San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Lakes Day Tour
A day trip from San Cristobal that promises breathtaking waterfalls and vivid lakes in Chiapas. For $99, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring El Chiflon Waterfalls and the Montebello Lakes National Park, with a small group and bilingual guides. We loved the chance to walk through lush rainforest, see the famous “angel’s wings” of the waterfalls, and cross lakes on traditional rafts. It’s a well-rounded experience for nature lovers wanting a taste of Chiapas’ natural beauty.
One of the standout features is the contrasting landscapes—wild waterfalls and vibrant lakes, with the mineral content giving each lake its unique color. The other thing we appreciated was the informative guides who added context and enthusiasm, making the day engaging.
A possible drawback is the long hours spent in transit—some reviews mention discomfort and limited time at key sites. If you’re not a fan of being in a vehicle for hours or prefer more time at each stop, this might be a consideration. Still, for those eager to see a variety of scenery in one day, this tour offers excellent value.
This adventure suits travelers who enjoy physical activity, curiosity about natural landscapes, and don’t mind a full schedule. It’s ideal if you want to see iconic waterfalls and lakes without the hassle of planning multiple excursions yourself.
Key Points
- Stunning Waterfalls: The Chiflon Waterfalls are famous for their multi-tiered cascades and the “angel’s wings” formation, perfect for photos and nature admiration.
- Vivid Lakes: The Montebello Lakes are a kaleidoscope of colors—emerald, turquoise, purple—created by mineral deposits, offering unique photo opportunities.
- Traditional Raft Crossing: You’ll get to cross some lakes on a cayuco, a rustic wooden raft, and see orchids growing nearby—adding a charming, authentic touch.
- Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides, like Carlos, enrich the trip with extra insights and personalized touches, enhancing your understanding of the environment.
- Time Management: Many reviewers note that the tour could feel rushed—only about 1.5 hours at El Chiflon—and suggest longer visits could be more satisfying.
- Comfort Considerations: The transportation involves a long drive in an uncomfortable minibus, so bring snacks, water, and patience.
A Detailed Look at the Tour
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Itinerary Breakdown
Your day begins with a hotel pickup in San Cristobal, where a friendly guide (whose enthusiasm we appreciated, especially in glowing reviews) will escort you to the highlights of Chiapas’ wild side. The first stop is El Chiflon Waterfalls, an impressive cascade that’s more than just a pretty sight. You’ll walk roughly 1 mile (about 1.5 km) through rainforest trails to reach the top of the falls, where multiple tiers spill down mountain slopes.
What makes Chiflon special? The “angel’s wings” formation is a striking feature—two waterfalls that seem to rise like wings from the mountain. The waters here are famously turquoise, and many choose to take a dip after the walk. We loved the way the falls are surrounded by lush green mountains, creating a sense of remoteness and peace. However, some reviews mention that only about 1.5 hours are allocated here, which might feel insufficient if you want to explore every viewing spot or take more photos.
Next, the journey continues to the Montebello Lakes, a series of 52 crystal-clear lakes in a forested setting. Expect a scenic drive before arriving at a place where you can wander from lake to lake, marveling at the changing colors—green, blue, purple, red—depending on the mineral composition. Some lakes are more photogenic than others, and you’ll likely visit about 5 to 7 of these. The highlight is crossing one of them on a cayuco, a rustic wooden raft, which adds an authentic, adventurous element and offers you the chance to spot orchids growing nearby.
Many travelers note that the lakes are charming, but not necessarily “must-see” unless you enjoy lakes with vibrant hues or want to cross on a raft. The extra fee (around 200 pesos) for the cayuco is worth budgeting for if crossing lakes is on your list.
What to Expect and Practical Tips
The tour lasts roughly 12 hours, with most of that time spent in transit. The bus is described as a small group, with no more than 14 participants, which helps create a more intimate experience. However, some reviews mention that the vehicle can be uncomfortable for long drives, so bring snacks, water, and perhaps a cushion if you need extra comfort.
The guide is bilingual, speaking Spanish and English, which is helpful for non-Spanish speakers. Expect a day full of walking and some swimming, so wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and an extra change of clothes if you plan to swim.
The tour includes park entrance fees and transportation, but meals are not included—so packing snacks or planning to buy food at stops is recommended. The drop-off can be at your hotel or at the Zócalo in San Cristobal, providing flexibility for your evening plans.
Authentic Experiences and Unique Details
What sets this tour apart is the chance to see less crowded waterfalls and lakes in a natural setting away from tourist hotspots. The cayuco ride on the lakes and the chance to spot orchids are memorable touches that add authenticity. We also appreciated how the guide shared insights—some reviews praise guides like Carlos for going above and beyond, even adjusting the schedule to fit your interests.
On the other hand, some reviews raise concerns about timing—only a brief stay at El Chiflon—and the long hours in transit. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at each site or has limited energy after a long drive, these factors might affect your enjoyment.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Appreciate This Tour?
This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a full day in a minibus and love natural beauty. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of waterfalls, lakes, and rainforest scenery, and are comfortable with some physical activity. For those seeking a relaxed, leisurely experience, it may feel a bit rushed.
If you’re traveling with children or mobility-impaired individuals, keep in mind that the walking and boat crossing might be challenging. Likewise, pregnant women and people with back problems should consider alternative options.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a great overview of Chiapas’ outdoor treasures—impressive waterfalls and lively lakes all in one day. The combination of stunning scenery and the authentic experience of crossing lakes on a wooden raft makes it a memorable outing. The knowledgeable guides, especially those who share personal touches, can turn an ordinary trip into an engaging adventure.
While the long drive and limited time at key sites might not suit everyone, the value for money remains compelling—especially given the inclusion of park entrance fees and transport. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see diverse landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple trips.
If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and appreciate natural beauty, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for those who want a snapshot of Chiapas’ wild, colorful side—an experience that combines adventure, scenery, and a taste of local life.
FAQ
Is transportation comfortable? The tour uses a small minibus, which some travelers find uncomfortable for long hours. Bringing snacks, a cushion, and patience can make the drive more manageable.
How long do we spend at El Chiflon? About 1.5 hours, which some reviews say is not enough to fully enjoy the waterfalls or take photos.
Do I need to bring my own food? Meals are not included, so packing snacks and water is a good idea. There are stops where you can buy food, but options might be limited.
Is swimming available at the lakes? Yes, you can take a dip in some lakes, and the waterfalls have spots for you to cool off. Bring a swimsuit and an extra change of clothes.
What if I don’t speak Spanish? The guide is bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, making it accessible for English speakers.
Can children or people with mobility issues join? This tour involves walking and boat crossings that might be challenging for those with mobility problems or young children. Check your comfort level with walking and boat rides.
Are tips included in the price? No, tips are not included, so consider tipping guides if you’re happy with their service.
What should I wear? Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes for walking, sun protection, and a hat are recommended. An extra set of clothes is handy if you plan to swim.
In essence, this is a well-rounded day of natural beauty that will satisfy those eager to get out into the wilds of Chiapas, especially if you appreciate waterfalls and lakes with a bit of local flavor. It’s not perfect for everyone, but for anyone craving a mix of adventure and scenery, it’s a worthwhile outing.
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