authentic encounters are the highlights for many, making this a memorable experience for those willing to embrace the rustic side of travel.

Overall, if you’re looking for a deep, active, and culturally rich tour that gets you off the beaten path, this tour offers a solid introduction to Chiapas’ wild and ancient side. Just pack patience and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Since the tour involves jungle hiking and early mornings, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with physical activity. Older adults or small children might find the pace challenging.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The overnight stay is in jungle cabins which tend to be simple and rustic. Some reviews mention squalid facilities, so don’t expect luxury — just a true jungle experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and suitable clothing for outdoor activities are recommended. Packing light but prepared is key.

Are meals vegetarian or special dietary needs accommodated?
The tour includes meals, but specific dietary accommodations aren’t mentioned. It’s best to inform the provider beforehand if you have particular needs.

How long are the waiting times on Day 2?
Multiple reviews report waiting from 2 to 5 hours for pickup or transportation, which could impact your plans or cause frustration.

Is alcohol or drinks included?
Drinks are not explicitly included, and additional costs for drinks may be necessary, especially at the camp.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re craving a deeper connection with the ancient Maya and the lush jungle environment, this tour from Palenque is a compelling choice. Just go prepared for some rougher edges, and you’ll likely find it well worth the effort.

You can check availability for your dates here: