San Cristobal De Las Casas-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in San Cristobal de las Casas

  • Morning: Arrive in San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial town in the highlands of Chiapas.
  • Where to stay: Check-in at Hotel Casa Mexicana, a cozy hotel with a warm atmosphere and comfortable rooms.
  • Lunch: Head to El Muelle, a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Central Market, where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local street food!
  • Evening: Explore the town’s colonial center, including the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Museum of San Crsitobal de las Casas, which showcases the history and culture of the region.
  • Lunch: Grab some delicious tacos at Tacos Don Rafa, a popular local spot.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby town of San Juan Chamula, known for its traditional Mayan community. Be respectful of their customs and traditions.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Casa de los Abuelos, a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 3: Nature and Adventure

  • Morning: Take a guided hike to the nearby Sumidero Canyon, one of Mexico’s most impressive natural wonders. Be sure to book with a reputable tour operator.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab some snacks at a local market.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Botanical Gardens in San Cristobal de las Casas, which features a variety of plant species and stunning views.
  • Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the town’s nightlife.

Day 4: Indigenous Communities

  • Morning: Visit the Tzotzil Mayan Community of San Juan Chamula, where you can learn about their customs and traditions. Be respectful of their way of life.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at La Casa de los Abuelos, a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Zinacantan Mayan Community, where you can learn about their culture and traditions. Be sure to respect their customs and traditions.

Day 5: Explore the Surroundings

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Comitan de Dominguez, known for its beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Lunch: Grab some lunch at a local restaurant in Comitan de Dominguez.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lake de la Candelaria, a peaceful spot with stunning views. Take a boat ride or simply relax on the shores.

Day 6: Art and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Galeria Arte y Cultura, which features a variety of local artists’ work.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at El Muelle, a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Afternoon: Explore the town’s colonial center, including the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Lunch: Grab some lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport or bus station for your departure.

Things to know:

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Consider bringing a phrasebook or using a translation app.
  • Currency: Mexican Pesos (MXN) are the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.
  • Weather: San Cristobal de las Casas has a mild climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F-77°F).
  • Respect: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.

Transportation:

  • Getting there: Fly into the nearby town of Tuxtla Gutierrez (TGU) or take a bus from other major Mexican cities.
  • Getting around: Use taxis, buses, or walk/bike through the town. You can also rent a car for day trips to surrounding areas.

Tips and recommendations:

  • Be prepared for altitude sickness if you’re not used to high elevations.
  • Try local street food and drinks, such as tacos al pastor and horchata.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to try some traditional Mexican cuisine at La Casa de los Abuelos or El Muelle.
  • Consider booking a guided tour for the Sumidero Canyon and other attractions.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting indigenous communities.