San Cristobal de Las Casas: Time Arch 2-Day Expedition

Thinking about adding a bit of adventure to your trip in Chiapas? This 2-day tour focusing on the Time Arch promises an exhilarating experience for those eager to combine natural beauty with a touch of adrenaline. It’s a trip that definitely stands out for its physical activity and immersion into the wild landscapes of Selva el Ocote.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances adventure with the chance to connect closely with nature—rappelling down the world’s largest natural stone arch sounds quite unforgettable. Plus, the inclusion of camping and recreational activities like swimming makes the whole experience feel well-rounded. But, at the same time, it’s not for everyone; it involves some physical effort, and the rugged conditions might be a challenge if you’re not used to outdoor adventures.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with outdoor activities, don’t mind camping, and are looking for a bit of a thrill in their trip. If you’re after a relaxing experience or traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. But if you love a good mix of physical activity and nature exploration, it could be a highlight of your Chiapas visit.

Key Points

• Adventure focus with rappelling and hiking into some of Chiapas’ most impressive natural formations.
• Includes camping equipment and guidance, making it suitable for those new to outdoor overnight stays.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.
• Transportation and entrance fees are included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs on the day.
• Not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.
• Flexible booking options offer free cancellation and pay-later reservations for peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This 2-Day Expedition

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this tour both appealing and a bit demanding. It’s designed for those who are ready for a physical challenge but also want to experience one of the most unique natural wonders in Mexico.

Day 1: From San Cristobal to the Heart of Selva el Ocote

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel—just a heads up that the guide will arrive about 15 to 25 minutes after the scheduled time, so a little patience might be needed. The first stop is in Cintalapa, where breakfast is on you, giving a chance to gear up for the day ahead.

From there, it’s a scenic drive to General Lázaro Cárdenas, a small community that acts as a gateway into the dense, vibrant jungle of Selva el Ocote. This part of the journey is quite promising—you’re leaving behind the urban and cultural charm of San Cristobal for lush greenery and anticipation.

The main event of the day is the rappelling down the Time Arch, which the tour describes as the world’s largest natural stone arch. You’ll spend about 3 hours here, working with experienced guides who provide all the necessary rappelling equipment and safety gear. The descent is the highlight—imagine standing at the top, looking down at the vast forest below, then carefully making your way down this enormous natural structure. This part will test your nerves but also reward you with an incredible sense of achievement.

Afterward, you’ll set up your campsite among nature. The tents provided are straightforward, and camping is part of the experience. Once settled, there’s time for recreational activities like swimming in the nearby waters or practicing photography—both perfect ways to unwind and soak in the surroundings.

Day 2: From Camp to Return

The morning begins with breakfast—although not included, you’re encouraged to use the provided cooking equipment to prepare a simple meal. After packing up your tent and organizing your luggage, you’ll start the trek back up the arch, this time rappelling up as you leave the camp.

The 3-hour hike back through the jungle offers a different perspective—more relaxed but equally scenic. You’ll get to enjoy the sounds of the forest, observe local flora and fauna, and appreciate the lush environment before reaching the community once again.

The final stretch is a hike to the point where your transport is waiting. If you’re hungry, you can opt to stop in Cintalapa for lunch before heading back to San Cristobal de Las Casas.

What’s Included and What to Budget Extra

The tour prices are at $376 per person, which, considering what’s included, offers reasonable value. Transportation from your hotel, park entrance, guiding, insurance, rappelling equipment, first aid kit, camping tents, and cooking tools are all covered. This means you won’t be scrambling for extra gear or paying additional entrance fees, which can add up in outdoor adventures.

However, extra expenses like meals (since breakfast on days 1 and 2 aren’t included) or renting gear are your responsibility. It’s worth bringing some cash for snacks, water, or if you want to rent any equipment beforehand.

The size of the group—limited to 10 participants—also contributes to a more intimate experience, which many travelers appreciate. You’ll have more attention from guides, which can be reassuring in activities involving heights and outdoor navigation.

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Is it worth the price?

If you’re into outdoor adventures, rappelling, and camping, this tour offers a lot for the price. The guided support, safety gear, and transportation are all taken care of, which makes the experience accessible even if you’re not a seasoned adventurer. But keep in mind that this isn’t a luxury experience—it’s physical, dusty, and rustic, and you might find the accommodations basic.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Unique opportunity to descend the world’s largest natural stone arch
– Small group size enhances safety and interaction
– All necessary equipment and transportation included
– Chance to sleep under the stars and connect with nature
– Guides are experienced, ensuring safety and support

Cons:
– The physical activity involved might be intense for some
– Weather can impact the experience, especially if it’s rainy or humid
– Not suitable for children under 4 or those with mobility issues
– Breakfasts are not included, so you need to plan accordingly

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This expedition is ideal for travelers who are comfortable with moderate outdoor activities, want to experience a truly special natural wonder, and aren’t afraid of a little physical effort. It’s a good pick for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to do something different from the usual sightseeing.

If you’re traveling with very young kids or prefer luxury accommodations, this probably isn’t the right adventure. But if you crave activities that push your limits and give you a genuine outdoor experience, it’s worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation from your hotel, with a pickup window of 15 to 25 minutes after the scheduled time.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, change of clothes, food, water, insect repellent, a sleeping bag, and quick-dry clothing are recommended. If you lack any of these, you can request rentals when you book.

Can children participate?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old or babies under 1 year due to the physical nature of the activities and safety considerations.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility if your plans change.

Are meals included?
Breakfast on both days is not included, so plan to bring your own or buy supplies during the trip.

Is the tour in English?
Guides speak Spanish, so some basic understanding or a translator might be helpful if you don’t speak Spanish.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving a true adventure close to San Cristobal, the Time Arch 2-Day Expedition offers a memorable mix of adrenaline, nature, and camaraderie. It’s not a tour for the faint of heart, but if you’re ready to rappel down a massive natural stone formation and camp under the stars, this could be a standout experience.

You’ll leave with stories to tell and photos to prove you’ve tackled one of Chiapas’ most impressive natural landmarks. Perfect for those who want to combine outdoor activity with scenic beauty, this expedition delivers an authentic taste of Chiapas’ wild side.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, guided outdoor experience with all the logistics taken care of, this tour is worth considering. Just be sure you’re prepared for some physical effort—and that you’re genuinely excited about the idea of sleeping in the jungle.

You can check availability for your dates here: