From Palenque: Waterfalls Misol-Ha y Agua Azul
Imagine a day away from the ruins, exploring two of Chiapas’s most breathtaking natural attractions. For $38 per person, this 7-hour guided tour takes you from Palenque to the spectacular Misol-Ha waterfall and the vividly blue Agua Azul waterfalls. Led by a friendly driver, you’ll enjoy a relaxed visit—walking, swimming, and marveling at nature’s artistry.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the intimate encounter with Misol-Ha, where you can walk behind the waterfall and explore its cave—something few get to do. Second, the incredible color of Agua Azul, with its striking turquoise waters and flowing waterfalls that invite you to swim and relax.
One consideration to keep in mind is the relatively brief stop at Misol-Ha—about 45 minutes—which might leave some wanting more time to soak it all in. Also, the tour is quite dependent on timing and group logistics, with some reviews noting late returns or extra fees.
This tour suits travelers who want a practical way to see these iconic waterfalls without fuss, especially those who appreciate good value, scenic nature, and straightforward logistics. If you’re on a tight schedule but still craving authentic beauty, this trip could be just right.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Price & Duration: Affordable at $38 for 7 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Quick but Complete: Covers two major waterfalls—Misol-Ha and Agua Azul—with enough time to enjoy each.
- Natural Beauty: Expect stunning waterfalls, swimming opportunities, and scenic walkways.
- Limited Tour Info: The guide’s explanations are minimal, so you’ll rely on your own curiosity.
- Timing Matters: Be aware that stops are timed to keep the day moving, which might limit exploration at each site.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues due to walking and uneven terrain.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point and Transportation
Your day begins around noon, with a hotel pickup in Palenque. The transport is comfortable and private, designed to make the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Misol-Ha relaxed. Because the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s perfect for travelers staying in Palenque who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport themselves.
Misol-Ha Waterfall: A Close Encounter with Nature
We loved the intimacy of Misol-Ha—a waterfall that, while not enormous, packs a punch with its beauty and surrounding jungle. With only 45 minutes allocated, it’s a quick visit but enough to get a good sense of this natural wonder. One of the highlights is being able to walk behind the waterfall and explore the cave that’s covered by water. This offers a unique perspective and a perfect photo opportunity.
Travelers like Andrea from Italy appreciated the efficiency: “The excursion is basically a cheap and practical way to get to two beautiful locations near Palenque. The time management was wise, as we spent 40 mins in Misol-Ha (amazing but rather small).”
More Great Tours NearbyAgua Azul: A Vibrant Spectacle
The second stop is at Agua Azul, where you’ll spend about 2.5 hours. This is the highlight for many visitors because of the striking blue waters and the lively atmosphere. The tour includes a walk along the designated pathways, allowing you to appreciate the waterfalls from different angles. Here, you are free to swim, explore, and simply enjoy the natural spectacle.
Noor from the Netherlands summed it up: “You don’t get any information about the area, but the driver is incredibly friendly and the tour itself is definitely worth the money.” This suggests that while the guide might not provide detailed historical or cultural commentary, the focus is on the scenery and the experience.
What to Expect and Practical Tips
- Timing: The tour starts at 12:00 pm and returns around 7:00 pm, giving you a full day but with some long driving stretches.
- Food: Eating is not included, so bringing snacks or planning for a quick meal during the stop at Agua Azul is advisable.
- Swimming: Agua Azul is perfect for cooling off, but remember that safety depends on your swimming skills and the current conditions.
- Group Size and Atmosphere: Expect a small to medium-sized group, making the experience more relaxed but still social.
- Weather and Safety: The roads can be bumpy, and some reviews mention the presence of local charges and informal taxes, so carry small bills and stay cautious.
Review Highlights and Authentic Perspectives
Travelers have mixed opinions about the timing. Alberto from Italy remarked, “In 30 minutes at Misol-Ha, you don’t have much time to appreciate the waterfall. The real problem though is that not all participants returned to Palenque, so we had to wait for another bus, making us late.” This underscores the importance of managing expectations about the duration of each stop.
On the brighter side, Katie from the UK noted, “This tour was okay, but we spent far too long at Agua Azul compared to Misol-Ha. Still, the waterfalls are incredible, and it’s worth being aware of how the timing affects your experience.”
The Costs and Value
At $38, this tour offers a very reasonable way to experience two of Chiapas’s most renowned waterfalls. The inclusion of hotel pickup, drop-off, and tickets adds convenience, saving you time and money. However, travelers should consider whether the short stop at Misol-Ha and the somewhat rushed schedule meet their expectations for a leisurely nature experience.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see the striking waterfalls near Palenque without spending hours planning logistics, this tour is a good fit. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who prioritize value and convenience over in-depth guided commentary. The scenic walks, swimming opportunities, and natural beauty make it worthwhile for nature lovers and those with limited time.
However, if you’re hoping for a slow-paced, detailed exploration with more cultural or historical insights, you might find this tour a bit hurried. Also, if mobility is a concern, the uneven terrain and walking involved might be challenging.
In short, this experience is best for travelers eager to tick off two iconic waterfalls from their Chiapas list while keeping things simple and affordable. It offers a solid taste of natural beauty, with friendly guides and the chance to relax by the water—exactly what many need after days of touring ancient ruins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour from Palenque?
It lasts about 7 hours, starting around noon and returning by 7:00 pm.
What is included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all tickets for the attractions.
Can I swim at Agua Azul?
Yes, swimming is generally possible and encouraged, but always follow safety instructions and be aware of current conditions.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, and snacks, as food isn’t included.
How long do I get at each waterfall?
Expect about 45 minutes at Misol-Ha and 2.5 hours at Agua Azul, which some travelers find tight.
Is there any cultural or historical commentary?
This tour is focused on natural scenery; guides don’t provide detailed historical information.
Are there extra costs I should be aware of?
Some reviews mention a 40 pesos “tax” charged before the entrance, which isn’t included in the tour price.
What’s the best time of day to visit?
Since the tour starts at noon, arriving early might help avoid larger crowds, especially at Agua Azul.
Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, if you value scenic natural beauty, good value, and a convenient way to see these waterfalls without fuss. However, be prepared for a quick visit rather than an in-depth exploration.
This tour offers a practical and scenic escape into Chiapas’s impressive waterfalls, balancing value and convenience. For those eager to enjoy nature’s spectacle without too many frills, it delivers well. Just keep your expectations in check regarding timing and guide commentary, and you’ll leave with some beautiful memories and plenty of photos.
You can check availability for your dates here: