The highland city of San Cristóbal de las Casas serves up Mexico’s most enriching day trips and cultural encounters. The best tours combine outdoor adventure with meaningful cultural connections. My favorite outings include cycling through traditional Maya villages, where locals still wear distinctive dress and practice ancient customs. The day trip to Palenque’s jungle-draped ruins (a UNESCO site) delivers archaeological wow factor, while tours to the crystal-blue pools at Agua Azul offer natural splendor. Boat rides on the Grijalva River provide a relaxing way to take in the scenery. For a deep cultural experience, join a tour to nearby Tzotzil and Tzeltal communities. Let’s explore the top tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
The Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples offers advanced mountain biking trails with options for less intense rides, including bicycle rental, water, and lunch.
The Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour is a full-day tour with a high traveler rating, providing comfortable air-conditioned transportation and exploring natural beauty.
The Tour Sumidero Canyon and Magic Town of Chiapa De Corzo features a boat ride on the Grijalva River and a visit to the historic town of Chiapa de Corzo.
The Chamula and Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour provides a culture experience, including learning about pre-Hispanic weaving and tortilla-making from local families.
The Agua Azul, Misol Hà Waterfalls and Palenque Ruins Tour offers the opportunity to swim in turquoise pools at Misol-Ha and explore the UNESCO-listed Palenque Ruins.
Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples
Although San Cristóbal de las Casas offers a variety of captivating tours, the Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples stands out as a must-try experience. This tour invites travelers to explore the region’s indigenous communities by bicycle, providing a unique perspective on the local culture and traditions.
Starting at 8:00 AM from the centrally located Jaguar Adventours, the tour lasts an unspecified duration and covers advanced mountain biking trails, offering options for less intense rides. Participants will be provided with a bicycle, 1 liter of water, and a delicious lunch.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, as a strong fitness level is required. With a maximum group size of 6, this tour promises an intimate and personalized experience.
Based on 39 reviews, the tour boasts an impressive 97% recommendation rate, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guide and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or simply seeking a unique culture, the Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples Review
Book now: Check availability
Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour
The Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region. This full-day tour from San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico, is highly recommended, with 94% of travelers rating it positively and an overall score of 4.6 out of 5.
Departing at 8:00 AM, the tour takes small groups of up to 13 travelers on a journey to explore the breathtaking Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls.
While meals and water aren’t provided, the tour includes all fees and taxes, as well as comfortable air-conditioned transportation. Pickup is directly from your accommodation, making the logistics a breeze.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, and infant seats are available.
Reviewers have praised the tour’s value for money and the beauty of the natural attractions, though some have noted issues with the itinerary and communication with the driver.
Read our full review: Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tour Sumidero Canyon and Magic Town of Chiapa De Corzo
This tour of Sumidero Canyon and the magic town of Chiapa de Corzo provides visitors a captivating glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of the region.
Over the approximately 9-hour tour, guests will enjoy a boat ride on the Grijalva River through the dramatic Sumidero Canyon, as well as explore the historic town of Chiapa de Corzo, known for its Mudejar-style fountain and the Church of Santo Domingo.
The tour departs San Cristóbal de las Casas at 9:00 am, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. While meals and drinks aren’t included, the tour is priced competitively at €32.50 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Past travelers have praised the stunning natural beauty of Sumidero Canyon, though some have noted the unstructured nature and limited time in Chiapa de Corzo.
Read our full review: Tour Sumidero Canyon and Magic Town of Chiapa De Corzo Review
Book now: Check availability
Montebello Lakes and Waterfalls Tour From San Cristobal
Montebello Lakes and Waterfalls Tour from San Cristobal offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of Chiapas. The 4.0-rated tour takes travelers to the Montebello Lakes and Chifflon Falls, showcasing the region’s picturesque landscapes.
Included in the tour are transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, breakfast, and lunch.
Pickup is available, with passengers advised to arrive 15 minutes early for a 7:30 am start time. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and can accommodate infants.
Travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as the maximum group size is 10.
Reviews praise the tour’s beautiful sights and the driver’s reliability in presenting options. However, some note the long drive may not be worth it for certain sites.
Read our full review: Montebello Lakes and Waterfalls Tour From San Cristobal Review
Book now: Check availability
Sumidero Canyon Tour
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Chiapas, the Sumidero Canyon Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural splendor. Priced at $29.60 per person, this day trip takes travelers on an air-conditioned journey to explore the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon. Along the way, participants can enjoy bottled water, soda, and a delectable lunch.
Reviews of the tour are mixed, with one visitor describing a “fraudulent tour operator” and a lack of communication, while another praised the guide’s attentiveness and the stunning natural beauty of the canyon.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Booking the Sumidero Canyon Tour is straightforward, with the option to select a convenient pickup point and take advantage of the free cancellation policy.
While the overall rating of 3.8/5 suggests a generally positive experience, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and limitations before embarking on this adventure.
Read our full review: Sumidero Canyon Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
San Cristobal De Las Casas Small-Group Full-Day Tour – San Cristóbal De Las Casas
Exploring the historic city of San Cristóbal de las Casas and its surrounding indigenous villages, the San Cristóbal De Las Casas Small-Group Full-Day Tour offers visitors an immersive cultural experience.
This small-group tour takes travelers to the Zocalo, the city’s main plaza, as well as the Cathedral and Santo Domingo Church. Visitors can also browse the central market and learn about local traditions.
The tour then ventures to the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zinacantan, providing insights into their unique cultures. An optional visit to the Na Bolom Museum is available.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour ensures a customized experience. The air-conditioned minivan transport, professional guide, and hotel pickup/drop-off add to the convenience.
While most reviews praise the cultural insights, some note discrepancies between the tour description and actual experience. The host, however, remains committed to guest satisfaction.
Read our full review: San Cristobal De Las Casas Small-Group Full-Day Tour – San Cristóbal De Las Casas Review
Book now: Check availability
Tour to the Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons
For those seeking an immersive adventure in the natural wonders of San Cristóbal de las Casas, the Tour to the Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons offers a captivating full-day experience.
Priced from $57.57 per person, this tour transports guests to the stunning Chiflón Waterfalls and the serene Montebello Lagoons, allowing them to bask in the region’s natural beauty.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour provides an intimate setting as guests explore these remarkable destinations. The tour includes all fees and taxes, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a trained driver, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Although food and beverages aren’t included, the opportunity to participate in optional activities like zip-lining and traditional raft tours adds to the experience.
However, travelers should note the lengthy duration of approximately 10 hours and the moderate physical fitness level required.
Read our full review: Tour to the Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons Review
Book now: Check availability
Chamula and Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour
The Chamula and Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour offers visitors a unique culture in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas. This tour, priced at €24.02 per person, takes travelers to the indigenous villages of Chamula and Zinacantan, where they can learn about pre-Hispanic weaving and tortilla-making from local families.
The tour includes a Spanish-speaking guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and transportation via air-conditioned minivan. Plus, participants can taste traditional foods and drinks, including handmade tortillas and Pox.
Despite an overall rating of 3.6/5 based on 16 reviews, the tour has received mixed feedback. Some travelers reported issues with language barriers, as English-speaking guides may not always be available.
However, those who embraced the cultural experience highlighted the learning opportunities and the chance to enjoy the local way of life. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Comfortable walking shoes and jackets are recommended for the tour.
Read our full review: Chamula and Zinacantan Indigenous Villages Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa De Corzo Combo Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of two renowned Chiapas destinations, the Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo Combo Tour promises an immersive cultural experience for visitors to San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The 6-hour tour begins with hotel pickup, leading participants on a 2.5-hour boat ride through the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon.
Afterwards, the tour visits Chiapa de Corzo, one of Mexico’s Pueblo Mágicos, where guests can explore the historic church, plaza, and fountain.
While the tour generally receives positive feedback for its scenic beauty, some customers have reported logistical issues, such as delays in pickup and problems with group payment.
Despite these concerns, the tour offers a chance to witness the natural wonders of Chiapas and take in the rich cultural heritage of the region, all for a starting price of $41.14 per person.
With a moderate level of physical fitness required, the Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo Combo Tour provides an engaging and diverse experience for those seeking to discover the highlights of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Read our full review: Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa De Corzo Combo Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tour of Agua Azul Waterfalls, Misol-Ha Waterfall, and Palenque Archaeological Zone.
Embarking on a captivating full-day exploration from San Cristóbal de las Casas, this guided small-group tour takes visitors to the stunning Agua Azul Waterfalls, the mighty Misol-Ha Waterfall, and the renowned Palenque Archaeological Zone.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience promises a personalized adventure. An air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfortable travel, while entrance fees, travel insurance, and a breakfast buffet are all included.
At Agua Azul, guests can admire the turquoise waters and explore higher vantage points. Misol-Ha offers the opportunity to walk behind its large waterfall.
The Palenque ruins provide well-preserved archaeological wonders, including access to the interior of a pyramid. While some found the early 4 AM pickup and long travel times challenging, especially with children, the overall feedback highlights the beauty of the locations.
However, the food quality received mixed reviews, with breakfast considered mediocre but lunch options at the waterfalls better.
Read our full review: Tour of Agua Azul Waterfalls, Misol-Ha Waterfall, and Palenque Archaeological Zone. Review
Book now: Check availability
Indigenous Communities Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán
Departing from San Cristóbal de las Casas, this intimate small-group tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of the indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán.
Priced at $36.46 per person, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, travelers insurance, and covers all entrance fees. With a maximum of 17 travelers, the experience ensures a personalized and immersive encounter.
The tour begins at 9:00 am, and participants can choose a convenient pickup point. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate strollers and infant seats. Most travelers can participate, and the tour has received consistently excellent reviews, with a 5-star rating across the board.
Travelers can expect to learn about the unique cultural traditions and beliefs of these indigenous communities, guided by a knowledgeable and respectful local guide.
This tour offers a rare opportunity to step into the heart of Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry, providing a truly memorable and meaningful experience.
Read our full review: Indigenous Communities Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán Review
Book now: Check availability
Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan
The tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan takes visitors on a captivating exploration of two indigenous communities near San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Priced from $24.67 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, food and drinks, and entrance to the Church in San Juan Chamula (with an additional cost of Mx 50.00).
Pickup points are flexible, allowing guests to meet at their hotel or a specified address. The tour departs at 9:30 am and lasts the entire day.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, though infants must sit on laps.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on reviews.
One notable review mentioned that the San Juan church was the only worthwhile part of the tour, suggesting that the rest could have been skipped.
The tour operator acknowledged the feedback, expressing regret that the experience didn’t meet the reviewer’s expectations.
Read our full review: Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Personalized Tour of San Cristobal De Las Casas
For those looking to explore San Cristóbal de las Casas in a personalized manner, the Private Personalized Tour offers an immersive experience. Priced from $44.40 per person, this tour provides a face-to-face guide to lead you through the city’s highlights.
The meeting point is at the Arco del Carmen, and the tour ends near the Belisario Domínguez area. Included in the tour are admission tickets, a coffee or tea tasting, and a tasting of a coffee or alcoholic drink.
Reviewers have given this tour a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Flexibility is key, as there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available to secure your spot.
Read our full review: Private Personalized Tour of San Cristobal De Las Casas Review
Book now: Check availability
Palenque Archaelogical Site, Agua Azul and Misolha Waterfalls Combo Tour
This full-day tour offers travelers an opportunity to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the stunning natural wonders of Agua Azul and Misolha waterfalls.
Priced from $105 per person, the tour includes round-trip hotel transportation, a local guide, and national park fees. Breakfast is also provided.
The tour can accommodate up to 12 travelers and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant women, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.
While the tour receives mostly positive reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and good food, some have reported issues with language barriers and transportation logistics.
Specific complaints include a lack of English-speaking guides for part of the tour and problems with luggage handling.
Read our full review: Palenque Archaelogical Site, Agua Azul and Misolha Waterfalls Combo Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Sumidero Canyon Tour With Boat Cruise From San Cristóbal De Las Casas
Exploring the natural wonder of Sumidero Canyon is a highlight for many visitors to San Cristóbal de las Casas. This full-day tour offers the chance to experience the canyon’s breathtaking beauty through a 2-hour boat cruise along the Grijalva River.
With an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews, the tour provides a comprehensive look at this stunning natural attraction.
The tour also includes a visit to the Spanish colonial town of Chiapa de Corzo, where travelers can enjoy a buffet lunch and explore the local architecture and crafts markets.
The scenic driving tour towards Tuxtla Gutiérrez offers captivating viewpoints over the Sumidero Canyon and Grijalva River.
While the tour receives praise for its knowledgeable guides and the beauty of the canyon, some travelers have noted issues with late pickups, van conditions, and a lack of COVID-19 precautions.
The overall experience is one that allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of the region.
Read our full review: Full-Day Sumidero Canyon Tour With Boat Cruise From San Cristóbal De Las Casas Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Tour to Palenque Archaeological Zone With Waterfalls
A full-day tour from San Cristóbal de las Casas takes travelers to the awe-inspiring Palenque Archaeological Zone, where they can enjoy the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the region.
Priced from $90.52 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 17 visitors and includes round-trip transportation, travelers insurance, entrance fees, and a certified guide. While an official site guide at Palenque is an additional cost of approximately $120, it’s recommended for an in-depth experience.
The tour also features a visit to the beautiful Cascada de Azul, a stunning waterfall.
However, the journey to Palenque involves a long, bumpy 5-hour drive, and travelers should come prepared with supplies like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and earplugs.
For a more comfortable experience, an overnight stay or public bus option is available, though it adds 4 hours to the travel time.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour to Palenque Archaeological Zone With Waterfalls Review
Book now: Check availability
Agua Azul, Misol Hà Waterfalls and Palenque Ruins Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive day exploring the natural wonders and ancient history of Chiapas can embark on the Agua Azul, Misol Hà Waterfalls and Palenque Ruins Tour.
This full-day excursion includes visits to the cascading Agua Azul, the 115-foot Misol-Ha Waterfall, and the UNESCO-listed Palenque Ruins, a former Maya city-state.
Visitors can swim in the turquoise pools beneath Misol-Ha and discover the archaeological marvels of Palenque.
The tour provides round-trip transportation from San Cristóbal de las Casas, along with a professional guide, food, and drinks.
While the journey may be lengthy, with approximately 5.5 hours of driving each way, the tour operates in all weather conditions.
Travelers should come prepared with appropriate clothing, snacks, and water for comfort during the trip.
Despite some mixed reviews about guide quality, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Chiapas’ natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Agua Azul, Misol Hà Waterfalls and Palenque Ruins Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
City Tour Walk Through San Cristobal
Those who wish to enjoy the cultural heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas can embark on the city’s picturesque walking tour.
Starting at 4:00 PM, the 2-3 hour tour is conducted in Spanish by a knowledgeable guide and can accommodate up to 10 travelers. Priced at $20 per person, the tour offers a chance to explore the city’s historic landmarks, including the main Cathedral, Former Municipal Palace, and other central attractions.
The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-pushers, and infants can join by sitting on laps.
Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness to participate. With an impressive 5-star rating based on reviews, the city tour provides an authentic glimpse into San Cristóbal’s vibrant culture and history.
Free cancellation is available up to 3 days in advance, making it a flexible option for visitors. The only exclusions are food on the first and third days, as well as snacks.
Read our full review: City Tour Walk Through San Cristobal Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
San Cristóbal de las Casas offers a diverse range of tours to suit any traveler’s interests. From bike tours exploring indigenous communities to waterfall and canyon adventures, there’s something for all. The city itself also provides a charming walking tour showcasing its historic architecture and vibrant culture. With so many options, visitors are sure to find the perfect way to experience the beauty and richness of this Chiapas region.