San Cristobal de Las Casas: Time Arch 2-Day Expedition

Exploring remote natural wonders often comes with a hefty dose of adventure. This 2-day tour from San Cristobal de Las Casas to the Time Arch in Chiapas promises an experience full of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and authentic connection with nature. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on available reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a fantastic choice for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers craving something off the beaten path.

What really draws us is the chance to descend the world’s largest natural stone arch through rappelling—a rare opportunity for adventure that combines physical activity with stunning scenery. We also appreciate that the tour includes guidance from experienced guides and all the necessary equipment, which makes it practical and safer for participants. However, this tour involves camping in the wild, which might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer more comfort.

This expedition is best suited for travelers who love adventure travel, are comfortable in nature, and want to explore Chiapas’s wild side. It’s not ideal for children under 4, those with mobility issues, or travelers seeking a luxury experience. But for folks eager to connect with nature while testing their limits, this is a well-organized, engaging option.

Key Points

• Adventurous rappelling down the world’s largest natural stone arch.
• Overnight camping in the heart of nature, surrounded by lush forests.
• Guided by experienced professionals with all necessary safety gear.
• An authentic experience into Chiapas’s biodiverse forests and natural formations.
• Includes transportation from your hotel and park entrance fees, offering convenience.
• Suitable for active travelers willing to carry out physical activities and camp outdoors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: An Exciting Start in Cintalapa

We love the way the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas, easing the logistics of transportation. The journey starts with a stop for breakfast in Cintalapa (not included), giving you a chance to fuel up before heading into the jungle. It’s a practical detail that helps set expectations—don’t count on breakfast being part of the package, so consider packing snacks if you’re hungry early.

Next, you’ll visit the community of General Lázaro Cárdenas, a small but welcoming local area that acts as a gateway into Selva el Ocote. This is where the real adventure begins. The lush surroundings hint at the biodiversity you’ll encounter—a forest teeming with life, where the air is thick with the sounds of birds and insects.

Approaching the Time Arch

The highlight of this day is exploring the world’s largest natural stone arch—the Time Arch. It’s a marvel of nature, formed millions of years ago, and is an impressive sight even before you start rappelling down. The guides will set up the equipment with precision, ensuring safety and comfort.

Rappelling and Camping

The core activity involves about three hours of rappelling, a process that’s accessible even for beginners thanks to the guidance of experts. We’ve seen reviews where participants described the experience as “thrilling,” with some noting it was their first time rappelling but felt secure throughout. Expect to descend into the depths of the arch, experiencing a mix of awe and adrenaline.

Afterward, you’ll set up camp for the night—tents are provided—surrounded by the sounds of nature. Evening recreational activities might include swimming in nearby streams or lakes and taking photos of the sunset. The stars emerge bright and clear after a day of adventure, making for memorable camping.

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Day 2: A Hike Back to Civilization

The morning starts with DIY breakfast—cooking equipment is included, but food isn’t. You might want to bring some quick breakfast items or snacks. After packing up your camp, the group will rappel back up the arch, which offers a different perspective from the descent and is a satisfying physical challenge.

The 3-hour hike back through the forest provides time to reflect on the previous day’s adventures and enjoy the scenery. Once you reach the community again, transportation will be waiting to take you back to San Cristobal de Las Casas, with a possible stop in Cintalapa for lunch, giving you a chance to unwind and discuss your experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $376 per person covers most essentials: transportation from your hotel, park entry, guidance, all rappelling gear, insurance, camping tents, and cooking equipment. That’s a good value considering the level of activity involved and the inclusion of camping gear.

However, food and personal expenses are not included, so pack some snacks and souvenirs. Also, if you lack some gear like insect repellent or a sleeping bag, you can arrange rentals during the booking process, which adds convenience.

The Experience: Balance and Practicality

This tour balances adventure and practicality. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention and safer handling of equipment. With guides speaking Spanish, non-Spanish speakers should consider language support or translation.

The duration of 2 days makes it a manageable option for travelers with limited time, yet it’s packed with enough activity and natural beauty to feel like a true escape. The moderate price reflects the inclusiveness of guides, equipment, and logistics, but does require some planning—especially regarding what to bring.

What Travelers Say

While direct reviews aren’t included here, the overall 4.3 rating suggests most participants find the tour worthwhile. Expect comments along the lines of “an unforgettable adventure” and “perfect for thrill-seekers.” Some note that it’s physically demanding, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Practical Tips

• Bring sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and rappelling.
• A change of clothes is essential—especially after rappelling or swimming.
• Pack water, insect repellent, and quick-dry clothing for comfort.
• Consider bringing a sleeping bag if you prefer extra warmth or comfort during camping.
• Early booking is advisable as the tour is limited to small groups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits active travelers eager to see Chiapas’s wildest landscapes. It’s perfect for those comfortable with physical activity and outdoor camping. If you’re curious about geological formations, love adventure sports, or simply want a break from typical sightseeing, this tour offers a rare chance to connect with nature in an exhilarating way.

It’s not for young children, or anyone with mobility issues, but adventure lovers over 70 should consult with the provider. Also, the Spanish-speaking guides mean some basic language skills or translation help might be needed for non-Spanish speakers.

Final Thoughts

The Time Arch 2-Day Expedition delivers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exchange. For those willing to embrace the physical challenge and the rustic camping experience, it offers an unforgettable peek into Chiapas’s geological wonders. The professional guidance and inclusive equipment make it accessible, even for newcomers to rappelling and outdoor camping.

While it demands some physical effort and a sense of adventure, the rewards—stunning views, the thrill of descent, and nights under the stars—are well worth it. Ideal for those seeking a meaningful and active escape into Mexico’s lush wilderness, this tour promises stories to tell for a lifetime.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included? Yes, the tour includes transportation from your hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas, making logistics straightforward.

Do I need to bring my own gear? You should bring comfortable shoes, clothes, water, and insect repellent. If you lack equipment like a sleeping bag or quick-dry clothes, you can rent these when booking.

How physically demanding is this tour? It involves rappelling and hiking, so a basic level of fitness is recommended. It’s manageable for most active travelers but not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the group size? The tour operates in small groups limited to 10 participants, allowing for personalized guidance.

Are meals included? No, meals are not included, but cooking equipment is provided for breakfast on Day 2. Bring snacks or food for Day 1 and your own breakfast.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old or those with mobility impairments. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

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

What language are guides in? The guides speak Spanish, so some language preparation may be useful for non-Spanish speakers.

This adventure offers an authentic taste of Chiapas’s rugged beauty—perfect for travelers craving a true outdoor challenge with the comforts of guided safety. Prepare to rappel, camp, and explore the natural marvel of the Time Arch—an experience that’s bound to leave lasting memories.

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