From Palenque: Roberto Barrios Waterfalls – A Refreshing Escape into Nature

If you’re staying in Palenque and craving a refreshing break, a trip to the Roberto Barrios waterfalls is a fantastic choice. This tour, costing just $27 per person, lasts about 5.5 hours and offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s operated by KICHAN BAJLUM, who pick you up directly from your hotel, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free. The highlight? Walking through lush jungle surroundings to reach stunning waterfalls where you can swim in crystal-clear waters.
What we love about this tour is its simplicity and focus on natural beauty — no long bus rides or complicated schedules, just genuine nature. The surrounding flora and fauna make the experience feel authentic, and the opportunity to cool off in the waterfalls gives you a genuine sense of escape. Plus, the flexible schedule allows plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
A point to consider is that the tour is not suited for those with mobility issues—there’s some walking involved, and the terrain can be uneven. Also, reviews suggest that the transportation is more basic and may feel a little unruly at times, so don’t expect luxury transport. But if you’re looking for an affordable, nature-focused outing and don’t mind a bit of adventure, this trip is well worth considering. It’s perfect for travelers who value natural beauty over guided commentary and those eager to enjoy a quiet, less crowded spot.
This tour works best for travelers who want a straightforward, no-fuss day in nature, especially if they enjoy swimming and exploring lush landscapes. It’s ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and experience some of Chiapas’s most breathtaking natural scenery.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Affordable price at $27, offering great value for a half-day nature excursion.
- Flexible timing with ample time (about 3 hours) to enjoy the waterfalls and surroundings.
- Wildlife and plant life surround the waterfalls, adding to the feeling of authentic jungle exploration.
- Transport included from your hotel saves the hassle of arranging local transportation.
- Limited mobility suitability due to walking on uneven terrain.
- Authentic experience with fewer travelers around, as some reviews note fewer visitors, enhancing the tranquility.
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In-Depth Look at the Roberto Barrios Waterfalls Tour

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transportation
Your adventure kicks off at 11:00 am, with a pickup from your hotel—making the logistics simple and stress-free. The transportation, offered by KICHAN BAJLUM, is included in the price, which is a real plus considering how tricky local transit can be. However, as some reviews point out, the bus ride can be quite basic—sometimes with less-than-ideal air conditioning or slightly unruly drivers. Still, most find the ride comfortable enough to enjoy the scenic drive through Chiapas’ lush landscape.
The journey itself provides a taste of the region’s lush greenery, setting the stage for the natural wonder ahead. The drive from Palenque to Roberto Barrios is not too long, typically just enough time to relax, take in the scenery, and get excited about the waterfalls.
Arriving at the Waterfalls: An Oasis of Nature
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by an almost untouched jungle environment. The surrounding flora is vibrant, with trees and plants that thrive in the humid climate, and you might spot some local wildlife. The waterfalls cascade down over rocks into a series of pools, inviting you to hop in and cool off.
You’ll have about three hours to explore, swim, and simply enjoy the scenery. The pools are crystal clear, and the water is refreshingly cold—perfect for escaping the heat. Many travelers love the chance to just relax in the water, as one review highlights: “The place is spectacular and since there are few people, you can enjoy it more.” That sense of peaceful seclusion is a rarity in popular tourist spots.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Makes the Waterfalls Special?
The waterfalls at Roberto Barrios aren’t just a pretty sight; they’re an active environment where you can fully enjoy nature. The pools vary in size and depth, providing options for both relaxing bobbing and energetic swimming. The flora and fauna thrive in this environment, making it a great spot for nature lovers. You might see birds, insects, or lush greenery making the scenery even more vibrant.
Some travelers mention being surprised by how less crowded the site is, allowing for a more intimate encounter with nature. It’s a clear highlight, especially for those who enjoy natural swimming spots that aren’t overwhelmed by travelers.
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The Return Trip and Flexibility
After soaking up the natural spectacle, you’ll head back around 4:30 pm, returning to your hotel. The schedule is quite flexible, giving you enough time to enjoy the waterfalls without feeling rushed. This balance of time—enough for exploration but not too long—appears to be a key selling point, especially for travelers with tight schedules or those who want a relaxed experience.
The Value of This Tour
At just $27, including hotel pickup and entry tickets, this tour offers great value. You won’t get a detailed guided commentary, but the trade-off is a more solitary, authentic experience with nature. For many, that’s exactly what makes this outing worthwhile.
Authenticity and Review Insights
From reviews, we gather that the quality of the transportation is a hit-or-miss—some find it perfectly adequate, while others mention the air conditioning and driver behavior. A standout positive is the timing and duration at the waterfalls; travelers consistently note that there’s “plenty of time” to enjoy it, which is often not the case with more rushed tours.
One traveler from Germany said, “That there was enough time at the waterfall,” highlighting how well the schedule works. Conversely, some reviews mention inconvenience during the return, such as waiting for other travelers, so keep in mind that some aspects depend on group size and day-to-day circumstances.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, straightforward experience of Chiapas’s natural beauty. If you enjoy swimming in natural pools, walking through lush jungle scenery, and value a quiet escape, you’ll find this tour a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who prefer to explore independently rather than follow a guided tour with commentary, as the focus is on the scenery rather than guided storytelling.
It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or those expecting a luxurious transport experience. Also, if you’re looking for a guided cultural or historical commentary, this tour might feel a bit sparse.
The Sum Up

For travelers staying in Palenque who crave a peaceful, nature-focused escape, the Roberto Barrios waterfalls tour offers an authentic slice of Chiapas’s stunning landscapes. The affordable price and ample free time at the waterfalls make it a practical choice for those who appreciate natural beauty and swimming in clear waters.
While the transportation can be a bit basic and the tour doesn’t include a guide, the tranquility and scenic surroundings more than compensate. This is a tour for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a true taste of Chiapas’s lush environment without breaking the bank.
If you’re after a serene setting, great value, and a chance to cool off in some of Mexico’s most impressive waterfalls, this trip fits the bill nicely. Just remember to bring your swimsuit, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure.
FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making planning easier and eliminating transportation worries.
How much time will I spend at the waterfalls?
You’ll have approximately three hours to explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery, which is enough for a relaxed visit.
Are there guided explanations during the tour?
No, the tour is mainly transportation and entry, so there’s no guided commentary or detailed explanations provided.
Is the transportation comfortable?
The transportation is included, but some reviews mention that the bus can be basic, and air conditioning may be limited, so pack accordingly.
Can I enjoy the waterfalls if I have mobility issues?
Probably not, as the terrain involves walking on uneven paths, so this may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes if you like, sun protection, and possibly a waterproof camera to capture those stunning waterfall views.
This tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly chance to experience one of Chiapas’s most beautiful natural sites. It’s perfect for travelers eager to disconnect, swim, and take in lush jungle scenery, all while keeping costs low and experiences authentic.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Mexico
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