Before moving to Mexico, I didn’t know much about the Mexican states of Oaxaca and Chiapas. However, when we would ask people in Mexico where we should visit, we kept hearing that we had to visit these two magical areas. These south central states are full of a rich history and indigenous influence. There aren’t as many tour groups, cruise ships, and big cities as other parts of Mexico. The jungle landscape of Chiapas is far different from the beaches of Quintana Roo or the high desert around Mexico City. Some areas of Chiapas reminded me a lot of the Costa Rican rainforest. Oaxaca is widely known for its incredible food and alluring beach towns. There are dozens of ancient ruins, natural landmarks, and charming towns in these South Central Mexican States!
This is our list of best things to do in the states of Oaxaca and Chiapas.
1. San Cristóbal de las Casas
San Cristóbal de las Casas (Chiapas)
If you are in Chiapas, be sure to stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas. This is one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magic Towns), and it is easy to see why. It isn’t as big as and doesn’t have an airport like nearby Tuxtla, but it has so much culture and charm. Full of cobblestone walking streets, cathedrals, markets, local restaurants and boutique hotels, it was the perfect city to stay and wander. It was also the perfect launching pad for many of the Chiapas day trips.
2. Palenque Ruins
Palenque Ruins (Chiapas)
Since living in Mexico, we have been constantly amazed by the massive, advanced architecture of ancient Mayan civilizations. The ancient ruins of Palenque were no exception. This Mayan city dates back as early as 300 – 700 A.D. The ruins may not be as big or old as other Mayan cities such as Calakmul and Tikal, but their well-preserved epigraphy (inscriptions) have played a crucial role in unlocking many Mayan mysteries. It was amazing walking around the ruins deep within the jungle of Chiapas, picturing what life would have been like during the height of Palenque. One of the coolest things was being able to hear the loud roar of the howler monkeys that live within the area. As big as the ruins are, only 10% have been excavated. Meaning that 90% of Palenque is still covered under the jungle!
3. Agua Azul Waterfalls
Agua Azul Waterfalls (Chiapas)
If you’re visiting the ruins in Palenque, definitely stop by Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls! Deep in the Chiapas jungle are the beautiful, turquoise colored Agua Azul waterfalls. The jungle is so dense and diverse that we felt like we were back in Costa Rica. I thought that the pictures online of Agua Azul’s blue water were edited, but it really was that stunning turquoise color! You can swim in designated areas but not close to the main falls. However, I read online that there are more falls down the river that you can swim right up to! With our tour we had about two hours at the falls. It was plenty of time to grab something to eat and explore the main area, but not quite enough to wander off down river. The falls are deep in the Chiapas jungle, but there are dozens of restaurants and local vendors at the falls entrance. (Just be sure to bring pesos if you want to buy some food or use the bathroom!)
4. Misol-Ha Waterfalls
Misol-Ha Waterfalls (Chiapas)
On our way to Palenque Ruins, and an hour away Agua Azul, we made a brief stop at Misol-Ha Falls. This waterfall isn’t anything overly special, but it’s an easy stop on the way to Palenque. These falls have a path that leads behind the water for a unique perspective! (Be careful though as the path is slippery!) Although this waterfall isn’t worth driving four hours on its own, it was a great bonus getting to see it on our way to Palenque! (There are bathrooms and a restaurant here too.)
5. Sumidero Canyon
Sumidero Canyon (Chiapas)
One of our favorite day trips in Chiapas was Sumidero Canyon. Floating down the river, surrounded by 3,300 feet cliffs made us feel really small! During our 2.5 hour boat tour, we also saw about a dozen crocodiles and two very cute spider monkeys! The canyon is about an hour drive away from San Cristobal de la Casas. The canyon boat tour is in Spanish, but the views are so beautiful that we didn’t feel like we missed much. There is also the option to drive to various canyon overlooks for some more incredible views. We didn’t go to these, but the pictures look beautiful. Our boat finished its tour in Chiapa de Corzo, which is another one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos. The town is small, but was a good place to grab some food before the van took us back to San Miguel de la Casas!
*Check out Adventurous Kate’s great post that helped us know what to expect before our Sumidero Canyon tour!
6. Puerto Escondido*
Puerto Escondido (Oaxaca)
The state of Oaxaca is known for it’s amazing beach towns. The crown jewel of these amazing beach towns is Puerto Escondido. It’s much quieter and low-key than Cancun or Cabo. Although it isn’t as well known among international travelers, Puerto Escondido is a very popular beach getaway in Mexico. We haven’t been there yet, but Puerto Escondido is at the top of our list of places to visit in Mexico!
7. Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City (Oaxaca)
Oaxaca is a state in Mexico, and Oaxaca the city is the largest city and capital of the state- also known for its history, culture, and delicious food! Ask someone from Mexico which state has the best food and chances are they’ll mention Oaxaca. Some of the popular dishes from the area are mole, mezcal, oaxaca cheese, and tlayudas. (Tlayudas are made of large toasted tortillas filled with meat, oaxaca cheese, and a bunch of other goodness.) You don’t have to go far to find a tlayuda. They are everywhere downtown. We loved going out at night and trying different foods from the various street vendors. The city has several chocolate stores, markets, and restaurants. It’s a great city to stroll around and enjoy!
There are plenty of day trips from downtown as well. Usually the easiest and cheapest way to book these tours is to talk with one of the many tour operators in downtown Oaxaca. Unfortunately when we were there, many of them were closed.
8. Hierve el Agua*
Hierve el Agua (Oaxaca)
One of the most iconic day trips from the city of Oaxaca is Hierve el Agua. This is one of the few “petrified” waterfalls in the world! (The other being the famous Pamukkale in Turkey.) The combination of the pools, stalactites, and mountains make for some amazing pictures! (Or at least what I’ve seen online. Unfortunately when we were in Oaxaca, this attraction was still closed.)
9. El Chiflon Waterfall*
El Chiflon Waterfalls (Chiapas)
El Chiflon Waterfalls are beautiful, cascading falls that measure nearly 400 feet in height! From what I’ve read, the entire area is enchanting. Not far from the Guatemalan border, this massive waterfall makes a great stop on a Mexico to Central American roadtrip.
10. Sima de Las Cotorras*
Sima de Las Cotorras (Chiapas)
It’s not often that you get the chance to rappel down a massive 460 foot sinkhole. But that’s exactly what you can do at Sima de Las Cotorras (Sinkhole of the Parakeets). As you’re descending, view dozens of parakeets and parrots that live within the giant, remote sinkhole.
11. Monte Alban and Mitla Ruins*
Monte Alban and Mitla Ruins (Oaxaca)
Popular day trips from the city of Oaxaca are Monte Alban and Mitla Ruins. Since as far back as 2000 BC, Monte Alban was the home of several different civilizations. Mitla was an important religious area that has a very unique design for it’s time. Both of these archaeological sites have played important roles in unlocking mysteries about the ancient civilizations that lived within this area.
12. Montebello Lagoons*
Montebello Lagoons (Chiapas)
These crystal clear lakes are just another miraculous natural wonder in Chiapas. This beautiful national park is home to lush green trees and stunning blue water. Be sure to take a tour on a raft made from bound together tree trunks!
13. Zipolite and Mazunte Beaches*
Zipolite and Mazunte Beach (Oaxaca)
Puerto Escondido may be the most popular beach town in Oaxaca, but it isn’t the only one. Other popular coastal towns are Mazunte and Zipolite. Just 15 minutes apart, Zipolite and Mazunte are best known for their great surfing. Full of charm, Mazunte is a Mexican Pueblo Magico (Magical Town). This area is also famous for its protection of sea turtles.
14. Cenote Chukumaltik*
Cenote Chukumaltik (Chiapas)
Close to the Guatemalan border, relax in the crystal clear waters of Cenote Chukumaltik. At over 600 feet wide and 200 feet deep, this cenote is popular among divers. With more than 100 feet of visibility, divers can see petrified trees and quartz deposits on the cenote floor.
15. Tonina Ruins*
Tonina Ruins (Chiapas)
The Tonina Ruins are well-known for the preservation of Mayan carved structures. Built on various levels of artificial mounds, Tonina stands tall among the surrounding landscape. These ruins are a popular stop on the way from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque.
16. San Juan Chamula*
San Juan Chamula (Chiapas)
There aren’t many places where you can still witness ancient religious rituals that are still being practiced. Visit San Juan Chamula for a unique experience. Remember to be respectful of the locals as photos inside the church of San Juan Bautista are forbidden.
Where We Stayed
Popular cities to stay at in Oaxaca and Chiapas are San Cristóbal de las Casas, Oaxaca City, and Puerto Escondido. These towns are full of local character and make for great home bases to explore the surrounding area. Prices are usually very reasonable. Although they weren’t anything special, we found great accommodations in the downtown area through AirBnB.
Where We Ate
What this area lacks in fancy restaurants, it makes up for in local dishes. Known for its amazing street food, markets, and iconic dishes, be sure to take some time to experience the food in this area. Oaxaca is home to many famous local dishes. Both states are full of local markets with fresh fruit and unique dishes. Prices are exceptionally inexpensive and every restaurant we ate at was full of its own local charm.
*These are places we haven’t had a chance to visit yet, but hope to someday!
