San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Day Tour

Planning a trip to Chiapas and trying to decide whether a day trip to the Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes is worth it? This tour offers a chance to see some of the region’s most striking landscapes—rushing waterfalls and vibrant lakes—all in one day. We’ve looked into what this experience provides, and here’s the scoop for potential adventurers.

What’s appealing? First, the walk through lush rainforests to view the “angel’s wings” waterfalls is genuinely breathtaking—imagine standing beneath cascading water framed by green mountains. Second, the colorful lakes of Montebello, with their shifting hues caused by mineral content, promise a unique visual feast.

However, a noteworthy consideration is the long drive—around 12 hours total—and the variable quality of the experience depending on the guide, weather, and your patience for road time. Still, if you love nature’s spectacles and don’t mind a full day on the road, this tour caters best to those eager for authentic scenery and a taste of Chiapas’ wilderness.

Key Points

• Scenic Diversity: From waterfalls to lakes, the tour showcases Chiapas’ stunning natural beauty.
• Hiking & Adventure: Expect about a 1-mile hike to the top of the Chiflon waterfalls, surrounded by rainforest.
• Colorful Lakes: Witness the changing hues of over 50 lakes, with optional crossing on traditional rafts.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, adding local context and tips.
• Value for Money: At $99, the tour offers a comprehensive day trip, though some may find the time allocation tight.
• Active & Relaxing: Opportunities to swim, enjoy scenic boat rides, and explore diverse landscapes all in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive: What the Tour Looks Like

Starting Out in San Cristobal

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in San Cristobal—an easy, no-fuss start that sets the tone. The small group size (limited to 14 participants) ensures more personalized attention, which many reviews appreciate. Expect a comfortable ride in a minibus, although some travelers mention that the journey can be long and, at times, uncomfortable.

The Journey to El Chiflon Waterfalls

Driving about an hour to Comitan, you’ll arrive at the entrance to El Chiflon Waterfalls. This site is a highlight, especially for those who love dramatic scenery. The walk up approximately 1 mile (1.5 km) to the waterfalls takes you through verdant rainforest, with dense foliage and the sounds of rushing water all around.

Many reviewers note that the waterfalls look like “angel’s wings”, a lovely poetic description for the twin cascades that seem to emerge from the mountain. The turquoise waters are eye-catching, and you’re encouraged to take a dip at the base or at designated spots, which adds a refreshing touch after the hike. One traveler remarked, “The waterfalls are worth the effort, even if the drive is long and the minibus isn’t the most comfortable.”

Visiting Montebello Lakes

Post-waterfalls, it’s a scenic drive to the Montebello Lakes National Park, home to over 52 lakes of varying colors—bright emerald, deep green, turquoise, and even purple or red. The lakes’ hues fluctuate depending on mineral content, making each stop visually distinct and fascinating.

Here, you’ll get the chance to cross a couple of lakes on a traditional wooden raft (cayuco)—a simple but memorable experience that offers close-up views of orchids growing along the shores. Travelers describe this as “breathtaking” and a wonderful way to see the lakes from a different perspective. Keep in mind that crossing the lakes is optional and might cost an extra fee (around 200 pesos), which some reviews mention.

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Time at the Lakes & Optional Swimming

You’ll visit about 5 to 7 of the main lakes, with some travelers wishing for more time to explore. As one review notes, “More time is needed at El Chiflon,” and the same applies here—there’s so much to see that a couple of hours can feel rushed. Still, the opportunity to swim in these clear waters is a major plus for hot days.

Returning to San Cristobal

The journey back involves more driving, and some reviews mention arriving 2.5 hours late or feeling the long hours in the minibus. While the scenery is impressive, the overall experience can be hampered by the extended travel time. For travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more leisurely pace, this may be a drawback.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

The tour operates with a small group (up to 14 people), which means more flexibility and less crowding. The vehicle is a minibus, comfortable enough for the long ride, though not luxurious. Be prepared for about 12 hours total, including pickup, travel, sightseeing, and return.

Cost & Value

At $99 per person, this tour covers transportation, park entrances, and a guide—making it a decent value for a full day of adventure. The added costs for optional activities like the raft crossing or extra food are not included but are manageable. Many reviewers feel the price is fair, especially considering the stunning scenery and guided insights.

What to Bring & Wear

Pack comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and hiking. Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunblock) is advised, as you’ll be outdoors most of the day. An extra change of clothes is advisable if you plan to swim, and cash should be on hand for any additional purchases.

Tour Guide & Language

Guides speak both Spanish and English, and their knowledge is often praised. One reviewer highlighted that Carlos was a “fantastic guide”, adding value to the tour through extra effort and local insights. Remember that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, or those with high blood pressure.

What the Reviews Say

The mixed reviews reflect the tour’s strengths and weaknesses. Many, like the traveler from Italy, appreciated the guides’ enthusiasm and flexibility, with one remarking, “Carlos made sure we visited the highest part of the falls, even at a quick pace.”

However, some reviews highlight logistical frustrations—“Too much time in the car,” or “only 1.5 hours at El Chiflon,” which can leave visitors wanting more. Others point out that “the driver spoke no English,” which can be a drawback if language barriers are an issue.

A few travelers reported problems with timing—either arriving late or feeling rushed—and some felt that a more relaxed pace would make the experience more rewarding.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers eager to see Chiapas’ natural wonders without planning each detail themselves. It suits those comfortable with long days, appreciating guided insight and scenic beauty over luxurious comfort or a leisurely pace.

Those who love hiking, swimming, and boat rides will find plenty to enjoy. But if you prefer more time at each site or have mobility concerns, you might want to explore shorter or private options.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Chiapas’ most captivating outdoor sights in a single day. The stunning waterfalls and colorful lakes deliver on visual impact, and the guides generally enhance the experience with local knowledge. The main trade-off is the long hours, which can feel taxing, especially if the vehicle isn’t the most comfortable.

For travelers who crave authentic scenery, enjoy active outings, and are okay with some travel time, this tour provides solid value. Just remember, if your main goal is a relaxed, unhurried day, consider how the long drive and tight schedule might affect your enjoyment.

Final Summary

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure filled with breathtaking views, waterfalls, and lakes, and don’t mind a long road trip, this tour from San Cristobal is a good choice. It’s best suited for those who prioritize scenery and outdoor activities over leisure time. The guided experience, combined with the chance to swim, walk, and cross lakes in rustic boats, makes for a memorable day.

But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have trouble with long hours in a vehicle, you might want to explore other options or consider private tours that offer more flexibility. Either way, this trip showcases some of the best natural sights Chiapas has to offer—well worth considering if you’re visiting this beautiful corner of Mexico.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, including pickup, travel, sightseeing, and return to San Cristobal.

Is transportation comfortable?
The transportation is a small minibus, which is generally acceptable for long hours but may not feel luxurious. Some travelers mention it can be uncomfortable.

Do I need to bring extra cash?
Yes, for optional activities like crossing lakes on rafts (around 200 pesos) or purchasing souvenirs and snacks along the way.

Can I swim in the lakes or waterfalls?
Yes, you have the opportunity to swim in the waters of El Chiflon and some of the lakes, which many find refreshing.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-restricted travelers?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, or those with high blood pressure due to the physical activity and long hours.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, and their quality is often praised for providing local insights and enhancing the experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers an immersive taste of Chiapas’ remarkable natural beauty—perfect for travelers eager to combine adventure and scenery in a day. Just be prepared for a long, active day and choose this experience if you’re comfortable with the travel logistics and seek authentic outdoor sights.

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