If you’re looking to escape the hustle of San Cristobal de las Casas and spend a day surrounded by wild, untouched nature, this tour might just be your ticket. It promises a combination of breathtaking waterfalls and colorful lakes—a true feast for nature lovers. While the experience offers some memorable highlights, it also comes with logistical quirks and mixed reviews that are worth considering.
What we genuinely love about this tour is how it balances adventure and scenery—from the rainforest walk to the lakes’ vivid hues. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide (noted positively in reviews), you get some insight into the area’s natural features. On the flip side, the long driving hours and time constraints at each stop can challenge those with limited patience or mobility.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an intensive day of natural beauty and don’t mind a fair amount of time on a bus. If you’re seeking a relaxed, in-depth experience, you might want to look for options with more flexible schedules. But if a packed day of waterfalls and lakes sounds appealing, read on.
This experience made our article of The Top 9 Chiapas Tours & Things To Do.
Key Points
- Highlights include the stunning Chiflon Waterfalls and the vibrant Montebello Lakes.
- Expect about 12 hours of travel, with some long drives between sites.
- Good value for the price if you want a comprehensive day trip with guide service.
- Reviews praise knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized logistics.
- Some travelers report limited time at key stops, so be prepared for a busy schedule.
- Transportation is in a small group, which can enhance the experience but may also be cramped.
👉 See our pick of the The Top 9 Chiapas Tours & Things To Do
Overview of the Experience
This full-day tour is designed to give travelers a taste of Chiapas’ most scenic outdoor spots in a single day. Starting with a hotel pickup in San Cristobal, you’ll head south toward the rainforest-cloaked mountains. The first major stop is the El Chiflon Waterfalls, a multi-tiered cascade that’s often compared to angel wings for its dramatic shape. Expect to walk about 1 mile (1.5 km) through lush rainforest, which is a pleasant hike even if you’re not a seasoned trekker.
Once at the top, you’ll find yourself in front of turquoise waters tumbling down the rocks, surrounded by mist and greenery. Many reviews emphasize how stunning the waterfalls are—one traveler described them as “worth the effort.” After a quick dip (if you’re brave enough), the group usually moves on to the Montebello Lakes, a stunning collection of 52 lakes famous for their shifting colors caused by mineral deposits.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chiapas.
Exploring El Chiflon Waterfalls
The waterfalls are the first big highlight. The walk to the top is manageable for most, but the real reward is the view of the cascading water framed by mountains and jungle. The photograph opportunities are plentiful, and the cool spray feels invigorating after the warm hike. Depending on the guide and your group’s pace, you could spend around 1.5 to 2 hours here.
Some reviews point out that time at Chiflon can be tight—“we only had about 1.5 hours there,” noted one traveler. For many, this isn’t enough to truly appreciate the scale and beauty, so if you’re after a more relaxed pace, this could be a downside. Still, most agree that the waterfalls are spectacular enough to justify the trip.
Discovering Montebello Lakes
Next, the focus shifts to the Montebello Lakes, a collection of lakes with incredibly diverse colors—emerald, turquoise, even purple and red—depending on the mineral content. The lakes sit in a pine forest, adding to the picturesque setting. You’ll have a chance to swim in the clear waters or cross in a traditional wooden cayuco (raft) to see orchids and enjoy unique views from the water.
Expect to visit about 5 to 7 lakes during your time there, with a flexible plan that might depend on the group and guide decisions. Some reviewers mention the additional cost for the cayuco ride (200 pesos per person), which is worth considering if you want that extra adventure.
Practical Details and Logistics
The entire trip lasts roughly 12 hours, with pickup from your hotel in San Cristobal and transportation in a small group (limited to 14 participants). The vehicle is a minibus, which some find a bit cramped but keeps the group intimate. The drive involves significant time on the road—be prepared for long hours of travel; one reviewer noted, “lots of driving in an uncomfortable minibus.”
The tour includes park entrance fees and transportation, but meals are not included, so bring snacks and cash for food. The itinerary is packed, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring sunglasses, sunblock, and a hat, and be ready to get a little wet. An extra change of clothes is advisable if you plan to swim or get splashed by the waterfalls.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat the Reviews Say
While many travelers praise the beautiful scenery and expert guides, some express frustrations. There are reports of poor communication, such as one traveler’s experience of being not picked up. Others highlight that time at each site was limited, with only about 1.5 hours at the waterfalls, which may not be enough for everyone to soak it in fully.
One review describes the guide as “fantastic,” going out of their way to accommodate special requests, like visiting the highest part of the falls. Conversely, another reviewer mentions feeling overly guided, with a guide crossing personal boundaries and extending the day longer than expected.
Value and Overall Impression
At $99 per person, this tour offers good value for a full-day excursion that hits several major highlights. The price includes transportation and park fees, making it straightforward and convenient. However, the long hours and limited free time mean it’s not ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or spontaneous exploration.
If your goal is to see stunning waterfalls and lakes in one day without the hassle of organizing transportation or entrance fees, this tour provides a practical solution. It is especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided adventures and don’t mind a busy schedule.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best for those with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable sitting in a vehicle for extended periods. Nature enthusiasts looking for a quick yet intense immersion into Chiapas’ natural wonders will find it satisfying. If you’re traveling as a family or with friends who want a guided, all-in-one day trip, it’s a solid choice.
However, if more time at each site or a less hurried pace is your priority, you might prefer smaller, more flexible tours or a multi-day itinerary. Also, if you don’t speak Spanish and are concerned about communication, be aware that some reviews note limited English-speaking guides.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a beautiful day in nature, with highlights that truly impress—the waterfalls and colorful lakes are unforgettable sights. The guide’s knowledge can add meaning to the experience, especially if you’re lucky to get a good one. The value for money makes it appealing, especially for those eager to see as much as possible in one day.
The main considerations are the long travel hours and the short amount of time at each site. For travelers seeking a relaxed, in-depth experience, it may be too rushed. But if you’re okay with a full day of exploration and don’t mind the bus ride, this adventure can be a memorable highlight of your Chiapas trip.
In summary, this tour suits those who want a convenient, guided overview of some of Chiapas’ most scenic spots. It’s perfect for travelers with a sense of adventure and a flexible schedule, eager to witness waterfalls and lakes that will stay with you long after the day ends.
San Cristobal: Chiflon Waterfalls & Montebello Day Tour
FAQ
How long is this tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a long but rewarding day.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip transportation from San Cristobal, park entrance fees, and guided service. Meals are not included.
Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, bringing snacks and extra cash for food is recommended, as meals are not part of the package.
How much time will I spend at each site?
Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours at El Chiflon Waterfalls and around the same at the Montebello Lakes, but this can vary depending on the guide and group pace.
Is swimming allowed?
Yes, you can enjoy a swim in the lakes or at the waterfalls, but be prepared to get wet and bring a change of clothes.
Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for those able to handle a fair amount of walking and long drives. It might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes are essential. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also advised, especially at the lakes.
Can I take a boat in the lakes?
Yes, you can cross in a traditional wooden cayuco if you choose to pay the additional fee (200 pesos per person).
Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, but some reviews suggest that communication may vary, so clarify beforehand if language is a concern.
Is this tour flexible?
The schedule is quite packed, and the itinerary is fixed, but you can request special visits (like the highest point of the falls) with your guide.
This tour balances adventure, scenery, and convenience, making it a worthwhile option for those wanting to see some of Chiapas’ natural highlights in a single day. Just be prepared for long hours and limited downtime—it’s a busy, scenic day that leaves many travelers with unforgettable memories.
You can check availability for your dates here:
