Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfall

Exploring Mexico’s natural beauty often means venturing beyond the bustling city streets, and this tour to Montebello Lakes and Chiflón Waterfall offers just that—an immersive day in some of Chiapas’s most breathtaking landscapes. We haven’t experienced it ourselves but have gathered traveler insights, detailed itineraries, and practical tips to help you decide if this adventure suits your travel style.

What immediately appeals is how this tour combines spectacular waterfalls with serene lakes, giving a well-rounded taste of Chiapas’s natural splendor. The transportation is in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle—crucial for long days—and the trip includes admission tickets to both the waterfalls and the lakes. Plus, the small group size (max 10 travelers) promises a more personal experience, avoiding the chaos of larger tours.

However, it’s important to note that the 14-hour duration might be a stretch for some, especially given the inclusion of only two scheduled stops with a lot of traveling in between. Also, the tour does not include meals, so you’ll need to budget for breakfast and lunch. Still, if you’re prepared for a full day of scenic exploration and enjoy a good dose of nature, this trip offers solid value.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who appreciate natural beauty, don’t mind a long day, and are comfortable with a small-group environment. It’s perfect for those who want a straightforward, affordable way to see some of Chiapas’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

Comfortable transportation helps make the long day more manageable.
Small group size enhances the experience and personal attention.
Two main stops—Chiflón Waterfall and Montebello Lakes—offer diverse scenic views.
No meals included—plan ahead for breakfast and lunch.
Good value with included entrance fees and transport.
Time management might be tight, so early start and readiness are key.

An In-Depth Look at the Montebello Lakes and Chiflón Waterfall Tour

This tour packs a lot into a single day, offering a good overview of some of Chiapas’s most enticing natural sites. Starting early at 7:30 am, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, ready for a roughly 2-hour drive to the first stop: Cascada El Chiflón. This waterfall is renowned for its powerful cascade and the Velo de Novia formation—a curtain of water that looks like a bridal veil, which makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

Visiting Cascada El Chiflón

Our tour’s highlight is undoubtedly the Chiflón Waterfall, which pours down in multiple tiers over a rugged cliff face. The 2-hour visit includes entrance fees, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the roaring water, take photos, and soak in the lush surroundings. One reviewer specifically appreciated their guide’s professionalism, noting that “Carlos kept the tour in control to maximize our vacation experience,” indicating a well-managed trip that emphasizes quality over rushing through.

While the natural beauty is stunning, be prepared for some walking and potentially uneven terrain if you want to get closer to the falls. The area’s well-maintained paths make it accessible, but comfort with outdoor conditions is helpful.

The Scenic Drive & Local Stops

After the waterfall visit, the group heads back on the road for about 2 hours to Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello, where you’ll get to explore approximately five lakes over 2 hours. The lakes here are famed for their vivid colors, fed by mineral-rich waters and set against forested backgrounds. It’s a peaceful contrast to the thunderous waterfall and offers great opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the tranquility.

The lakes’ clarity and colors vary depending on the weather and time of year. Travelers have mentioned that while the lakes are breathtaking, the tour’s tight schedule means minimal time at each spot—so if you’re after a casual, relaxed pace, be aware that this is a quick visit rather than an in-depth exploration.

Tour Duration and Pacing

The entire day spans about 14 hours, from early morning pickup to return in the evening. While some reviews, like Monika G’s, pointed out that “this trip takes 14 hours and not 7,” it’s clear that this is a full day’s commitment. For many, the length is justified by the sights seen and the convenience of all logistics handled for you.

Cost and Value

At $48 per person, this tour offers a decent value, especially considering the included entrance fees and transportation. However, it’s worth noting that food isn’t included, so you should plan for breakfast before departure and lunch during the day. Given the long hours and the scenic stops, packing some snacks and drinks isn’t a bad idea.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.3/5 indicates a generally positive experience, with one traveler praising the tour as “excellent” and highlighting the professionalism of the guide. Conversely, another reviewer cautioned about the long duration and suggested that if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more leisurely pace, this might not be ideal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for adventurous travelers eager to see Chiapas’s natural wonders without the hassle of organizing multiple transportation or entrance tickets. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with long days and want a cost-effective way to visit both waterfalls and lakes in one go.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time at each site, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Also, if food is a priority, plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand, as meals are not part of the package.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the waterfalls and lakes.
• Pack water, snacks, and possibly a lunch to stay energized during the day.
• Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions; layers work well since mornings can be cool and afternoons warmer.
• Be prepared for a full day—starting early and ending late—so plan accordingly.
• Book in advance, especially during peak travel times, since the tour is popular and often booked about 10 days ahead.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If your goal is a cost-effective, well-organized day trip that takes you through some of Chiapas’s most impressive natural sites, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who enjoy nature, don’t mind a packed schedule, and are looking for a small-group experience. The included entrance fees and transportation mean you won’t have to worry about logistics—just show up and enjoy the scenery.

That said, the long hours and quick stops mean it’s not for everyone. If you prefer a more leisurely exploration or want to customize your time at each location, consider other options or private guides. But for a straightforward, scenic day out that offers great value, this tour does the job nicely.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transportation from San Cristóbal de las Casas, making the long day more comfortable.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers admission to both the Chiflón Waterfall and the Montebello Lakes, saving you time and money.

How long is the total tour?
It’s approximately 14 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the evening, making it a full-day commitment.

Is food included?
No, breakfast and lunch are not included. Travelers should plan meals ahead or bring snacks.

What’s the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and less crowded.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those who prefer shorter, more relaxed outings or have mobility issues may find the long hours challenging.

To sum it up, this tour offers a solid introduction to Chiapas’s natural beauty, combining two of its most iconic sites into one affordable day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic experience with all logistics handled and are ready for a full day of exploration.