This tour promises a full day of outdoor adventure, showcasing some of Chiapas’ most stunning natural sights — from the shimmering, multi-hued Lagoons of Montebello to the impressive Chiflón Waterfalls. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines leisurely walks, breathtaking scenery, and a sense of connection to Mexico’s lush landscape.
What we like most about this tour is how it blends natural beauty with manageable logistics. The transport is comfortable and air-conditioned, making the long drives more bearable, especially since you’ll be on the road about four and a half hours in total. We also appreciate that it’s a small-group experience, which usually means more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
However, one thing to consider is the physical activity involved — the hike uphill to the waterfalls is about 75 meters in elevation, and the terrain can be uneven. It’s important for travelers to be prepared with comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of fitness.
This experience suits those who want a full day of outdoor exploration but aren’t looking for a strenuous adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who love nature, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure, especially if they’re staying in Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristobal de las Casas.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation makes long drives easier
- The scenic Lagoons offer unique shades and a tranquil atmosphere
- The Chiflón Waterfalls deliver a striking 120-meter cascade
- A balanced mix of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing
- Suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level
- Small group size for a more personalized experience
👉 Check out our guide to the 7 Best Tours In Tuxtla Gutierrez
Contents
- Key Points
- An Overview of the Tour Experience
- Visiting Chiflón Waterfalls
- Exploring Los Lagos de Montebello
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- Timing and Pacing
- Practical Tips for Travelers
- Special Considerations
- What’s the Verdict?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- Our Top Picks in Tuxtla Gutierrez
- More Tours in Tuxtla Gutierrez
- More Tour Reviews in Tuxtla Gutierrez
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Tuxtla Gutierrez we have recnetly reviewed
An Overview of the Tour Experience
We’ll start early, with pickup from Tuxtla Gutiérrez at 07:00 am or from San Cristobal de las Casas at 08:00 am. The journey to Chiapas’ natural wonders begins with a scenic drive, during which your driver — who also doubles as your guide — shares insights about the region. Expect comfortable, air-conditioned transportation equipped with friendly, informative drivers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tuxtla Gutierrez.
Visiting Chiflón Waterfalls
The first major stop is Chiflón Waterfalls, approximately 3 hours from your pickup point. Once there, you’ll hike uphill for about 75 meters, which takes roughly 15 minutes, depending on your pace. The highlight? The main waterfall, often called the Bridal Veil, which cascades about 120 meters down. The hike uphill offers incredible views of the rainforest and the lush surroundings, making it an excellent photo opportunity.
Some reviews mention that the hike is manageable but requires sturdy shoes and a good attitude toward some physical exertion. For example, one traveler noted, “The walk uphill was a little challenging, but the views made it worth every step.” It’s a chance to appreciate the raw power of nature up close, with plenty of spots to pause and take pictures.
Exploring Los Lagos de Montebello
After the waterfalls, the tour continues to Las Lagunas de Montebello, a vast nature reserve known for its large hectares of forests and lakes with different shades and depths. Here, we loved how the landscape changes from one lake to another, each with a distinct hue, ranging from emerald green to deep blue. The lakes are sometimes so clear you can see the bottom, making them perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.
The reserve’s proximity to the Guatemalan border adds a subtle sense of being at a crossroads of cultures. You’ll get a chance to admire the diversity of landscapes and possibly spot local wildlife.
The experience is largely about appreciating the tranquility and beauty of these lakes, with some time allocated for walking along the shore or taking boat rides if available. The entire visit here offers a peaceful contrast to the earlier waterfall hike.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour provides ground transportation, entrance fees to both the Lagunas de Montebello and Chiflón Waterfalls, and a tourist driver who shares information and keeps things running smoothly. The vehicle is air-conditioned with comfortable seats, making the long hours more bearable.
However, there’s no included guide on-site, so you’ll be relying on the driver for information. Also, food and beverages are not included, so packing snacks or lunch is recommended — especially since you’ll be out all day. Bring your own water, as it’s essential to stay hydrated, and don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself while outdoors.
More Great Tours NearbyTiming and Pacing
The tour is designed as a full-day outing, with the first stop at the waterfalls around mid-morning and the lakes later in the day. Expect to spend about three hours at Chiflón, including the uphill hike, and around an hour and a half at Montebello.
The drive totals around 4.5 hours, so patience is key. Some reviews highlight the long drives but also mention that the scenery along the way is worth it, with lush forests and mountain views.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Prepare a change of clothes and a towel if you plan to get wet.
- Carry a camera or smartphone with a charged battery — you’ll want to capture the vibrant lakes and waterfalls.
- Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to minimize environmental impact.
- Pack water shoes if you plan to wade into the lakes or waterfalls.
- Be mindful of the no high heels, drones, or smoking policies**.
Special Considerations
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, those with respiratory issues, or travelers with low fitness levels due to the uphill hike and outdoor activity. Very young children under 1 year or older travelers over 70 might find the day too demanding.
What’s the Verdict?
We think this tour offers excellent value for those eager to see some of Chiapas’ most iconic natural sights without the hassle of planning transportation or entrance fees. The price of $97 includes a lot, from comfortable travel to entry fees, and the experience is tailored for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
The highlights — the majestic waterfalls and colorful lakes — are sure to leave lasting impressions. The day’s pacing is reasonable, and the scenery is spectacular enough to justify the long drives. Plus, the small-group format encourages more personal interaction and a more relaxed atmosphere, especially if you enjoy sharing experiences with others.
While the physical activity involved might be a hurdle for some, most travelers who are reasonably fit will find this tour doable and rewarding. It’s a great way to connect with the natural environment of Chiapas and get a glimpse of the region’s diverse ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
This experience is best suited for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts who appreciate beautiful landscapes and are comfortable with some walking and hiking. It’s an ideal day trip for travelers staying in Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristobal de las Casas who want to maximize their time exploring without the complexity of independent planning.
If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic nature-focused day that combines scenery, light activity, and cultural proximity, this tour hits the right notes. Just come prepared for outdoor conditions, and you’ll leave with plenty of memorable images and stories.
Montebello Lagoons and Chiflón Waterfalls Tour
FAQs
What is the starting time for the tour? The tour departs at 07:00 am from Tuxtla Gutiérrez and at 08:00 am from San Cristobal de las Casas, making it a full-day commitment.
Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes ground transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with comfortable seats.
Do I need to bring my own food? Food and beverages are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended for the day.
Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or very young children due to the physical nature of the hike and outdoor environment. Older children with moderate fitness should be fine.
Are entrance fees included? Yes, the price covers entrance fees to Lagunas de Montebello and Chiflón Waterfalls.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I wear? Comfortable shoes, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and clothes suitable for outdoor activity are advised. Remember to bring a change of clothes and a towel if you plan to get wet.
This tour offers a genuine taste of Chiapas’ natural beauty, with manageable logistics and memorable scenery. Pack your curiosity, some good shoes, and an adventurous spirit — you’re set for a day of authentic exploration.
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