San Cristobal: 2 Days in the Southern Selva Lacandona Tour

If you’re considering a quick escape into the wilds of Chiapas, this two-day tour offers a compelling introduction to some of the region’s most striking natural sites. It’s an adventure designed for travelers who want to see waterfalls, lakes, and jungle wildlife without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. While the tour isn’t overly strenuous, it does involve some early mornings and a bit of boat riding—so be prepared for a busy but rewarding experience.

Two things that stand out are the spectacular views at El Chiflón Waterfall and the chance to spot colorful birds like toucans and macaws during the boat ride. The overnight stay at a river camp under the canopy offers a genuine sense of remote wilderness. However, some might find the journey’s pace brisk, especially if you prefer more relaxed, in-depth explorations. This tour suits those eager to pack a lot of natural beauty into just two days, especially if you’re traveling with limited time but want an authentic taste of Chiapas’s southern jungles.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Experience the impressive 70-meter drop of El Chiflón Waterfall.
• Beautiful Lakes: The Montebello Lakes are a highlight with their vibrant, turquoise waters.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect chances to see toucans, macaws, and other jungle species.
• Comfort and Convenience: With air-conditioned transport, included meals, and a guide, logistics are well handled.
• Authentic Experience: Staying overnight at Campamento Río Ixcan offers genuine immersion in the jungle environment.
• Small Group Size: Limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Do and Why It Matters

Day 1: From San Cristóbal to Waterfalls and Lakes

Your adventure begins early in the morning when you leave San Cristóbal de Las Casas. The transport is a comfortable, air-conditioned van that whisks you through scenic Chiapas landscapes—an important detail, as you’ll want to stay relaxed and alert for the day ahead. The first stop is El Chiflón Waterfall, where you’ll see the water plunge 70 meters—an awe-inspiring sight that’s worth the early wake-up call. The sheer force of the water creates a deafening roar and creates dramatic spray, making it a perfect photo opportunity.

Next, you’ll visit Montebello Lakes, with its strikingly colorful waters and forested surroundings. The lakes are a favorite because of their clarity and vibrant hues, which are especially impressive if you enjoy landscape photography or simply want to soak in serene natural beauty. The lakes’ accessibility makes for a leisurely exploration, and you’ll appreciate how manageable and well-organized this part of the trip is.

After a day of sightseeing, you transfer to Campamento Río Ixcan, located right next to the Lacantún River. Here, the sounds of howler monkeys and the whisper of the jungle make for a memorable night in nature. The inclusion of dinner and overnight accommodation enhances the experience—no need to worry about camping gear or cooking supplies.

Day 2: Jungle Boat Ride and Forest Walk

Day two kicks off early with a motorboat journey along the Lacantún River. This is arguably the most exciting part of the trip—gliding through jungle waterways offers a chance to see the region’s abundant birdlife, including toucans and macaws. Many reviews highlight how special this part is: “We loved the boat ride—seeing the jungle from the water gave us a completely different perspective,” said one traveler.

The boat ride isn’t just scenic; it’s an opportunity for wildlife spotting. With luck, you might catch sight of some of the region’s iconic birds or even glimpse other jungle critters. Following the boat, a jungle walk takes you to see magnificent Ceiba trees—some of the tallest and most revered in the region. Walking under these giants, with their epic roots and lush canopy, provides a sense of how alive and diverse the Chiapas jungles are.

The tour wraps up with a return trip to San Cristóbal, where you’ll arrive in the late afternoon or evening, tired but full of memories.

The Value of This Tour: What It Means for Travelers

At $289 per person, this tour offers a surprisingly comprehensive look at some of Chiapas’s most photogenic natural sites. The price includes ground transportation, meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and even insurance—a good deal for a two-day adventure that covers transportation, guides, and activities. Many travelers comment on the value: you get a lot of quality experiences packed into a manageable schedule.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants—means more personalized attention from guides and a more intimate atmosphere. This setup is perfect if you prefer to avoid large, noisy tour buses and enjoy meaningful interactions with your guide and fellow travelers.

The inclusion of hydration and a water bottle is thoughtful, especially since you’ll spend time outdoors in potentially hot conditions. Plus, the local guide speaks Spanish, which might be a consideration for non-Spanish speakers, but it keeps the experience authentic and educational.

One aspect to keep in mind is the question of pace. This trip is quite full, with early mornings and lots of activity. If you prefer to explore at a slow, relaxed pace, some parts might feel rushed. But if you’re eager to see the highlights without fuss, it’s an excellent choice.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and Experience: What Sets This Tour Apart

Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this experience emphasizes genuine immersion in Chiapas’s natural environment. By staying overnight at a jungle camp, you get an authentic feel for the landscape—sleeping beside the river, listening to the jungle’s sounds, and waking up to the chorus of wildlife. This is more than just a quick photo stop; it’s a chance to experience the region’s wilderness in a meaningful way.

The boat ride and jungle walk also contribute to a sense of discovery. You’re not just observing from afar—you’re actively engaging with the environment. The guide’s local knowledge and the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat elevate the experience beyond simply ticking off famous sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who are active, curious, and eager to see Chiapas’s natural side. It’s ideal if you want a compact but immersive experience that combines waterfalls, lakes, and jungle wildlife. Those with an interest in birds or photography will particularly enjoy the boat ride and lush scenery.

If you’re traveling with limited time but want a well-organized, guided introduction to the southern jungles, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with early mornings and outdoor activities. However, if your ideal trip involves relaxed, unstructured exploration or extensive hiking, you might prefer a longer or different type of adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

For those looking for a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and authenticity, this tour delivers. The natural wonders of Chiapas are on full display—waterfalls, lakes, and jungle—each offering memorable sights and sounds. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s biodiversity and landscape, as well as some stunning photos and stories.

The price is reasonable considering everything included, and the small-group setup ensures a more personal experience. While it’s fast-paced, it offers a well-rounded taste of the southern Selva Lacandona’s beauty. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see and feel the wild side of Chiapas in a way that feels real.

FAQ

What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour focuses on exploring Chiapas’s natural sites, including waterfalls, lakes, and jungle wildlife, over two days.

How many days does the tour last?
It lasts two days, typically starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or evening.

Is transportation included?
Yes, ground transportation in an air-conditioned van is included throughout the tour.

What meals are provided?
Lunch and dinner are included on Day 1, and breakfast is included on Day 2.

Where do we stay overnight?
You will stay at Campamento Río Ixcan, located beside the Lacantún River in the jungle.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees to El Chiflón Waterfalls and Lagos de Montebello are covered.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the active outdoor nature suggests it’s best suited for older children and teenagers comfortable with early mornings and outdoor activities.

What language is the guide speaking?
The tour features a Spanish-speaking guide, so some basic Spanish skills or a translation app might be helpful.

In all, this adventure offers a perfect snapshot of Chiapas’s wild beauty, ideal for travelers seeking a compact but genuine escape into nature’s wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby