Waterfalls El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello in Chiapas

Waterfalls El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello in Chiapas: An Authentic Day of Nature and Adventure

A full-day adventure in southern Chiapas offers a blend of spectacular waterfalls and serene lakes, perfect for anyone craving authentic natural beauty. For $44.69 per person, you’ll spend approximately 13 hours exploring El Chiflón waterfalls and Lagunas de Montebello National Park—a well-rounded way to experience some of Mexico’s most breathtaking landscapes.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with manageable logistics. First, you get to marvel at the Velo de Novia, a waterfall dropping 120 meters, and other smaller cascades, all within walking distance. Then, you’re transported to the colorful lakes of Montebello, where the vivid hues of the waters are truly mesmerizing. The chance to cross into Guatemala at Lake International is a unique highlight, offering a taste of borderland intrigue without the hassle of visas.

One small consideration is the long day’s length—13 hours can be tiring, especially if you prefer relaxed pacing. Also, since the tour includes cash-only lunch at Montebello, packing some small bills is a must. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventure, photo opportunities, and exploring natural wonders without needing luxury comfort.

If you’re eager for a day of active sightseeing with plenty of opportunity to take pictures and walk, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially ideal for those who want an affordable, guided experience that hits two major highlights of Chiapas in one day.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Velo de Novia’s impressive 120-meter drop is a highlight.
• Colorful Lakes: The intensely hued waters of Montebello offer fantastic photo opportunities.
• Border Crossing: You can walk into Guatemala at Lake International, adding a touch of international adventure.
• All-inclusive Pricing: Includes transportation and entrance fees, providing good value.
• Long Day: Approximately 13 hours, so be prepared for an early start.
• Limited Group Size: Up to 14 travelers, making it more personal than big tours.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point: Cascada El Chiflón

Your day begins with a comfortable pickup in San Cristóbal de las Casas, where an air-conditioned vehicle whisks you off to El Chiflón. The highlight here is the Velo de Novia, a waterfall that plunges 120 meters—something that truly captures the power of nature. The path along the waterfalls is about 1 km long, making it a manageable walk but still enough to feel connected to the environment.

The waterfalls, formed by the San Vicente River, include several smaller cascades like El Sispiro, Ala de Ángel, and the Arco Iris, each offering different perspectives and perfect spots for photos. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the waterfalls looked, and the walk was easy but rewarding.” The entire stop lasts about 2 hours, giving enough time to admire, take photos, and soak in the natural spectacle.

Transition to Montebello’s Lakes

Next, the transportation takes you to Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello, a highlight for lovers of vivid water colors. The park is famous for its brightly hued lakes, with Tziscao being a favorite. Here, you can wander around, take in the scenery, and even visit a small town. The lakes are formed by calcified minerals, giving them their spectacular hues—think deep blues, emerald greens, and shimmering turquoise.

One of the tour’s unique features is the opportunity to cross on foot into Guatemala at Lake International. You don’t need a passport, but it’s a chance to stand at an international border and enjoy a different perspective on the region’s geography. The 3-hour stop also includes a possibility for a cash-only lunch, giving travelers the chance to try local foods in a relaxed setting.

The Practicalities and What You’ll Experience

Throughout the day, the guide—whose name isn’t specified but added by past travelers—makes sure everyone stays on schedule. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a blessing given the warm weather, and the group size is limited to 14, ensuring a more intimate experience.

The admission fees are included in the pricing, removing any surprise costs, but extras like gratuities and personal expenses are not. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but packing comfortable footwear, light clothing, repellent, and swimwear (if you wish to swim) will enhance your experience.

Authentic Moments and Traveler Insights

Many travelers appreciated the chance to see two very different types of scenery in one day. “The waterfalls are truly impressive, and the lakes are so colorful that it’s hard to believe they are real,” one reviewer said. Another mentioned, “Crossing into Guatemala was unexpectedly simple, and it added a little international flair to the day.”

Some found the long hours manageable thanks to the well-organized schedule and the scenic stops. However, because it’s a full-day outing, those who prefer more leisurely mornings or shorter excursions might find it a bit intense.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The price point of around $45 per person is quite reasonable for a full day out, especially considering the transportation, guide, and entrance fees included. You’re paying for convenience and access to some of Chiapas’ most beautiful natural sites without the hassle of arranging transport or worrying about tickets. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the guide’s local knowledge helps bring the landscape to life.

While the day is packed, it offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural curiosity—perfect for those who really want to see iconic Chiapas scenery with minimal fuss. The opportunity to stand at an international border adds a fun, once-in-a-lifetime element to an already impressive itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without spending multiple days. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities, photography, and scenic landscapes, and don’t mind a full, sometimes tiring, but richly rewarding day. It’s also suitable for those with a reasonable level of mobility, as the walk at El Chiflón and around the lakes isn’t extensive but involves some uneven paths.

If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a more relaxed pace, consider whether the long day suits your style. But for those eager to combine waterfalls, lakes, border crossing, and nature in one trip, this tour delivers a comprehensive and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day, making the long journey comfortable.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees to El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello are included in the tour price.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 13 hours, starting early and returning in the evening.

Can I cross into Guatemala during this tour?
Yes, at Lake International, you can walk across the border into Guatemala without needing a passport.

What should I bring?
Comfortable footwear, light clothing, repellent, swimwear if you plan to swim, and cash for lunch or personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the full-day schedule might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a day of natural beauty and small-town charm, this tour from San Cristóbal de las Casas offers a memorable peek into Chiapas’ most iconic landscapes. The impressive waterfalls and vibrant lakes give you a true sense of the region’s diverse scenery, while the border crossing adds an element of adventure.

The value is fair, with all major costs covered, and the small group enhances the experience. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, photography, and exploring nature’s artistic displays. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small family, this trip provides a solid introduction to Chiapas’ natural treasures.

If stunning waterfalls and colorful lakes are on your list, this tour will not disappoint. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure—and a little cash for the best local bites.