Things to do in Chiapas

In this guide, you'll find all the information you need to plan a vacation trip to this amazing region.

Why visit Chiapas?

Chiapas is the southernmost state of Mexico, and it invites you to follow a journey of breathtaking landscapes and rich ancient Mayan culture. Discover all the magic of Chiapas waterfalls, lagoons and Mayan ruins in the company of expert guides and friendly locals.

22 things to do
and see
in Chiapas

Discover 22 places that will turn your trip to Chiapas into an authentic and extraordinary experience.

Transportation in Chiapas

  • Flights to Chiapas
  • Take a bus
  • Drive yourself
  • Guided Tours
  • Taxis and ride-sharing
  • Biking and walking

For long-distance travel within Chiapas or to other states, flying can save time. The main airport is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ) near Tuxtla Gutiérrez, offering flights to major Mexican cities.

Chiapas has an extensive network of buses and colectivos (shared vans), which are the most common and affordable means of transportation. ADO and OCC are the main bus companies, offering comfortable long-distance services between major cities like Tuxtla Gutiérrez, San Cristóbal de las Casas, and Palenque. Collectivos are great for shorter distances and travel between smaller towns and villages.

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Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Chiapas at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or multiple destinations. Major rental companies operate in cities and at airports. Make sure to drive cautiously and be aware of local driving conditions.

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Many travelers opt for guided tours and private transfers, which can be arranged through travel agencies and hotels. These services provide a hassle-free way to visit popular attractions like the Sumidero Canyon, Agua Azul Waterfalls, and Mayan ruins, often including knowledgeable guides.

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Taxis are widely available in cities and towns. Ensure you use registered taxis, especially at night. In some areas, rideshare services like Uber may be available, providing a convenient and often safer option.

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Biking and walking can be enjoyable and practical ways to get around certain parts of Chiapas, offering a unique and immersive experience of the region

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Explore the benefits of visiting Mexico all year round
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Experience the Popular Fair of San Sebastián in Chiapa de Corzo and the International Marimbista Festival, where the marimba brings together great percussionists, manufacturers, traders, and the general public.

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Enjoy the Candelaria Festival, a catholic festival that takes place between January 30th and February 2nd.

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The temperature starts to rise, but the rains are not here yet, which makes swimming in the waterfalls and visiting the Cenotes the best choice. You can also experience the Sumidero Canyon International Swimming Marathon.

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Experience the San Marcos fair in honor of the patron saint of the capital of the state of Chiapas.  It is filled with traditional elements, including nocturnal processions with offerings made of leaves, fruit, and sweets. However, because Easter is usually around this time, it can get very crowded.

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Experience three traditional events: Flor de Mayo threading, the Day of the Santa Cruz, and the Fiesta de San Isidro Labrador.

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Now, the rainy season kicks in, bringing more cozy plans to the table. You can enjoy Corpus Christi and the nocturnal processions of the Patronal Feast of San Cristóbal Mártir.

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Enjoy the summer heat and experience the Fair of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, which includes the sale of handicrafts, serenades, dances, and a gastronomic show.

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Let the summer weather invite you into waterfalls and beautiful landscapes.

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Get to explore Chiapas' most authentic side as the rainy season peaks, offering lush landscapes and unique cultural experiences, like the Feast of the Virgin of Mercy.

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Enjoy the weather as the rainy season reaches its end. Perfect for city exploration, discovering historical sites, and enjoying the beauty of nature.

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It is the end of the rainy season, and the weather finally invites you to go swimming or on a boat tour through Chiapas’ beautiful waterfalls. Plus, you have Day of the Death at the very beginning of this month.

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The Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe takes the spotlight as an invitation to enjoy the last cultural events of the year.

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When to visit Chiapas

You can enjoy Chiapas’ wonders all year round. However, the best time to visit this state is probably between November and February. During these winter months, the climate is more pleasant, and since it is outside the rainy season, it is also more suitable for swimming in the many waterfalls and rivers.The climate depends a lot on the area. Temperatures can range between 30ºC maximum and 17ºC minimum. San Cristóbal de las Casas and Lagunas de Montebello have higher altitudes, so they can be colder. On the other hand, the Lacandon Jungle is much more humid and hot.

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Safety in Chiapas

Before going on vacation to Mexico, most of the tourists ask the same question:  Is it safe to travel to Mexico? The answer is yes, you can visit most of the states without a problem, and Chiapas is no exception. This region thrives on tourism, so the locals will want you to have the best experience possible. But like any other place, there are some precautions you should take.

01. Stay tuned for safety updates
02. Choose authorized modes of transportation
03. Protect your belongings:
04. Identification documents:
05. Health first:

Where to Stay in Chiapas

Staying in San Cristóbal de las Casas, which is at the center of the state of Chiapas, is the general rule. From there, you can drive to various traveler sites and plan a day tour or a full-day experience in the surrounding wonders.

Depending on the number of days you want to spend in Chiapas, our travel experts will tell you the best places to stay. Let us be!

Chiapas Itineraries
examples

Discover all the astonishing places and fun things you can do in Chiapas. Check out these itineraries created by Rutopía travel agents to help you discover all Chiapas’ wonders:

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FAQs & Things to know about Chiapas

Start your adventure in Chiapas with all the insight you need to know to enjoy it in all its beauty. You can visit our blog to find more information about the wonderful locations of Chiapas. Here, we will give you all the details regarding currency, language, Visa and much more!

01. Which is the main airport in Chiapas?
02. What is the currency used in Chiapas?
03. Which languages are spoken in Chiapas?
04. Is a visa necessary to travel to Chiapas?
05. Which electricity sockets are used in Chiapas?

Meet our travel experts guides and agents

That made this possible

Karen Quintero
Karen
Central Mexico and Oaxaca Coast specialist, focusing on couples

A proud Mexican hailing from the small city of Tlaxcala. Over the past four years, she has been dedicated to exploring the diverse landscapes of Mexico and has developed a profound appreciation for the authentic Mexico she has come to adore. It's a Mexico brimming with culture, natural wonders, and warm-hearted people. What sets her apart is her commitment to traveling with a positive impact and forging meaningful connections. Karen is eager to share her wealth of experiences and knowledge to assist you in crafting an authentic journey through Mexico that reflects her passion and values.

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Andrea Gramai
Andrea
Riviera Maya expert, couples and family tours

Residing in Cancun, he has had the privilege of embarking on comprehensive tours of the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as exploring portions of Chiapas and Mexico City. With over fifteen years of global travel and work experience, his heart was captured by Mexico a few years ago. As a seasoned travel consultant, he excels in crafting custom itineraries for some of the world's most exclusive destinations, with a particular expertise in this fantastic country. Andrea is here to provide his expertise and support for travelers' needs.

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René Rodarte (Garuda)
Garuda
Expert in Chiapas, Oaxaca, Yucatan Peninsula and family tours

Mexican who holds a deep love for travel, values environmental awareness, and seeks to glean knowledge from diverse global cultures. He firmly endorses travel as a means of fostering positive personal growth and development. Recognizing that his homeland ranks among the world's top tourist destinations, he’s dedicated to ensuring that every visitor enjoys the most exceptional experience possible.

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Leo Mallet
Leo
Specialist in the Yucatan Peninsula, Morelia and Chiapas, expert in group trips

French-born living in Mexico who enjoys sharing his passion for this wonderful country with you through its various aspects: its archaeological temples, numerous museums, nature outings by the sea or in the jungle, the diversity of its cuisine, and the richness of the local communities with whom we are fortunate to work.

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Leslie Pérez
Leslie
Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas expert, caters for all types of travellers

She takes great pride in her Mexican heritage and possesses an unbridled passion for travel. With the privilege of having visited 25 different countries, her recent four-year focus has been on uncovering and revealing the concealed gems within her beloved Mexico. Her personal interests are deeply rooted in learning about the ancient history and culture of her homeland, serving as a way to connect with her heritage. Her ideal travel experiences encompass a harmonious blend of outdoor adventures, be it in the mountains or by the beach, coupled with the exploration of cities and towns rich in cultural treasures.

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Daniela Herrera
Daniela
Attends English and Italian-speaking travelers

Daniela has always felt a great fascination for exploring the world since she was a young. She has a strong passion for traveling, and for the past few years, she has been living in Mérida, a city that has allowed her to explore the wonderful Yucatan Peninsula with its natural and cultural marvels. As a travel specialist, Daniela is dedicated to meticulously planning completely personalized travel itineraries, enabling travelers to discover Mexico in an authentic way, ensuring unforgettable experiences.

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Lauren Nadot
Lauren
Central and South East Mexico expert. Luxury and group trips

French-born living in Mexico, with 12 years of experience in tourism, specializing in crafting off-the-beaten-path adventures in Mexico. With a deep passion for exploration and a profound love for the country. She takes travelers on a journey beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Her unique itineraries unveil the hidden gems of Mexico, showcasing its lesser-known archaeological wonders, secluded natural wonders, and vibrant local cultures.

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Pauline Nourtier
Pauline
Expert in the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas, luxury ecotourism and group trips

French-born living in Mexico, she’ll help you embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure, uncovering the treasures of Mexico that often go unnoticed by conventional travelers. Get ready to embrace the magic of Mexico in a whole new light, with a passionate travel specialist who knows how to make your journey truly unforgettable.

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Lisa Brissac
Lisa
Specialist in Central Mexico, Oaxaca Coast and Chiapas, ideal for young or older couples, honeymoons and ecotourism

A French-born but Mexican at heart, and she will be your local specialist for your trip. "Mucho gusto!" as they say here! Since living in Mexico, she has had the opportunity to explore magical villages, local customs, sandy beaches, and has fallen in love with its aromas and colors. What a joy to know that you have chosen to discover the diverse ancestral culture of this multifaceted country!

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Leslie Mercier
Leslie M
Attends French-speaking travelers

A French-born and an adoptive Mexican. She’ll be glad to introduce you to this fabulous country, Mexico, its beaches, its must-visit archaeological sites, its cuisine, and the various local communities with which she collaborates. Living in Playa del Carmen, she has had the opportunity to travel all around the Yucatan Peninsula and also to visit parts of Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Mexico City. She enjoys engaging with locals, getting lost in villages, and discovering the best restaurants!

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Diego Olivares
Diego
Expert in the Yucatan Peninsula and tours for groups of friends

Proudly Mexican and having immersed himself in the heart of Mexico's diverse regions, he curates experiences that allow you to venture off the tourist trail and discover the authentic essence of the country. From exploring ancient ruins tucked away in remote jungles to savoring the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine in local markets, his alternative routes promise a deeper, more meaningful connection to Mexico's beauty and heritage.

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