Mexico’s southernmost state, Chiapas is
also one of its most scenic. On this trip we visit Indian villages,
colonial mountain towns, beautiful waterfalls and the jungle-draped
Mayan ruins of Palenque.
1st Day: We are met at the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport and
travel to Cañon de Sumidero, where we board a boat for the
trip down the Grijalva river. Beneath towering 2,500-foot cliffs
we watch for monkeys, alligators and other tropical wildlife. Here
Chiapanecan Indians chose to jump into the sacred canyon rather
than submit to Spanish invaders. Then we travel on to the delightful
town of Chiapa de Corzo, where we spend our first night.
2nd Day: After breakfast we visit the villages of San Juan
Chamula and Zinacantán, with their bustling Indian markets.
In Chamula’s colonial church, ancient Indian rituals intermix
with Catholicism. We continue on to San Cristóbal de las
Casas, one of the prettiest cities in Mexico, where we spend our
next two nights. At an elevation of 7,000 feet and surrounded by
wooded forests, San Cristóbal is cool and refreshing.
3rd Day: In the morning we tour the town’s cathedral,
convent, monuments and museums. Afterwards we have plenty of free
time to wander the cobblestone streets, colorful markets and small,
tree-filled plazas.
4th Day: Today we leave the mountains for the lowlands,
stopping to swim at magnificent Agua Azul Falls—a long series
of turquoise cascades set against a deep-green jungle background.
After lunch we visit the Misol-Há waterfall, where we can
hike the short trail that leads behind the cascading falls. Then
on to the town of Palenque, where we spend the next two nights.
5th Day: We visit the archaeological park of Palenque, one
of the most impressive ancient sites in Mexico. Located in the
middle of a tropical rainforest, its pyramids, palaces and temples
are magnificent examples of Mayan artistry.
6th Day: After breakfast we drive to the airport in Villahermosa
for our flight home, sad to leave but taking along wonderful memories
of our Chiapas adventure.
What’s included: The trips are fully escorted by English-speaking
guides and include all accommodations, transportation, five breakfasts
and five lunches.
|
Two to four persons |
$2880* |
|
Five to ten persons |
$2480* |
|
Eleven or more persons |
$2380* |
|
Single room supplement |
$ 320* |
Departures: Daily
Best Time: Late Oct. thru Early May
Minimum Number of Persons: Two
*Note: Prices subject to change without notice.
