From San Cristobal: Day Trip to Montebello Lakes & Las Nubes

Planning a day trip from San Cristobal de las Casas to explore some of Chiapas’s most renowned natural sights? This day-long tour to Montebello Lakes and Las Nubes offers a good mix of scenery, gentle adventure, and a chance to see a different side of this lush region. It’s a popular choice for travelers craving a fuller outdoor experience without spending multiple days away from their base.

What makes this trip stand out? First, we really appreciate the variety of environments you get to see — from the waterfalls and viewpoints at Las Nubes to the colorful, tranquil lakes of Montebello. Second, the inclusion of hotel transfers makes logistics smoother, especially if you’re not keen on organizing transport on your own.

However, keep in mind that the tour is quite lengthy — about 16.5 hours in total — so it’s best suited for those with a good level of stamina and patience for long days. Also, some travelers have pointed out that food isn’t included, so planning meals is up to you. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic views, and don’t mind a full schedule, this trip could be a solid pick.

This experience suits travelers who want a deep dive into Chiapas’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially good if you’re comfortable spending long hours on a bus and are eager to see both waterfalls and lakes in one day.

Key Points

• Variety of scenery: View waterfalls, rivers, and lakes in one trip.
• Convenient transfers: Hotel pick-up and drop-off included.
• Active experience: Walking trails, crossing hanging bridges, optional swimming.
• All-inclusive fees: Entrance fees and transport covered.
• Long day: Expect a full 16.5 hours from start to finish.
• Weather considerations: Tour goes ahead rain or shine; good rain gear might be helpful.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s $158 price per person seems reasonable given the scope — transportation, entrance fees, and guided visits are all included. That said, the absence of meals and personal expenses means you’ll want to bring some cash for snacks, drinks, or local eats. The guide operates in Spanish, so brushing up on some basic Spanish or traveling with a bilingual companion might make the experience smoother.

The Journey Begins: San Cristobal to Las Nubes

Your day kicks off early in the morning with hotel pickup, so be ready about 15 minutes beforehand. The drive from San Cristobal to Las Nubes takes you into some beautiful countryside, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature. It’s a lengthy ride, but typically smooth, with scenic views along the way.

Las Nubes is the first major stop. Located on the banks of the Santo Domingo River, it’s an impressive natural spot with crystal-clear waterfalls and pools, surrounded by vibrant greenery. The highlight here is the walking trails that lead to various viewpoints, giving you different perspectives of the waterfalls and river below.

Walking trails are accessible, and you’ll get to appreciate the sounds and sights of this lush environment. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the waterfalls and pools looked so pristine — it felt like a hidden paradise.” You’ll also have the chance to cross a hanging bridge, which adds a fun element of adventure, especially if you’re comfortable with heights. Weather permitting, some visitors even take a swim in the pools, adding a refreshing touch to the day.

Exploring Las Nubes: Trails, Waterfalls, and Bridges

Walking along the trails at Las Nubes gives you the opportunity to slow down and enjoy nature’s details. The different viewpoints make for fantastic photo ops, capturing the majesty of the waterfalls and the vibrant greenery. Be prepared with comfortable shoes, since trails can vary in terrain, and weather can sometimes make paths slippery.

The hanging bridge crossing in front of the waterfalls is a highlight — it offers a burst of adrenaline and a unique vantage point. It’s worth noting that the decision to swim depends on weather conditions and your own comfort level, so if swimming’s on your list, check with your guide beforehand.

Next Stop: Montebello Lakes

After Las Nubes, the day continues to the Montebello Lakes, which many refer to as Mexico’s most beautiful lake area. The drive there takes you into the heart of the natural reserve, where a series of lakes in different shades of blue and green await. The scenery here is striking — pines, oaks, and jungle surround the lakes, creating a peaceful and colorful landscape.

Once you arrive, you’ll have some free time to admire the lakes and take photos of the varying hues. If the weather is clear, the different shades of the lakes are even more noticeable, giving you that postcard-perfect scene. Many visitors enjoy just soaking in the views or wandering around the lakes on foot.

You’ll also have the chance to enjoy local food at one of the nearby cottages operated by locals — a nice way to support the community and taste authentic flavors, though meals are not included in the tour price.

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Practical Tips for the Day

Given the full schedule, dress comfortably and be prepared for varying weather. Pack sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), a hat, sunglasses, swimwear if you plan to swim, a towel, and a change of clothes. It’s wise to bring cash for snacks or souvenirs, as these are not included.

Be aware that the tour operates regardless of weather, so waterproof gear or rain jackets might be wise. Also, because the guide speaks only Spanish, some familiarity with the language or a translation app could enhance your experience.

Long but Worth It?

Many travelers find the long duration worth it for the chance to see two spectacular natural sites in one day. The trip’s 16.5 hours include transportation, stops, and time at each location. Some reviews mention that the journey can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long days. However, the scenery and activities tend to justify the length for those eager to explore the region without multiple trips.

The Value of This Tour

At $158, the price includes everything listed: transportation, entrance fees, and a guided experience. Considering how much ground you cover and the quality of the sights, many feel it’s a fair deal. That said, keep in mind that food and personal expenses are extra, so you’ll want to budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s suitable for anyone comfortable with walking trails and outdoor environments, and it offers enough variety to keep most visitors engaged — waterfalls, lakes, hiking, and a bit of adrenaline with the hanging bridge.

If you’re traveling with kids, note that the tour is quite full and outdoors, so younger children might need extra attention. The long hours might also be challenging for some, but overall, the experience is flexible enough for outdoor enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from San Cristobal to Montebello Lakes and Las Nubes offers a well-rounded taste of Chiapas’s natural splendor. The combination of dramatic waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and lush scenery makes it a memorable outdoor escape. The logistics are handled for you, making it hassle-free, and the guided approach lends insight into what you’re seeing.

While it’s not perfect — the long hours, weather considerations, and extra costs for food might be downsides — many find it a worthwhile adventure. It suits those who want to pack a lot into a single day without sacrificing the beauty of Chiapas’s most iconic natural sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify, the outdoor nature and long duration might be demanding for very young kids. Older children comfortable with walking and outdoor activities could enjoy it, especially with parental supervision.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), swimwear and a towel if swimming, a change of clothes, and cash for any extra snacks or souvenirs.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there’s an opportunity to buy local cuisine at the Montebello Lakes area.

How long is the bus ride?
The entire trip lasts about 16.5 hours from pickup to return, so be prepared for a long day on the road.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, so pack rain gear if necessary. Some activities, like swimming, depend on weather conditions.

What is the guide’s language?
The guide speaks Spanish. If you’re not bilingual, consider bringing a translation app or some basic Spanish phrases.

This tour offers a solid slice of Chiapas’s most beautiful outdoor environments, perfect for those eager to explore beyond the city. Just pack well, be ready for a full day, and enjoy the stunning views that make this region so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: