Chiapas Lakes & Waterfalls Tour with Local Guide Pickup

Summary

Guided day trip to Montebello Lakes and El Chiflón waterfalls

You’ll walk shaded trails beside roaring waterfalls at El Chiflón, feel cool mist on your skin near “Velo de Novia,” then explore five colorful lakes in Montebello National Park with a local guide. Includes pickup from San Cristóbal de las Casas and time for lunch by the water—a day full of small surprises you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We were already winding through the hills outside San Cristóbal de las Casas when I realized how early it was—my coffee hadn’t even kicked in yet. Our driver, Javier, greeted everyone by name (I’m still not sure how he remembered), and the van smelled faintly of eucalyptus from someone’s bag. By the time we reached El Chiflón, the sun had burned off most of the morning chill. The sound of the Santo Domingo river was louder than I expected—kind of like white noise but sharper. We started up the path, stairs cut into the hillside, and I kept stopping to watch butterflies flicker past. At one point, our guide pointed out a tiny lizard sunning itself on a rock; he said locals call them “dragoncitos.”

I didn’t realize how many waterfalls there’d be before you even get to the big one—“Velo de Novia,” or Wedding Veil. The spray hit my face as we got close, cool and sweet-smelling, almost like fresh laundry. There were families picnicking along the banks, kids daring each other to get closer to the water. After we regrouped (I was late—sorry Javier), we piled back in for the drive toward Montebello Lakes National Park. It’s about an hour or so, but honestly I lost track because I dozed off for part of it.

Montebello is this patchwork of lakes—five main ones on our route—and each has its own color depending on sunlight and minerals. Our guide let us pick where to eat; I went for grilled chicken at a lakeside spot where a woman named Doña Marta served tortillas that were still steaming. The air smelled like pine needles and woodsmoke. We wandered between lakes after lunch, sometimes just standing quietly watching light move across the water. There was this moment at Lake Pojoj where everything felt hushed except for birds somewhere in the trees—I still think about that view.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes

• The departure from San Cristóbal de las Casas at 8:00 a.m.
• Walk along the path to the Santo Domingo river waterfalls
• Visit the highest waterfall, the Wedding Veil
• Travel to Lagos de Montebello National Park at 1:00 p.m.
• Lunch at a chosen spot in the park
• Tour five main lakes in Lagos de Montebello
• Return to the original pick-up point

Top questions

How long is the day trip from San Cristóbal de las Casas?

The tour departs at 8:00 a.m. and returns in the evening after visiting both El Chiflón waterfalls and Montebello Lakes.

Is hotel pickup included for this Chiapas tour?

Yes, pickup from San Cristóbal de las Casas is included with your booking.

Are entry fees covered for Montebello Lakes & Chiflon Waterfalls?

All entry fees and taxes are included in the tour price.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

The guide will offer options to buy lunch at local restaurants near Montebello Lakes; lunch cost is not included.

How difficult is the walk to El Chiflón waterfall?

The walk includes stairs and uneven paths; travelers should have moderate fitness.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Service animals are permitted during this day trip.

What should I bring for visiting Montebello Lakes?

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and some cash for lunch are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from San Cristóbal de las Casas in an air-conditioned vehicle with a local guide at your side throughout; all entry fees and taxes are covered, plus you’ll have time to choose your own spot for lunch by Montebello’s lakes before heading back together in the evening.