San Cristobal’s adventurous tour offers a thrilling opportunity to explore the captivating Sima de las Cotorras and the breathtaking El Aguacero Waterfalls. From scaling a 140-meter sinkhole to immersing oneself in the serene beauty of nature, the journey promises an unforgettable experience. As early risers descend into the lush vegetation and discover ancient cave paintings, they’ll be surrounded by vibrant parrots, setting the stage for a day filled with exhilaration and exploration. The tour culminates with a refreshing swim and a picnic beneath the cascading waterfalls, leaving participants with a profound sense of accomplishment and an appreciation for the wonders that San Cristobal has to offer.
Key Points
- This comprehensive 12-hour tour explores the natural wonders of San Cristobal, including the Sima de las Cotorras sinkhole and the El Aguacero Waterfalls.
- Visitors can experience an adrenaline-filled rappel down the 140-meter Sima de las Cotorras, explore ancient Zoque cave paintings, and observe vibrant green parrots.
- The tour includes a 730-step descent to the base of the El Aguacero Waterfalls, where visitors can swim in refreshing pools and enjoy a picnic lunch.
- Highlights of the tour include birdwatching, discovering lush vegetation, and immersing in the cultural and natural treasures of the region.
- The early 4 AM departure allows for full exploration of the attractions and a sense of accomplishment in conquering the physical challenges.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour overview details a comprehensive day-long experience exploring the natural wonders of San Cristobal. Priced from $40.59 per person, the tour takes visitors on a 12-hour journey to the Sima de las Cotorras and El Aguacero Waterfalls.
Led by a live Spanish-speaking guide, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and flexible booking options. Highlights include witnessing thousands of green parrots at the Sima de las Cotorras, rappelling down the 140-meter sinkhole, and swimming in the refreshing waters of the El Aguacero Waterfalls.
With an early 4 AM departure, the tour provides ample time to fully immerse in these stunning natural attractions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in San Cristobal De Las Casas.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from the hotel at 4:00 AM, the tour takes visitors on a captivating journey to the Sima de las Cotorras, where they’ll witness thousands of green parrots at dawn.
Once there, guests can:
-
Rappel down the 140-meter sinkhole for an adrenaline rush
-
Hike around the rim, observing the lush vegetation and diverse bird species
-
Explore the interior, walking along the walls and discovering ancient Zoque cave paintings
-
Depart for the next stop, the majestic El Aguacero Waterfalls, where they’ll descend 730 steps to swim in the refreshing waters and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Sima De Las Cotorras: Rappelling and Exploration
Visitors embark on an exhilarating descent into the Sima de las Cotorras, a captivating sinkhole that plunges 140 meters. Rappelling down the steep walls, they experience the rush of the vertical drop, surrounded by the lush vegetation and ancient cave paintings that line the interior.
Exploring the sinkhole’s rim, they witness thousands of vibrant green parrots, observing the birds’ mesmerizing aerial displays at dawn. The tour’s highlights also include hiking along the rim’s trails, immersing oneself in the sinkhole’s serene atmosphere, and discovering the site’s rich history through the Zoque cave paintings hidden within.
Sima De Las Cotorras: Hiking and Birdwatching
After the exhilarating descent into the Sima de las Cotorras, visitors often explore the sinkhole’s rim, where they can witness thousands of vibrant green parrots in their natural habitat.
As the sun rises, the parrots take flight, creating a mesmerizing display of color and movement.
Hiking along the rim provides opportunities to:
- Observe various bird species that inhabit the lush vegetation surrounding the sinkhole
- Admire the dramatic limestone walls and the verdant, untamed landscape
- Discover ancient Zoque cave paintings, remnants of the region’s rich cultural heritage
- Gain a unique perspective of the towering 140-meter sinkhole from above
This exploration of the Sima de las Cotorras allows visitors to fully enjoy the natural wonders of San Cristobal.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySima De Las Cotorras: Cave Paintings and Vegetation
Within the depths of the Sima de las Cotorras, visitors can discover ancient Zoque cave paintings that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history.
These captivating artworks, adorning the walls of the sinkhole, depict scenes from the lives of the indigenous Zoque people who once called this area home.
Alongside the cave paintings, the sinkhole’s lush vegetation, including vibrant flora and diverse bird species, captivates explorers.
As they trek along the rim, hikers can observe the verdant foliage and the intricate web of life that thrives within this natural wonder.
The Sima de las Cotorras invites visitors to enjoy the area’s cultural and natural treasures.
- Biking in Chiapas Los Molinos Route
- Sumidero Canyon, Canyon Lookouts, and the Town of Chiapa De Corzo.
- Customs of Indigenous Villages of Chiapas
- Sumidero Canyon, Viewpoints From San Cristobal De Las Casas
- Sumidero Canyon, Chiapa De Corzo Magical Town From San Cristóbal De Las Casas
- Rancho Nuevo Caves and Arcotete Ecotourism Center
El Aguacero Waterfalls: Swimming and Relaxation
Descending 730 steps, visitors reach the base of the picturesque El Aguacero Waterfalls. The rushing waters cascade from the El Encanto cave, creating a refreshing swimming spot.
Visitors can:
- Swim in the cool, rejuvenating waters
- Explore the lush surroundings and walk around the waterfalls’ base
- Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the serene natural environment
- Reflect on the day’s adventures as they begin the ascent back up the 730 steps
After exploring the waterfalls, the tour continues with the return journey, providing ample time for relaxation and contemplation before reaching the hotel.
El Aguacero Waterfalls: Surrounding Area and Picnic
Surrounding the captivating El Aguacero Waterfalls, visitors can enjoy the lush, verdant landscape. The area is dotted with vibrant flora, providing a picturesque backdrop to the cascading waters.
Visitors can explore the base of the waterfalls, marveling at the sheer power and beauty of the natural wonder. After invigorating swims in the refreshing pools, guests can enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch, surrounded by the tranquil ambiance.
The combination of the waterfalls, the serene setting, and the opportunity to recharge makes this portion of the tour a truly rejuvenating experience.
Return Journey and Reflection
As the exhilarating day draws to a close, the group begins the gradual ascent back up the 730 steps that lead from the base of the El Aguacero Waterfalls.
The climb offers a final opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Along the way, the hikers:
- Pause to catch their breath and savor the last glimpses of the cascading waters
- Share stories and impressions of the day, from the awe-inspiring sinkhole to the rejuvenating swim
- Appreciate the physical challenge and sense of accomplishment in conquering the steps
- Look forward to returning to the hotel, where they can relax and recount their unforgettable experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Waterfalls?
The best time to visit the waterfalls is during the dry season, typically from November to April, when the water flow is at its highest and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Activities?
The tour has no strict age or fitness requirements, though participants should be able to handle the physical activities. Children, seniors, and those with limited mobility may need to exercise caution or opt out of certain activities.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the tour. The tour provider encourages bringing a packed lunch to enjoy at the El Aguacero Waterfalls during the picnic break.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses Not Included in the Price?
The tour price includes transportation, guide services, and activities. There may be additional fees for optional activities, food, or equipment rentals, but these are not specified in the tour overview provided.
How Reliable Is the Transportation to and From the Tour Sites?
The transportation for the tour is reliable, with pickup and drop-off from the hotel. The tour operator uses comfortable vehicles driven by experienced drivers to ensure a safe and smooth journey to and from the tour sites.
Recap
San Cristobal’s 12-hour adventure offers an exhilarating mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. Travelers who embark on this journey will be rewarded with unforgettable memories, a sense of accomplishment, and a deeper appreciation for the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of this remarkable destination.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in San Cristobal De Las Casas
- Day Trip to Archaeological Site of Palenque From San Cristobal
- Agua Azul, Misol Hà Waterfalls, and Palenque Ruins Tour
- Full-Day Sumidero Canyon Tour With Boat Cruise From San Cristóbal De Las Casas
- Full Day Tour to Palenque Archaeological Zone With Waterfalls
- Montebello Lakes & El Chiflón Falls, San Cristóbal De Las Casas
- Private Personalized Tour of San Cristobal De Las Casas
Not for you? Here's more things to do in San Cristobal De Las Casas we have recnetly reviewed
- 2 Best Guided Tours In San Cristobal De Las Casas
- 8 Best 3 Day Tours In San Cristobal De Las Casas
- 4 Best 2 Day Tours In San Cristobal De Las Casas
- 5 Best 4 Day Tours In San Cristobal De Las Casas
- 2 Best Coffee Tours And Tastings In San Cristobal De Las Casas
- El Chiflón Waterfalls and Montebello Lagoons Day Trip
- Tour of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan
- San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán Indigenous Communities
- Textiles and Mysticism of Chiapas
- Agua Azul Waterfalls – Misol Ha Waterfall – Archaeological Zone of Palenque
- Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa De Corzo Combo Tour
- Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfall