San Juan Chamula & Zinacantán Indigenous Villages Tour

Summary

Explore Chiapas: Mayan Traditions & Local Life Experience

If you want to see real Chiapas life up close—taste homemade Pox, watch master weavers at work, and step inside sacred spaces where old traditions live on—this tour lets you do all that with local guides who know every story behind what you’re seeing.

What’s the experience like?

Early morning, the air in San Cristóbal still felt cool as we set off for the highlands. Our guide, Miguel, chatted about the Tzotzil villages while we wound through pine forests—windows down, you could catch a whiff of woodsmoke from distant homes. First stop: Zinacantán. The church of San Sebastián sits right at the heart of the village, its white facade bright against the green hills. Inside, candles flickered everywhere and you could hear soft voices in prayer—felt almost like stepping into another world.

We wandered over to a family home next. The women there showed us how they weave those famous textiles—honestly, watching their hands move so fast across the loom was hypnotic. They let us try a few stitches (mine came out crooked), then poured us tiny glasses of Pox. It’s a strong corn liquor; burns a bit going down but warms you up quick. You’ll spot kids playing outside and sometimes smell tortillas cooking nearby.

Afterwards, we drove on to San Juan Chamula. The main square buzzed with locals selling fruit and flowers. But it’s the San Juan Bautista Church that really sticks with you: inside, pine needles cover the floor and families gather around candles for rituals that blend Catholic saints with ancient Maya beliefs. Our guide reminded us not to take photos—it’s about respect here. The mix of incense and fresh pine is something I won’t forget soon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Indigenous Villages and Traditions

• Visit San Juan Bautista Church in San Juan Chamula
• Explore Zinacantán: Church of Saint Sebastian, textile artisans, and taste Pox drink

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, it’s great for all ages! The pace is relaxed and there are options for strollers or infant seats if needed.

Can I take photos inside the churches?

No photos are allowed inside San Juan Bautista Church out of respect for local customs. Outside is fine though!

Will we get to try any local food or drinks?

You’ll taste Pox (corn brandy) in Zinacantán and might catch fresh tortillas being made by local families.

What’s included

Your ride’s comfy and air-conditioned; bottled water’s always handy; all entrance fees are covered so you can just focus on soaking it all in.