San Cristóbal de las Casas: Montebello Lakes & Chiflón Trip

San Cristóbal de las Casas: Montebello Lakes & Chiflón Trip

Imagine waking up in San Cristóbal de las Casas and setting out for a full day of exploring some of Chiapas’s most captivating natural sights. For just $60, you get a 14.5-hour journey that includes walking trails, vibrant lakes, and spectacular waterfalls—an unbeatable way to see the region’s flora and fauna up close. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is especially appealing for travelers who love authentic nature experiences packed with striking views and cultural moments.

Two things we especially appreciate about this trip: first, the chance to witness the famous Velo de Novia waterfall, where the breeze and the cascading water create a truly immersive sensory delight. Second, the variety of colorful lakes at Montebello, each with its own shades of turquoise and emerald—perfect for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. A potential drawback? The long day, with transfers and waiting times, might not suit those who prefer a more relaxed pace or need quieter, less structured outings.

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to connect with nature, see iconic waterfalls, and enjoy scenic lakes without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and want a taste of Chiapas’s wild side, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Sights: Visit two of Chiapas’s most dramatic sites—Montebello Lakes and El Chiflón Waterfalls.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• All-Inclusive Entry Fees: Entrance costs are included, saving you time and surprise expenses.
• Comfortable Transportation: Land transport is provided, making the long day manageable.
• Authentic Nature: Trails and scenery are unspoiled, offering genuine outdoor beauty.
• Flexible Options: Optional breakfast and lunch stops give you a bit of regional flavor, though not included in the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Trip

Starting from San Cristóbal de las Casas

Our day begins early, with pickup at our hotel lobby—just fifteen minutes before the scheduled departure. The bus, operated by OTISA VIAJES, which maintains a solid 4.4 rating, is comfortable enough for the long haul and offers a relaxed atmosphere for the journey ahead. The driver, speaking Spanish, navigates Chiapas’s winding roads as we anticipate a day packed with natural wonders.

The Enchanting El Chiflón Waterfalls

First stop: El Chiflón Waterfalls, also famously called Velo de Novia, a name that evokes the image of a bride’s veil falling gracefully. The waterfall, fed by the San Vicente River, offers visitors sweeping views of turquoise waters rushing over rocks. We loved the way the guide explained how these falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, creating a perfect setting for photos and quiet reflection.

The waterfall’s natural surroundings mean that the air here is thick with the scent of wet earth and blooming plants. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the power and serenity of this site—an ideal spot for some memorable photos or just basking in its beauty. The breezes that fall on you in front of the falls are a highlight, making it a refreshing moment amid the heat of the day.

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The Scenic Montebello Lakes

Next, the tour takes us to Montebello Lakes, a series of stunning, vividly colored lakes fed by underground streams and natural springs. We loved the way each lake has its own personality—some pools are a clear, bright turquoise, others a deep emerald green—each hue caused by mineral content and sunlight. This kaleidoscope of colors is what makes Montebello such a unique sight.

The lakes are easily accessible along well-maintained trails that allow for light walking and photography. A reviewer mentions that the landscape “leave(s) you speechless,” which is high praise for such an idyllic spot. You can expect to spend some time here, enjoying the views, taking photos, or simply sitting quietly on the shore.

Note: while lunch is not included, there are chances to sample regional foods nearby, giving you a taste of Chiapas’s culinary offerings amidst the natural beauty.

Optional Breakfast and Lunch

The tour provides no breakfast or lunch, but there are stops where you can buy regional snacks or sit down for a meal if you wish. Some travelers choose to bring their own snacks, especially if they prefer a quick, portable breakfast before heading out.

Returning to San Cristóbal de las Casas

After a full day of trekking, sightseeing, and relaxing, the trip concludes back at the “Al Grano” café in the city center, right in front of the main park. From here, you can easily walk back to your accommodation or enjoy the evening exploring San Cristóbal’s charming streets.

Transportation & Practical Details

The entire experience revolves around comfortable land transportation in tourist vans, which makes the long travel distances much more manageable. The transfers are scheduled to optimize your time at each destination, although the total duration might vary with traffic and weather conditions.

The tour lasts about 14.5 hours, making it a serious full-day commitment. It’s best suited for travelers with a good level of mobility and an interest in discovering Chiapas’s natural landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple guides or transportation.

What’s Included & What’s Not

You’ll benefit from entry fees to all sites, which are covered in the $60 price. The guide, supplied by the tour operator, is knowledgeable and provides insights along the way. However, the tour does not specify additional guide services beyond that, so if you’re hoping for personalized attention, it’s worth clarifying.

Personal expenses, drinks, and meals are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred options.

Essential Packing List

Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, a sun hat, water, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing for variable weather. The tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for possible weather changes.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour a good value is its comprehensive coverage of two major natural attractions in one day. The guided approach ensures you get local insights and avoid the hassle of navigating alone, while entrance fees are included, saving you extra costs.

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views they get to experience. One reviewer mentions that the tour “leave(s) you speechless,” highlighting how memorable the scenery is. Others appreciate the convenience of transportation and well-organized stops, which make a long day feel manageable and enjoyable.

However, some note that the day is quite packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find this tour a bit intense. It’s also important to remember that the trip runs rain or shine, so outdoor gear and flexible expectations are key.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy nature, are comfortable with long days of travel, and want to see some of Chiapas’s most iconic waterfalls and lakes. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided tours that offer insightful commentary, as well as a chance to capture incredible photos. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape from San Cristóbal that combines both water and land-based marvels, this is a great option.

The Sum Up: The Value of This Experience

The San Cristóbal de las Casas: Montebello Lakes & Chiflón trip delivers a solid mix of natural beauty, expert guiding, and hassle-free logistics—all for a reasonable price. The chance to stand before the Velo de Novia waterfall and stroll along the vibrant Montebello Lakes makes for a memorable day, especially if you love outdoor settings and stunning scenery.

While it’s a long day, the itinerary covers two of Chiapas’s most photogenic and awe-inspiring spots, providing excellent value for travelers who want to maximize their experience with minimal planning. The quality of the guides and the carefully curated stops make this a reliable choice for adventure-seeking visitors.

If you’re the type of traveler excited by the idea of spending a full day surrounded by waterfalls, lakes, and lush vegetation, this tour will likely tick all your boxes—and then some.

FAQ

Is breakfast or lunch included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but you can buy snacks or regional dishes at stops along the way.

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 14.5 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, water, insect repellent, and clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Be prepared for rain as the tour runs rain or shine.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, land transportation in tourist vans is included, making the long transfers more comfortable.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in English?
The guide speaks Spanish; if you need English, check with the operator, but the reviews generally mention guides speaking Spanish.

This tour offers an engaging blend of nature and cultural discovery, perfect for those eager to see Chiapas’s iconic waterfalls and lakes with expert guidance and good value. It’s suited for active travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day, capturing some of the region’s most captivating natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: