Montebello lakes & Chiflon Waterfalls from San Cristobal

If you’re planning a trip to Chiapas and want a day packed with some of the most eye-catching natural sights, this tour to Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfalls might just be worth considering. We’ve come across this experience, and it seems to strike a nice balance between sightseeing, comfort, and affordability, especially if you’re short on time but want to get a good dose of nature.

What really caught our eye is how this tour combines the serenity of Montebello’s interconnected lakes with the powerful cascades of El Chiflon waterfalls. Two distinctly different experiences in one day—sounds perfect for those who love both tranquil landscapes and dramatic scenery. Another plus? The price is quite reasonable at $47 per person, and with a solid 5-star rating, it certainly looks like a favorite among travelers.

On the flip side, it’s a long day—about 13 hours in total—so if you’re not used to early mornings or lengthy trips, it might feel a bit tiring. Also, some activities like zip lining or rafting aren’t included, so if you’re craving those thrills, you’ll need to plan additional adventures. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Chiapas’ natural beauty without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

If you’re looking for an experience that offers stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and good value, this trip seems like a practical choice. Now, let’s break down what you can expect, step by step.

Key Points

• Enjoy a journey through 52 interconnected lakes at Montebello, offering peaceful walks and incredible vistas.
• Witness the grandeur of El Chiflon waterfalls, culminating in the towering “Velo de Novia” at over 120 meters high.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within San Cristobal, making transportation hassle-free.
• A full-day experience, approximately 13 hours, ideal for those wanting a comprehensive Chiapas adventure.
• Cost-effective, with a focus on natural beauty rather than added activities like zip lining or rafting.
• Good choice for travelers wanting to see diverse landscapes in just one trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from your accommodation in San Cristobal de las Casas. This is a real plus since it saves you the hassle of arranging transportation, especially if you’re staying centrally. The pickup times will depend on your hotel, and you’ll get a message with your schedule, which adds to the smoothness of the start.

First Stop: The Enchanting Montebello Lakes

After a roughly 2.5-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Montebello Lakes. This is where the tour shines for nature lovers. The 52 lakes in this park are interconnected, creating a network of shimmering waters surrounded by lush greenery. We loved the way the landscape transitions from tranquil lagoons to more open vistas, perfect for leisurely walks or just taking in the scenery.

The lakes are described as pristine and unspoiled, which means you’ll probably feel like you’re stepping into a postcard. The landscape invites quiet reflection, and if the weather cooperates, you’ll be able to enjoy some time swimming or just soaking in the brightness of the water. Some reviews have mentioned that the views are breathtaking, and exploring the area on foot gives you plenty of chances to capture great photos.

Next Stop: El Chiflon Waterfalls

After your lakes adventure, a 1.5-hour drive will take you to the stunning El Chiflon waterfalls. This is where you’ll witness powerful cascades, with the main waterfalls creating a symphony of rushing water. The highlight is the “Velo de Novia”, a waterfall dropping over 120 meters, which makes for an awe-inspiring sight.

The trail to the waterfalls is described as a moderate walk, and you’ll have time to enjoy the different waterfalls along the way. The sound of water crashing down is almost hypnotic. As one traveler put it, the views are “mesmerizing”, and the sight of the tallest fall is a real “wow moment.”

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Final Stop: More Natural Beauty & Free Time

From El Chiflon, you’ll head back to Lagos de Montebello for around 2.5 hours. Here, you get time to relax, walk around the lagoons, take photos, and even swim if you want. The tranquil waters and lush surroundings make it a fitting end to the day’s adventures.

Return Journey

The drive back to San Cristobal takes roughly 3 hours, and the tour concludes with drop-offs at your hotel or designated locations in town. Given the length of the day, be prepared for a full, busy schedule but also for the chance to see some of Chiapas’ most beautiful landscapes in one go.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The main highlights—hotel pickup, comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned van, and a driver who speaks Spanish—are included, making logistics easier. This is especially helpful if you prefer not to navigate public transport or worry about coordinating multiple sites.

However, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing snacks or buying lunch along the way is advisable. Also, if you’re keen on activities like zip lining or rafting, those will be extra. The tour focuses mainly on sightseeing and walking, so it’s suited to those who want to enjoy the scenery without additional adventure activities.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

• Duration: About 13 hours, so set your expectations for a long but rewarding day.
• Cost: At $47, it offers good value considering the sights covered.
• Language: The driver is Spanish-speaking, so some basic understanding of Spanish or a guide might help if you’re not bilingual.
• What to bring: Biodegradable sunscreen and comfortable clothes are recommended—expect to be outdoors most of the day.
• Availability: Check the schedule ahead of time—availability can vary depending on the day, and spots might fill up quickly.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One review mentions how “the guides are very knowledgeable,” helping visitors understand the significance of each stop. Others found the views “breathtaking,” especially at the waterfalls. Notably, travelers appreciate the well-organized logistics and the ease of being picked up from their hotel.

A few noted that the day can be quite long, but most agreed that the scenery is worth every minute. Some mentioned wishing there was more time at each stop, but given the full schedule, it’s understandable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic day trip that highlights the best of Chiapas’ lakes and waterfalls without breaking the bank, this tour makes for a compelling choice. It’s particularly suitable if you prefer guided tours that take care of transportation and logistics—allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the scenery.

For those who enjoy easy walks, stunning vistas, and nature-focused landscapes, this trip hits all the right notes. Keep in mind, it’s a long day, so it’s best suited for travelers prepared for a full schedule and comfortable with spending much of the day outdoors.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for more adventure activities like zip lining or rafting, you’ll need to plan those separately. And if you’re not a fan of long bus rides, the trip might feel a bit tiring.

This tour feels like a solid, well-rounded option to see some of Chiapas’ most iconic natural wonders in one day, especially if you value informative guides and scenic views over adrenaline rushes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the pickup from my hotel included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you’re staying at a hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas. You’ll receive a message with your specific pickup time.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 13 hours, making it a full-day outing.

What activities are included?
The tour mainly involves sightseeing, walking, and enjoying the natural scenery. Activities like zip lining or rafting are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the itinerary involves walking and outdoor exploration that could be suitable for older children, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch during the stops.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the transportation, guiding, and multiple scenic stops, many travelers find the $47 fee reasonable for a full-day experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility.

Are there any additional costs?
Activities like zip lining or rafting cost extra and are not part of this tour package.

If you’re eager to see some of Chiapas’ most beautiful natural sites without fuss, this tour offers a straightforward, scenic, and budget-friendly way to do it. Just be ready for a long day, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of stunning photos and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: