Waterfalls Agua Azul and Misol-ha

If you’re planning a trip to Palenque and considering a visit to the waterfalls of Agua Azul and Misol-ha, you’re probably wondering if this tour offers good value and a genuinely memorable experience. This combination tour is quite common because it hits two of Chiapas’s most iconic natural sights, and it’s a good choice if you want to maximize your time and see some stunning scenery without breaking the bank.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is—transport is included, making it straightforward to visit two beautiful waterfalls without the hassle of organizing your own logistics. Plus, the scenery at both spots is spectacular, especially if you love lush green surroundings and mesmerizing water features. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour is essentially just transportation and entry tickets; there’s no guide providing detailed info, which might feel a bit bare if you’re craving more context about the sites.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to see these natural wonders with minimal fuss. If you’re okay with a more relaxed, “see and go” style outing and aren’t expecting deep historical insights or guided commentary, this could be a good fit. Families and solo travelers alike have found it a convenient way to enjoy Chiapas’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $47 per person, it offers good value for the two sites included.
• Flexible Transport: The tour is mainly about transportation and entry; no guide, which keeps it simple and budget-friendly.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Both waterfalls showcase the incredible landscape of Chiapas, with vibrant water and lush jungle surroundings.
• Time Management: You’ll have enough time at each site to enjoy and take photos, but not extensive leisure or swimming time.
• Language Barriers: Some reviews mention no English spoken on the trip, so basic Spanish may help.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, so it feels relatively intimate but still social.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is designed to be straightforward. You book, pay $47, and they handle the transport from Palenque, including entrance tickets. The meeting point usually starts around noon, with a pickup service, and the day lasts roughly 7 hours. It’s a mobile ticket offering ease of access, especially if you want to keep plans flexible.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Cascadas de Agua Azul

The first stop is Agua Azul, which truly lives up to its reputation. The water here is a vivid blue, thanks to the salts of carbonates dissolved in the river. We loved the way the sunlight hits the water, creating shimmering reflections, and the lush vegetation that surrounds the falls adds to the tropical vibe. Most travelers spend around 3 hours here, which is enough time to walk along the river, snap photos, and soak in the scenery.

One point worth mentioning, based on reviews, is that the water’s color can vary depending on the season. During some times of the year, the water might look murkier—not as picture-perfect as the photos—so don’t expect that intense blue all year round. Still, the natural beauty remains impressive.

Stop 2: Cascadas de Misol-Ha

The second stop is Misol-Ha, a 30-meter-high waterfall formed from a river precipitating down a calcareous cliff. It’s an impressive sight, especially if you like waterfalls that create a large pool at the bottom. The area around Misol-Ha is rich with towering trees like mahogany and chicozapotes, giving it a dense, jungle feel.

Here, you’ll get about 45 minutes, which is enough time to enjoy the view and, with caution, even dip into the pool—though swimming isn’t always guaranteed, especially if the water looks murky, as some reviews noted. It’s a calming spot, perfect for some quick photos and a little break from the heat.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviewers highlight how breathtaking Agua Azul and Misol-Ha are, calling them “natural wonders” worth visiting. One person described Agua Azul as a “joyful natural display,” while others appreciated the ample time given to enjoy the sights. However, some travelers noted that no guides are included, so you’ll have to explore on your own or rely on your phone for info.

One traveler mentioned, “The waterfalls are amazing and such natural beauty. however, they are not that colour at the moment. It is murky because of the time of year it is and no one was swimming in it because of this.” This is important to keep in mind—seasonality can affect the water’s appearance.

Transportation and Group Experience

The trip is usually done in a small bus or minivan, with pickup near your hotel or accommodation. The driver, as some reviews mention, doesn’t speak much English, so some basic Spanish skills could enhance your experience. The driver’s main role is to get you there safely and on time; they don’t provide guided commentary, which some may find a plus or a minus depending on your preferences.

Travelers have expressed that the drive itself offers nice views of the Chiapas countryside—a scenic journey that adds to the overall experience. Some reviews mentioned that the driver drove quickly on curvy roads, so if you’re sensitive to fast driving, keep that in mind.

Timing and Duration

You’ll start around noon and spend about 3 hours at Agua Azul and 45 minutes at Misol-Ha, leaving some buffer time for transit and breaks. The total trip lasts about 7 hours, which is reasonable for a day out. Keep in mind that your experience is mainly about visiting the sites, with minimal guided info, so if you’re looking for detailed historical or ecological explanations, you might need to do some prep ahead.

Cost and Value

At $47 per person, including entrance fees, this tour is quite affordable. The value lies mainly in convenience rather than guided insights—if you’re comfortable exploring independently, this offers a cost-effective way to see two spectacular waterfalls without hassle. Remember, there’s no guide included, so if you want in-depth explanations or a more curated experience, you might want to look elsewhere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values simple, no-fuss transportation and just wants to see the natural beauty of Chiapas’s waterfalls, this tour can be a good pick. It’s especially suitable if you’re on a budget, don’t mind exploring on your own at each site, and want to spend most of your time soaking in the views rather than listening to guided commentary.

This tour might not be ideal if you’re seeking deep ecological or historical insights, or if you prefer a guided experience with detailed explanations about the waterfalls and surrounding flora. Plus, those who are sensitive to fast driving or have mobility issues might want to consider the road conditions and pace.

Final Thoughts

For a straightforward, affordable glimpse of two of Chiapas’s most iconic waterfalls, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a balance of stunning scenery, easy logistics, and good value, especially if you’re comfortable exploring independently once at each site. The natural beauty of Agua Azul and Misol-Ha truly remain highlights, and most travelers leave with plenty of photos and memories.

If you’re not expecting a guided tour with detailed commentary and instead prefer to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, this could be just the ticket. Just keep in mind that water clarity and activity options like swimming depend on the season, so don’t rely on perfect conditions year-round.

This tour suits travelers who prioritize cost, convenience, and scenic views over guided storytelling or in-depth ecological info. It’s a reliable option for those looking to see affordable, beautiful waterfalls in Chiapas without complicated planning.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the price covers pickup, transport, and entrance tickets to both waterfalls.

Can I swim at Agua Azul or Misol-Ha?
Swimming is possible at Misol-Ha in the large pool, but not always recommended if the water is murky or if safety concerns are present. At Agua Azul, swimming isn’t typically included.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Most reviews suggest no English guide is included, so knowing some basic Spanish can help, especially for communicating with the driver.

How long do I spend at each site?
You get about 3 hours at Agua Azul and 45 minutes at Misol-Ha, enough for photos and some exploration.

What’s the total duration of the tour?
Approximately 7 hours, starting around noon and returning in the evening.

Is it a guided tour?
No, it’s mainly transportation and entrance tickets; you explore independently at each site.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It can be, but keep in mind the walkability and weather conditions. No specific family amenities are mentioned.

What’s the best time of year to visit?
Seasonality affects water color and flow, so consider visiting during drier months for clearer water.

How many people are in a group?
Limited to 20 travelers, so it feels relatively small and manageable.

What should I bring?
Bring water, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a towel if you plan to swim or get wet.

Thinking about seeing these waterfalls? This tour offers a practical, budget-friendly way to enjoy some of Chiapas’s most beautiful natural sights with minimal fuss. Just go with the right expectations, and you’ll likely come away with some fantastic photos and memories.