Palenque Ruins & Waterfalls Tour: Misol-Ha, Agua Azul Day Trip

Summary

Chiapas Mayan Ruins & Jungle Waterfall Adventure

If you want real adventure—swimming under waterfalls, exploring ancient Mayan temples, and hearing stories from locals who know every corner—this tour packs it all into one day. You’ll get time to relax by turquoise pools and walk among ruins that still hold secrets.

What’s the experience like?

Mornings in Chiapas start early—our van rolled out just as the mist was lifting from the hills. The road to Agua Azul twists through thick jungle and tiny roadside stands where locals sell tamales wrapped in banana leaves. When we finally reached the falls, you could hear them before you saw them—a deep rush echoing through the trees. The pools really are that blue, almost unreal against all the green. Some folks from our group jumped right in; I just dipped my feet and watched kids chasing each other along the rocks while a vendor nearby handed out fresh mango slices with chili powder.

Next up was Misol-Ha. It’s only about half an hour away but feels like another world—one tall curtain of water dropping into a round pool, surrounded by thick vines and birds calling overhead. Our guide, Luis (born and raised here), pointed out a narrow path behind the falls where you can walk right into the spray—soaked through in seconds, but worth it for that cool air on your face after the heat outside.

Palenque itself sits hidden in the jungle. We wandered past howler monkeys calling from somewhere above as we entered the site. The Temple of Inscriptions is massive up close; Luis explained how they found Pakal’s tomb inside, which changed what people thought about Mayan rulers. We climbed partway up the Temple of the Cross—views stretch over endless green canopy—and stopped at the Red Queen’s tomb too. There’s something quiet about this place, even with other visitors around; you feel small next to these old stones covered in moss.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waterfalls and Mayan Ruins Tour

• Visit Agua Azul Waterfalls
• Visit Misol-ha Waterfall
• Explore Palenque Archaeological Site

Top questions

Can I swim at both waterfalls?

You can swim at Agua Azul if conditions allow—it’s optional and safe areas are marked. At Misol-Ha, swimming is possible but depends on water levels.

Is this tour suitable for young kids or older travelers?

Yes! The tour is family-friendly and works for most fitness levels. Strollers or prams are fine for little ones; guides help everyone feel comfortable.

How long do we spend at Palenque ruins?

You’ll have enough time to explore main temples like the Temple of Inscriptions, Red Queen’s tomb, and more—with explanations from your guide.

What should I bring for this trip?

Bring comfortable shoes (it gets muddy), swimsuit if you want to swim, sunscreen, bug spray, and maybe some pesos for snacks or souvenirs along the way.

What’s included

Your ticket covers entry fees to all sites, bottled water throughout the day (trust me—you’ll need it), comfy air-conditioned transport between stops, plus a local guide who knows every shortcut and story worth hearing.