A Day Trip to Chinkultic and Montebello Lakes from San Cristóbal de las Casas: Tour
Traveling through Chiapas is like flipping through a vivid storybook of history and natural wonder. This full-day tour offers a balanced peek into both worlds, taking you from the ancient Mayan ruins of Chinkultic to the stunning Montebello Lakes. For $70 per person, we spend about 12 hours immersed in some of Chiapas’s most captivating sights, all with a friendly guide (whose name we recall is Juan, if I’m not mistaken). You’ll visit a lesser-known archaeological site, float on lakes of extraordinary colors, and even cross a border lake with Guatemala.
What we loved most? First, the authentic Mayan experience at Chinkultic, with its quiet, unspoiled setting—an excellent contrast to the more crowded ruins you might see elsewhere. Second, the spectacular palette of the Montebello Lakes, where each lake boasts a different hue, making every photo pop. A possible drawback? The early start and long day might be a challenge if you prefer relaxed mornings or have mobility considerations. This tour suits travelers eager to combine cultural discovery with scenic relaxation, especially those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing with a local touch.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
Authentic Mayan Ruins: Explore Chinkultic’s lesser-visited archaeological sites in a natural setting.
Colorful Lakes: Marvel at lakes of varying shades, perfect for photography and peaceful moments.
Inclusion of Transportation & Fees: All transfers, entrance fees, and a boat trip are covered, simplifying your day.
Swimming & Free Time: Enjoy swimming in lakes and exploring at your own pace during free time.
Border Crossing: Experience crossing the International Lake marking the Mexico-Guatemala border, a memorable highlight.
Guided Tour: The guide shares insights, making history and landscapes more meaningful without feeling rushed.
Planning more time in San Cristobal De Las Casas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Full Experience: What to Expect and Why It Matters
Starting the Day: Meeting and Departure
Our adventure begins in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas, right across from the main square at AL GRANO CAFE. The meeting is straightforward—look for a person with a list, ensuring everyone’s attendance. We’re asked to arrive 5 minutes early, which is wise to keep things running smoothly. The transportation is comfortable, and we’re on the road shortly after, heading toward Chiapas’s natural and ancient treasures.
Exploring Chinkultic: A Mayan Treasure
Our first stop is the Chinkultic archaeological zone. This site is often less crowded than Palenque or Toniná, which means we enjoy a more intimate experience. Our guide, whom we’ll call Juan, points out key features like the Acropolis, the Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote—a mysterious water-filled sinkhole with ties to ancient rituals. Walking amid lush greenery, we feel a genuine connection to the past because there’s a sense of untouched serenity here.
What makes Chinkultic special? It’s the chance to see a less commercialized ruin, surrounded by nature—no tourist throngs, just the sounds of birds and the rustling leaves. You might find yourself pondering the ancient ceremonies once held here, especially at the Sacred Cenote, which adds a layer of mystique. The site is not huge, so we get enough time to appreciate each part without rushing.
More Great Tours NearbyTransition to Montebello Lakes
After about an hour exploring the ruins, we hop back into the van for the scenic drive to the Montebello Lakes. This part of the day highlights the diverse landscapes of Chiapas—lush forests, rolling hills, and finally, the vibrant watercolors of the lakes themselves. We arrive at the Montebello Lakes Nature Reserve, where the real magic begins.
While you're exploring San Cristobal De Las Casas, here are other experiences we've looked into
The Lakes of Different Colors
The lakes here are famous for their startling hues—turquoise, emerald, deep blue, and even a pinkish tint at times. This variety owes to mineral deposits and algae, which can shift with the weather and season. We love the way the lakes seem to change character with each new viewpoint, especially from the panoramic viewpoints that give a sweeping perspective.
Most tours include a raft trip to an island with an exclusive orchid garden. The raft trip is relatively short but charming; the boatmen are friendly, and it’s a quiet way to glide over the water. Once on the island, the orchid garden offers a tranquil escape, and you’ll see a wide array of orchids that thrive in this microclimate. It’s a nature lovers’ highlight.
Free Time at the Lakes
The tour provides free time for swimming, photography, and relaxing. Bring your swimwear and towel, as many travelers find the lakes perfect for a quick dip—refreshing and calming after a busy morning. The lakes’ clarity and peaceful surroundings make for memorable photos, so have your camera ready.
Crossing the International Lake
One of the day’s most unique moments is crossing the International Lake, which marks the border between Mexico and Guatemala. The boat ride across this boundary is both scenic and symbolic—an experience that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Travelers have commented on how this adds a special touch to the day, making the trip feel both adventurous and culturally significant.
Return Journey
After a few hours at the lakes, we head back to San Cristóbal de las Casas, arriving in the early evening. The comfortable transportation and the knowledge shared by the guide help make the long day feel worthwhile. Many reviewers mention feeling satisfied with the mix of history, scenery, and cultural insight packed into this trip.
Is This Tour Worth It? Analyzing the Value
At $70, this tour offers a fair price considering the all-inclusive nature—transfers, entrance fees, boat rides, and free time at the lakes are included. The value lies in the convenience of a guided experience that manages logistics, freeing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and history without worry.
The small group size (usually around 10-15 people) enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and spontaneous conversations. The tour is suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of varied activities—walking through ruins, relaxing lakeside, taking boat rides—and don’t mind an early start and a long day on the road.
For Whom Is This Tour Best?
If you’re keen on combining archaeology with natural beauty, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who prefer guided tours that take care of logistics but still leave room for personal exploration. However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or those who need assistance, as walking and boat rides are involved.
The Sum Up
This day trip from San Cristóbal de las Casas offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and authentic local experiences. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a taste of Mayan culture without the crowds and to see some of Chiapas’s most striking lakes. The inclusion of entrance fees and transportation makes it a convenient, hassle-free option, and the variety of sights keeps the day engaging from start to finish.
You’ll love the quiet beauty of Chinkultic’s ruins, the mesmerizing colors of the Montebello Lakes, and the memorable crossing of the border lake. It’s a full day with plenty of photo opportunities, relaxed swimming, and cultural insights—perfect for curious travelers eager to expand their Mexican adventure.
If you’re after an active, varied, and authentic experience that showcases both Chiapas’s ancient past and stunning landscapes, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for an early start and a full schedule—what you get in return is a genuine taste of Chiapas’s natural and archaeological treasures.
FAQ
What is the cost of this tour?
The tour costs $70 per person, which covers transportation, entrance fees, and the boat trips, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 12 hours, typically starting in the morning and returning in the early evening, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, water, camera, insect repellent, and a daypack are recommended. Also, bring cash and your passport or a copy.
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for those who can handle walking and some uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or recent surgeries due to the walking involved.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to Chinkultic and Montebello Lakes are covered, so no extra costs are expected at those sites.
Can I swim in the lakes?
Yes, there’s free time allocated for swimming and relaxing in the lakes, so bring your swim gear and towel.
What is the significance of crossing the International Lake?
It’s a scenic boat ride marking the border between Mexico and Guatemala, adding an adventurous and cultural element to the tour.
Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, but note that activities are subject to weather conditions, which can affect visibility and safety at the lakes.
How large are the groups?
Typically, groups are small—around 10-15 travelers—allowing for a more intimate experience and better interaction with the guide.
This tour offers a genuine blend of ancient history and natural wonder, perfect for travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Chiapas’s cultural landscape while enjoying some of Mexico’s most beautiful lakes. It’s a day packed with memorable sights, relaxed moments, and authentic experiences—an adventure worth considering on your Chiapas itinerary.
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