From Palenque: Palenque, Agua Azul Waterfalls and Misol-Ha

Exploring the Best of Chiapas: Palenque, Agua Azul, and Misol-Ha in One Day

If you’re visiting Chiapas and craving a day filled with history, vibrant waterfalls, and lush landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s highlights. While some travelers might find the schedule a bit packed, the chance to see the Palenque archaeological site, spectacular waterfalls, and enjoy a taste of local natural beauty makes it a compelling choice.

What we love about this experience:

• The opportunity to explore Palenque’s ancient ruins surrounded by jungle.
• The chance to witness the dazzling waters of Agua Azul — a true natural spectacle.
• The visit to Misol-Ha waterfalls, perfect for cooling off and taking photos.

A potential drawback? The long travel times between stops can make the day feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re not a fan of long road trips. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, don’t mind a bit of a schedule, and are keen to see multiple highlights in one trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary: Combines archaeological exploration with stunning natural sights.
• Value for money: At $75, including entrance fees and transportation, it offers a lot for a single day.
• Comfortable transportation: Shared vans with professional drivers, though some reviews mention the vehicles could be more modern.
• Guided experience: Spanish-speaking guides provide insights, but there’s no local guide at each site.
• Preparation needed: Bring comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash to enjoy the stops fully.
• Travel time: Expect around 4-5 hours of driving, so be ready for a full day on the road.

The Journey Begins: Pick-up and Travel

Your day kicks off at 8:00 A.M. with hotel pickup in Palenque, making it convenient and hassle-free. The van ride to the Palenque archaeological site takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

The van used for transportation seems standard for this type of tour. While some reviews mention that the vehicles could be more comfortable, most travelers appreciate the punctuality and efficiency of the service. The group size tends to be manageable, which enhances the overall experience.

Discovering Palenque: The Ancient Maya City

Once at Palenque, you’ll get approximately three hours to explore the ruins. The site is renowned for its well-preserved temples and sculptures, set amid lush greenery, creating a captivating atmosphere.

Our sources mention that the ruins are stunning and well worth the visit, with “the ruins of Palenque very beautiful,” as one reviewer noted. The guided commentary (in Spanish) helps bring the history alive, though some travelers suggest a local guide might deepen the experience. Expect to see key structures like Temple of the Inscriptions and the Palace, each offering a glimpse into Mayan architecture and culture.

However, some reviews point out that the timing at Palenque might be too long—from 8 a.m. to around 12:30 p.m.—which can feel extended, especially if you’re eager to see more or prefer a more relaxed pace.

The Refreshing Misol-Ha Waterfalls

After exploring Palenque, you’ll hop back into the van for about an hour’s drive to Misol-Ha, a highlight for many visitors. The main feature is a 50-meter-high waterfall that’s not only visually stunning but also an ideal spot for photos and cooling down.

You’ll have around 50 minutes here, enough time to soak in the natural energy, take some selfies, and enjoy the cool mist. Reviews highlight that Misol-Ha is a beautiful and invigorating stop, perfect for a quick break from the busier archaeological site.

Some travelers express that the time here could be increased—to really enjoy the atmosphere or walk around more freely—though the schedule is designed to keep the day moving smoothly.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Marveling at Agua Azul Waterfalls

The afternoon is dedicated to Agua Azul, probably the most famous natural attraction on this route. Expect to spend around 2.5 hours wandering along the stunning series of turquoise waterfalls. The water’s vibrant hue is caused by mineral deposits, making it one of the most striking sights in Chiapas.

On the way, you might find some opportunities to buy local crafts and snacks, so bringing cash is a smart move. The waterfalls are a great spot to relax and snap plenty of photos, but do note that some reviews mention that the visit can feel a bit rushed—especially if you want to take a dip or explore more thoroughly.

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “In Agua Azul, you can marvel at the spectacular dazzling turquoise blue waterfalls that make up this unique natural resource,” emphasizing how truly special this site is. The natural beauty here offers a perfect blend of serenity and vibrancy.

The Return Journey: Wrapping Up a Full Day

After Agua Azul, the group boards the van for roughly two more hours back to Palenque or onward to San Cristobal de las Casas, depending on your plans. Some reviews point out that the long drive can be tiring, especially for those not used to extended bus rides, but most appreciate the chance to see so much in one day.

The tour ends with drop-offs at your hotel or designated location, leaving you with a vivid memory of Chiapas’s natural and historical riches.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price of $75 per person, including entrance fees and transport, this tour provides an excellent value for those eager to see Palenque’s ruins and the region’s waterfalls in a single day. It’s a practical choice for travelers with limited time who want a rundown without having to organize multiple private visits.

However, the long travel times and short durations at each site mean you need to be prepared for a busy schedule. If you prefer more relaxed visits or want to spend more time swimming or exploring, this might feel rushed. It’s also worth noting that this tour doesn’t include a local guide at each stop, which could diminish the depth of historical or cultural insights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value convenience and efficiency. If you want a straightforward way to see some of Chiapas’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics, this is a good pick. It’s especially ideal for those keen on Mayan ruins and natural waterfalls but who are comfortable with a full, active day of travel.

It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, as the sites involve walking and some uneven terrain. Those who prefer a slower, more in-depth exploration of each site might find the schedule a little too tight.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical way to see three of Chiapas’s key attractions—the historic ruins of Palenque, the vibrant waters of Agua Azul, and the majestic Misol-Ha waterfall—all within a single day. The price point is reasonable considering the entrance fees and transportation included, making it a solid option for budget-minded travelers.

While some may find the itinerary somewhat rushed and the vehicle less than plush, the spectacular sites and organized logistics make it a worthwhile experience. The guides, although not specified as local experts, are praised for their punctuality and professionalism overall.

In short, this is a good tour for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip with plenty of photo opportunities and natural beauty. If you’re prepared for a long day on the road and want to see the best of Chiapas without breaking the bank, this adventure could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour provides ground transportation in shared vans. It starts with hotel pickup and includes return transfers.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the price covers all entrance fees to the archaeological site and waterfalls.

Is food included?
No, food and beverages are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or cash for meals along the way.

How long is the total driving time?
Expect around 4-5 hours of driving during the day, with stops at each major site.

Can I stay longer at each attraction?
The schedule is set for around 3 hours at Palenque, 50 minutes at Misol-Ha, and 2.5 hours at Agua Azul. Additional time isn’t available on this tour.

Is a local guide provided at each site?
No, the tour includes a Spanish-speaking guide, but not a dedicated local guide at each stop.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain at the sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: