San Cristobal: Sima de las Cotorras & Aguacero Waterfalls

Discover an exciting adventure near San Cristobal de Las Casas with this full-day tour to Sima de las Cotorras and Aguacero Waterfalls. Priced at $250 per person and lasting 13 to 15 hours, this tour offers a perfect mix of spectacular wildlife sightings and breathtaking natural scenery. It departs from San Cristobal, with pickups included, and provides a well-organized experience, including transportation, entrance fees, and a guide from OTISA VIAJES.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy nature-focused outings, wildlife encounters, and scenic hikes. It’s a full-day commitment, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended. While the trip remains engaging regardless of weather, travelers should be prepared for potential rain showers, especially near Aguacero Waterfalls.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional tour guide for a hassle-free day.
• Highlights two natural wonders: the vibrant Sima de las Cotorras and the stunning Aguacero Waterfalls.
• Optional activities like rappelling and tracking are available but not included in the basic price.
• Tour duration spans 13 to 15 hours, departing from and returning to San Cristobal.
• Comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential for walking trails and outdoor exploration.
• The tour is guaranteed to operate regardless of weather or socio-political conditions, ensuring reliability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from San Cristobal de las Casas for an Unforgettable Day

This tour begins with a pickup from San Cristobal de las Casas, with arrangements made at your hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled start. The transit to the natural sites takes place in tourist transport units that ensure safety and comfort. The journey itself is part of the experience, as it allows travelers to enjoy the scenic drive into Chiapas’ lush landscapes.

The entire day is designed to maximize time spent at key locations, with a focus on quality over quantity. The tour operates regardless of weather conditions, which is helpful considering some outdoor activities depend on favorable weather.

Sima de las Cotorras: The Parrot Spiral Spectacle

The highlight of this tour is Sima de las Cotorras, a massive geological sinkhole famous for its flocks of parrots. Witness dozens of cheerful parrots spiraling out of the hole in an endless flight—a sight described as unforgettable and worth the trip. The parrots’ noisy, lively flights create a dynamic, colorful spectacle.

Guests can explore the site more deeply with optional activities such as rappelling or tracking—though these are not included in the basic tour price. The site is accessible with the included entrance fees, and the guaranteed quality and safety standards of OTISA VIAJES ensure a smooth experience.

This stop emphasizes wildlife observation and offers plenty of space for photography and quiet reflection amidst nature.

Aguacero Waterfalls and the Cave of Encanto

From Sima de las Cotorras, the journey continues to the Aguacero Waterfalls, a stunning cascade where water plunges over rocks, creating a refreshing mist and a natural downpour. The waterfalls are part of the Cueva del Encanto, a mystical cave that visitors can enter for a closer view of the waterfall’s majestic flow.

The breeze generated by the falling water is particularly invigorating, and the landscape surrounding the waterfalls invites exploration along scenic trails. The combination of water, rocks, and lush flora makes this a visually striking location. After enjoying the waterfalls, travelers can walk along nearby trails and take in the impressive scenery.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes all necessary entrance fees, transportation, and a professional guide from OTISA VIAJES, ensuring a well-organized day. The driver speaks Spanish, and the pick-up is arranged at your hotel lobby, with a recommended arrival 15 minutes prior.

The duration of the trip can extend up to 15 hours, depending on traffic and group pace. Travelers should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.

While swimming is permitted, it remains at each person’s own risk, and weather conditions should be checked with the guide if considering this activity.

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Optional Activities and Additional Costs

While the tour covers entry fees and guided commentary, it does not include food, drinks, or personal expenses. Optional activities like rappelling and tracking are available at the sites but are not included in the price. Travelers looking to add more adventure can inquire locally, but the standard tour offers plenty of natural beauty and wildlife viewing on its own.

Safety and Weather Considerations

This tour runs regardless of weather or socio-political conditions, but travelers should be prepared for rain, especially near Aguacero Waterfalls. The tour operator emphasizes liability insurance coverage for transport but does not specify guides’ services beyond the basic guide provided.

It’s advisable to carry sunscreen and a hat for outdoor exposure, and to wear comfortable, durable shoes suited for walking trails.

Final Thoughts on the Sima de las Cotorras & Aguacero Waterfalls Tour

This full-day tour offers a balanced combination of wildlife observation and scenic waterfalls, making it well-suited for nature enthusiasts and adventure travelers. The $250 price point includes all essentials—transport, entry fees, and guiding—making it a straightforward option for those seeking a hassle-free experience.

The spectacular parrot flights and the powerful waterfalls are genuine highlights, with the added opportunity to explore the Cueva del Encanto. While optional activities can add more thrill, the core experience remains engaging and memorable.

This trip stands out for its reliability, quality, and the natural beauty of its stops. It’s an excellent choice for visitors staying in San Cristobal who want to discover some of Chiapas’ most impressive natural sites in one full day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, entrance fees, and a guided service provided by OTISA VIAJES.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 13 to 15 hours, with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in San Cristobal.

Are there any activities I can do at Sima de las Cotorras?
Yes, optional activities such as rappelling and tracking are available but not included in the base price.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 2 to 11 are considered minors and must provide ID; the tour is suitable for families, but check specific needs for young children.

Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Swimming is possible but at your own risk; always confirm weather and water conditions with the guide.

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