Comitan and neighboring San Cristobal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutierrez are in the state of Chiapas, a region east of Oaxaca and south of Villahermosa and which is, without question, among Mexico’s most stunning scenic areas; mostly wild and rugged, it is rich in indigenous life and culture.

Chiapas’ thickly wooded jungles, mountains and valleys together with its traditional cultures and indigenous roots have kept its look, feel and style very distinct from the rest of Mexico. Although there are some cities, symbols and events here which reveal the area’s colonial heritage, the population remains close to its indigenous roots. Life is still lived according to custom and ritual.

Many argue that the natural beauty of this area has no parallel in Mexico: deep green forested valleys, awesome waterfalls and high mountains with deep canyons and gorges, a colossal wealth of flora and fauna and glorious lakes certainly make this area one of Mexico’s most unspoiled natural paradises.

Away from the larger towns, Spanish is a second language; people here still retain their indigenous culture and tongue. You’ll see a lot of indigenous people going about their everyday life, often wearing their traditional dress. It’s important to remember that the people who live here are extremely sensitive to having their photograph taken, so exercise caution in this respect when you visit. See Practical Information for more details.

Comitan de Dominguez is its full name, although it’s most often referred to as just Comitan (koh-mee-TAN’), was first settled around 1527 by the Spanish, and is still largely undiscovered by most foreign visitors to Mexico’s Chiapas region, who traditionally arrive and explore the region from San Cristobal de las Casas, 88km (55 miles) north of here.

This has been partly due to the lack of road and tourism infrastructure, although in the last few years progress has been made in both areas and today Comitan is a good base to explore some of Chiapas’ most breathtaking natural attractions.

The colonial city is made up of nine neighborhoods; an important reference to the city’s ancient name: Balun Canun, which means place of the nine stars. The houses are simple but picturesque, with their painted wood doors, interior courtyard gardens and colonial balconies. The streets themselves are well kept and immaculately clean, too.

Comitan is the last significant place before Mexico’s southern border gives way to the Usumacinta River and Guatemala just beyond. Comitan offers its visitors a number of attractive sights inside the city itself, including the beautiful neighborhood of San Caralampio. See Key Attractions for more details.

Although San Cristobal de las Casas is still the epicenter of tourist activity in Chiapas, Comitan has evolved and improved its tourism services, now making it an ideal place to spend a couple of days exploring the southern edge of Chiapas as well as the attractions along Mexico’s southern border with Guatemala, most within an hour’s drive from here.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

Comitan’s main plaza (also known as the Zocalo) is an attractive, multi-level mix of benches, trees and art sculptures; there is also a fountain on west side. Immediately off the main square you’ll find Church of Santo Domingo, the Casa de la Cultura (House of Culture) as well as the city’s main municipal building. It’s worth wandering around here and discovering the small shops and boutiques, many selling locally crafted items.

Iglesia de Santo Domingo

This church, situated on the main plaza, was built during the 16th and 17th centuries; its attractions include a neoclassical facade and block tower that reflect Mudejar art. Inside the church is a single level, with two chapels added during later periods. The main one—made of marble —was installed in 1956 to mark the church’s 400th anniversary.

San Caralampio

The picturesque neighborhood of San Caralampio, three blocks northwest of the main plaza is a true delight. See Photo Gallery.

Just off its central square featuring trees and a bandstand is the Temple of San Caralampio, built in 1852 to commemorate its patron saint following a cholera epidemic that devastated the local population of Comitan during the 19th century.

Museums in Comitan

Museum of Dr. Belisario Dominguez – The former home of the Doctor/Martyr after which the town was named can be found one block southeast of the main plaza. This is a typical 19th century house with delightful balconies and gardens which complement the historic architecture of the building. Dr. Belisario was an outspoken senator during the presidency of Victoriano Huerta. After he spoke out against Huerta’s record of sponsoring political murders, he was himself murdered. The house has six rooms which give an insight into the life and times of Dr Belisario Dominguez.

Casa de la Cultura (House of Culture), on the southeast corner of the main plaza has a small exhibition of local history and culture, and by walking through it you connect to the Museo Arqueológico de Comitan (Archaeology Museum), which keeps artifacts from the area’s local archaeology centers.

To see some paintings created by some of Mexico’s leading artists, including Rufino Tamayo, visit the Museo de Arte Hermila Dominguez Castellanos, two blocks southeast of the main plaza; Admirers of fine art should also visit the nearby Museo Parador de Santa Maria. See Attractions Close by to Comitan, below.

Attractions Close-by Comitan

Museo Parador de Santa Maria – An ex-hacienda that was built in the 19th century and left empty after the revolution, suffering serious decay. The property was acquired privately and meticulously restored to its early splendor; today it’s a restful hotel/parador, restaurant and museum which keeps some very fine sacred art and sculptures dated between the 16th and 19th centuries (some images of these can be seen in the photo gallery). Just 28km (17 miles) from Comitan, this museum/hotel is surrounded by unspoiled countryside and provides an excellent place to rest, eat and enjoy some fine art. The owners of the property grow their own organic coffee which is served on the premises and can also be purchased to take away.

Archaeological Areas – Tenam Puente and Chinkultic are short drives away – see the respective guides on Mexperience by clicking the green links above.

Lagos de Montebello – a region of lakes in southern Mexico, this natural attraction is just one hour from Comitan. There are over 50 lakes in the area, most of them reflect deep turquoise blue and green. Don’t miss this spectacular area when you visit Comitan. Mexperience has published a Complete Guide to Lagos de Montebello as part of our Mexico’s Great Outdoors Section.

Amatenango del Valle – On the highway between here and San Cristobal de las Casas is Amatenango del Valle: it’s a small hamlet that is famous for its local potters and pottery. The pottery here is still fired in the traditional way: by building a wood fire around the pieces, not in a kiln. Be sure to stop and see the array of pottery, and more recently, “animalitos” (little animals) on offer (although some of the animal pieces can be quite large, too). Prices are very cheap by western standards; some pieces are fragile, but they will wrap them carefully for you. Be sure to stop and buy. See the Picture Gallery for Amatenango del Valle.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest airport to Comitan is at Tuxtla Gutierrez, the state capital. You can fly to Tuxtla Gutierrez from Mexico City. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Tuxtla Gutierrez on a luxury bus from Mexico City—the trip takes around 10 hours. From there, take a local bus direct to Comitan or to San Cristobal de las Casas and connect from there. The bus you take from Tuxtla Gutierrez may stop at San Cristobal anyway—check locally. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Comitan from Tuxtla Gutierrez is pretty efficient now, especially as half the journey (to San Cristobal de las Casas) can be done on a high speed toll road. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience and further advice about driving in Chiapas in the Practical Information, below.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

Taxis – Taxis are plentiful in Comitan. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage in your negotiations with local taxi drivers. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico

Comitán Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines can be found in the downtown area of Comitan, with several banks and ATMs right off the main plaza. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

Driving in Chiapas – Safety Advice

If you are driving independently in this region, using a rental car or your own vehicle, it’s important to follow some special advice.

It’s best to keep off all highways after dark, unless you know them well, have good local knowledge and a good reason to travel at night.

The highway from San Cristobal to Palenque (Highway 199) must NOT be traveled on after dark. This road cuts through some extremely remote territory including, in the latter stages, sweltering jungle.

The above also applies to Highway 307 between Palenque and Bonampak / Yaxchilan. Most travelers join others and see these places as part of an organized tour; however if you drive there yourself, you should consider joining the convoy of tours which leave early in the morning and get back to Palenque before dusk.

Military Checkpoints: Expect to pass through at least one, but probably several of these on your road trip through Chiapas. Don’t be alarmed, the soldiers may or may not check your car’s trunk; they are polite, respectful and can even provide local advice and directions if you need them.
See Also: Military Checkpoints in Mexico

Special Note About Photography: The people in this region do not, as a rule, like photographs taken of them and the things they own. In some of the surrounding villages, it is prohibited to take photographs all together, and those who do not comply can face equipment confiscation, fines and even temporary detention. Ask before you take photographs of people and their possessions; you may be asked to pay a small fee for the privilege. See Also: Photography Etiquette in Mexico.

What to Buy in Comitan de Dominguez

Amatenango del Valle is a small hamlet famous for its local potters and pottery. The pottery here is still fired in the traditional way: by building a wood fire around the pieces and not in a kiln. Make sure you stop and see the array of pottery, and more recently, “animalitos” (little animals) on offer (although some of the animal pieces can be quite large too). Prices are completely affordable by western standards; some pieces are fragile, but they will wrap them carefully for you. Be sure to stop and buy; you’ll pick up some fabulous, unique and hand crafted pottery and make a significant contribution to the local indigenous communities.

Local Climate

At an altitude of nearly 1,670 meters (5,500 feet) above sea level, Comitan enjoys a temperate climate and clean, mountain air. Evenings can be cool, as can winter months (Dec-Feb), so pack some warmer clothes in case the weather turns chilly. Rain can also be a feature, so pack a waterproof overcoat and hat.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

About The Lakes of Montebello

Less than an hour’s drive from Comitan, on the border with Guatemala, are the Lagos de Montebello (Lakes of Montebello).

There are over 50 lakes here, one of which is half in Mexican territory and half in Guatemalan territory; around eight of the lakes are easily accessible via some roads and lots of vehicle tracks that run through the forest surrounding the lakes.

At the western edge of this lake district you’ll find the impressive and worth-while Mayan Ruins of Chinkultic: see the Mexperience Guide and Photo Gallery for details.

You can arrange a tour of the lakes from Comitan or (further away from here) San Cristobal de las Casas, although if you have a rental car, you can explore this area most effectively, take your time in the areas you want to see more of and travel at your preferred pace.

The lakes themselves are well worth experiencing; they all reflect turquoise blues and greens, and coupled with the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains and forests, the area is great for a whole day’s exploration.

You can bring your own food and drink, or eat locally at one of the many food stalls, cafes and restaurants dotted around the main lakes.

Small boats and makeshift rafts (made from tree trunks tied together) are available for hire at most of the larger lakes, in case you want to go out on the water and get a view from the lakes themselves. Ask locally for details and negotiate your price as fees are not fixed.

It’s an easy day-trip from Comitan, although if you’re not staying in Comitan, you may want to consider staying there or at nearby Museo Parador Santa Maria to really have enough time to enjoy the lakes fully during daylight hours and make your journey less tiring.

You are allowed to bathe in the lakes, so if you like swimming in natural waters, pack your swimming gear, although changing facilities are limited, so you’ll have to ‘rough it’ in that respect.

If you’re traveling in this area, the Lakes of Montebello are well worth a day trip. The lakes have a calm, serene and relaxing atmosphere; the air is sweet and pure, and even during busy times, because of the expanse of the area, you’ll always be able to find a quiet corner to just contemplate, surrounded by some of nature’s most wonderful creations.

Look through our picture gallery to get a taste of what is waiting for you… and then come here and experience this natural paradise for yourself!

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Key Attractions

The Principal Lakes

The first group of lakes as you enter the national park are known as the Lagunas de Colores (Lakes of Colors) owing to the different hues of green and blue they reflect.

The first lake is Laguna Agua Tinta (Tinted Water Lake); followed by Laguna Esmeralda (Emerald lake) and Laguna Encantada (Enchanted Lake)— they are separated by the road than runs past them. There is parking besides these so it’s easy to stop and look around if you’re traveling by car. The largest lake in this group is Lago Bosque Azul (Blue Forest Lake) where you can also find a couple of food stalls and souvenir stands.

Another group of lakes, Cinco Lagunas (Five Lakes) includes Lago de Montebello (one of the largest) La Cañada, Laguna Pojoj and Laguna Tziscao—the largest lake, the southern end of which is in Guatemala. Take the time to See our Photo Gallery of the Lakes of Montebello.

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Getting There & Around

By Air – The closest main town to the lakes is Comitan, and the nearest airports to Comitan are Tuxtla Gutierrez and Tapachula. You can fly to Tuxtla Gutierrez and Tapachula from Mexico City. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

Airport Transfers: If you’re arriving in Mexico by airplane, you can book your airport transfer in advance. Airport Transfer services are available from all of Mexico’s key airports and offer the choice of either a Standard or VIP service level. Standard shuttles will transport up to ten people and their baggage in a modern and comfortable surburban van to/from local hotels; the VIP service provides transportation exclusively for your party, taking you and your belongings directly to/from your local hotel. Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for details and to reserve your Airport Transfer.

By Bus – You can travel to Tuxtla Gutierrez on a luxury bus from Mexico City—the trip takes around 12-14 hours. From there take a local bus direct to Comitan or to San Cristobal de las Casas and connect from there. The bus you take from Tuxtla Gutierrez may stop at San Cristobal anyway—check locally. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Comitan from Tuxtla Gutierrez is pretty efficient now, especially as half the journey (to San Cristobal de las Casas) can be done on a high speed toll road. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads. To get to Montebello from Comitan, follow highway 190 for about 9 miles (15 km), turning east at the signpost; this is before you get to the town of La Trinitaria. This road passes the Maya Ruins of Chinkultic and later enters the forest of the National Park of the Lakes of Montebello (Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello).

Car Rental – To explore this region properly, consider renting a car for your visit; you can rent a car from Tuxtla Gutierrez or Tapachula. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico and connect to the Mexperience Travel Center to reserve your Rental Car.

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Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: The national park is best experienced during daylight hours. Some places in the park rent rustic cabins for overnight stays there—although they are very basic and rudimentary. There are also some campsites here, if you want to camp in the park; ask locally for current details.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole; if you have a good pair of walking boots, all the better. Insect repellent is also very useful as these areas are located in the jungle. See Local Climate, below.

Car Rental Recommended: To experience the lake district at your own pace with the freedom and independence to see precisely what you want, the best advice is to rent a car from Tuxtla Guterrez or Tapachula. Public transport is available but very scarce around here.

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines can be found in the downtown area of Comitan, with several banks and ATMs right off the main plaza. ATMs are hard to find outside of the main towns, so carry enough cash for your journey. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Swimming and Bathing: You are allowed to swim at all of these lakes, so bring your swim gear if you want to. There are no lifeguards on duty – so take care swimming and keep a watchful eye on your children when they are in the water also; some of these lakes are very deep – up to 150 meters (500 feet) in places.

Fishing: Fishing is NOT permitted at any of the lakes as they are all situated within the habitat of the protected National Park.

Boats: You can rent skiffs and row-boats locally; some row boats are accompanied by a hired oarsman (pay by the hour) for trips across the larger lakes. Motorized boats, jet skis, etc are NOT permitted on any of the lakes in the National Park.

Vantage Points: The roads through the national park weave around the lakes and forest and at times offer excellent vantage points – some are signposted and have car lay-bys; others are not and you just need to park somewhere sensible to get out and enjoy the views.

Driving Safety: If you are going to be driving independently in this area, read the practical information about Driving in Chiapas on the guide to Comitan.

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Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Comitan, Tuxtla Gutierrez, San Cristobal de las Casas, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Nearest Archaeological Sites: Palenque, Tenam Puente, Yaxchilan, Bonampak, Chinkultic

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Local Climate

The local climate is similar to nearby Comitan. The lake district enjoys a temperate climate and clean, fresh mountain air. Evenings can be cool, as can winter months, so pack some warm clothes for such times. Rain can also be a feature, so pack a waterproof jacket.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

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About The Waterfalls

The state of Chiapas, in southern Mexico, is one of the country’s most attractive areas of outstanding natural beauty, and a large part of its attraction is the abundance of wilderness engulfed by a constant carpet of greens and turquoises which are a reflection of the rich fertile earth here.

Lakes (like the Lakes of Montebello) and rivers are everywhere: the climate is tropical and the rains that help to keep these lands fertile also create some spectacular water features that roll over and down into deep valleys and gorges. The result is a series of inspiring waterfalls; many of which are easily accessible thanks to local co-operative groups which have created roads, pathways and trails leading into the jungles where some of these natural wonders hide away.

Three Waterfalls

This guide introduces you to three of the most impressive waterfalls in Chiapas, which are close enough to other destinations and places of interest so they may be easily included as part of a travel itinerary when you’re visiting the area.

Misol-Ha (Near Palenque) – named after the river Misol-Ha, the water falls nearly 120 feet into a refreshing pool below.

Agua Azul (Near Palenque) – The turquoise-blue waters of this waterfall and river are one of the state’s most beautiful and famous natural attractions.

El Chiflon (Near Comitan) – Probably the most remote of the three, although worth every kilometer, this is a multi-stage waterfall featuring a stunning “angels wings” feature.

All of the waterfalls are also bathing centers: bring your swimming gear and a towel.  Be sure to see our Picture Galleries that offer you a visual glimpse into these wonderful natural habitats.

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The Waterfalls

• • Misol-Ha
  • Agua Azul
  • El Chiflon

Misol-Ha

River Misol-Ha (meaning “Streaming Water”), in the “Chol” tribe area of Chiapas, creates one of the state’s most wonderful natural sights as the river glides off the edge of a cliff and some 120 feet (35 m) down into a deep pool of water surrounded by lush vegetation.

The water at the foot of the waterfall is deep (scuba divers have reported depths of 45 feet), and there are signs to warn visitors of this. You should only swim here if you are a good swimmer, and children should be watched carefully. The water is deliciously refreshing.

A scuba diver who has been in the the pool has told us that it is cone-shaped and at the very center is an opening about 6 feet in diameter that is possibly a subterranean waterway which connects to somewhere further downstream.

A small walkway will take you behind the water curtain created by the waterfall. There are some caves behind, which local people (waiting nearby) will give you a guided tour of in return for a small tip.

Also See: Photo Gallery for Misol-Ha

Agua Azul

Rio Xumul-Ha (meaning River of Blue Water, or in Spanish, Agua Azul) features a series of torrential cascades and fast flowing waters rolling down a limestone ridge to form pools and small streams.

The limestone bed gives the waters here a turquoise-blue effect: although during the rainy season, silt turns the waters brown, so you have to time your journey right if you want to see the water blue— in which case, avoid June – October.

When you arrive at the river (see below Getting There & Around), you will be greeted by a gauntlet of market stalls. Walking past these and about half a mile up the path, things return to a more natural state. On the way back, the market stalls are an ideal place to browse and buy. Local people make their living by trading here and they are the same communities which created the access routes to this natural wonder.

The river is surrounded by breath-taking green valleys and as you leave the area on the road upwards, you can look left into the valley below and see the river winding through it. If it’s the rainy season (June through October), the waters are usually brown, otherwise, the eye-dazzling turquoise-blue will be immediately apparent.

During the weekends, this area becomes packed with visitors and local people who come here to swim and relax: it’s a great place to do that! If you want to be surrounded by less people, come during the week and, if your schedule permits, off-season (that is, when schools are in session).

The waters here can be deceptive, so caution is advised when bathing. Some areas are plainly safe to bathe in, and you’ll often see other people bathing in them. Some areas are clearly dangerous and signposted: “the liquidizer”, for example, where a rush of water drops suddenly to create an enormous swirling undercurrent. Not all places may look dangerous, so take care, and if you have children with you, supervise them and be sure they don’t stray away from safe bathing waters. People have been known to drown here, but with sensible precautions and some common sense, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy bathing in this natural wonder.

Also See: Photo Gallery for Agua Azul

El Chiflon

About 30 minutes-drive from the colonial city of Comitan is El Chiflon, a waterfall that seemingly protrudes from the mountainside as you drive towards it and has the shape of angels’ wings.

There is an Eco Center at the entrance to the Chiflon reserve, and a paved walkway that hugs the edge of the river. There are small huts and BBQ areas where people bring their own food to enjoy picnics and a day out by the water. The river has several pools and calm stretches, so bathing is possible and the water isn’t too deep—watch out for steeper areas though, where the water does become more fierce.

Your climb up to the top of the pathway will be rewarded with some great views of the waterfall itself. The angels’ wings are best viewed from a distance. Close-up you can see what is called the “bride’s train” – see the photo gallery to understand why.

If you want to to get closer to the main waterfall, you’ll have to do some more climbing, although the pathway has steps built into it and there are rest-stops on the way. Once at the top, there are two main vantage points: the closest is built upon a natural rock and you can expect to get wet when you get that close, although the views are quite spectacular and if the day is warm, it will provide a refreshing shower to cool you down in the jungle heat.

Also See: Photo Gallery for El Chiflon.

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Getting There & Around

Tours – Many local tour operators include these waterfalls as part of a locally arranged itinerary. Check with local agents for current details in San Cristobaland Palenque.

Misol-Ha – The waterfall is 15 miles (25 km) south of Palenque, about a mile (2 km) off Highway 199 (which connects San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque). The area is sign-posted on the main road.

Agua Azul – There is a sign-posted turn off the main highway between Palenque and Ocosingo on Highway 199.  Agua Azul is about 22 miles (35 km) south of Palenque.

El Chiflon – El Chiflon waterfall is near the archaeological center of Tenam Puente – just south east of Comitan

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Practical Information

Opening Days & Times: Most Eco Centers around the waterfalls are owned and managed by local communities of ejidatarios (commons land-owners). They are normally open during daylight hours and some have rustic cabins that may be rented for overnight stays.

Best Times to See The Falls: The rainy season is between May and September each year and it’s then that the waters are at their fullest. However, the rains during this period stir the silt from the river beds and the beautiful hues of blue, green and turquoise reflected in the waters may not be seen (the water may be river brown after the heaviest downpours). The falls are spectacular all-year round as Chiapas is in the sub-tropics. If you want to experience the waters at their fullest, go in the rainy season; if you want to see the picturesque colors, visit in the ‘dry’ season.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole. If you have a good pair of walking boots, all the better.  Insect repellent is also very useful as these areas are located in the jungle. See Local Climate, below.

Swimming and Bathing: You are allowed to swim at all of these waterfalls, so bring your swim gear if you want to. Take heed of the advice regarding dangerous areas: swim only where it is obviously safe and you see others (especially locals) swimming safely.

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Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Villahermosa, San Cristobal de las Casas, Comitan, Tuxtla Gutierrez, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches / Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Nearest Archaeological Sites: Palenque, Tenam Puente, Yaxchilan, Bonampak, Chinkultic

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Local Climate

The local climate is the same as that for Palenque: jungle weather and therefore extremely hot and humid. Dress in light clothes that enable your skin to breathe. Bring sun screen, insect repellent and a hat. Carry plenty of water and stay well-hydrated at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

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The ancient Maya ruins of Chinkultic, situated on the western edge of the Lakes of Montebello National Park, offer interesting temples and ancient buildings to explore and dramatic views across the area’s landscape and jungle. The site is within easy reach of Comitan and a great stop-over on the way to or back from Lakes of Montebello.

The site dates back to as far as 600 AD, and was probably one of the western-most outposts of the Maya civilization. The site is not as well excavated as other Maya sites such as Palenque and Chichen Itza, but the location is well worth a visit as it offers good atmosphere and incredible views from the Acropolis at top of the hill.

The site is very much out in the jungle; it’s hot and humid so sunscreen, bottled water and insect repellent are essential here.

Key Attractions

Chinkultic only requires an hour or two at most to visit. As you enter the site, you’ll walk past several structures which are still only partially excavated and still covered by extensive vegetation, including the Plaza Hundida (Sunken Plaza).

A small stone bridge crosses the stream and the topography begins to get steeper—a brisk walk up a semi-stone pathway leads you up the main temple of the site, the Acropolis.

From the top of the hill, you can explore some ruined remains of the Acropolis and get some great views of the surrounding landscape and jungles. It’s very quiet and serene here.

Below and to the left as you look out from the Acropolis, you’ll see a cenote—an ancient water reservoir. Cenotes were an important source of water for ancient civilizations and they can be seen across all Mexico, especially near archaeological areas. This cenote is special in that it is the only known one in the state of Chiapas.

Getting There & Around

By Car: To get to Chinkultic from Comitan, follow highway 190 for about 15 km, turning east at the signpost; this is before you get to the town of La Trinitaria. This road passes the Maya Ruins of Chinkultic and later enters the forest of the National Park of the Lakes of Montebello (Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello).

Car Rental: To explore the local area around Chinkultic and Chiapas, consider renting a car locally. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn about car rental in Mexico.

Chinkultic Essentials

Opening Days & Times: 7 Days a week; 8 am to 5 pm Admission charges apply (check with local tourist office for latest admission prices).

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Photography & Video: A permit is required if you want to use a tripod to take photographs at the archaeological site. A small fee is made for the use of hand-held video equipment. Read the section on Mexperience Mexico Essentials about Video & Photography at archaeological sites in Mexico.

Ideal Clothing & Footwear: You’ll need a good, comfortable pair of walking shoes with a non-slip sole. Wear light clothes – it gets very hot and humid here. Insect repellent is essential in Chinkultic as this site is located in the jungle.   See Local Climate, below.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Major Cities: Mexico City (Closest)

Colonial Cities: Comitan, Tuxtla Gutierrez, San Cristobal de las Casas, Villahermosa, Oaxaca

Nearest Beaches/ Resorts: Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres

Other Archaeological Sites Nearby: Palenque, Tenam Puente, Yaxchilan, Bonampak

Local Climate

The area surrounding Chinkultic has jungle weather: extremely hot and humid. Dress with light clothes that allow your skin to breathe; natural fibers (cotton) are best; avoid synthetics (e.g. polyester) and denim as you’ll feel very uncomfortable wearing them in this jungle climate. Bring sun screen, insect repellent and a hat. Carry plenty of water and stay well hydrated at all times.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico