El Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes National Park Day Trip

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with stunning natural scenery and a touch of adventure near San Cristóbal de las Casas, this tour to the Montebello Lakes National Park and El Chiflon Waterfalls might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect—a full day of beautiful lakes, rushing waterfalls, and interesting wildlife.

What we like about this tour? First, the opportunity to see UNESCO Biosphere Reserve landscapes, where crystalline lakes change colors with the light, and waterfalls drop dramatically through the jungle. Second, it includes professional guides and all entrance fees, which simplifies planning and makes for a more relaxed experience. One possible drawback is the long day—roughly 13 hours from pick-up to drop-off—that might challenge those with limited stamina or tight schedules.

This tour works best for travelers who love nature, photography, and learning about local flora and fauna. It’s ideal for those seeking an organized way to explore these natural wonders without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves. However, if you’re looking for a more flexible or less intensive day, consider your pacing needs.

Key Points

• All-included price makes this tour straightforward, covering fees, transportation, and guiding services.
• Guided experience offers insights into the region’s geology, plants, and wildlife, adding depth to the visit.
• Long day with around 13 hours of travel and sightseeing, better suited for energetic travelers.
• Limited English support according to some reviews, which could impact non-Spanish speakers.
• Beautiful scenery at both stops—crystalline lakes and impressive waterfalls—photography enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities.
• Mixed reviews highlight fantastic waterfalls but variable experiences with lakes, often weather-dependent.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello

The tour begins early, with hotel pickup around 8:30 am, and a roughly 3-hour drive to the Montebello Lakes National Park. Once there, you’ll have about 2 hours to wander between 4 to 6 lakes, each showcasing unique colors—pale blue, violet, emerald, and turquoise. The lakes owe their hues to the mineral-rich soil, the reflection of the sky and vegetation, and light refraction, making each glance Instagram-worthy.

We loved the way guides explain the geology and ecology of the area, pointing out dense flora like orchids, bromeliads, cedar, mahogany, and juniper trees. The setting is framed by lush tropical jungle and mountain views, perfect for nature lovers. This part of the trip is where you can take some memorable photos and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

However, it’s worth noting that some visitors, like Marcus, felt the lakes were less impressive than expected—possibly due to weather conditions. Still, the vivid colors and tranquil waters make for a calming contrast to the waterfalls.

Next Stop: Cascada El Chiflon

The second part of your adventure takes you to the El Chiflon Waterfalls. The journey covers about 5,000 feet of striking waterfalls, including the Bridal Veil, which drops over 300 feet. Here, you’ll get to see these powerful cascades up close, and if you’re up for it, climb to the top to enjoy breezes from the high vantage point.

The waterfalls are the highlight for many—epic photo opportunities and a sense of awe at nature’s power. The experience of standing beneath or beside rushing water is invigorating, and the setting’s jungle backdrop enhances the wild feel.

According to visitors like Allen, the guide’s knowledge and professionalism made a big difference, and the restaurant facilities were praised for their cleanliness and good food. It is a good idea to come prepared with comfortable footwear and a rain jacket, as the spray and mist from the waterfalls can get you damp.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour offers round-trip transportation from your hotel, which is a huge plus, especially when navigating rural roads. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, though this means booking well in advance (average booking time is 62 days).

Duration and Pace

The tour lasts about 13 hours, starting early (8:30 am) and ending late (around 9:30 pm). This is a long day, but it allows ample time at each site without feeling rushed. If you prefer shorter outings, this might be a key consideration.

Cost and Value

At $85 per person, this tour hits a reasonable price point considering that all entrance fees and transportation are included. You won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you want snacks or souvenirs. The value is good for anyone who wants a full-day, guided experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long hours and physical demands of walking around waterfalls and lakes. Children are welcome but should be accompanied by an adult. Be aware that some reviews mention the guide’s limited English, which might impact non-Spanish speakers unless you’re comfortable with basic Spanish or have a translation app.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that guides play a vital role in enriching the experience. Allen praised his guide for being knowledgeable and professional, which greatly enhanced the day. Expect to learn about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology, making the trip educational as well as scenic.

Food options are often good, with some mention of clean restaurants and tasty local dishes. Bringing snacks or water is still wise, especially since the tour covers a lot of ground.

Weather can influence your experience—cloudy or rainy days might dull the lakes’ colors or obscure views. Packing a waterproof jacket and sun protection is recommended, ensuring you’re comfortable regardless of conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate natural beauty and don’t mind a long day. If you love photography, the waterfalls alone make the trip worthwhile. Those interested in learning about local ecosystems will also find the guided insights valuable.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, less travel time, or require guide interaction in English, you might want to explore other options or prepare accordingly. The long hours and variable weather conditions mean this isn’t the best choice for everyone, but for those ready for an active, scenic day, it offers a solid value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

The El Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes day trip offers an impressive window into the natural wonders of southeastern Mexico. You’ll get to see the vibrant lakes, powerful waterfalls, and lush jungle environment—all with the convenience of guided transportation and all fees covered. The experience is especially rewarding for those who love scenic landscapes and are prepared for a full day of travel and exploration.

While the lakes’ colors can be weather-dependent and guide language might be limited, the overall value remains strong. Food, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking vistas make this a worthwhile outing for energetic travelers eager to connect with nature and capture some stunning photos.

If you’re staying in San Cristóbal de las Casas and want to experience a diverse and beautiful slice of Mexico’s landscape, this tour is worth considering. Just pack your patience, some rain gear, and a camera — you’re in for a memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without extra logistics.

How long is the drive to the park and waterfalls?
The drive from San Cristóbal to Montebello Lakes takes approximately 3 hours, followed by about 2 hours at each main stop.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the parks and waterfalls are included in the $85 price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear if needed, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Snacks are optional but recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be supervised. The long hours may be tiring for very young kids.

Can I expect guides to speak English?
Reviews indicate some guides may not speak fluent English, so basic Spanish or translation tools can help. Allen’s guide was praised for being well knowledgeable.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect the lakes’ colors and the waterfall views. Check the forecast and pack accordingly, knowing some sites may be less vibrant in rain or clouds.

This detailed review aims to give you honest insights and practical tips for making the most of your day trip. Whether you’re looking for scenic photos, nature education, or just a break from the city, this tour offers a compelling way to connect with Mexico’s natural beauty.