If you’re planning to explore some of Chiapas’ most eye-catching natural wonders, this tour to Misol-Ha and Agua Azul could be just what you’re after. We’ve checked out the details and reviews of this experience, and it’s clear that it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a straightforward day trip without breaking the bank.
One thing we love about this tour is its value for money—at just $38 per person, it offers access to two incredible sights. Plus, the quality of the scenery at both waterfalls really delivers on the “wow” factor. On the flip side, a potential snag is the timing and organization, which some travelers found could be better managed, especially regarding the length of stays and road safety. This experience suits those who want a convenient, budget-friendly way to tick off some of Chiapas’ most beautiful waterfalls, especially if you’re okay with a packed schedule.
Key Points
- Affordable price point makes this tour accessible for many travelers.
- Beautiful scenic spots: Misol-Ha and Agua Azul are both stunning in their unique ways.
- Flexible cancellation policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Limited guided commentary: The driver isn’t a guide, so don’t expect detailed historical insights.
- Time management varies: Some reviews mention too short or too long stays.
- Road safety concerns: Some travelers noted irregular stops and safety issues on the way.
An Overview of What to Expect
This tour kicks off at 12:00 pm, with hotel pickup arranged by the provider. The timing means you’ll be traveling during midday, so pack some snacks and water—there’s not much included in the way of food or extras. The first major stop is the Misol-Ha waterfall, famous for its raw power and striking beauty.
You’ll have about 45 minutes to enjoy Misol-Ha, enough time to snap some photos and even walk behind the waterfall—an experience that many find exhilarating. If you’re interested, you can also explore the cave that the waterfall covers, which adds a fun sense of adventure to the visit.
After that, the tour continues to Agua Azul, where you’ll spend approximately two and a half hours. This is the highlight for most visitors. The waterfalls here are famous for their vibrant blue color, which makes for fantastic pictures. You can stroll along the walkway, take a dip in the water, or just soak in the sights and sounds of nature. Many reviews mention how beautiful and mesmerizing Agua Azul is, and the color of the waterfalls doesn’t disappoint.
The return trip departs around 5:30 pm, aiming to get you back to your hotel by 7:00 pm. This packed schedule means there’s limited flexibility, but if you’re eager to see these sights in one day, it works well.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For the price, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as tickets for both sites—a real plus since it saves you queuing. However, food isn’t included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to buy at Agua Azul. The tour also features skip-the-line ticketing, which helps save time.
Keep in mind, if you have mobility issues, this tour might not be suitable since walking around the waterfalls and the pathways can be uneven.
The Experience Itself
Many travelers appreciated the smooth logistics—the pickup was punctual, and the tour was straightforward. As Andrea from Italy said, “The excursion is basically a cheap and practical way to get to two beautiful locations near Palenque.” She also appreciated the timing, which allowed her to enjoy both sites without feeling rushed, although she did note that the return trip was a bit longer than expected.
On the other hand, some reviews pointed out a lack of guided information about the region. Noor from the Netherlands mentioned, “You don’t get any information about the area, but the driver is incredibly friendly,” highlighting that this isn’t a tour for those wanting historical or cultural insights.
The main downside seems to be time management. Alberto from Italy felt that 30 minutes at Misol-Ha wasn’t enough to really take in the waterfall, and he suggested a more balanced schedule. Similarly, Katie from the UK thought that too much time was spent at Agua Azul, and that a shorter stay at the second stop might be better.
Another aspect that came up was safety concerns. Some travelers noted road stops before Agua Azul where illegal charges were made, and issues with delays related to waiting for other buses or participants not returning to Palenque on time. These are factors to consider if you’re on a tight schedule.
Transportation and Group Size
Since the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation is generally hassle-free. The group sizes aren’t specified, but most guided tours like this tend to be small to medium, allowing for some personal space and easier navigation. The driver is friendly, but not a guide—so if you’re eager for in-depth commentary, you might need to do some research or ask questions yourself.
More Great Tours NearbyPricing and Value
At $38, this tour offers a good balance of affordability and experience. Entry to both sites is included, and skip-the-line tickets save you time. Considering the cost of transportation and entrance fees if you went solo, this tour is a cost-effective way to see both waterfalls without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets yourself.
However, some might feel that the time allocations could be better optimized, especially if you want more time to relax or explore thoroughly. For the budget-conscious, it’s definitely a sensible choice, but if you’re after a more in-depth or guided experience, you might want to look at other options.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for budget travelers who want a simple, organized way to visit two of Chiapas’ most scenic waterfalls. It suits those who don’t mind a full and busy schedule and aren’t looking for detailed historical explanations. If you’re traveling with friends or a group happy to share a day of sightseeing, this can be a very practical option.
It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a more personalized or guided experience with extensive commentary. Also, if you’re concerned about safety or prefer longer, more relaxed visits, you might find the schedule a bit too tight.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour doesn’t specify restrictions, but since it involves walking on uneven pathways and walking behind waterfalls, it might be better suited for older children or teens.
What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks (as food isn’t included), sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Is transportation comfortable?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but specific vehicle details aren’t provided. Expect a standard tour van or bus.
Are there any extra fees I should be aware of?
The tour price covers entrance tickets, but some reviews mention an extra “tax” of 40 pesos paid before entering Agua Azul, which isn’t included.
How long do we stay at each site?
About 45 minutes at Misol-Ha and 2.5 hours at Agua Azul, though some reviews suggest these times could feel a bit rushed or too long.
Can I swim at Agua Azul?
Yes, many travelers swim in the waterfalls, as the water is clear and inviting.
What about safety on the roads?
Some reviews mention safety concerns with illegal stops and delays, so be aware of this if you’re on a tight schedule or concerned about road safety.
Is there a guide explaining the sites?
No, the driver is not a guide and doesn’t provide detailed commentary. You’ll need to read up or ask questions if you want more info.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change.
From Palenque: Waterfalls Misol-ha y Agua Azul.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to tick off two stunning waterfalls near Palenque without spending a fortune, this tour offers a solid, no-frills option. It’s a practical choice for travelers who prioritize seeing the sights over detailed commentary or a leisurely pace. The beauty of Misol-Ha and Agua Azul is undeniable, and with some planning, this tour can give you a memorable day immersed in Chiapas’ natural wonders.
However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed experience or more insightful guidance, consider other options or plan a private trip. This tour is best suited for those who want an efficient, budget-friendly visit to some of Mexico’s most photogenic waterfalls. Be prepared for the busy schedule, and you’ll leave with plenty of incredible photos and stories to share.
Source: GetYourGuide
You can check availability for your dates here: