2 Day Lacandon Jungle, the Lost City and Bonampak Ruins

Exploring the 2-Day Lacandon Jungle, the Lost City, and Bonampak Ruins Tour

If you’re thinking about a trip to Chiapas and want a glimpse into both ancient Mayan civilization and lush jungle life, this 2-day tour might catch your eye. It promises a combination of archaeological exploration, nature walks, and culture, all packaged into an accessible and reasonably priced experience.

What really stands out about this tour are two things: first, the chance to see the famous murals of Bonampak, which are like stepping into a Mayan comic strip, full of vivid scenes and historical details. Second, spending a night in an ecolodge within the community of Lacanja Chansayab offers a unique opportunity to connect more deeply with local culture and nature.

A potential concern for some travelers could be the tour’s physical demands—trekking through jungle terrain and visiting remote ruins may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or very young children. Also, the tour is designed for participants over 12 and under 70, so it’s best suited for active, adventure-minded travelers.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and authentic local life. If you’re after a more immersive, off-the-beaten-path adventure within Chiapas, it’s likely to fit well.

Key Points

• Ancient Ruins with Vivid Murals: Bonampak offers incredible murals that bring Mayan history alive.
• Close to Nature: Trekking through the Lacandon Jungle reveals waterfalls, streams, and endemic flora and fauna.
• Cultural Connection: Staying overnight in an ecolodge and living with a Lacandon Maya family adds a meaningful cultural layer.
• All-Inclusive Value: The price covers meals, entry fees, accommodation, and guided tours, making planning simpler.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants, fostering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Consider Physical Demands: The tour involves hiking, some uneven terrain, and outdoor activities, which might not suit everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Palenque, a common base for exploring the region. The first stop is Bonampak, a site famously discovered by non-Mayans in 1946 and renowned for its vibrant murals. During two hours here, you’ll get a detailed look at the artwork depicting Mayan life, rituals, and battles, giving you a vivid window into the past. As one traveler mentioned, “The murals are stunning and really give you a sense of what life was like then.”

From Bonampak, it’s a scenic drive into the Lacandon Jungle, a lush, green stretch declared a natural monument in 1992. The atmosphere here is one of peaceful wilderness, and the drive is often described as a chance to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Chiapas.

Once in the jungle, the adventure continues with a trek to the Lost City of Lacanjá. This isn’t a typical archaeological site but rather a remote and less-visited set of ruins that promise a sense of discovery. The trek takes about 2-3 hours, during which you’ll encounter streams, waterfalls, and endemic plants. One review highlighted, “Walking through the jungle felt like a true adventure, and the scenery was spectacular.”

In the evening, you’ll stay at an ecolodge in Lacanja Chansayab. The cabins are described as simple but comfortable, with private bathrooms. Living with a Lacandon Maya family during your stay offers a genuine cultural exchange—learning about their customs, daily life, and connection to the land. Many travelers mention this as a highlight, appreciating the chance to experience local hospitality.

The next morning, the trek continues toward Cenote Corcho Negro, a striking dark-water cenote. Around here, you’ll have time to relax, take photos, and observe the jungle’s flora. Following lunch, the tour winds down around 1 p.m., with a drive back to Palenque arriving around 5:30-6 p.m. It’s a full but rewarding day, and most reviews note that the pacing is manageable and organized.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with transportation in a comfortable vehicle suitable for rougher roads. The group size is capped at 12, which helps keep things intimate and flexible enough for questions or spontaneous stops. The bilingual guide (presumably Spanish, with English included on the first day) aims to make the experience accessible and informative.

Food and Accommodation

Meals are generally well-reviewed, with five included, including a buffet breakfast en route. You’ll enjoy local flavors and hearty options, fueling your adventure without worrying about additional costs. The ecolodge stay in Lacanja Chansayab is straightforward but offers the essentials—clean, private bathrooms, and a chance to unwind after days of exploration.

What’s Not Included and Additional Considerations

While the tour covers most essentials, extra meals outside the itinerary are not. Bring some cash for souvenirs, tips, or snacks. Also, you’ll want to pack comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, camera, biodegradable insect repellent, and cash. The tour warns that it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with back or heart issues, reflecting the physical nature of the activities.

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Authenticity and Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers frequently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, though some mention that the jungle trek can be physically demanding. One traveler said, “The combination of history and nature was perfect—I felt like I saw a side of Chiapas most travelers miss.” Others appreciated the cultural exchange, especially the chance to meet a Lacandon Maya family.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re an active traveler eager to see lesser-visited Mayan sites and enjoy immersive nature experiences, this tour offers substantial value. The combination of ancient ruins, jungle trekking, and cultural interaction makes it a compelling choice. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or family-friendly experience, you might find the physical demands and outdoor focus a bit challenging.

This experience truly suits those who crave a hands-on adventure—trekking through dense forests, exploring mysterious ruins, and connecting with local communities. It’s a journey that balances history and nature, giving you a more authentic taste of Chiapas beyond the typical tourist spots.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, as it involves physical activities like trekking and outdoor exploration, which can be demanding for younger kids.

What should I bring for this trip?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with a hat, change of clothes, sandals for the cenote, a camera, cash, and biodegradable insect repellent. Packing light and practical will help you enjoy the experience fully.

How long does the second day finish?
The second day wraps up around 1 p.m., giving you time to have lunch before your return to Palenque in the late afternoon.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, the guide is bilingual, with English included on the first day. Expect a friendly, knowledgeable narration throughout the tour.

What’s the lodging like?
You’ll stay overnight in a simple ecolodge with private bathrooms, within the community of Lacanja Chansayab—an authentic and cozy stay that enhances the cultural experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.

In Summary
This 2-day tour offers a rich blend of archaeology, nature, and cultural exchange in Chiapas. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who want to see beyond the usual tourist spots and experience the jungle and Mayan ruins in a more intimate way. While physically demanding, it rewards with authentic sights and meaningful interactions that leave a lasting impression. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour will give you a memorable glimpse into the heart of Chiapas.

You can check availability for your dates here: