San Cristobal De Las Casas-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City

  • Morning: Start your day at the Central Park (Parque Central) in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas. This vibrant park is a hub for locals and tourists alike, featuring street vendors, food stalls, and live music.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Cathedral of San Cristóbal (Catedral de San Cristóbal), a beautiful colonial church that dates back to the 16th century. Take in its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at El Mole, a popular spot for traditional Mexican cuisine, including their famous mole poblano. Try the chicken or pork mole with rice, beans, and tortillas ( approx. $10-15 USD).
  • Afternoon: Explore the Mercado de San Juan (San Juan Market), where you can find an array of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
  • Evening: Head to the La Merced Neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and street food. Try some grilled meats or traditional dishes at one of the many food stalls.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Casa Mexicana ( approx. $20-30 USD per night) - A cozy, family-run hotel with comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.
  • Hostal La Morada ( approx. $15-25 USD per night) - A simple but clean and welcoming hostel perfect for backpackers.

Transportation:

  • Walking: San Cristobal de las Casas is a relatively small city, making it easy to explore on foot.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Approximate cost is $5-10 USD per ride.

Tips and Essentials:

  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets and bus stations.
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s still a predominantly Spanish-speaking city. Learn basic phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Currency: The Mexican peso is the local currency ( approx. $1 USD 20-25 pesos).
  • Weather: San Cristobal de las Casas has a mild climate year-round, but can get cooler in the evenings.

Day 2: Explore the Surroundings

  • Morning: Visit the nearby town of San Antonio Huajón, known for its beautiful colonial architecture and picturesque surroundings. ( approx. $10-15 USD round-trip taxi fare)
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the scenic El Chico Canyon, where you can hike, relax, or enjoy water sports.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Na Bolom Museum (Museo Na Bolom), showcasing the history and culture of the region’s indigenous people. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

Day 3: Market Day

  • Morning: Head to the bustling Mercado de San Juan for a shopping extravaganza! Browse local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at El Jardin, a charming restaurant with traditional Mexican cuisine. Try their famous chiles rellenos (approx. $15-20 USD).
  • Afternoon: Explore the city’s many shops, galleries, and markets, or simply relax in your accommodation.

Day 4: Adventure

  • Morning: Take a guided tour to the nearby Cascadas de Sumidero (Sumidero Waterfalls), one of Mexico’s most impressive natural wonders. ( approx. $50-70 USD per person for transportation and guide)
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy a scenic lunch at the waterfall’s base, or grab some street food from local vendors.
  • Afternoon: Head back to San Cristobal de las Casas and explore its many shops, galleries, and markets.

Additional Tips:

  • Health and Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations for travel to Mexico.
  • Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected medical or travel-related expenses.
  • Language Schools: If you want to learn Spanish during your stay, consider enrolling in a language school or taking private lessons.

Enjoy your time in San Cristobal de las Casas!