Tuxtla Gutierrez: Chiflon and Lakes of Montebello Tour

If you’re looking for a day packed with jaw-dropping scenery and authentic Mexican charm, this full-day tour from Tuxtla Gutierrez to Chiapas’s waterfalls and lakes might just be the perfect choice. It’s a blend of striking natural beauty, a taste of adventure, and convenient logistics—all for a reasonable price of around $57 per person. Whether you’re traveling with family, a group of friends, or traveling solo eager for connection with nature, this tour offers a balanced experience that doesn’t skimp on the highlights.

What really appeals to us are the spectacular waterfalls—especially the Velo de Novia, an impressive 70-meter cascade—and the colorful lakes of Montebello, each with its unique hue and character. We also appreciate that the tour is designed to include enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed. However, be aware that some parts of the day are long, and the travel time adds up, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full days of exploration. If you’re after a relaxing getaway or a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit packed, but for those eager to see a lot of Chiapas’s natural wonders in one go, it’s a solid choice.

Who will love this tour?

It’s a good fit for active travelers who don’t mind long hours on the road, nature lovers eager to see waterfalls and lakes, and anyone looking for excellent value for a full day of sightseeing. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for mobility-impaired visitors, given the walking and uneven terrain at some stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: The highlight is the Velo de Novia, a 70-meter high waterfall that’s truly a sight to behold.
• Vibrant Lakes: The Montebello Lakes are famous for their shifting colors, with lakes like Laguna Enchanted and Dream Lagoon offering extraordinary hues.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: The day is structured to balance sightseeing, photo stops, and some free time, making it manageable despite the long hours.
• Authentic Experience: The tour is run by a local operator, and while the guide speaks Spanish, they make an effort to communicate with English-speaking travelers via translation.
• Good Value: At $57, you get transportation, entrance fees, and a day full of natural beauty, making it a cost-effective way to see Chiapas’s highlights.
• Long Day: Expect around 15 hours, including travel time, so pack snacks, water, and patience.

Detailed Review: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting Out: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Tuxtla Gutierrez, which simplifies logistics and means you don’t have to worry about navigating. Expect a comfortable van ride that lasts roughly 3.5 hours to reach Cascadas El Chiflón, the prime waterfall area. The early departure ensures you beat the crowds somewhat and enjoy cooler morning air as you get started.

Cascadas El Chiflón: Waterfalls That Awe

Once at El Chiflón, you’ll spend nearly two hours exploring the waterfalls. The main event is Velo de Novia, a majestic 70-meter-high cascade that creates a striking visual—think of a massive curtain of water cascading down with a mist that often catches the sunlight, producing rainbows. The fact that it’s considered the most powerful waterfall in Chiapas adds to its allure.

You’ll also see other waterfalls like Cascada Suspiro, Ala de Ángel, and Arco Iris. We love the variety—each offers different photo opportunities and atmospheres. The tour also includes a chance to zipline at El Chiflón, which adds a bit of adventure and adrenaline (though this is a 30-minute activity and optional). The zipline can be a real thrill, especially for those who enjoy a dash of adrenaline amidst natural scenery.

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Scenic Drive and Sightseeing

Post-waterfalls, the group embarks on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to the Montebello Lagoons. Along the way, you’ll appreciate the lush landscapes of Chiapas—mountains, forests, and fields—and the feeling of traveling through a truly natural part of Mexico.

Montebello Lakes: A Rainbow of Hues

Once at the Lagoons, you’ll spend about two hours exploring Lake Tziscao, Laguna Pojoj, and the famous Laguna Enchanted. These lakes are renowned for their vivid colors, which change depending on the sunlight, the mineral content, and the time of day. The Dream Lagoon, in particular, gets high praise for its surreal waters.

You’ll have time to take photos, walk along the shores, and enjoy the serenity of this aquatic wonderland. Some reviews mention the lakes didn’t impress everyone equally, but most agree the vibrant colors make for memorable photos and a calming experience.

Pojoj Lake and Free Time

Next, the tour includes a stop at Pojoj Lake, giving you more chances for photos and quiet reflection. The flexibility here allows some travelers to relax or browse local shops if available.

Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing, the long drive back to Tuxtla Gutierrez takes about four hours. It’s a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights, share photos, or simply relax after your adventure.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

The tour is operated by Apasionado x Chiapas Travel, a local company that offers an authentic perspective on the region. While the guide primarily speaks Spanish, they make efforts to communicate with English-speaking travelers via translation, which many reviewers appreciated.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers entrance fees, ground transportation, basic traveler’s insurance, and hotel pickup—a convenient package. However, it does not include food and beverages, so packing snacks and water is advisable. Also, optional activities like boat rides at the lakes or additional ziplining may incur extra costs not included in the tour fee.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour is quite long—about 15 hours—and involves a lot of time in the van. While most find it worth the effort, travelers with limited stamina or mobility issues might find it tiring. The tour also requires walking on uneven terrain at waterfalls and lakes, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Reviews Reflect Value and Enjoyment

Most reviews are glowing, praising the stunning waterfalls and beautiful lakes. One reviewer from Australia appreciated the driver’s effort to communicate in English, making the experience more inclusive. Others mention the long hours but agree the landscapes and scenery make it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Chiapas’s most captivating natural sights. The combination of powerful waterfalls and vivid lakes makes for a memorable day, especially for those eager to see diverse landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple trips independently.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, this experience delivers plenty of photo opportunities, fresh air, and the thrill of standing in front of nature’s artwork. It’s a good value considering the transportation, entrance fees, and guided experience packed into one day. However, be prepared for a full schedule that tests your endurance.

If you’re after a relaxed pace or have mobility limitations, you might want to consider other options or shorter excursions. Still, for most active travelers craving a deep dive into Chiapas’s stunning outdoors, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire day runs about 15 hours, including pickup, travel, sightseeing, and return.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes ground transportation in a comfortable van, starting from Tuxtla Gutierrez.

What activities are included?
You’ll visit waterfalls, lakes, and have opportunities for scenic walks, photos, and optional ziplining.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks and water for the day.

Can I do the boat ride on the lakes?
The tour does not include the boat ride, and if you want to do it separately, it costs about $10 extra.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven terrain and the long hours involved.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The guide primarily speaks Spanish, but they try to assist English speakers with translation.

This Tuxtla Gutierrez: Chiflon and Lakes of Montebello Tour is a fantastic way to see some of Chiapas’s most breathtaking sights in one day. It’s ideal for those eager to pack as much natural beauty as possible into a single trip, with the convenience of organized logistics and local expertise.

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