From Palenque: Ruins and waterfalls of Misol-ha & Agua Azul

Discovering Palenque, Misol-Ha & Agua Azul: An In-Depth Tour Review

Traveling through Chiapas offers some of Mexico’s most captivating sights, especially if you’re keen on combining archaeological wonders with stunning natural scenery. This particular tour, which covers the Palenque archaeological site along with visits to Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls, promises a full day of exploration. We’re here to give you an honest look at what makes this experience worth considering — and what to watch out for.

What We Love About This Tour:

• It offers a balanced mix of culture and nature, giving you a comprehensive taste of what the region has to offer.
• The impressive waterfalls — especially Agua Azul’s vibrant blue waters — are a highlight that truly stand out.
• The flexibility in timing allows ample opportunity to enjoy each stop at your own pace.

A Possible Drawback:

The main concern that comes up in reviews is the lack of a guidance during the tour. Some travelers felt they didn’t receive enough contextual information, which could lessen the experience if you’re someone who loves deep historical insights. Also, the change of vehicle without prior notice was confusing for a few, so clear communication might be a hit or miss.

Ideal for: Travelers who want an active, scenic day with plenty of time for sightseeing and swimming, and those comfortable with self-guided exploration rather than a fully guided tour.

Good To Know

• Cultural and natural highlights combined into one day
• Ample time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed
• Self-guided nature may require some independent research or translation
• Affordable price point for a full-day experience
• Comfortable transportation included
• Good for travelers seeking flexibility over guided commentary

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day: Palenque Archaeological Site

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 a.m., with transportation from your hotel. After about three and a half hours, we arrive at Palenque, where the real magic begins. The site is a sprawling complex set amid lush jungle, with towering pyramids that seem to rise up directly from the greenery.

We loved the way the site’s atmosphere blends history with nature — walking among ancient ruins with monkeys and colorful birds occasionally darting overhead. Our guide, although not very talkative, pointed out key features like the Queen’s Bath waterfall and the impressive pyramids, giving enough context to appreciate the site without feeling overwhelmed.

There’s also the option to visit the local museum (Alberto Ruz L’Huillier) included in your ticket, where a replica of King Pakal’s tomb offers a glimpse into Maya royalty. This part of the tour is particularly worthwhile for history buffs eager to deepen their understanding of the site’s significance.

Misol-Ha Waterfall: Behind the Cascade

After exploring Palenque, the group heads to Misol-Ha, about a 45-minute drive away. This waterfall is approximately 40 meters high, and the sight of water plunging into a pool below is simply breathtaking. We appreciated having 45 minutes here; it’s enough time to stand close to the waterfall, take photos, and even walk behind the cascade into a cave covered by water — an experience that’s both exhilarating and photogenic.

Agua Azul: The Blue Paradise

The final major stop is Agua Azul, where we were given about two and a half hours to relax and take in the scenery. The waterfalls are famous for their striking, almost surreal blue waters, caused by mineral deposits. You might find yourself captivated by the way the water twists through the rocks, creating small pools perfect for a swim.

Many reviews mention how refreshing it is to take a dip in these cool waters — it’s a highlight that makes the whole trip worthwhile. The walkways along the waterfalls offer great vantage points, and you can dip in or simply enjoy the views.

Some travelers, like Diane, specifically enjoyed swimming here, describing it as a “seductive” experience. That said, be prepared for some busy spots, as Agua Azul is a popular stop. Also, from reviews, it’s clear that vendors tend to be persistent with sales pitches, so come prepared if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

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Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes transportation, which is crucial given the long distances involved. Most travelers appreciated the comfort of the vehicle, although a few noted that a vehicle change occurred without much explanation, which caused some discomfort and confusion. Pickup from your hotel is an included perk, with a prompt wait in the lobby — just remember to confirm your hotel details beforehand.

The total duration is approximately 11 hours, making it a full day but well worth the effort if you’re keen on covering all three stops. The timing allows for a leisurely exploration, so you’re not cramming everything into a rushed schedule.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Based on reviews, the main strength of this tour is the quality of the sights. Visitors consistently praise the stunning views of waterfalls and the impressive ruins of Palenque. The ample time at each stop is appreciated, especially for those who want to take photographs or swim freely.

However, the lack of a guide or detailed commentary is a common critique. Travelers who enjoy learning the background of each site may find themselves feeling a bit lost without more information. The situation with the vehicle change and language barriers (not all guides speak English) also suggests the tour is better suited for those comfortable with self-guided exploration and some degree of independence.

Price and Value

At $71 per person, the tour offers a reasonable price for the amount of ground covered. Included tickets and transportation mean there are no hidden costs, making it straightforward for travelers on a budget. While some reviews mention the organization could be improved, most agree that the experience provides good value considering the sights and convenience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip blending archaeological discovery with natural beauty. It’s best suited for those who appreciate ample free time to explore, swim, and take photos, rather than those seeking a highly guided, educational experience. If you’re comfortable with some logistical independence and don’t mind occasional communication hiccups, this could be a perfect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from your hotel to all three sites is included, making the long drive comfortable and hassle-free.

Can I swim at Agua Azul?
Absolutely. Many travelers take advantage of the opportunity to swim in the cool, clear waters, and it’s often highlighted as a major highlight.

How long do we stay at each site?
You’ll have about 3.5 hours at Palenque, 45 minutes at Misol-Ha, and 2.5 hours at Agua Azul, offering plenty of time for sightseeing and relaxing.

Is there a guide providing information?
The tour includes a guide, but some reviews mention a lack of detailed commentary or English-speaking guides. You might want to do personal research or bring a translation app.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, and cash for souvenirs or snacks. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if your kids enjoy outdoor adventures and exploring ruins, waterfalls, and swimming.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the ticket and transportation costs are included in the $71 fee. Be aware of vendors at Agua Azul, as they often try to sell souvenirs.

What about the vehicle change?
Some travelers experienced a change from a larger van to a smaller car without prior notice. While it didn’t affect most, it’s worth being prepared for this possibility.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see some of Mexico’s most iconic sights in Chiapas, especially if your focus is on nature and impressive ruins. The flexible timing and inclusion of entry tickets make it a convenient option, especially for those who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and tickets on their own.

While the absence of guided commentary might be a downside for history buffs, the photography opportunities and the sheer beauty of Agua Azul’s waters make it a trip worth considering. The long day involved is balanced by the depth of experience and the variety of sights.

In sum, this is a good choice for travelers who value flexibility, scenic beauty, and the chance to explore multiple highlights in one day — with a touch of adventure along the way.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a traveler seeking a refreshing escape, this tour packs a punch and will leave you with plenty of memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: