Popular Topics

Trip Report

Best of Mexico - Chiapas

5 days of backpacking across Chiapas - Palenque and San Cristobal

  • Oaxaca+ 5
  • Palenque
  • Palenque
  • Best of Mexico - Chiapas
julienvh
About Me:just a man that love to travel and drink beer read more

North AmericaMexico4 days / November 2022

Highs & Lows

Amazing landscape and beautiful colonial cities.

The weather can become pretty cold at night depending on the altitude, especially in San Cristobal - don’t forget hot clothes

Itinerary Overview

Mexico is a country full of diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, history, and relaxation. Some of the must-visit destinations in Mexico include:

·       Mexico City: The capital city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. It is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and delicious street food.

·       Cancun and the Riviera Maya: These beach destinations on the Caribbean coast offer stunning turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and a variety of water activities.

·       Oaxaca: This colonial city in southern Mexico is known for its vibrant markets, delicious food, and traditional crafts.

·       Chiapas: This southern state is home to stunning natural wonders such as the Sumidero Canyon, the Palenque ruins, and the Agua Azul waterfalls.

·       Baja California: This peninsula in northwest Mexico offers a unique desert landscape, picturesque coastal towns, and opportunities for whale watching.

Overall, Mexico is a country that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Mexico is sure to exceed your expectations.

  • 1 Night: Palenque
    Mayan ruins and amazing waterfals.
  • 3 Nights: Oaxaca
Palenque - Mayan ruins and amazing waterfals.
1

Palenque Mayan ruins and amazing waterfals.

Palenque - Mayan ruins and amazing waterfals. - null
Palenque - Mayan ruins and amazing waterfals. - null
Palenque - Mayan ruins and amazing waterfals. - null1+

If you visited Yucatan, Palenque will most probably be your first stop in Chiapas. The city is not particularly pretty but you can find nice restaurants and littles shops. The main reason why people come to Palenque is because it is the departure location for most tours heading to the main local attractions: the Palenque ruins and Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls. The Palenque ruins are an amazingly preserved site dated from the Mayan era. With it’s imposing pyramids located in the middle of the forest, this site has nothing the envy to other Mayan sites of the region. Take a local guide that will explain the significance and history of the ruins. The Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls are stunning natural wonders that are worth the trip. The clear blue water and lush green surroundings make for a picturesque setting. Be prepared to do a bit of hiking to fully explore the area, and bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the cool water. Overall, Palenque is a great starting point for exploring the natural and historical wonders of Chiapas.

Oaxaca - null
2

Oaxaca

Oaxaca - null - null
Oaxaca - null - null
Oaxaca - null - null1+

Oaxaca is a beautiful and culturally rich city located in the southern part of Mexico. The city is famous for its colonial architecture, colorful streets, and rich culinary traditions. There are plenty of things to see and do in Oaxaca, making it a popular destination for travelers who want to experience Mexico's authentic charm.

One of the main attractions in Oaxaca is the Zocalo, the city's main square which is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops. The nearby Mercado Benito Juarez is also worth a visit, offering a vibrant and colorful shopping experience where you can find a variety of local goods such as textiles, pottery, and food.

Oaxaca is also home to a number of impressive archaeological sites, including the ancient ruins of Monte Alban and Mitla. These sites offer visitors a glimpse into the region's fascinating pre-Columbian history and are a must-see for history buffs.

Foodies will also love Oaxaca, which is known for its delicious cuisine. Local specialties include mole, tlayudas, and chapulines (roasted grasshoppers). Overall, Oaxaca is a fascinating destination with something for everyone to enjoy.

Q & A

  • Anything go wrong during the trip?

    nothing! this country is great
  • Restaurant recommendations?

    try all local options, it is delicious
  • Packing tips?

    the weather is always hot, so go with shorts and summer stuff
  • Transportation Tips?

    its very cheap, so great ;)
  • Any surprises?

    the people are so kind
  • Booking details?

    low cost hostels are the best

Lodging

  • Hostal Pakal King. Cheap but not super welcoming, good for backpackers traveling on a tight budget. The kitchen is poorly equiped, for the rest nothing really bad or good to say about it.

  • Casa Conzatti