The Southern state of Chiapas is a paradise for hydrophiles, with numerous waterfalls and deep blue lakes – all surrounded by lush tropical or pine forests. A trip to any of the amazing water bodies will be a refreshing break from the heat of the archaeological treasures located in the jungles of Chiapas.
Tip: As most of the visits to the waterfalls and lakes are done as daytrips from nearby towns, there are very few visitors in the mornings. If you get there early enough, you are guaranteed to have the places all to yourself.
Agua Azul: dreamy turquoise
Not far from the ruins of the ancient Maya city of Palenque is one of the most beautiful water bodies in Mexico – Agua Azul. The turquoise-coloured waters can be visited as part of a tour from or to Palenque city. Consisting of several cascades, the waterfall is famous for its deep blue tones that originate from the unique mineral content and limestone formations nearby. It is possible to take a refreshing plunge in one of the beautiful natural pools or just watch the striking scene from one of the plentiful restaurants along the path.
Tip: Heavy rains make the water murky, so the best time to enjoy the blue tones of the waterfalls is from December on, after the rainy season.
Misol-Ha: a waterfall within a waterfall
A single cascade of 35 meters in height falling into an almost circular pool and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation awaits travelers who venture to Misol-Ha. Take a refreshing swim in the pool or continue the walk on the path behind the big waterfall which will take you to the entrance of a cave. You will need a flashlight to enter the cave (which can be borrowed from a guide at the entrance, for a price of course) and don’t forget to leave your fear of bats outside. The treasure of Misol-Ha is a smaller waterfall hiding in this cave with a beautiful cave pool, and can be reached after a short walk through the cave.
El Chiflon: the whistling waterfalls
Hiding in a rugged mountainous terrain covered with sugarcane plantations and green forests is a series of massive waterfalls echoing through a narrow canyon. The gently up-sloping path takes visitors along the river while passing the smaller cascades all the way to the top. Here, the last waterfall called The Bride’s Veil that falls for over an impressive 120 m, and can be already seen after reaching the equally charming waterfall called Angel’s Wing. The walk through the canyon and back can take around 2 hours, so bringing a snack with you is advisable. After exiting the canyon, walk towards the small buildings housing little museums and look up into the tree canopies – if lucky, you might spot a large colorful iguana in the branches.
Tip: Be ready to get soaked as you walk all the way to the base of the Bride’s Veil!
Lagunas de Montebello: the forest of lakes
Near the Guatemalan border, almost 60 lakes of all colours (from blue and turquoise to almost red and black) and shapes spread over 6,000 hectares of pristine pine forests. Only 12 of these lakes are accessible by car – the rest can only be seen from above, on a horse or by a long walk (although this might be challenging as there are no paths). Some of the bigger lakes provide exhilarating raft rides, while others offer a refreshing opportunity to swim and try delicious tamales con queso in one of the simple local stalls. Limited concessions for development mean that there is little infrastructure, no motor boats, and no hotels – perfect for a break from it all! The highlight is a visit to Montebello lake, where a raft will take you to the island full of unique orchid flowers, and at the La Cañada lake for an amazing vista.
Tip: Near Montebello Lake are two stunning cenotes (sinkholes) hidden deeper in the forest which can only be accessed by a horse. There are horses and guides waiting on the shore to take you there for a fee. The two little lakes are really worth the extra effort!
Cañón del Sumidero: steep walls and crocodiles
The emblematic Sumidero Canyon (which even features in the State’s seal) formed at around the same time as the Grand Canyon due to a crack in the earth’s crust and erosion from the Grijalva River, which still runs through it. Visiting the Canyon is possible only thanks to flooding as a result of the Chicoasen Dam. You can take a boat tour that goes all the way to the dam and stops at the sights of monkeys, water birds, and crocodiles, which can be seen all year around. In the rainy season (and shortly after), dripping waterfalls flow down the more than 1,000 meters high walls of the canyon forming unique moss structures. The sheer size and depth of this gorge will definitely take your breath away! If not a fan of boats, there are a few viewpoints along the road overlooking the canyon that offer sweeping vistas.
Beautiful photos of Chiapas! Thanks for sharing 🙂 We live in Mexico and this state is on my bucket list!
Chiapas is an incredible place! While you are there, make sure to also explore the impressive ruins of Palenque, Yaxchilan and Bonampak!