Top Day Trips from San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a charming town nestled high in the Chiapas Highlands of Mexico. It’s surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making it an excellent base for day trips to explore nearby attractions. Here are some of the best options:

1. Zinacantán (30 minutes away)

Zinacantán is a Tzotzil Maya village known for its vibrant textile cooperatives and traditional market. Visit the church, admire the beautiful architecture, and immerse yourself in the local culture by joining a guided tour or taking part in a traditional meal.

2. San Juan Chamula (15 minutes away)

San Juan Chamula is another Tzotzil Maya town that offers a unique experience. The church here, unlike any other in Mexico, allows for the practice of syncretic religion, blending Catholicism with traditional beliefs. Be respectful and observe the local customs during your visit.

3. Agua Azul (2 hours away)

Agua Azul is a series of cascades where the water has a striking blue-green hue due to the minerals it contains. The best time to visit is during or just after the rainy season, when the flow is strongest and the colors are most vivid.

4. Misol-há (30 minutes from Agua Azul)

Misol-há is another set of waterfalls, slightly smaller than Agua Azul but equally beautiful. The unique feature here is that you can swim in the pools below the falls.

5. Sumidero Canyon (1 hour from Tuxtla Gutiérrez)

Sumidero Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located about an hour from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the capital of Chiapas. Take a boat tour through the canyon to appreciate its sheer cliffs, lush vegetation, and wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.

6. Montebello Lakes (1 hour from San Cristóbal de las Casas)

The Montebello Lakes are a series of picturesque bodies of water surrounded by pine forests and coffee plantations. The lakes change colors throughout the day due to the reflection of the sky, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

7. Lagunas de Montebello National Park (1 hour from San Cristóbal de las Casas)

This national park is home to the beautiful Lagunas de Montebello and offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and camping. Be sure to visit during the dry season (November to March), as some roads may be impassable during the rainy season.