A Quick Overview of the 4 Incredible Chiapas Pueblos Magicos
The underrated State of Chiapas in Mexico is home to four very diverse and special pueblos magicos. All of the Chiapas pueblos magicos showcase the still very visible cultural connections to the Maya culture.
Chiapas state is blessed with beautiful mountains, dense jungles, picturesque lakes, and hidden gems. The four pueblos magicos in Chiapas range from colonial cities that allow access to these natural landscapes. The Chiapas pueblos magicos boast unique cuisines, bustling plazas, museums, and archaeological sites.
All four of the pueblos magicos in Chiapas are definitely worth visiting!
Here’s a brief overview of the four Chiapas pueblos magicos found in the southern state of Chiapas Mexico.
Table of Contents
- What is a Mexico Pueblo Magico?
- The Four Official Chiapas Pueblos Magicos
- More Unofficial Places in Chiapas That Are Magic
- Overview | Four Chiapas Pueblos Magicos
What is a Mexico Pueblo Magico?
Pueblo Magico translates to magic town and is a program designed by the Mexican government to encourage local and sustainable tourism in each village. The program is aimed at helping maintain, regenerate, and preserve ancestral traditions.
Towns that are considered for the status of a pueblo magico have unique architecture, deep rooted culture and folklore, have significant historical importance, and most oftentimes showcase natural beauty.
The Pueblo Magico program was initiated in 2001 with only four listed towns registered. Today, there are 132 pueblos magicos in Mexico, each with their own charm and uniqueness.
☛ Psst… Find out more about the six beautiful Oaxaca Pueblos Magicos
There are certain guidelines to make the cut to be recognized as an official Pueblo Magico in Mexico. Villages must have a population of 5,000 people and be well connected to a central city hub.
For a majority of the Chiapas pueblos magicos, this would be San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque.
There are two Chiapas airports, the main airport being the Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport. This airport is about an hour and 15 minutes drive to San Cristobal de las Casas.
In Palenque, find a small, yet efficient domestic airport.
⁉️ Did you know that Mexico has inspired other countries to create pueblos magicos programs? Colombia has Pueblos Patrimonio that focuses on rich heritage villages. Nearby Guatemala has Pueblos Pintorescos, which showcases picturesque towns. Ecuador has a very new pueblo magico program that was started in 2019 and boasts charming Ecuadorian villages like Saraguro and Alausí.
The Four Official Chiapas Pueblos Magicos
There are four official Chiapas pueblos magicos.
4 Government Recognized Chiapas Pueblos Magicos
✔ Palenque
1 | San Cristobal de las Casas Mexico
San Cristobal de las Casas is one of the most beloved Chiapas pueblos magicos.
San Cristobal is nestled picturesquely in the mountains and is adorned with charming cobblestone streets, bustling markets, lively plazas, distinct neighborhoods, and trendy coffeeshops. This enchanting city is a highlight on any trip to Mexico.
Things to Do in San Cristobal de las Casas
There are a wide range of San Cristobal de las Casas attractions to see. Wander through the modern museums, visit the many tranquil gardens, or spend quality time at the beautiful artisan markets.
San Cristobal de las Casas has two beautiful pedestrian streets, Real de Guadalupe and Miguel Hidalgo that are a delight to stroll.
San Cristobal de las Casas has well preserved colonial buildings, like the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. However, this magic town still maintains deep ties to its Indigenous Tzotzil roots. The ancient Maya culture can be appreciated in the marketplaces and in the nearby villages.
San Cristobal has delicious eateries, many that boast welcoming outdoor seating. It’s possible to sit in a modern cafe or eat traditional food at a local modest eatery. Chiapas is the leading coffee producer in Mexico, so there are endless coffeeshops in San Cristobal de las Casas.
One of the best things to do in San Cristobal de las Casas is to take at least one diverse day trip from the city, to the nearby villages and Eco-parks, like El Arcotete.
Plan on spending at least three days casually exploring this top rated Chiapas pueblo magicos.
➜ Browse the best places to stay in San Cristobal de las Casas
How to Get to San Cristobal de las Casas Mexico
Chiapas is quite isolated from the rest of Mexico, which is why the state maintains much of its charm. Many travelers will arrive to San Cristobal de las Casas from the nearby state of Oaxaca. Oaxaca is blessed with spectacular food experiences, archaeological sites, markets, beautiful Oaxaca beach towns, and so much more.
The bus company ADO offers a convenient night bus from Oaxaca City to the capital city of Chiapas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez. After a quick layover, the bus continues into San Cristobal de las Casas.
🚌 Oaxaca to San Cristobal de las Casas Bus Logistics | Bus Company: ADO | Catch the buses in Oaxaca here: 5 de Mayo 1016, Barrio de Jalatlaco | Average Online Ticket Price: $800 pesos ($44 USD) | Duration: 12 hours | Current departure times: 19:00, 20:30, 21:00, 22:30 | Purchase online tickets here
Those who want to avoid the long bus ride can look into flying into the Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport.
2 | Chiapa de Corzo Mexico
Chiapa de Corzo is a pueblo magico that is less than an hour to the west of San Cristobal de las Casas. The small town boasts an open and beautiful plaza with a thousand year old Kapok tree. The main focal point is the impressive stone La Pila Fountain.
The Plaza de Armas in Chiapa de Corzo has a nice clock tower and is surrounded by artisan shops. Swing through the bustling public market, or visit the Ex-convento de Santo Domingo, which was constructed in 1554 on top of a sacred pre-Columbian pyramid.
Take a stroll all the way down the street of 5 de Febrero that follows along the Grijalva River. The lively street is filled with local artisans selling typical products from the region. Look for the beautiful traditional black dresses lined with colorful flowers, available to purchase for women, children, and dolls alike.
Chiapa de Corzo is home to the colonial ruins of Templo de San Sebastian. Outside of town a bit, find the Archaeological Site of Chiapa de Corzo which was built by the Zoque civilization.
Sumidero Canyon
One of the biggest draws to Chiapa de Corzo is the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon. Visitors can hop on a speedboat to get up close and personal to the stunning limestone canyon.
The Sumidero Canyon not only has incredible views, but unique waterfalls and chances to spot flora and fauna that call this river home. Here it’s possible to see crocodiles floating in the river and spider monkeys swinging from the trees.
Cañón del Sumidero Logistics | Average Sumidero Canyon Tour Price: $350 pesos ($19 USD) | Boat Fare Without a Tour: $270 pesos ($15) | Standard tours include round trip transportation to the canyon and the option to add on the viewpoints
After touring the Cañón del Sumidero, grab lunch at one of many riverside restaurants, food stalls, or cafes. Try the typical dish of Cochinita Pibil, a popular marinated pork dish.
How to Get to Chiapa de Corzo Mexico
It is possible to reach Chiapa de Corzo via public transportation; however, if planning on visiting the Sumidero Canyon, it is cheaper and easier to reach with an organized tour from San Cristobal de las Casas.
Upon arrival to the Sumidero Canyon, you must pay for a wristband and wait for a boat to fill and depart. This is why a guided tour to Sumidero Canyon makes more sense than visiting independently.
Most day trips from San Cristobal de las Casa include an hour break to explore the pueblo magico of Chiapa de Corzo. If looking to explore this Chiapas pueblo magico in more depth, plan on staying the night in Chiapa de Corzo.
3 | Palenque Mexico
Palenque is home to the incredible Archaeological Zone of Palenque. This was at one time one of the most important centers of the Maya civilization and is filled with temples, palaces, and evidence of an extensive road system.
Today, it is believed that only 5% of this once powerful city is uncovered. The Selva Lacandona (Lacandon Jungle) has reclaimed and hidden lost treasures and secrets.
To get the most out of a visit to Palenque, it’s best to sleep in Palenque or at one of the many hotels that follow the road to the archaeological site.
Palenque Archaeological Zone
The Palenque Archaeological Zone is a highlight of Chiapas and should not be missed. Visiting the Palenque ruins is like stepping back in time. Arrive early to see the site picturesquely covered in fog like a mystical haze. The surrounding jungle mountains only add to the dramatic scenery.
Palenque was one of the most influential sites in the entire Maya Empire between the years of 500 – 7000 AD. Today, site boasts different political sections and temples and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most important structures in Palenque is the Temple of the Inscriptions. Sacred writings were found in this temple of events that were said to have happened up to 1 million years into the past. The writings also had predictions into the future as far into the year of 4722.
Another landmark building in Palenque is The Palace, or “El Palacio.” This building has a tower and was once believed to house royalty and hold ceremonies.
Other notable temples in Palenque include: the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Foliated Cross, and the Temple of the Count that is found close to the exit.
Palenque is an incredible archaeological site that should not be missed when visiting Chiapas.
Palenque Archaeological Site | There are TWO Entrance fees to Palenque | Palenque National Park Entrance Fee: $90 pesos ($5 USD) | *Hold onto your admission wristband | Palenque Archaeological Site Entrance Fee: $80 pesos ($4.50) | Hours: 8:30 –17:00, last admission at 16:00 | Museum included in the ticket price, opens later at 10:00 | Official Government Website
More Things to Do in Palenque Mexico
Within the Palenque National Park it is possible to take an organized jungle walk. Independent travelers can follow a short and marked hiking routes. One of the best free jungles walks is Sendero Motiepá, which is found close to the main entrance of the Palenque ruins.
Outside of the Palenque Archaeological Zone, there are many natural wonders to see. Most visitors sleep a few nights in Palenque to follow the waterfall trail.
The most popular waterfall in Chiapas is the Agua Azul Waterfalls. However, there are more waterfalls off the beaten path, including the beautiful Misol-Ha Waterfall and the Cascadas Roberto Barrios.
☛ Chiapas Travel Tip | The dry season is the best time to see the waterfalls in Chiapas, which is usually between November to April. The dry season in Chiapas is when the waterfalls are bright turquoise blue. Be mindful that during the wet season in Chiapas, the waterfalls can appear cloudy from all the muddy sediment.
How to Get to Palenque Chiapas
Most travelers will reach Palenque from San Cristobal de las Casas. There are buses that run to Palenque, but they are long and take over 9 hours. If looking to visit Palenque as a day trip independently it is nearly impossible.
🚌 San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque | Bus Company: OCC | Average Online Ticket Price: $442 pesos ($25 USD) | Duration: over 9 hours | Current departure times: 10:00, 12:00, 13:00, 21:15, 22:15 | Purchase online tickets here
There are full day guided tours from San Cristobal de las Casas. However, be prepared to spend a majority of your day on the bus (at least 10 hours).
Private tour company Karma Trails has highly rated tours of the Archaeological site and the waterfalls from both Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas.
There is an airport in Palenque if looking for a more comfortable way to reach Palenque.
4 | Comitán de Domínguez Mexico
Comitán de Domínguez is a Chiapas pueblos magicos that is about two hours to the south of San Cristobal de las Casas. Comitan is known for its tree lined central park with plentiful benches and walking paths.
Next to the park, find the Rosario Castellanos Cultural Center, a space that offers workshops, music, dance, a library, and more. The building was once used as a convent. Nearby, don’t miss the Comitan Archaeological Museum.
Another notable and significant building is the Junchavín City Theater, which sits across from the central park. Comitan is also known for its many churches including the yellow church of Templo de Santo Domingo De Guzmán and the Templo de San Caralampio in the La Pila barrio.
Many people choose to sleep in Comitan to discover the many natural treasures that are close to the city. Another way to see the Comitan attractions is by taking an intrepid Chiapas road trip.
Natural Wonders Near Comitan
✔ Cascadas el Chiflón is a towering waterfall that cascades down almost 400 ft. from the cliffs. The most iconic falls in the park is the Cascada Velo de Novia. However, don’t miss a chance to visit other small waterfalls, like the Cascada ala de Ángel. There are lots of trails to explore, lookouts, and even a zip line.
✔ Chucumaltik Cenote is a cenote in Chiapas, which is unusual since most cenotes in Mexico are found along the Yucatan Peninsula. Take a swim or camp near this beautiful cenote in Chiapas.
✔ Lagunas de Montebello National Park is a stunning park that boasts over 50 glistening lakes, caves, pine forests, and offers some of Chiapas’ best hiking trails, like the Cinco Lagos path. This National Park is located near the border of Guatemala.
How to Get to Comitan Chiapas
Comitan is well connected to San Cristobal de las Casas. There are collectivos that zip down to this Chiapas pueblos magicos and frequent buses stop here.
🚌 San Cristobal de las Casas to Comitan | Bus Company: ADO & OCC | Average Online Ticket Price: $70 pesos ($4 USD) | Duration: under 2 hours with frequent departures | Purchase online tickets here
Additionally, there are some guided tours from San Cristobal de las Casas to the popular Comitan attractions like the Lagos de Montebello and the Chiflon Waterfall. This full day tour includes stops at the waterfall and the lakes.
Again, these are long day trips from San Cristobal de las Casas with a majority of the day being spent on the bus.
More Unofficial Places in Chiapas That Are Magic
While the following places in Chiapas aren’t officially registered as Chiapas pueblos magicos, these were some of my favorite places to visit in Chiapas State.
✔ San Juan Chamula is an extremely unique village close to San Cristobal de las Casas. Visitors come to walk through the church in the center of town to see ancient rituals that still take place today. Try to visit on a Sunday when the town comes to life with a bustling weekly market. The nearby village of Zinacantán is also worth a visit.
✔ Las Nubes Eco-Tourism Center is not a village, but an incredible eco-park that focuses around the Cascadas Las Nubes. Don’t miss the breathtaking jungle trail that boasts stunning views and highlights the jungle flora and fauna.
✔ Frontera Corozal is the gateway point to one of the most isolated Chiapas Mayan ruins, Yaxchilan. The Archaeological Site of Yaxchilan is only accessible via a scenic boat ride along the Usumacinta River.
Overview | Four Chiapas Pueblos Magicos
In short, this is a quick overview of the four Chiapas pueblos magico. Each village allows visitors to travel deeper and see the cultural and natural beauty of Chiapas state. Chiapas was once part of the thriving Maya empire and the rich cultural impact left behind can be seen in many of these special villages.
While the four official Chiapas pueblos magicos are worth a visit, the entire state of Chiapas is overlooked and underrated. Since it is so far south, many travelers miss all the incredible hidden gems throughout Mexico’s most southern state.
Chiapas is a special state in Mexico filled with culture, history, and holds a deep respect to its Indigenous roots. Visiting the pueblos magicos of Chiapas allows visitors a chance to appreciate all the history that came before us.
Have you been to any of these Chiapas pueblos magicos? Let me know in the comments below!
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