Things To Do In San Cristobal De Las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas: A Vibrant Cultural Destination in Chiapas, Mexico

San Cristóbal de las Casas, nestled in the highlands of Chiapas, is a captivating town that offers an enchanting blend of indigenous culture, colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here’s a list of must-see attractions and activities for tourists.

  1. Zócalo (Main Square): The heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas is its vibrant Zócalo. Surrounded by colorful colonial buildings, it’s the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy local food, and watch traditional Tzotzil and Tojolabal dances during weekends.

  2. Chiapanec-Maya Museum (Museo Arqueológico Chiapaneco): Dive into the rich history of San Cristóbal and the surrounding region at this museum. It houses a collection of artifacts from various indigenous cultures, including the Chiapanec, Maya, and Zapotec.

  3. Na Bolom Museum: This museum showcases the work and life of anthropologist Frans Blom and his wife, artist Trudy Bell. The museum also provides a fascinating insight into the Tzotzil and Tzeltal cultures.

  4. San Juan Chamula Church: Just a short trip from the city center, this church offers a unique cultural experience. The church allows local communities to practice their traditional practices alongside Catholic rituals, creating a distinctly Chiapasian atmosphere.

  5. Sumidero Canyon (Cañón del Sumidero): Take a boat tour through this stunning canyon, filled with lush vegetation and towering cliffs. You might even spot some of the resident wildlife, such as crocodiles and monkeys.

  6. Lagos de Montebello: Visit these beautiful turquoise-blue lakes nestled in the mountains. The area offers opportunities for swimming, hiking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

  7. Markets: Explore local markets like the Mercado de Artesanías to purchase traditional Tzotzil and Tojolabal handicrafts such as textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings. The Mercado Municipal is another great place to sample Chiapanecan cuisine.

  8. Tourist Cooperatives (Cooperativas Turísticas): These cooperatives provide guided tours into nearby indigenous communities. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their traditions, customs, and way of life, all while supporting local economies.

  9. Festivals: San Cristóbal de las Casas is famous for its vibrant festivals, including the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations in November and the Festival Internacional de la Cultura Maya in August.

  10. Café Las Flores: This charming café offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy coffee grown by local farmers and learn about their cooperative, Cafe Suchiapán.

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm, welcoming people, San Cristóbal de las Casas is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic Mexican experience.