San Cristobal: Cascadas de Chiflon and Lagos de Montebello

If you’re visiting Chiapas and craving a day filled with awe-inspiring natural beauty, this tour covering the Cascadas de Chiflon and Lagos de Montebello offers an excellent way to see some of the most picturesque spots outside San Cristobal. For $136 per person, the approximately 13-hour journey takes you from the town’s vibrant streets into lush waterfalls, vibrant lakes, and serene landscapes. Guided by friendly, bilingual drivers and guides, you’ll get a taste of Chiapas’s natural splendor, all while enjoying the comfort of transportation and park entry included in the price.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to swim in natural pools at Chiflon and enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the Montebello lagoons—these are truly memorable moments. Plus, the hiking through the landscapes is just enough to get your adrenaline going without exhausting you, making it accessible for most travelers. However, a potential consideration is that the day is quite packed, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, you might find it a bit hurried.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, enjoy light physical activity, and want a well-organized day trip that covers multiple highlights in Chiapas. Those who love photo opportunities will be especially pleased, as both locations are incredibly photogenic.

Key Points

• Stunning natural locations: Waterfalls, lakes, and lush landscapes
• Balanced itinerary: Hike, swim, and sightseeing all in one day
• Inclusive price: Transportation, park fees, and guides included
• Authentic experiences: Opportunity for swimming in natural pools and boat crossings
• Bilingual guides: Spanish and English, helpful for international visitors
• Well-rated: Average 4.3 out of 5 based on reviews

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Picture of the Tour

This guided day trip from San Cristobal to the Cascadas de Chiflon and Lagos de Montebello is a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their time and see two iconic natural sites without the hassle of planning transportation or entry fees. The tour is priced at $136, which, when you consider the inclusions—transport, park entrance, and guides—offers good value, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or traveling independently.

The Journey and Logistics

The day kicks off with pickup from either San Cristobal de las Casas or Zona Centro, giving you options based on your accommodation. A comfortable van will whisk you away for about 2.5 hours to the Chiflon waterfalls, giving you a scenic ride through Chiapas’s countryside. The driver, who is bilingual, not only gets you there safely but also provides insightful commentary, helping you understand the landscape and local environment.

Exploring Cascadas de Chiflon

Once at Chiflon, you’ll enjoy approximately 1.5 hours exploring the park. The star attraction is the main waterfall, which you can view from a primary viewpoint after a 1.2-kilometer hike. This walk, though moderate, offers stunning views of cascading water amid the greenery, making it a rewarding trek. The waterfalls are famous for their turquoise waters and impressive height, which draw photographers and nature lovers alike.

A highlight for many is the opportunity to swim in the pools along the way. Several reviews, like the one from Itzel, mention the importance of bringing a change of clothes to enjoy the swimming and enjoy the cooling effect of the water after the hike. The pools are the perfect place to relax and take in the natural surroundings, making the experience not just visual but tactile.

Transition to Lagos de Montebello

The group then boards the van for a roughly 1-hour drive to Lagos de Montebello, one of Chiapas’s most photographed attractions. This park features around five lakes, each with distinct colors and characteristics. The dark blue waters of the lakes are attributed to their depth, creating a dramatic contrast with the lush forest surroundings. One of the lakes is an international lake, shared with Guatemala, adding an interesting cross-border element.

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Exploring Montebello Lakes

Over the next three hours, you’ll explore these lakes, often by wooden boats with oars—an experience noted as highly recommended by visitors. The lakes’ tranquility makes for perfect photo opportunities, and the boat crossings are a relaxing way to see the area from a different perspective. Some reviews, including one from a traveler from Spain, mention how magical it is to bathe in the lakes’ dark blue waters, which is an incredible way to connect with nature.

While the lakes are beautiful, some have mentioned that they would prefer more time at Montebello—the three hours can feel a little rushed if you want to linger or get more photos. Still, the overall experience is immersive and memorable.

Return and Drop-offs

After a full day, the van makes its way back to San Cristobal, with drop-offs at the initial pickup points. Expect the return trip to take about 3 hours, giving you some time to unwind after a day of adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers transportation, park entrance fees, travel insurance, and the guidance of certified guides—a package that simplifies your planning. The only extra costs are food and drinks, which you might want to bring along or plan for during the day. Many travelers note that packing some snacks, water, and extra clothing enhances the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Many reviews highlight the beauty of the scenery and the enjoyment of swimming in natural pools at Chiflon. One reviewer from Mexico advises bringing a change of clothes, which is a smart tip to make the most of the swim opportunities. The guided aspect ensures you’re well-informed about each site, and the bilingual guides make this accessible to both Spanish and English speakers.

The timing is tight, but it allows you to see two major attractions in a single day, making it ideal for travelers with limited time. If you love photography, you’ll appreciate the variety of landscapes, from the vibrant waterfalls to the tranquil lakes.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the long day—with roughly 7 hours of driving and a packed itinerary, it can be tiring. Also, if you prefer more leisurely exploration or want extra time for photos and swimming, you might find the schedule somewhat rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see iconic natural sights without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees. It works well for those on a tight schedule or visitors who want a guided experience with the comfort of transportation included. Nature lovers who enjoy light hikes and boat rides will find plenty to love here.

This 13-hour tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, scenery, and comfort. You’ll love the stunning views of the Chiflon waterfalls and the peaceful Montebello lakes, all framed by Chiapas’s lush landscape. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and guides makes it a convenient choice, especially for first-timers or those unfamiliar with the area.

While the day might feel a little rushed for those seeking total relaxation, it provides a comprehensive taste of Chiapas’s natural beauty. From swimming in waterfalls to floating on lakes, you’ll leave with countless memorable moments—and plenty of photos.

If you’re someone who appreciates spectacular scenery, light hiking, and authentic outdoor experiences, this tour is well worth considering. It offers great value for the price, giving you access to some of the most beautiful spots Chiapas has to offer in a single, well-organized day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 13 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are transportation and entry fees included?
Yes, the price covers transportation from your hotel, park entrance fees, and guides.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. You have the option to swim in pools at Chiflon and the lakes at Montebello, so bring a change of clothes.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the hike at Chiflon is about 1.2 km and is manageable for most, but consider your group’s comfort level with walking and swimming.

What should I bring for the trip?
Weather-appropriate clothing, swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks or water.

Is the tour bilingual?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible for international visitors.

What is the best time of year to go?
While not specified, the landscapes are beautiful year-round, but check local weather conditions to avoid rainier seasons.

You can check availability for your dates here: