Top 5: Places to Visit in Chiapas, Mexico

The southern state of Chiapas shares a long border with Guatemala, and boasts a strong indigenous culture. Here are five of the top places to visit when you’re in the area.

San Cristobal de las Casas

This amazing mountain town is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant indigenous culture. It’s a popular spot for those looking to escape the heat of the lowlands and enjoy some of the wide variety of restaurants in town.

Palenque

Of the five known Maya sites in Chiapas, Palenque is the biggest. It is also the most popular with visitors, who come to the humid jungle to see the large temples. While some have been fully excavated, experts believe 90 percent of the structures of the ancient city are still buried underground.

Agua Azul

These cascading waterfalls sit against a backdrop of verdant jungle in a dramatic scene that will take your breath away. It’s well worth the journey to get here, but be careful when swimming as currents can be dangerous.

Yaxchilan

This ancient Mayan city is only accessible via a boat trip along the Usumacinta River, which marks the border between Mexico and Guatemala. It seems a bit out of the way, but you’re guaranteed to feel like Indiana Jones as you speed along the river to explore ancient temples.

El Chiflon

This spectacular waterfall is around 120 meters high and accessible from La Trinitaria. If you want to see rivers, jungle and waterfalls, this is your spot.