A day trip to Chinkultic and Montebello Lakes from San Cristóbal de Casas: Tour

Planning a day out from San Cristóbal de las Casas to explore Chiapas’ natural beauty and ancient history? This tour, priced at $70 per person, promises a full 12-hour journey through some of the region’s most iconic sights — from Mayan ruins to vividly colored lakes. We’re here to give you the inside scoop on what to expect, what makes it worthwhile, and some practical tips to enhance your experience.

What’s great about this tour? The combination of exploring a little-known archaeological site, surrounded by lush jungle, with the chance to relax at the stunning Montebello Lakes, offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and leisure. The boat ride to the orchid garden island is a highlight, providing a unique, tranquil moment amid nature. Plus, the inclusion of transfers, entrance fees, and free time to swim makes it a convenient and value-packed option.

One thing to consider is the long duration — 12 hours — which might be tiring for some. Also, the tour is not suited for travelers with mobility issues, as walking and some uneven terrain are involved. That said, if you’re comfortable with full-day excursions, this experience is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Chiapas’s outdoors and archaeology.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who love discovering historical sites and natural landscapes in one go. It’s also a good pick for visitors seeking a structured day with the logistics taken care of, so they can focus on enjoying the scenery.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive experience: Combines Mayan archaeology and natural wonders in one day.
• All-inclusive: Transfers, entrance fees, and activities like boat rides are covered.
• Authentic sights: Visits a lesser-known archaeological site and the breathtaking Montebello Lakes.
• Leisure time: Offers flexibility for swimming, photos, and relaxing in nature.
• Ideal for outdoor lovers: Expect walking, some uneven terrain, and a full day outdoors.
• Not suitable for those with mobility restrictions or minimal stamina.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Chinkultic: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Mayan Site

Your day begins with a visit to Chinkultic, an archaeological site that isn’t as crowded as Palenque but offers equally fascinating insights into the Mayan civilization. Surrounded by dense greenery, the site feels more intimate and less commercialized, creating a sense of discovery.

You’ll explore key features like the Acropolis, with its stepped pyramids and platforms, the Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote, which holds a mysterious aura. The guide will likely point out intricate carvings and structures, although the site’s relative obscurity means fewer crowds and more space for exploration.

Review insights reveal that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing little-known facts. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Juan, was fantastic — he brought history to life with stories about the site’s significance and pointed out details we would have missed on our own.” The terrain is mostly manageable, but some paths can be uneven, so( comfortable shoes are a must.

Expect about an hour at this site, allowing for plenty of time to wander, take photos, and absorb the peaceful jungle atmosphere. This stop is ideal for those who appreciate archaeology but prefer avoiding the tourist-heavy ruins.

Montebello Lakes: A Kaleidoscope of Colors

Next, the tour moves on to the Montebello Lakes, a true highlight that justifies the trip with their surreal hues and tranquil setting. These lakes are part of a protected reserve, where the water’s vibrant shades—ranging from turquoise to deep green—are caused by mineral deposits and algae, creating picture-perfect scenes.

You’ll enjoy panoramic viewpoints that provide sweeping vistas of the lakes’ different colors, perfect for photography. The lakes are so clear that you can often see fish swimming beneath the surface, adding to their allure.

A special feature of this tour is crossing the International Lake, which marks the border between Mexico and Guatemala. The boat ride on a traditional raft to an island with an orchid garden is particularly memorable. The orchid garden showcases native species, and the boat trip offers a peaceful break from walking.

Many reviewers appreciated the tranquility of this part of the tour. One said, “Sailing across the calm waters was a highlight — it’s such a serene moment, with the lush backdrop and the gentle rocking of the raft.” There is ample free time here to swim, relax, and capture those Insta-worthy photos.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour provides federally organized transportation from San Cristóbal, typically arranged in comfortable vans or minibuses. Since the tour lasts about 12 hours, you’ll start early in the morning—usually around 7-8 AM—and return in the evening, around 7-8 PM. This long day means packing wisely with essentials like water, sunscreen, swimsuit, and a hat.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, allowing for personal interaction but also maintaining a lively group atmosphere. The inclusion of entrance fees and a boat ride simplifies planning, as you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics.

Participants have praised the punctuality and professionalism of the provider, Jalapeño, which has a solid 4.4-star rating. Travelers mention that the guides often speak English, making the experience accessible for international visitors.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Since much of the day involves walking and outdoor activities, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection are essential. A swimsuit and towel are necessary for swimming in the lakes, alongside a change of clothes.

Bringing a camera or smartphone with charged batteries is recommended for capturing stunning landscapes. Insect repellent can come in handy, especially in the jungle areas around Chinkultic.

The tour explicitly states what’s not allowed—no high heels, smoking, pets, or alcohol in the vehicle—so plan accordingly. Also, those with mobility issues or recent surgeries should consider their suitability, as some terrain may be tricky.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a full day of history, nature, and relaxation, this trip hits the mark. The combination of exploring an authentic Mayan site and floating among the vibrant Montebello Lakes offers a well-rounded experience. The included transportation, entrance fees, and opportunities for swimming provide good value for the price.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy being active outdoors and are comfortable with long hours of sightseeing. The small-group atmosphere and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable choice for those wanting an informative yet relaxing day.

While it’s not designed for travelers with mobility challenges or minimal stamina, most energetic visitors will find this tour a rewarding way to see some of Chiapas’s most beautiful sights in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes federal tourist transportation from San Cristóbal de las Casas in comfortable vans or minibuses.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.
Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance fees to Chinkultic and Montebello Lakes are covered, along with the boat/rise to the orchid island.
Can I swim in the lakes? Absolutely, free time is provided for swimming and relaxing in the lakes’ tranquil waters.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimsuit, towel, change of clothes, camera, insect repellent, cash, and a daypack.
Is the tour suitable for children? It generally suits most active travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider terrain and duration.
What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Does the tour operate in bad weather? The activity is weather-dependent, and the provider may reschedule or cancel if conditions are unsafe.
Are guides bilingual? Most guides speak English, making explanations accessible for international visitors.
Is there a group limit? The group size is moderate, allowing for interaction but maintaining a lively atmosphere.

To sum it up, this day trip from San Cristóbal de las Casas offers a rewarding combination of archaeology and natural beauty. It’s a great choice for those who want to experience authentic Chiapas sights without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees. Expect to come away with memorable photos, fascinating stories, and a deeper appreciation for this vibrant region of Mexico.

You can check if your dates are available here: