Palenque: Yaxchilán and Bonampak 2 Day Tour

A two-day journey from Palenque to explore Yaxchilán and Bonampak offers an opportunity to see some of the most impressive Maya ruins in the jungle, combined with an adventure through lush Lacandon territory. For $185 per person, this tour promises not just ancient stones but also a taste of local life, jungle hikes, and a night sleeping in jungle cabins.

What we love about this tour is how it balances cultural discovery with adventure—a chance to experience the ruins in their wild environment, and to see the Mactunina River waterfalls up close. The boat transfer at the border adds a splash of local transportation that makes the journey more authentic. A second highlight is the guided jungle hike, which reveals the natural beauty of the Lacandon Jungle and the waterfalls, giving a more complete picture of what life in this part of Mexico entails.

A key consideration is the length of waiting times on the second day, which some travelers found frustrating. If you’re tight on time or dislike long waits, this might not be the ideal trip. Nevertheless, this tour is best suited for those eager to see Maya ruins in a less touristy setting, and who enjoy adventure travel with a touch of comfort.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines ancient history, natural beauty, and immersive jungle landscapes, this tour offers a compelling option. Keep in mind, it’s more about the journey into the jungle and less about luxury, making it perfect for curious travelers who want authenticity mixed with a bit of adventure.

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Key Points

Authentic ruins: Visit Yaxchilán and Bonampak, two of the most impressive Maya sites in the jungle.
Jungle adventure: Hike to waterfalls and explore the lush Lacandon environment.
Cultural insight: Experience local Lacandon transportation and overnight stay in jungle cabins.
Inclusive package: All transportation, park fees, meals, and guides included for straightforward planning.
Long waits: Be prepared for potential delays, especially on the second day.
Value for price: The tour offers a rich experience for $185, especially considering the boat, lodging, and guided hikes.

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2 Day Lacandon Jungle, the Lost City and Bonampak Ruins

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting early at 5:30 am, the tour kicks off with a breakfast stop en route to Corozal, the border crossing point. From there, the journey involves a boat transfer across the border, which is not just a practical detail but adds a sense of adventure—cruising through water channels that snake into the jungle.

Once in the Lacandon Jungle, the first major highlight is the visit to Yaxchilán. This site is famed for its well-preserved stelae and intricate carvings, often located in hard-to-reach spots that give it a mysterious appeal. Travelers have noted that the ruins are in their “purest and most natural state,” making it a more authentic experience than the more heavily touristed sites like Palenque or Chichen Itza.

Next, the journey continues to Bonampak, known for its striking mural paintings. One reviewer mentioned that although Bonampak only has one main temple, the murals are fascinating and worth the visit. This site offers a different perspective—more about the visual storytelling of Maya life than sprawling architecture.

Jungle and Waterfalls

After exploring the ruins, the tour shifts to a hiking adventure through the Lacandon Jungle. This part is quite appreciated for giving insight into local flora and fauna. At the end of the hike, you’ll reach the Mactunina River waterfalls, a scenic spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Some reviews praised the guide’s knowledge during the jungle walk, giving background on the surrounding environment and wildlife. If you’re prepared with comfortable shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen, you’ll be set to fully enjoy this part of the trip.

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Overnight in Jungle Cabins

The accommodation is in basic jungle cabins—not luxurious, but functional. The included dinner, often praised for being delicious, provides a chance to taste local flavors after a day of adventure. Some guests expressed satisfaction with the value of the meal, though one review mentioned that the food seems rationed and not very filling, which might leave some still a bit hungry.

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Day Two: Waterfalls and Return

The morning starts early again, with breakfast and a jungle hike. The waterfalls are the tour’s natural highlight here, giving travelers a chance to swim, relax, or just enjoy the sights. The walk is described as captivating and an essential part of the experience.

However, some reviews pointed out long waiting times—up to five hours—before being picked up on the second day. This is a significant consideration if you prefer tight schedules or dislike waiting around.

Practicalities and Value

Included in the tour are transportation, park entrance fees, meals, and a guide for the jungle hike. The fact that all costs are bundled simplifies planning, especially important for travelers unfamiliar with local logistics. The insurance further adds peace of mind.

The price of $185 for two days is reasonable, considering the boat transfers and accommodation. Still, the value really depends on your expectations—if you’re eager for a deep dive into Maya archaeology combined with jungle adventure, you’ll likely find it well worth it.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of travelers seem to appreciate the authenticity of the ruins and the guided jungle hike. One wrote, “The experience is really great. You see ruins in their purest and most natural state in the middle of the jungle.” The local guide’s knowledge appears to be a highlight, helping you appreciate not just the sights but the environment and local culture.

On the flip side, some felt the organization could be better. One mentioned, “We had to wait 5 hours on the second day to be picked up, which is ridiculous.” Another criticized the facilities at the campsite, describing the bathroom as squalid and noting that internet and communication require extra payment.

Food quality seems to be a mixed bag; some found the dinner and breakfast satisfying, while others felt the portioned meals weren’t enough, and fruit was missing, which is particularly missed in a jungle setting.

Transport safety was also a concern for a few, with mentions of drivers driving carelessly and early pickups. These are important points to consider, especially if you’re sensitive to punctuality or safety.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring.
Use insect repellent to ward off bugs during jungle walks.
Pack sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.
Carry swimwear for waterfalls and swimming.
Be prepared for some waiting time on the second day, especially if you have tight schedules afterward.
Expect basic accommodations—they’re functional but not luxurious.
Budget extra for personal expenses or optional tips.
Book in advance since the tour is in high demand and has a Spanish-speaking guide.
Check cancellation policies, as you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day adventure from Palenque is an excellent choice for travelers who crave more than just surface-level ruins. If you enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences, jungle hikes, and the chance to sleep in rustic cabins, this tour offers a genuine immersion into Mayan archaeology and nature. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in less crowded sites and want a full-day adventure that combines history, scenery, and local culture.

However, those seeking luxury or tight schedules might find the waiting times and basic accommodations a bit challenging. Also, if safety or punctuality are top concerns, it’s worth considering the reviews mentioning driver caution and long delays.

This tour provides authenticity and adventure, with a price that reflects the included boat rides, guided hikes, and overnight stay. It’s a solid pick for adventurous travelers eager for a deep jungle experience, willing to accept some rough edges for the chance to see Yaxchilán and Bonampak in a truly natural setting.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from your hotel, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

What should I bring for the jungle hike?
Comfortable shoes, insect repellent, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and swimwear for waterfalls are recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner. Some reviews mention the meals are good, but others note they’re rationed or not very filling.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll sleep in basic jungle cabins, which are functional but not luxurious. The focus is on authentic experience rather than comfort.

How long will I wait on the second day?
Waiting times can be up to five hours, especially during the return. Be prepared for some downtime.

Is there a guide during the ruins visit?
Yes, a guide is included for the jungle hike. However, at the ruins themselves, a guide is not included, so you’ll explore independently.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most likely yes, especially if older children enjoy jungle walks and exploring ruins. Keep in mind the basic accommodations and early mornings.

Does the tour operate in languages other than Spanish?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, so some basic Spanish knowledge or a translator app could be useful.

This Yaxchilán and Bonampak tour offers an engaging way to connect with Maya culture and the jungle environment. With proper planning and expectations, it can be a memorable part of your Chiapas adventure, especially if you value authenticity and adventure over luxury.