Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Day Tour from San Cristobal

Dive into Mexico’s Lakes and Waterfalls for $40

This Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfall Day Tour from San Cristobal de las Casas offers an accessible way to explore some of Chiapas’s most beautiful natural sights. For $40 per person, you get a 12-hour adventure that takes you through lush rainforests, vibrant lakes, and impressive waterfalls. The tour departs from Al Grano Cafe and includes all entrance and park fees, with a Spanish-speaking driver guiding the way.

While the trip involves several hours of driving—about 6.5 hours total—the stops are thoughtfully timed to balance scenic exploration and relaxation. The tour is ideal for those who appreciate nature, photography, and a full day of discovery. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues, and food and drinks are not included. Still, the experience promises vibrant landscapes, friendly guides, and good value for a memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day trip lasting approximately 12 hours from San Cristobal
• Includes visits to Chiflon Waterfall and Montebello Lakes
• Transportation is via air-conditioned minivan with all entrance fees covered
• Guide speaks Spanish; plans include scenic views of rainforest, lakes, and waterfalls
• Highlights include a boat trip at Montebello Lakes and time to enjoy the waterfalls
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or respiratory issues

Starting Point at Al Grano Cafe

The adventure begins at Al Grano Cafe in San Cristobal de las Casas, where travelers meet the Spanish-speaking driver. From this central location, the van ride lasts around 2.5 hours to the first major stop. This meeting point offers easy access for most visitors, and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle helps make the long drive more pleasant.

Journey Through Scenic Rainforest and Small Towns

The drive to the waterfalls takes about 2 hours, passing through small towns and villages that showcase local life in Chiapas. The scenery along the way includes views of pine, oak, and rainforest, setting a lush backdrop for the day’s activities. This part of the journey allows travelers to relax and soak in the regional landscape.

Visiting the Spectacular Chiflon Waterfall

The Chiflon Waterfall, a natural freefall surrounded by reeds and palm groves, is a key highlight of the trip. The tour allocates around 2 hours here, which is enough time to walk along the short trail, admire the cascading waters, and even take a swim if weather permits. The waterfall’s impressive height and scenic setting make it a favorite spot for photography and relaxation.

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Exploring Mexico’s Most Beautiful Lake District at Lagos de Montebello

After the waterfall, the tour continues for about 80 minutes to Lagos de Montebello in the national park. Here, travelers enjoy roughly 3.5 hours to explore acres of lakes and forests. The lakes are known for their vibrant colors and are framed by pines, oaks, and rainforest.

Weather conditions influence how much visitors can see, but the views of the lakes and their varying waters are consistently stunning. Several lakes are accessible for photos, and optional activities like a boat trip are available at additional cost, offering unique vantage points of the water and surrounding nature.

The Boat Trip and Other Activities at the Lakes

A boat trip at Lagos de Montebello offers a peaceful way to see the lakes from the water, with tickets available at a reasonable price. This added activity allows for a different perspective and a chance to enjoy the calm waters amid the natural beauty. The lakes are also ideal for walking along trails that highlight their different colors and scenic surroundings.

Return Journey and Final Stop at Al Grano Cafe

After a full day of nature exploration, the group departs the lakes around 3 hours before returning to San Cristobal. The drive back provides a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenery once more. The tour concludes back at Al Grano Cafe, usually in the early evening, completing a well-paced adventure.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, with fees for entrances and national parks covered. The driver is a fluent Spanish speaker, providing guidance and assistance throughout the day.

Food and drinks are not included, so visitors should bring snacks, water, pesos, and any personal items needed for the day. Travelers should also wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, and bring essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a daypack.

What to Keep in Mind for a Smooth Experience

This tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or shine. It’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, heart problems, or respiratory issues, as some walking and hiking are involved. Children must be accompanied by adults, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

The Spanish-speaking guide makes a practical difference, especially for those comfortable with basic Spanish or eager to learn more about the region. There is no English-language option, but guides go out of their way to clarify and explain the sights.

The Value and Overall Experience

At $40 per person, this tour offers strong value, covering transportation, entrance fees, and guided commentary. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, the gorgeous scenery, and the well-paced schedule that provides ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Visitors also appreciate the opportunity to see Guatemalan border areas and enjoy optional activities like boat rides and visiting roadside stalls for local food.

While the long driving hours might not appeal to everyone, the scenic routes, friendly guidance, and natural highlights make this an attractive choice for nature lovers and those eager to experience Chiapas’s lakes and waterfalls.

Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfall Tour – Who Will Appreciate It?

This tour suits those who love outdoor landscapes, waterfalls, and lakes, and are comfortable with long travel days. It offers a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insights from small-town routes. The tour’s good value and well-organized schedule make it a reliable choice for an immersive day trip from San Cristobal.

It’s especially good for travelers eager to see distinctive lakes and waterfalls without the hassle of organizing transport and entry fees themselves. It’s less ideal for those with mobility challenges or looking for a shorter, less intensive outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned minivan from Al Grano Cafe.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks, water, and pesos for roadside stalls.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting in the morning and returning early evening.

Can I do the boat trip at Montebello Lakes?
Yes, the boat trip is available at additional cost, offering a relaxing way to see the lakes from the water.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; unaccompanied minors are not allowed. The tour may involve some walking and outdoor activity, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, comfortable clothes, and a daypack. Don’t forget sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and water.

Is the guide English-speaking?
No, the guide speaks Spanish only, but they make efforts to provide detailed explanations and assistance.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or shine.

How much does the boat ride cost?
The boat ride at Lagos de Montebello costs around $250, but this is optional.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, heart problems, or respiratory issues.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I reserve now and pay later?
Yes, the booking allows you to reserve now & pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfall Day Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and practical convenience—perfect for those eager to explore Chiapas’s outdoor treasures in a single memorable day.

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