Day Trips from Tuxtla. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Nearby Destinations

Chiapa de Corzo: Approximately 15 km (9 miles) from Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Colectivos (shared vans) or taxis make the short 20-30 minute journey. This "Pueblo Mágico" features colonial architecture, the unique La Pila fountain, and the Ex-Convento de The First city of the americas. It is also the main point of embarkation for boat tours into the Sumidero Canyon.

San Cristóbal de las Casas: Approximately 85 km (53 miles) from Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Frequent ADO/OCC buses, colectivos, or private tours connect the cities in 1.5 - 2 hours. Its higher altitude means cooler temperatures. While possible as a day trip, San Cristóbal warrants at least an overnight stay to fully experience its magic.

Planning Your Excursion

Colectivos offer economical and frequent transport to Chiapa de Corzo and San Cristóbal.
Buses (ADO/OCC) bring comfort for extended trips, especially to San Cristóbal.
Organized tours offer convenience, often combining multiple sites like Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo.
Independent travel allows flexibility and a slower pace using mass transit.

Natural Escapes

The areas around Tuxtla Gutiérrez present various natural escapes, with opportunities to connect with Chiapas’ stunning landscapes.

Waterfalls & Reserves

El Chorreadero Waterfall: A series of waterfalls and natural pools fed by a subterranean river, near Chiapa de Corzo. A popular local spot for swimming and picnics.

Getting There

Take a cab or local colectivo towards Chiapa de Corzo.
Parque Educativo Laguna Bélgica, north of Tuxtla, is a serene lagoon for birdwatching.
The dry season offers clearer skies for canyon views.

Canyon Views & Mountains

Miradores del Cañón del Sumidero: Viewpoints along the gorge rim provide breathtaking, expansive views, a different perspective than boat tours. Easy to reach by car or tour.

Scenic Drives

The journey to San Cristóbal de las Casas passes through mountainous terrain and rural landscapes.
Observe glimpses of traditional Chiapanecan life and agriculture along the route.
Tuxtla Gutiérrez is inland; no beaches are accessible as a day trip.

Cultural Excursions

Historical Sites

Archaeological sites in Chiapa de Corzo include a small Pre-Classic Maya pyramid base.
The Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo (Chiapa de Corzo) showcases 16th-century colonial religious art.
Visits to rural Mayan villages require a local guide due to cultural sensitivities.
Some coffee plantations offer tours to learn about the coffee-making process.

Spiritual & Rural Insights

Pilgrimage sites like Iglesia de San Juan Bautista in San Juan Chamula display unique syncretic practices.
Photography is strictly forbidden inside the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista.
Traditional markets in San Cristóbal plural) Casas display handmade textiles.
Engage with locals in rural villages for insights into unique Mayan traditions.

Multi-Day Extensions

San Cristóbal de las Casas:2-3 days recommended for full experience.
Palenque & Waterfalls:2 days for magnificent Classic Maya archaeological site.
Agua Azul and Misol-Ha:Combine these stunning waterfalls with a Palenque trip.
Lagos de Montebello & Comitán:2-3 days for multi-colored lakes and charming colonial town.

Oaxaca:Cultural and culinary hub, accessible by bus or flight.
Tabasco (Villahermosa):Visit for Olmec sites and marshland ecosystems.
Guatemala:Chiapas shares a border, an option for Central America onward travel.
Classic Chiapas Loop:Tuxtla -> Chiapa de Corzo -> San Cristóbal -> Palenque (optional Comitán).

Book Your Adventures

Discover and book day trips and excursions for the Tuxtla Gutiérrez region: GetYourGuide Day Trips.

Popular Day Trip Combinations

Many visitors combine several nearby attractions into a single, well-paced day trip.

Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa de Corzo

The most popular combination. Start with a captivating boat tour through the canyon, then explore the historic Pueblo Mágico.

El Chorreadero & Chiapa de Corzo

Combine a refreshing take a dip at the waterfall with the cultural charm of Chiapa de Corzo for a relaxed day.

Canyon Viewpoints & San Cristóbal

Witness panoramic views of Sumidero Canyon from above before heading to the chillier, bohemian San Cristóbal.

Tips for Organized Tours

Many local agencies in Tuxtla Gutiérrez and Chiapa de Corzo arrange combined tours. Verify what is included (transport, guide, entrance fees, meals).

Benefits

Efficient itineraries for maximizing sights.
Local guides share valuable insights and history.
Pre-arranged logistics reduce planning stress.

Independent Travel Advantages

For a personalized experience, explore at your own pace. Use colectivos and local transport to hop between destinations.

Freedom to Roam

Spend more time at locations you find captivating.
Select your own dining options without restrictions.
Often more budget-friendly, especially for solo travelers.

Considerations for Day Trips

Comfortable Shoes:Essential for walking and exploring.

Sun Protection:Hat, sunscreen, and shades are advisable.

Cash:Small denominations for local transport and vendors.

Water:Stay hydrated, especially in warmer areas.

Camera:For capturing the scenic beauty.

Light Jacket/Sweater:For cooler evenings or higher altitudes like San Cristóbal.

Plan Ahead for Best Experience

Consider your energy levels and interests when selecting day trips.
Booking popular tours in advance is advisable during peak season.
Always carry identification and a copy of your passport.
Inform your accommodation about your day trip plans.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when using public transport.

Extended Regional Exploration

For those with more time, Tuxtla Gutiérrez serves as an ideal starting point for longer regional explorations.

Beyond Day Trips

Consider adding 1-3 days to your itinerary for dives into Chiapas' treasures.

Recommendations

San Cristóbal de las Casas for an overnight stay or two.
Palenque & Waterfalls (2 days) for magnificent Maya ruins and stunning cascades.
Lagos de Montebello & Comitán (2-3 days) for natural beauty and colonial charm.

Next Destinations

Chiapas connects to other captivating regions for further travel.

Logical Connections

Oaxaca, a cultural and culinary center, accessible by bus or flight.
Palenque for world-class Mayan ruins and the nearby waterfalls.
Guatemala, for those continuing into The core America, sharing a border with Chiapas.

Transportation Network

An extensive bus network connects Tuxtla Gutiérrez to major regional destinations.

Connectivity

ADO and OCC offer reliable bus services across the region.
Flights are available from TGZ to other major Mexican cities.
The "Classic Chiapas Loop" covers state highlights for a comprehensive experience.

Suggested Regional Routes

The Classic Chiapas Loop offers a comprehensive experience in the state.

Route Options

Tuxtla Gutiérrez > Chiapa de Corzo (day trip).
San Cristóbal plural) Casas (2-3 days with village excursions).
Palenque (2 days with waterfalls).

Flexibility in Travel

Tailor your multi-day journey based on your interests and pace.

Self-Guided Exploration

Plan your own route employing local buses and colectivos for adventure.

Booking Tours

Consider multi-day tour packages that bundle transport and accommodation.

Cultural Immersion

Stay longer in specific towns to experience local life and festivals.

Your Chiapas Adventure Awaits

Discover more of Chiapas' stunning landscapes and rich heritage with these extended itinerary ideas.

Day Trips from Tuxtla