San Cristobal De Las Casas is a fantastic place for full-day tours because it offers a mix of natural wonders, charming colonial towns, and adventurous outings—all within easy reach. Whether you’re eager to explore the Sumidero Canyon, float along its impressive walls, or enjoy the serene beauty of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall, this region thrives on variety. The tours on our list stand out because they combine authentic experiences with accessible logistics, making them ideal for travelers who want a full day of adventure without the hassle. For example, the Sumidero National Park Full-Day Trip from San Cristobal offers breathtaking canyon views and a boat cruise—perfect for nature lovers.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the three best full-day tours in San Cristobal De Las Casas, each offering a different way to enjoy the area’s stunning scenery and cultural highlights. From thrilling boat rides to scenic drives and waterfalls, there’s something for all.
1. Sumidero National Park Full-Day Trip from San Cristobal
At number one, this tour offers an unforgettable experience of Sumidero Canyon, one of Chiapas’ most spectacular natural attractions. The trip includes two pickup points in San Cristobal and takes you through a full day of adventures, starting with a drive to the canyon. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views from various viewpoints and then hop onto a boat that takes you along the river, passing between canyon walls rising up to 2,500 feet. This boat cruise is the highlight, offering close-up views of waterfalls, caves, and wildlife, including crocodiles and monkeys. The tour also includes a visit to the magical town of Chiapa de Corzo, known for its colorful markets and colonial architecture, which adds a cultural touch to the day.
This tour is rated 4.4/5 based on 65 reviews, indicating solid value and memorable experiences. It’s priced at $99 per person for around 8 to 9 hours of exploration. Many travelers appreciate the variety—seeing the canyon from viewpoints, then from the water, and finishing in a charming town. The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The small-group format and the inclusion of a boat cruise make it stand out.
Bottom line: If your goal is to see Sumidero Canyon from multiple angles—on land and water—this tour offers excellent value with a mix of adventure and cultural insights.
2. Full-Day Sumidero Canyon Tour with Boat Cruise from San Cristóbal de las Casas
Number two on our list is a slightly shorter but equally immersive full-day tour of Sumidero Canyon. Starting from San Cristobal, this tour emphasizes the water experience with a 2-hour boat cruise through the canyon, where you’ll see waterfalls, sheer canyon walls, and abundant wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys. The boat ride alone is a major draw, rated highly for its spectacular scenery.
After the cruise, you’ll head to Chiapa de Corzo for a relaxed lunch and a stroll through one of the region’s most historic towns. The town’s mudejar-style brickwork and lively markets make for a charming visit. The entire trip is about nine hours and costs $84, which offers great value considering the boat cruise and town exploration included.
Reviewers give this tour a 3.5/5 based on 8 reviews, with some noting it could improve in certain areas. One reviewer commented, “Breathtaking views of waterfalls and wildlife,” confirming the quality of the scenery. The tour is best suited for those wanting a comprehensive canyon experience that combines boat rides, scenic drives, and cultural stops in one day.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers wanting a balanced mix of water, land, and town visits, with a focus on maximizing water-based scenery.
$84.00 per person
3. Full Day Tour of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall
Rounding out our list, this full-day adventure takes you far from the canyon into the lush landscape of Lagunas de Montebello and the roaring El Chiflon Waterfall. Priced at $60 per person and lasting around 12 hours, this tour is perfect for nature lovers seeking a change of scenery.
The day begins with a pickup from San Cristobal, then a drive to Montebello’s colorful lagoons, which range from turquoise to black, thanks to mineral content. You’ll walk around the lagoons and climb the 800 steps to the top of El Chiflon Waterfall for spectacular panoramic views. The guide’s 25 years of experience ensures a smooth trip as you explore waterfalls like El Suspiro and Velo de Novia, with their stunning turquoise waters. The tour includes transportation with recent model, air-conditioned vehicles, and insurance, ensuring comfort and safety.
While the reviews are limited, the focus on natural beauty and physical activity makes it suitable for active travelers. It’s a longer day with a lot of walking, making it best for those comfortable with moderate activity levels. The tour offers a real escape into untouched landscapes and is ideal for those who want a more adventurous, scenic outing.
Bottom line: For travelers craving waterfalls and lakes, with a touch of trekking and panoramic views, this tour delivers a full day of natural splendor.
$60.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and travel style. If you want the classic Chiapas experience with impressive canyon views and a boat cruise, the Sumidero tours (Tour #1 and #2) are excellent. Tour #1 offers a slightly more comprehensive experience with the added cultural visit, while Tour #2 emphasizes the boat cruise and scenic viewpoints at a slightly lower price.
For those who prefer mountain lakes and waterfalls, Tour #3 provides a full day immersed in nature, perfect for active travelers. Budget, fitness level, and whether you prefer a mix of water, land, or cultural stops should guide your choice.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as these tours can fill up quickly. Consider your preferred pace—whether you want a shorter, water-focused excursion or a longer day exploring lakes and waterfalls.
Final Thoughts
San Cristobal De Las Casas offers a variety of full-day tours that showcase its stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. For a combination of dramatic canyon scenery and cultural stops, Tours #1 and #2 are hard to beat. If your focus is on mountain lakes and waterfalls, Tour #3 will satisfy your adventurous spirit.
Each of these options provides a unique way to experience Chiapas—whether you prefer boat rides, scenic drives, or hiking through lush landscapes. No matter your choice, you’ll find yourself with plenty of memorable moments. Be sure to book early and pick the tour that best aligns with your interests and energy level.