If you’re traveling around Chiapas and looking for a full day of nature’s beauty, this tour from San Cristobal offers a good mix of waterfalls and lakes. It’s a popular option for those wanting to see some of the region’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. We’ve looked into it thoroughly, and here’s what you should know.
Two things we really like about this experience are the visual awe of the waterfalls and lakes and the chance to cross lakes on a traditional wooden raft, which adds a little adventure to the day. However, a common concern is the long hours spent in transit—some find the drive uncomfortable or feel they don’t get enough time at each stop. This tour tends to suit travelers who don’t mind a full day of touring and are keen to see diverse landscapes in one go.
Key Points
- Strong highlights include the stunning waterfalls and colorful lakes that make for incredible photos.
- The tour is quite full and involves a lot of driving, so patience and comfort with long hours are essential.
- Guides can make a difference, with many guests praising knowledgeable or accommodating guides.
- Quality of time at each location varies, especially at El Chiflon, where reviews mention limited hours.
- The price offers decent value, considering transportation, park entry fees, and activities included.
- Not ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed pace or more time at each sight.
What’s Included and What to Expect
This full-day tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in San Cristobal, setting the tone for a busy day ahead. It’s operated by EcoExperiencias México and is geared towards small groups, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. The cost is $99 per person, a fair price when you consider transportation, park entries, and activities.
The day typically starts early, with a drive toward El Chiflon Waterfalls, located near the colonial city of Comitan. Expect roughly an hour’s drive before arriving at the waterfalls, where the real hiking begins. You’ll walk about 1 mile (1.5 km) through lush rainforest to reach the multi-staged cascades. The walk isn’t overly strenuous but does involve some uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must.
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The Waterfalls: Angel’s Wings and Turquoise Waters
The main attraction here is the “angel’s wings” formation, created by two waterfalls that appear to stretch from the mountain like angel wings. The water is a vivid turquoise, thanks to mineral content, and provides a beautiful backdrop for photos. Many reviews highlight how stunning the scenery is, with some guests wishing they had more time to explore or take photos.
Once at the top or near the falls, you can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools, which many find very satisfying after the walk. However, some reviewers, like a guest from Denmark, mention feeling rushed, saying, “Needed waaayyy more time at El Chiflon. We were only given like 1.5 hours there.”
Transition to Montebello Lakes
After the waterfalls, the journey continues to Montebello Lakes National Park, about a 2-hour drive away. The lakes are what make this tour special—their varied colors due to mineral differences create a kaleidoscope of hues. You’ll visit around 5 to 7 lakes, each offering different shades of blue, green, purple, or red.
The lakes are surrounded by pine forests, giving a peaceful, scenic setting. Here, you get the chance to cross one of the lakes on a traditional wooden raft (cayuco)—a simple but charming experience that many find memorable. On the raft, you might even spot some orchids, adding a touch of natural wonder to your trip.
What You’ll Do at the Lakes
The main activity at Montebello is to enjoy the views and take photos, but there’s also an opportunity to swim in the lakes, which several guests appreciated. Be aware that, as some reviews mention, going on the raft costs an additional 200 pesos per person, which isn’t included in the base price. Also, the time at each lake can be limited—some reviewers feel that more time would allow for a more relaxed experience.
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Notes
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, with some reviews pointing out the long hours in a minibus being uncomfortable. One traveler from Italy praised their guide, Carlos, saying he was “a fantastic guide, adding value and making sure we could visit extra spots like the highest part of the falls,” which highlights how guides can influence your experience.
At the end of the day, you’ll be driven back to San Cristobal for drop-off, either at your hotel or at the Zocalo. The tour is limited to 14 participants, which keeps it intimate but also means spots can fill up quickly.
The Experience in Practice: Realities and Tips
The Comfort Factor
Expect a lot of time in a minibus, which can become uncomfortable after several hours. If you’re prone to car sickness or prefer a more leisurely pace, this might be a challenge. The driver can also be a point of contention, with some reviews mentioning less-than-ideal interactions or unexpected detours, like crossing into Guatemala without prior notice.
The Time at Each Stop
Guests generally agree that the time spent at El Chiflon waterfalls is short, often only around 1.5 hours. Given how much there is to see and do, many say you’d want at least 3–4 hours to really appreciate the waterfalls and swim. The lakes, although picturesque, often seem to be rushed as well, with some reviews suggesting more time is needed to fully enjoy the scenery and activities like the raft crossing.
The Guide and Group Dynamics
Many travelers praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One review commended Carlos for accommodating requests and making extra efforts to visit spots not included in the standard itinerary. On the other hand, some travelers felt the guide was overly intrusive or that the group felt hurried, which can diminish the relaxed enjoyment of such a natural setting.
Cost and Value
At $99, this tour offers good value considering transportation, park entry fees, and activities like the raft ride. However, be prepared for optional costs—like the raft fee—and additional expenses for souvenirs or extra snacks. A few reviews pointed out that more time at each location would improve the experience, so if you’re paying a premium for a more relaxed day, this tour might feel a bit rushed.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who are comfortable with long drives and want to see a variety of natural sights in one day. It’s perfect if you enjoy striking scenery and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re seeking a tour with plenty of time to relax or explore leisurely, you might find this a bit fast-paced. It’s also suited for those who appreciate guided experiences and are okay with some extra costs for activities like the lake crossing.
If you’re traveling with a curious, active mindset and want to tick off two of Chiapas’ most beautiful natural sites, this tour can be a good choice. Just be prepared for limited time at each stop and the possibility of a crowded bus ride.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from San Cristobal is included, which is convenient and saves you planning time.
How long does the entire tour last?
Expect about 12 hours from pickup to drop-off, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, along with sun protection like sunglasses, a cap, and sunscreen. Extra cash is handy for optional activities and souvenirs.
Can I swim in the lakes or waterfalls?
Yes, you can enjoy a swim at El Chiflon and some of the lakes, but be aware that swimming at the lakes may be extra, and some reviews mention limited time to do so.
Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour involves some walking and long hours in transit, so check if your children are comfortable with that. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly.
Are there any language considerations?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, but some reviews note that if you don’t speak much Spanish, confirm that the guide can accommodate your language needs.
San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Day Tour
Final Thoughts
All in all, the San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Lakes Tour provides a solid snapshot of Chiapas’ natural beauty, especially for those who enjoy scenic drives, waterfalls, and colorful lakes. It’s priced reasonably for a full-day adventure, and the guided aspect is a plus for those unfamiliar with the area.
That said, if you value a relaxed pace or more time at each site, consider whether this tour aligns with your travel style. The long hours, limited time at each attraction, and some mixed reviews about comfort and timing are important to keep in mind. Still, for a packed day with diverse sights and decent value, it can be a rewarding experience—just go with some flexibility and a sense of adventure.
Happy exploring!
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