Chiapas: Misol-Ha, Agua Azul & Palenque tour with guide

Summary

Walk jungle trails, cool off in turquoise pools, and step into Mayan history

You’ll walk behind roaring waterfalls at Misol-Ha (bring a dry shirt), dip your toes or swim in Agua Azul’s turquoise pools, and wander ancient Mayan temples at Palenque—all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. It’s a day trip from Palenque packed with little surprises you’ll remember long after you leave Chiapas.

What’s the experience like?

Someone’s handing me a plastic bag for my phone—didn’t realize how close we’d get to the water at Misol-Ha. Our guide, Juan, grinned and said, “You’ll want this.” He was right. The spray hit my face before I even stepped behind the falls. It’s loud back there—like standing inside a drum—and the air smells green and heavy. I tried to snap a photo but mostly just laughed at how soaked we all got. There’s something about watching sunlight flicker through that sheet of water that makes you forget you woke up at 5am for this day trip from Palenque.

We dried off in the van (air conditioning felt almost too cold on wet skin) and drove out to Agua Azul. The color really is wild—almost milky blue in some spots, clear as glass in others. Kids were selling mango slices by the path; I bought one just for an excuse to linger near the sound of the river. Some folks swam in the pools, but I just dangled my feet and watched families picnicking under those striped tarps locals set up everywhere here. The rocks are slippery—I nearly wiped out trying to get closer for a picture, which made Juan laugh so hard he nearly dropped his hat.

Palenque was last. The jungle feels thick around those pyramids—you can hear birds but barely see them. Our guide told us stories about Pakal and his tomb, pointing out carvings I’d have missed on my own. There’s this moment when you climb up and look out over the ruins and it’s just…quiet. Even with other people around, it’s like time slows down for a second. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear rain back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Palenque and Waterfalls

• Visit Palenque Archaeological Site
• Walk behind Misol-Ha Waterfall
• Swim at Agua Azul Waterfalls

Top questions

How long does the Chiapas Misol-Ha, Agua Azul & Palenque tour take?

The tour is a full-day experience starting early from Palenque.

Is swimming allowed at Agua Azul waterfalls?

Yes, you can swim or relax in the natural pools at Agua Azul.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, pickup is included for your convenience.

What should I bring for the Misol-Ha waterfall visit?

A change of clothes or towel is helpful since you may get wet walking behind the falls.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is mentioned as included; local snacks are available along the way.

Are there any fitness requirements for this Chiapas tour?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Who leads the tour of Palenque ruins?

A local guide provides insights and stories during your visit to Palenque archaeological site.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned vehicle transport with hotel pickup and drop-off, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local throughout Misol-Ha waterfall, Agua Azul pools, and Palenque ruins before returning to town in comfort.