From San Cristobal: Chiflon and Lakes of Montebello Tour

Discover the natural beauty of Chiapas with this full-day tour from San Cristobal that combines spectacular waterfalls and vibrant lakes. For $46 per person, you’ll visit Cascadas el Chiflón, home to the Velo de Novia Waterfall, the highest in Chiapas, and the Montebello Lagoons, including the famous Laguna Enchanted. The tour lasts around 8 hours, making it a convenient way to see some of the region’s most impressive natural sites in one day.

The tour features ground transportation, entrance fees, and basic travel insurance. Keep in mind that there are no food or lodging options included, so planning for meals and overnight stays is necessary. This experience suits travelers seeking a mix of adventure and scenic relaxation, although it’s not ideal for those with mobility challenges or looking for a more leisurely pace.

Key Points

• Highlights the most impressive waterfalls in Chiapas, including the Velo de Novia Waterfall.
• Includes visits to multiple lagoons within Montebello Lagoons, such as Lake Tziscao and Laguna Enchanted.
• Travel time is approximately 8 hours, with two main driving segments and several stops.
• Cost is $46 per person, covering transportation and entrance fees.
• Guided in Spanish, with no food or lodging included, making it best suited for flexible, adventurous travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departing from San Cristobal for an All-Day Natural Adventure

This tour departs from San Cristobal de las Casas, with pickup included as part of the experience. The transportation involves about 2.5 hours of van ride to the waterfalls, followed by a 1-hour stop at Cascadas el Chiflón. After exploring the waterfalls, the group continues with a guided visit to the Velo de Novia Waterfall, which is 70 meters high and considered the most impressive cascade in the area. The tour then proceeds to the Montebello Lagoons, where two hours are allocated for sightseeing and shopping.

Travelers should prepare for a long day of driving and sightseeing, with about 4 hours of transfer time back to San Cristobal at the end. The itinerary emphasizes efficient movement between sites, allowing plenty of time for photography and brief explorations.

Exploring the Waterfalls of Cascadas el Chiflón

The highlight of the tour is Cascadas el Chiflón, a series of waterfalls with notable features like Cascada Arco Iris and Cascada Quinceañera. The main attraction is Velo de Novia, which drops 70 meters and creates a stunning curtain of water. The guided tour lasts about an hour, giving visitors a chance to marvel at the power and beauty of these waterfalls.

The waterfalls are praised for their visual impact, with clear views and photo opportunities at each cascade. The downstream waterfalls are accessible for quick visits, and the site offers a viewpoint for a panoramic shot of the Velo de Novia.

The Unique Experience of Lake Tziscao and Laguna Enchanted

After the waterfalls, the tour moves to the Montebello Lagoons, a collection of colorful lakes known for their vivid waters and peaceful surroundings. The visit includes Lake Tziscao, Laguna Pojoj, and Laguna Enchanted, the latter famous for its striking water colors.

The two-hour stop provides time for photography, souvenir shopping, and enjoying the natural scenery. Some reviews mention that the lagoon tour can be short and disappointing if only a single lagoon is visited, so it’s worth noting that the visit is quite focused on just a few lakes.

The Practicalities of Transportation and Timing

The van transfers are an essential part of this tour, with 2.5 hours to reach Cascadas el Chiflón and 1.5 hours heading to the Lagoons. The return trip takes about 4 hours, completing a full day of sightseeing. The schedule is structured to maximize time at each attraction but results in a long day, which some reviews find tedious.

The group size is not specified, but the tour operates with a Spanish-speaking guide and includes ground transportation and entrance fees. Group dynamics and timing can affect overall comfort, especially on busy days.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Highlights and Limitations of This Tour

The waterfalls of Cascadas el Chiflón are the clear star of this tour. Their powerful cascades and scenic viewpoints make for memorable photos and a truly spectacular natural display. Many reviewers emphasize the beauty of these waterfalls, which justify the 2-hour visit.

The Montebello Lagoons add a relaxing element, with beautifully colored lakes that appeal to nature lovers. However, some reviews suggest that the lagoon visit is short and somewhat underwhelming, especially if only one lagoon is visited. The long drive to the lakes and the short duration at each stop are common concerns among more critical visitors.

Food, Accessibility, and Overall Value

Food options are not included in this tour, and the location for lunch has been criticized as unsatisfactory by some. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or meals if desired. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as the activities involve uneven terrain and walking at waterfalls and lagoons.

At $46 per person, the tour offers good value for the transportation, entrance fees, and guided visits. It is a practical way to see key natural attractions of Chiapas in a single day, especially for those with limited time.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Chiapas’ iconic waterfalls and lakes without the hassle of organizing transportation. It suits those who are comfortable with long driving days and short visits at each site. Nature lovers will especially appreciate the powerful waterfalls and colorful lagoons.

However, visitors seeking more leisure time or multiple lagoon visits might find the schedule a bit rushed. The tour’s reliance on Spanish guides might be a consideration for non-Spanish speakers.

Chiapas Waterfalls and Lakes: Worth the Day Trip

The Cascadas el Chiflón and Lakes of Montebello offer a diverse look at Chiapas’ natural beauty. The powerful waterfalls stand out as a highlight, with spectacular views and photo opportunities. The colorful lakes provide a peaceful contrast, though the short visit can feel disappointing if expectations include multiple lagoons.

The long drive is a practical aspect of this tour, making it imperative to prepare for a full day. The cost of $46 covers transport, entrance fees, and a guided experience, offering solid value for the scenery and natural wonders. This tour suits nature enthusiasts eager to combine adventure and scenic relaxation in a well-organized day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven terrain and at waterfalls.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and beverages are not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks or plan for meals separately.

Does the tour include swimming or water activities?
The tour does not specify swimming activities, but some reviews mention optional swimming being possible at the lagoons, with extra costs.

What language is the guided tour in?
The tour is led in Spanish, so non-Spanish speakers should consider language skills when booking.

How long is the total tour from start to finish?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, visits, and breaks.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in planning.

This From San Cristobal: Chiflon and Lakes of Montebello Tour offers a practical way to experience Chiapas’ stunning waterfalls and lakes in one day, combining scenic beauty, guided insights, and value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby