San Cristobal De Las Casas 5 Day Itinerary

San Cristóbal de las Casas 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City

  • Morning: Arrive at San Cristobal de Las Casas Airport (SCP). Check-in at your hotel. Recommended hotels: Hotel Santa Maria Tlahuejulco, Hotel Casa Na Bolom, or Hotel Real de Guadalupe.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Central Plaza de la Paz and surrounds, including the Parroquia de Santo Domingo, a beautiful church with Tzotzil Mayan architecture. Explore the nearby San Juan Chamula Church.
  • Evening: Savor local flavors at La Cascabel, offering traditional Zapotecan and Mayan dishes, or try the international cuisine at El Jardin de la Tortuga.

Day 2: Indigenous Villages & Markets

  • Morning: Visit San Juan Chamula (Tuesday and Thursday market) and San Lorenzo Zinacantán (Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday markets), where you can witness traditional Mayan customs.
  • Afternoon: Head to Catalina Paraiso, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by nature, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
  • Evening: Dine at El Quetzal, which serves both Mexican and international cuisine, or visit the bustling food market in downtown San Cristobal, Mercado Integrado.

Day 3: Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to Sumidero Canyon, where you can enjoy boat trips along the Grijalva River and witness breathtaking landscapes.
  • Afternoon: Explore Cañón del Río Tulimán, a picturesque canyon with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, hiking, and birdwatching.
  • Evening: Return to San Cristobal de Las Casas, have dinner at a local restaurant like Misión (offering both Mexican and international dishes), or try El Rincón del Vago, which serves delicious vegetarian options.

Day 4: Artisanal Workshops & Crafts

  • Morning: Visit the Textile Museum of San Cristobal de Las Casas to learn about traditional textile techniques and purchase handmade crafts.
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby village of San Andrés Larráinzar, where you can visit artisanal workshops, particularly known for their black pottery production.
  • Evening: Enjoy a final dinner at Café La Clave or Por Siempre Cocina Mexicana.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last hours exploring any missed attractions, shopping for souvenirs, or relaxing in the city’s tranquil atmosphere.
  • Afternoon/Evening: Depart from San Cristobal de Las Casas Airport (SCP).

Transportation: Taxis and collective taxis are widely available around the city, while car rentals are also an option for those who prefer a more flexible journey. Shared shuttle services connect the airport with downtown hotels.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
  • Language: Spanish is primarily spoken, but some Tzotzil and Tzeltal Mayan languages are also used in indigenous communities.
  • Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to February offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
  • Safety Tips: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when carrying valuables or in crowded places.