From Tuxtla Gutierrez: Palenque & Chiapas 4-Day Tour

Planning a trip to Chiapas? This 4-day tour promises a well-balanced mix of breathtaking landscapes, ancient Mayan ruins, and authentic indigenous culture. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of what makes Chiapas unique without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves. We’re quite impressed by how much natural beauty and cultural richness this itinerary packs into just four days—and at a reasonable price considering the quality of experiences and accommodations.

That said, it’s not for everyone. The tour involves a fair bit of walking and some early mornings, so it suits those comfortable with moderate activity levels and warm weather. If you’re eager to explore Chiapas’s highlights in a structured way with local guides, you’ll find this tour offers good value. However, if you prefer total independence or are traveling with very young children, it might be worth considering other options.

Two things we particularly like about this experience: First, the chance to cruise through the iconic Sumidero Canyon, a truly dramatic natural corridor that’s just as spectacular on the water as from land. Second, the opportunity to visit the Palenque archaeological site, a Maya city that combines awe-inspiring architecture with a lush jungle setting. One potential consideration? The tour’s price includes many essentials, but extra expenses like dinners and personal souvenirs will be on you—something to keep in mind for your budget.

This tour is well-suited for adventure lovers, history buffs, and cultural explorers looking to experience Chiapas authentically and comfortably. If that sounds like you, read on for a detailed breakdown.

Key Points

• Natural Wonders: Experience the stunning sum of Chiapas’ scenery, from canyons to waterfalls.
• Cultural Insights: Visit indigenous towns and see local customs and traditions firsthand.
• Maya Heritage: Explore the impressive Palenque ruins, a highlight for archaeology enthusiasts.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay in 4-star hotels, with transportation and entrance fees covered.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: From Tuxtla Gutierrez to Chiapa de Corzo & Sumidero Canyon

Your adventure begins in Tuxtla Gutierrez, where you’ll be picked up early in the morning. The highlight of the day is a boat cruise through Sumidero Canyon, a marvel of natural erosion carved by the Grijalva River. Expect towering cliffs, some reaching over 1,000 meters high, and a chance to spot local wildlife such as spider monkeys, pelicans, and possibly even crocodiles.

The canyon is famous for formations like the Christmas Tree and the Cave of Colors, which make for stunning photo opportunities. The boat ride provides a different perspective—viewing the canyon’s grandeur from the water, where the scale and majesty are particularly striking. We loved the way the cruise offers a close-up view of the canyon’s cliffs and wildlife—a real highlight for nature lovers.

After the cruise, you’ll visit Chiapa de Corzo, a charming colonial town with a lively central plaza, the Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, and a Lacquer Museum showcasing local craftsmanship. Walking through the town gives a taste of everyday life in Chiapas and sets the tone for the cultural richness ahead.

Day 2: Waterfalls of Agua Azul and Misol-Ha

Day two is a natural highlight, starting with the famous Agua Azul Waterfalls. Known for their striking turquoise waters, these falls cascade over limestone formations into natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim. The landscape here is truly postcard-worthy—vividly blue waters surrounded by lush jungle foliage. We loved the chance to walk along the river’s edge and take multiple photos of the cascading water.

Next, the tour visits Misol-Ha, a 45-meter-high waterfall that has served as a movie backdrop (notably for “Predator” and “The Last of the Mohicans”). Here, you’ll have the chance to walk behind the waterfall and enter a small cave with a hidden waterfall—a surreal experience. The lush setting and the sound of rushing water create an almost cinematic atmosphere.

Both sites are at their best during the dry season, but even in wetter months, the waterfalls remain breathtaking. The natural pools at Agua Azul invite swimming, but you’ll want to bring your swimwear and towel.

Day 3: Ancient Maya City of Palenque & Roberto Barrios Waterfalls

The third day is dedicated to Palenque, one of the most impressive Maya archaeological sites. The sprawling complex features temples, palaces, and tombs, with the Temple of the Inscriptions as the centerpiece—home to the tomb of King Pakal. The architecture and carvings are astonishingly well-preserved, offering tangible links to the past.

We appreciated the tour’s pacing here; it’s enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The site is set amid dense jungle, adding to the sense of stepping back in time. We also enjoyed the visit to Roberto Barrios Waterfalls, just a short drive away. Surrounded by tropical greenery, these cascades are much less crowded than Agua Azul and perfect for a relaxing swim or just soaking in the natural beauty.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Indigenous Villages of San Juan Chamula & San Lorenzo Zinacantan

The final day offers a fascinating look at indigenous Chiapaneca culture. Visiting San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zinacantan, you’ll witness local traditions that blend Maya beliefs with Catholic influences. Some travelers report seeing traditional rituals, such as offerings and prayers, and even participating in activities like making tortillas with local families.

This part of the tour provides a rare glimpse into Chiapas’ living culture, beyond the tourist spots. It’s a chance to understand local beliefs and see artisans practicing their craft. The tour concludes with a transfer back to the Tuxtla Gutiérrez airport, wrapping up this culturally and naturally immersive journey.

Transport, Accommodation, and Practical Details

All transportation is via an air-conditioned coach, which makes the long drives comfortable. The group stays in 4-star hotels—two nights in San Cristóbal and one in Palenque—ensuring a good night’s sleep after active days. The tour size is limited to 15 participants, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and allowing guides to give personalized attention.

Included in the price are all entrance fees, a boat ride in Sumidero Canyon, breakfasts, and lunch on day 3. Transfers from and to the airport are arranged, making logistics straightforward. The tour is guided in Spanish, so some familiarity or translation assistance might help.

The tour is priced at $1,055 per person, a fair investment considering the inclusions and the quality of sights visited. We believe the value lies in the combination of natural wonders, ancient ruins, and local culture, all curated in a well-organized manner.

What’s Not Included and What to Bring

Extra expenses like dinners, drinks, souvenirs, or additional activities are not included, so budget accordingly. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your camera. It’s also wise to bring a change of clothes after water-based activities.

Note that the tour involves moderate walking, but it is not wheelchair accessible. It’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with some physical activity and warm weather. Pregnant women, those with back or heart issues, or non-swimmers should consider other options.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Insights

According to reviews, travelers have loved the stunning views from Sumidero Canyon and the waterfalls. One reviewer mentioned, “The canyon was breathtaking, and the boat ride made it even more spectacular.” Others appreciated the chance to learn about local crafts at the Lacquer Museum or participate in making tortillas in indigenous villages.

Some travelers noted that the tour’s pacing allows enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed, though a few mentioned the early mornings and walking involved. The small group size is often praised for enabling more personalized interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

This 4-day journey offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture—perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Chiapas without the stress of planning every detail. The included accommodations and transportation ensure a smooth experience, giving you time to soak in the landscapes and explore at a comfortable pace.

If you’re passionate about Mayans ruins, waterfalls, and indigenous life, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those with moderate activity levels who enjoy structured, guided trips that highlight the best of Chiapas in a short timeframe. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value, while those seeking a deeper connection to local traditions will find plenty to love.

This tour is a rewarding way to discover one of Mexico’s most captivating regions, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a memorable adventure.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers transportation in an air-conditioned coach, all entrance fees, a boat ride in Sumidero Canyon, breakfast, and lunch on day 3. Accommodation in 4-star hotels is also included.

How many participants are in each group?
The tour is limited to 15 people, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended. Remember to pack for the outdoor activities and warm weather.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is best for travelers who are comfortable walking and swimming, as there are water activities and some walking involved. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or wheelchair users.

How does the tour handle weather?
The itinerary is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included daily, and lunch is provided on day 3. Dinners and drinks are not included and are at your expense.

What is the guide’s language?
Guides speak Spanish. Some travelers may want to brush up on basic Spanish or bring a translation app for the indigenous villages.

Is the tour available year-round?
Availability depends on the season and weather, so check ahead for specific dates.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour includes airport transfers, and it’s recommended to arrive in Tuxtla Gutierrez before noon to start on time.

This 4-day tour offers an authentic, well-paced introduction to Chiapas that balances natural beauty with cultural depth. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast, nature lover, or curious traveler, it’s a solid way to experience the very best of this vibrant region.

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