Chiapas Esencial: Cultura Maya & Naturaleza Viva

Welcome to Tuxtla Gutiérrez! Here begins your exciting adventure towards the pier, to board a boat and sail through the impressive Sumidero Canyon. This majestic place is a geological wonder that harbors a unique diversity of flora and fauna.

We then continue to the historic colonial city of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, located 2,300 meters above sea level, and founded in 1528 by Captain Diego de Mazariegos. Once we arrive in San Cristóbal, we check into the hotel and you will have time to explore and discover the charms of this beautiful Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town).

Note: It is recommended to arrive in Tuxtla before 13:00 hrs to carry out the scheduled visit. Reception at the hotel or ADO in Tuxtla is at 9:30am.

In the morning, we set out for the indigenous communities of the Tzotzil ethnic group, immersing ourselves in a world of unique traditions and culture in San Juan Chamula. Here, we appreciate the fusion of contemporary traditions and ancestral features.

We then head to the community of Zinacantán, where we visit its church and a family cooperative to observe how women work the backstrap loom, an ancestral art from pre-Columbian times. We admire the beauty of the weavings and then have the opportunity to step into the kitchen, where we enjoy a typical regional drink and, if we are lucky, some delicious handmade tortillas.

After our experience in the indigenous communities, we return to San Cristóbal de Las Casas and explore this beautiful city on a Walking City Tour. We also have free time to enjoy its streets full of history and culture.

Accommodation

In the morning (3:30 am), we depart for Palenque, making a stop at Agua Azul, a group of incredible waterfalls created by the currents of the Otulún, Shumuljá, and Tulijá rivers, forming canyons with vertical cliffs.

Next, we continue to the Misol-Ha waterfalls, which majestically rise 30 meters high, surrounded by lush tropical jungle that creates a beautiful and refreshing environment.

Once the visit is finished, we head to the Palenque archaeological site. This Mayan city stands out for its rich architecture and sculptures that surprise and amaze us. We can admire impressive constructions such as:

• The Palace
• The Temple of the Foliated Cross
• The Temple of the Sun
• And many other archaeological gems

At the end of our exploration in Palenque, we transfer to the hotel located in the city of Palenque.

Accommodation

On this beautiful morning, we depart for the city of Villahermosa eager to visit the "La Venta" museum, a place full of history and beauty that awakens our curiosity and amazement. Its halls house majestic works belonging to the Olmec Culture, an ancient civilization that left us a surprising legacy.

We observe the four categories of pieces:

• The altars
• The stelae
• The free-standing sculptures
• The impressive colossal heads

Each of them immerses us in the greatness of pre-Columbian culture and connects us with our ancestral past. Finally, we head to the Villahermosa airport to take our flight back home. End of services.

Note: The end at Villahermosa airport is at 14:30 and 16:30 pm. Outside these hours, a private quote applies.