5 Pueblos Mágicos of Chiapas And Their Surroundings
Deep in the roots of any country lies the history and culture each citizen lives their lives upon. Travelers come to experience new things, and Mexico has created the perfect structure to find out what each is looking for.
Mexico has implemented a program called Pueblos Mágicos to show the true wealth of their nation. Each town is recognized for the historical and cultural significance they add to Mexico's foundation. Just outside each of these magic towns are things worth seeing, which will be added to this post. Here are 5 Pueblos Mágicos to visit in the state of Chiapas.
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Palenque
Formerly known as Otulún, translating to "fortified place" in the indigenous Chol language, Palenque is a sight for the masses. Its original name makes sense considering the dense jungle vegetation surrounding the town.
Palenque Archaeological Site
Palenque is known for the archaeological ruins first discovered here in 1760. With the most significant ceremonial center known in Mayan culture, as well as ancient structures for the study of science and religion, this site is a definite must see while in Chiapas.
Explore Palenque National Park
After visiting the sites of history, the National Park that surrounds it is just as amazing. Be sure to do some hiking within this park. You'll have opportunities to see many birds and mammals. The howler monkeys are a species you simply won't be able to miss due to the sounds they make amongst the trees.
Visit the central plaza
The pleasantly calm atmosphere of this plaza is a great place to enjoy the locals and take in some small town vibes. Less than one block away lies an artisan market. Stop by to purchase many goods ranging from silver jewelry to textiles of this region.
Agua Azul and Misolha Waterfalls
Chiapas is well known for its natural landscapes. This series of waterfalls has a stunning blue color thanks to the water's high mineral content. Many congregate at the entrance to the falls to swim and enjoy the view. If you are looking to get a bit higher for some better vistas, there are a few man made trails for you to climb.
To see the best views of the blue water, the dry season (November-May) is your best bet. Take a day trip tour to see both sets of waterfalls with the offer listed below. National Park fees, hotel pickup and drop off to and from the falls are all included.
Chiapa De Corzo
Chiapa De Corzo is about a half our drive from the capital of Chiapas, Tuxtla Gutierrez. This pueblo mágico is known for its historic architecture, and as being the entry point to a well sought-after destination.
Sumidero Canyon
This federally protected National Park is an absolute must-see on your way through Chiapas. The deep, natural canyon was formed around the same time with the Grand Canyon, when a crack in the earth's crust developed. If you can believe it, this attraction has 30 rapids, 5 waterfalls, 3 beaches, and 2 freshwater springs packed into its massive borders. You can start an amazing boat tour from Chiapa de Corzo, and witness wildlife such as the American Crocodile.
La Pila Fountain
Constructed in 1562, this majestic Moorish style fountain had multiple purposes upon its creation. A local gathering place, an occasional watch-tower, and even a water supply for the town, this fountain still holds significance today. Just down the street, be sure to check out La Pochota, an ancient tree with plenty of legends attached to it.
Templo De Santo Domingo
One block south of the main plaza boasts a late 16th century ex-convent. It is the most well-preserved structure of its time, something to be grateful for. The architecture of this religious building is definitely worth a view.
Festival of Great January
If you are around Chiapa de Corzo in January, you won't be able to miss this festival. This celebration runs from January 4-23, and honors local patron saints Anthony the Great and Saint Sebastian.
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Comitán
Formerly known as Comitán de las Flores due to its abundance of tropical flowers, this pueblo mágico has historic roots in the fight for Mexico's independence.
Comitán was the defacto capital of Chiapas during the switch away from Spanish, and even Guatemalan rule. September 14, 1824 is a memorable day for the state of Chiapas, when they signed their way into Mexican law. Since then, the locals built a monument showing the history of their independence.
Monument of Independence
Comitán's role as the capital of Chiapas during this time shows when visiting their monument of independence. The massive reproduction of the Chiapanec Declaration of Independence earned this monument the nickname the "Book of Peter". Come see the symbol of independence for the area within this amazing monument.
Church of Santo Domingo
While you are walking through the historic center of Comitán, this 16th century church will be hard to miss. Considered on of the main attractions of this pueblo mágico, this church was converted to a barracks during the time of war. At night, its sensationally illuminated exterior takes the stage of the public eye.
Fiesta de San Caralampio
In the 1850's, plague and sickness ravaged the communities of this area. San Caralampio was a Greek priest who is considered the lawyer for plagues. Each year, a festival in his honor fills the streets with locals. I was fortunate to catch a similar one in San Cristóbal de las Cásas.
Tenam Puente
This archaeological site is set on a wooded hillside, and is definitely worth walking around for a couple hours. The structures all have placards clearly stating the history and what each one was used for. Set some time aside to simply sit at one of the various spots along the trail. Enjoy the view of this well maintained and well preserved piece of history.
Lagunas de Montebello National Park
Just near the border of Guatemala lay multi-colored lakes within a beautiful pine forest. Each lake has a different color depending on the mineral content of the water. Within this same park are 2 medium sized ruins. Some buildings have been fully excavated, while others still remain buried underground. This is a very safe National Park to visit while in this area.
El Chiflón Waterfalls
Take a stroll through another forest trail that leads to many waterfall views. There are tours offered for these locations, although I believe this experience is better without one. Travel at your own pace, and enjoy each of the waterfalls leading up to the grand finale: Velo de Nóvia.
San Cristóbal de las Cásas
San Cristóbal de las Cásas is quite the place to visit while in Chiapas. Most travelers, myself included, tend to stay much longer than expected. This is due to the overall feel of this pueblo mágico. While it is no longer the capital of Chiapas, it is still considered to be the state's cultural capital. Within the limits of the town, there are museums and festivals that make this area worth the visit.
Visit the various museums
The museuems strewn around San Cristóbal highlight the amazing indigenous traditions and rich culture of Chiapas. Among the many, I will suggest a few in this post. The museum of Mayan Medicine brings you through exhibits of how ceremonies, herbs, and healing rituals occurred during these times.
Are you into stones? The Amber Museum offers an extensive collection of raw and carved amber for your viewing pleasure. You even get to learn about the extraction process while you are here.
Jade was a symbol of immortality, love, and power during ancient times. JADE, a museum near the center of town, is the perfect place to learn about the beauty and history of the precious stone. It is quite amazing to think no material, not even silver or gold, were considered more valuable than jade during these times.
Experience the festivals of San Cristóbal
I would say two of the most important annual festivals of this town are worth the visit if you are passing through during their times.
The Fiesta de San Cristóbal runs from July 16 to 25. This festival commemorates the patron saint of both the city and of travelers. The tradition of drivers forming a parade caravan and driving through the city brings large crowds from the town to observe. Another festival worth checking out is one created for the founding of the town. March 31st is the date for this festival. Both of these, plus many more, bring people from far and wide to celebrate.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
Of course, while visiting these magical towns, it is safe to say you should explore the central plaza. San Cristóbal offers artisenal market where you can find amber jewelry, textiles, and more from all over the region.
Just on the outside of the central plaza, the Cathedral of San Cristóbal stands. With a large space in front, children come to feed pigeons, and people of all ages sit around and talk. One of the amazing cultural differences between places like this and where I am from is the pace of life. Being human; communicating with others, and enjoying the views in front of you are all common practice around here.
Do Not Miss San Juan Chamula
Only 10 kilometers (6 miles) from San Cristóbal de las Cásas lies a truly unforgettable pueblo mágico. Here, the indigenous language of Tzotzil is spoken equally, if not more, than Spanish. Talk about holding onto roots and traditions, Chamula is my most unforgettable place in Chiapas.
Walk through the market
The market lies just outside the church, where countless foods and textiles from the area are sold. Chamula itself is very small, and the market is the main place of congregation. Chiapas was the first part of Mexico where I saw tuktuks, and they are lined up on the edge of this market in case you need to get somewhere in a hurry.
Chamula's Annual Celebration
Fuego Nuevo is a celebration that takes place the 5 days before Ash Wednesday. Each year, this fiesta boasts Chamulan Catholicism with all its glory.
Visit Iglesia de San Bautista
Chamula observes what is called Chamulan Catholicism, dating back to Pre-Hispanic times. Shamanism is alive and well in this community. Rituals and folk medicine are something you will probably witness on your way through here.
Although you have to pay to enter this church, this is a place you absolutely must see in Chiapas. Pictures and video are strictly forbidden inside this church, so come witness the chair-less interior with your own eyes. Pine needles cover the floor people kneel upon, while many locals chant and pray over candles melted to the floor in their native Tzotzil language.
See the cemetery from above
Before passing under the big arch that gets you into Chamula, there is a parking lot on your right. If you drive to the end of this lot, you will see most of Chamula from above, but also a historic cemetery. This cemetery is definitely different from what you would normally expect: Not a single gravestone is placed in this cemetery. Rather, mounds of dirt, many with wooden crosses lay upon these grounds. Some crosses even date back to pre-Hispanic times.
Final Thoughts
Chiapas is a place of natural and historical wonder. From ancient ruins to multi-colored lakes, and the pueblos mágicos in between, come experience a very well-rooted area of Mexico. The cultures, traditions, and people here are unforgettable.
'Til next time,
Pete - A Traveling Teacher