Waterfalls El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello in Chiapas

Exploring Waterfalls El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello: A day trip worth considering in Chiapas

If you’re eyeing a day out from San Cristóbal de las Casas, a tour that combines spectacular waterfalls with colorful lakes sounds pretty tempting. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve come across enough details and traveler reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really stands out about this experience are the breathtaking cascades at El Chiflón and the vivid, shimmering waters of the Lagunas de Montebello. Plus, the chance to visit Tziscao Lagoon and even cross foot into Guatemala adds an adventurous border element that can be surprisingly smooth if you’re prepared.

That said, a possible downside is the long duration — around 13 hours — which could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to spending so much time on the road or in busy tours. Also, lunch is only cash-based and provided at Lagunas de Montebello, so packing some snacks or extra cash might be a good idea.

This tour is a solid pick for anyone eager to see some of Chiapas’ most iconic natural sights in just one day. If you’re okay with a fairly full itinerary and enjoy scenic landscapes, you’ll probably find this trip rewarding.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: The visit to El Chiflón includes a walk along a 1 km path to see multiple waterfalls, with Velo de Novia standing out at 120 meters high.
• Vivid Lakes: The Lagunas de Montebello are famous for their brilliantly colored waters, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
• Border Crossing: You can walk across to a small town in Guatemala at Lake International—no passport needed, which is a neat little addition.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Entrance fees are included, and transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day more comfortable.
• Flexible for Most Travelers: The tour is generally suitable for most, but comfortable footwear and light clothing are recommended.
• Limited Food Options: Lunch is at Lagunas de Montebello and must be paid in cash, so plan accordingly.

The Waterfalls at El Chiflón: A Visual Feast

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the series of waterfalls at El Chiflón, formed by the San Vicente River. You will walk along a scenic 1 km trail that reveals several falls, including El Sispiro, Ala de Ángel, Arco Iris, Quinceañera, and the spectacular Velo de Novia, which drops a dramatic 120 meters.

We loved the way each waterfall offers a different perspective — some cascade gently, while others thunder down with impressive force. As one reviewer put it, “All the waterfalls can be seen walking a 1 km path,” which makes it an accessible but rewarding walk. The views at each stop are quite something, especially if you’re into photography or just want to soak in nature’s power.

The atmosphere at El Chiflón is peaceful, with the lush greenery framing the rushing water. It’s a place where your camera will get plenty of use, and you’ll probably want to linger around the Velo de Novia for a while. However, be prepared for some uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are a must.

Exploring Lagunas de Montebello: A Kaleidoscope of Colors

After the waterfalls, the tour takes you to the Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello, a highlight for many travelers due to the strikingly colored lakes. The park boasts a selection of lakes, but the focus is on Tziscao Lagoon and the international lake at the Guatemalan border, which allows you to walk across on foot into Guatemala—an experience that adds a bit of thrill without the hassle of official border formalities.

Expect to spend about three hours here, which might seem short but is sufficient to get a good feel for these stunning waters. Travelers have commented on the intense hues of the lakes, which range from emerald to turquoise, depending on the mineral content and sunlight. The small town at Tziscao Lagoon is charming enough for a quick walk and maybe some local snacks.

You’ll also have time for a provided lunch here, but it’s cash-only, so bringing some money is wise. The lakes are peaceful and perfect for some quick photos or just sitting back to take in the views. We’d say the highlight is the contrast of vivid lakes against the lush green surroundings, making it a photographer’s dream.

Crossing into Guatemala: A Unique Touch

One of the more interesting parts of this tour is the chance to cross on foot into a small Guatemalan town. No passport is needed, which keeps things simple, but it’s a great way to feel like you’re on an international mini-adventure. The experience might be quick, but touching down in a different country—even briefly—adds a special twist to your day.

Practicalities: What to Expect and Tips

With a cost of $44.69 per person, this tour offers good value given the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and the variety of sights. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a relief considering the 13-hour duration, especially during warmer months.

Most travelers find the tour manageable, with a maximum of 14 participants, ensuring it’s not too crowded. The tour is booked on average 17 days in advance, which is a good tip to secure your spot.

Keep in mind, the tour involves some walking and standing, so wearing comfortable footwear and light clothing is advisable. It’s also recommended to bring insect repellent, a swimsuit if you want to dip in the lakes, cash for extra expenses, and a camera.

While the long hours can be tiring, the experience of seeing such diverse landscapes makes it worthwhile. Weather can impact the day, so keeping an eye on the forecast is smart, as cancellations for bad weather are fully refundable.

Considering the Experience

Traveler reviews from similar tours highlight the stunning views and the well-organized nature of the trip. People mentioned that the waterfalls are particularly impressive, with one noting, “You can see the waterfalls of El Sispiro, Ala de Ángel, Arco Iris, Quinceañera and the main, Velo de Novia, 120 meters high.”

Others appreciated the flexibility of the itinerary, which allows for a balance of adventure and relaxation. One review shared, “All can be seen walking a 1 km path,” emphasizing the walkable and accessible aspect of the waterfalls.

Some found the timing at Lagunas de Montebello to be just right — enough for some photos and a quick exploration without feeling rushed. The border crossing, while brief, added a bit of a thrill and a sense of novelty to the trip.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a full day of nature and scenic beauty without any complicated logistics. If you enjoy waterfalls, lakes, and a touch of adventure (like crossing borders on foot), this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s also ideal for those who are okay with a long day on the move and appreciate the convenience of an organized trip with all logistics handled.

It might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed pace, given the duration and walking involved. But for anyone eager to see some of Chiapas’ most iconic natural sites in one trip, it’s an efficient and rewarding choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the long day more comfortable for everyone.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 hours, making it a full-day experience that covers multiple sights.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all entrance fees for El Chiflón and Lagunas de Montebello.

Can I visit Guatemala during this tour?
Yes, you can walk across to a small town in Guatemala at Lake International without needing a passport.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, light clothing, insect repellent, cash for lunch and personal expenses, and optional swimwear for lakes.

Is this tour suitable for most travelers?
Generally yes, with a maximum group size of 14, but it involves some walking and a full-day commitment.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, adventure, and a hint of border-crossing fun. The waterfalls at El Chiflón are truly mesmerizing, and the colorful lakes at Montebello will leave you with plenty of memorable photos. The convenience of transportation and all-inclusive fees makes it accessible, but be prepared for a long day.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic landscapes, doesn’t mind a packed schedule, and wants a taste of Chiapas’ natural highlights, this trip could very well be worth your time. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash, and an open mind for a day full of captivating views and gentle adventure.