Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Chiflon Waterfalls + Montebello Day Tour

Imagine spending a day wandering through lush rainforests, marveling at colorful lakes, and cooling off in pristine waterfalls—all within a single trip from Tuxtla Gutiérrez. This full-day tour offers just that, taking you to the impressive Chiflon Waterfalls and the stunning Montebello Lakes National Park. For $160 per person, you’ll enjoy about 12 hours of nature-focused adventure, guided by friendly experts who speak both Spanish and English.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines two very different natural wonders—powerful waterfalls and a kaleidoscope of lakes—into a manageable, well-organized day. The walk to the top of El Chiflon reveals a multi-tiered cascade that’s both awe-inspiring and fun to explore, especially with the chance to take a dip in its turquoise waters. Equally captivating is the variety of lake colors at Montebello, which change dramatically depending on mineral content, making each one a different visual treat. Plus, crossing a traditional wooden raft to see orchids and other flora adds a touch of local charm.

The main consideration? The tour is quite long—about 15 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who are prepared for a full day on the move. If you’re not used to early mornings or long bus rides, this might feel a bit tiring. Also, some parts of the trip are weather-dependent; if rain or cloud cover obscure visibility, your views might not be as vivid. Still, for those with a sense of adventure and a love for authentic nature experiences, this tour offers real value.

This tour is perfect for active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a comprehensive taste of Chiapas’s most breathtaking outdoor sights. It’s especially suitable if you’re eager to see iconic waterfalls and lakes without spending multiple days exploring each site independently.

Key Points

• Stunning waterfalls: The Chiflon Waterfalls are multi-tiered, with turquoise waters and a walk that offers both exercise and scenic views.
• Colorful lakes: The Montebello Lakes display a spectrum of shades, changing with mineral content, providing constantly changing photo opportunities.
• Authentic experience: Crossing a traditional wooden raft and seeing orchids offers a glimpse into local culture and flora.
• Full-day adventure: Expect a packed itinerary, with about 15 hours including transportation, sightseeing, and some optional swimming.
• Professional guides: Bilingual guides enhance the experience, providing insights into the area’s natural and cultural significance.
• Good value: For $160, you gain access to protected parks, transportation, and expert guidance, making it a practical option for seeing these highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Tuxtla Gutiérrez to the Wilderness

Your adventure kicks off early with hotel pickup in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, giving you a comfortable start and avoiding the hassle of navigating Chiapas’s rural roads. The drive to El Chiflon Waterfalls takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to see a bit of the countryside and prepare for what’s ahead.

El Chiflon Waterfalls: Power and Tranquility

Once you arrive near the colonial city of Comitan, the highlight begins. The hike to the top of the waterfalls isn’t strenuous—about 1 mile (1.5 km)—but the scenery makes it feel more like an adventure walk. We loved the way the rainforest surrounds you, with towering trees and the constant roar of cascading water. The “angel’s wings” formation, a natural phenomenon where twin waterfalls appear like wings emerging from the mountain, is truly a sight to behold.

The water’s turquoise hue is striking—and you’re encouraged to take a swim at the base of the falls if weather permits. Many reviews mention the refreshing quality of the water, which is especially inviting after the walk. Keep in mind, since you’ll get wet, an extra change of clothes is a smart idea.

Montebello Lakes: A Kaleidoscope of Colors

After lunch, the tour heads to the Montebello Lakes, a protected area established in 1959, home to around 52 lakes. The lakes are famous for their vivid colors—bright emerald, deep green, turquoise, purple, and even red—each influenced by mineral content and algae. We found it mesmerizing to see how the lakes change hue as we moved from one to another.

You’ll visit about 4 to 6 lakes, crossing some in a cayuco (wooden raft)—a simple yet charming way to connect with local traditions and see orchids growing along the shores. The experience of gliding across the water, surrounded by towering pine trees and vibrant lakes, creates some truly postcard-worthy moments. Several reviews mention the breathtaking orchids visible from the boat, adding a splash of floral beauty to the landscape.

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Practical Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and getting a bit wet.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunblock—exposure to sun and water can be intense.
• Carry extra cash for souvenirs, snacks, or optional activities like the raft ride.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, note that crossing lakes on a raft can be bumpy, but manageable.

Returning to Tuxtla Gutiérrez

After a full day of exploring, the bus journey back offers a chance to relax and reflect on the natural beauty you’ve witnessed. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel, likely around evening, tired but enriched.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures and want a snapshot of Chiapas’s natural treasures. It’s best for those comfortable with a long day, moderate physical activity, and some exposure to water. If you’re seeking stunning views and the chance to see nature’s artistry up close, this tour delivers in spades. However, if you prefer leisurely sightseeing or are sensitive to long travel days, you might want to consider more relaxed options.

Final Thoughts

We found this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and genuine local flavor. Visiting the Chiflon Waterfalls provides a sense of awe at the raw power of nature, while the Montebello Lakes dazzle with their shifting colors and tranquil beauty. Both sites are protected areas, emphasizing conservation and the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future travelers.

The inclusion of transportation, park entrance fees, and bilingual guides makes this trip a pretty good value for those eager to see Chiapas’s best natural sights without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. Just remember, it’s a long day—so bring your stamina, your sense of curiosity, and your camera.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tuxtla Gutiérrez is included, which makes logistics much easier.

How long is the total tour?
Expect about 15 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, with most of that time spent traveling and exploring.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during the day.

Can I swim in the waterfalls or lakes?
Yes, you can take a dip at El Chiflon and some of the lakes, but it’s optional and depends on the weather and personal comfort.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and getting wet are recommended. Sun protection and extra clothes are advisable.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour involves some walking and a boat crossing, so it may be best suited for active travelers in good health. Not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

How many lakes will I visit?
You’ll visit about 4 to 6 lakes out of the 52 in Montebello, focusing on the most spectacular and accessible ones.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, with the option to reserve and pay later, you can book up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The vibrant lake colors and waterfalls offer excellent photo opportunities, especially if you enjoy capturing natural landscapes.

In summary, this Tuxtla Gutiérrez day tour combines the thrill of waterfalls with the beauty of colorful lakes. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to experience Chiapas’s outdoors in a single, well-organized day, appreciating both the power and serenity of nature. Just prepare for a full, active day—and be ready to fall in love with this corner of Mexico.

You can check availability for your dates here: