Most people when thinking about Mexico picture white sand beaches, taco stands, agave fields, and charming colonial towns, but few know that the state of Chiapas is one of the country’s most outstanding area of natural beauty. The climate is tropical with lush forests and heavy rains that create some spectacular water features.
One such spectacle worth venturing out to is Cascadas El Chiflón, located over 2 hours south of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Here, the mighty San Vicente River drops dramatically through a tropical forest into a series of enchanting and absurdly blue waterfalls. To see them all, it’s a nice little hike up along the river on a well-made path over 1.5km, with a few steep sections but plenty of spots to refresh along the way!
The first waterfall you encounter is El Suspiro (The Sigh) with a wide turquoise pool.
Next one is Ala de Ángel (Angel’s Wing), nicely shaded with a shallower basin, perfect to dip your feet in.
Then you start the climb towards the main attraction and tallest waterfall: Velo de Novia (Bride’s Veil). You can catch glimpses between the trees of all the bright blue pools, a really special sight.
As you get closer, the thunderous roar and impressive height fill your senses as you stare at the 120m steep drop of rushing water.
Climb the steps to the viewing platform which is as close as you can get to the falls – and prepare to get wet!
There are two more smaller waterfalls up ahead, though if you go with a group like I did, you’ll turn around here due to lack of time. It’s a nice walk back down in the shade with more opportunities for photos…
…and for swimming in designated, calmer areas. Bring your swimsuit if you don’t mind your water on the chillier side
Colorful lakes
It’s typical to combine the waterfalls of El Chiflón with a visit to the other water attraction of the area – Montebello Lakes National Park, a further two-hour drive away.
The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve has over 50 lakes in a pine forest and a few tourist facilities to refuel in the middle of a long day.
Famous for the color of their waters, the lakes all reflect turquoise blues and greens, coupled with the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains and forests. We stopped at Laguna Pojoj for lunch followed by a very relaxing boat tour.
The traditional wooden canoes are makeshift rafts made from tree trunks tied together and glide beautifully over the crystal-clear water.
It was the most peaceful experience of my entire month in Chiapas, sitting quietly in the middle of the lake, breathing in air that was so sweet and pure.
You stop at a small, orchid-filled island in the middle of the lake where you can also swim and take in more of the serene atmosphere.
One last stop for the day is at Laguna Tziscao – the largest lake which also happens to cross over into Guatemala! Yep, you’ve reached the border.
You can also rent boats here to tour the lake but as the day was drawing to an end and we still had a long way to get back to San Cristóbal, we just walked around and enjoyed the sunset views.
A splendid day in nature, and further proof of Chiapas’ many hidden gems.
No Comments