Top Experiences in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico

I had never heard of San Cristobal before coming to Mexico; it was never on my radar. Now, I can't imagine not knowing about this bustling, vibrant city that comes to life as the sun sets. The charming streets filled with colourful buildings, vibrant murals adorning alleyways, and the lively market stalls offering an array of local crafts, savory delicacies, and sweet treats make each visit a unique and unforgettable experience.

San Cristobal de las casas is a town located in the southern state of Chiapas. A 12-hour drive from Mexico City, missed by most tourists but not travellers. It was one of my favourite places in Mexico and one that I don’t think should be missed.

travel guide to San Cristobal de las Casas Mexico

Top Experiences in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico

How to get there:

Depending on where you are coming from in Mexico, you will most likely be reaching San Cristobal by road. ADO buses are the way to go for most travellers when they visit Mexico, it’s the most cost effective and convenient way to travel through Mexico.

San Cristobal it’s a 12-hour drive from Mexico City, 9 hours from Oaxaca. If you are wanting to fly, land in Tuxtla Gutiérrez and from there rent a car or take a taxi into San Cristobal. There are many options available to reach San Cristobal, it just depends on which one is the right option for you.

When you are in San Cristobal, it’s small enough that walking is your best option. It’s a very walkable city, but if you don’t want to walk taxis are cheap and convenient.

Top Experiences in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico

Where to stay:

This historical town is filled with cute hotels and charming Airbnbs. Staying in the main center of the town is highly recommended to fully immerse yourself in all the surrounding activities. Some of the places that I recommend staying at include:

-       Casa del Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa – https://www.booking.com/hotel/mx/casa-del-alma-boutique.es.html

-       Casa Lum - https://www.booking.com/hotel/mx/casa-lum-eco-chic-sa-de-cv.es.html

-       Hostel Posada Del Abuelitos  - https://www.booking.com/hotel/mx/posada-del-abuelito.es.html  

-       Hostel Casa Satoshi - https://www.hostelworld.com/st/hostels/p/317445/casa-satoshi/


Top Experiences in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico

What to see and do:

San Cristobal is a charming town that offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you choose to embark on day trips to the picturesque surrounding areas or opt to stay in the vibrant town centre, you will be greeted with an array of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and scenery, ensuring an unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly leave you yearning for more.

1.     Canon Del Sumidero

Sumidero Canyon is a part of the Sumidero National Park, home to river crocodiles, spider monkey’s and ocelots this is a trip you won’t want to miss. Take a 90 minute boat ride through the Canyon and surrounding areas, spot the local wildlife, and enjoy natural beauty all around. After the boat ride you’ll stop in at the charming town of Chiapa de Corzo, a great place to enjoy lunch and explore the local handmade markets. This day trip is around 8 hours in total and costs about $35 AUD. https://gyg.me/mVqCPP3C

2.     Chiapas Indigenous Culture

I believe that whichever country you visit it is important to learn about the indigenous cultures of the country, this is the best way to immerse yourself into the country’s history and culture. This indigenous tour was very eye opening, and I learnt a great deal about the indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Visit local church’s, learn how they make textiles, understand the Mayan customs and so much more. https://gyg.me/xxBaPaEr

3. San Juan Chamula

San Juan Chamula is a part of the above indigenous Culture tour, however if you don’t want to do the tour, I really suggest visiting San Juan Chamula. Unfortunately, you can’t take photos inside the Church (And if you do it is an expensive fine), which is why I can’t share photos of this. Hire a local guide to be able to explain the history and customs of this scared place. As soon as you walk inside you are transported to a different world, there is so much mystery about this place as there is a no photo policy. The most striking element when you first walk in is that the floor is covered in pine needles and endless amounts of thin standing candles everywhere. This church is run completely different to any other church I have been too, here they sacrifice chickens. If you go here, you will most likely see people snapping chickens necks and killing them, they believe that transferring a disease or illness from a person to a chicken and sacrificing it will rid the person of that illness.

4. Learn to Salsa

If you are like me and have two left feet, then this might be a funny experience. However, learning Salsa is a must-do when visiting a Latin American country. San Cristobal boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that is the perfect backdrop to start learning the art of Salsa dancing. One fantastic spot to immerse yourself in this cultural dance is at Latinos Club, a delightful restaurant that also offers Salsa lessons for beginners. http://www.latinosclub.com.mx/home.html

5.     Catedral de San Cristóbal Martir

The iconic Catedral de San Cristobal Martyr, dedicated to St. Christopher the Martyr, dates back to 1528. Although it was demolished and rebuilt in 1693, its historical significance remains intact. Situated in the heart of San Cristobal, a visit to this architectural marvel is a must when wandering around the town. I suggest timing your visit for the late afternoon or evening to witness the sun's radiant reflections on the cathedral's facade. While tourists are not permitted inside, the exterior view is a picture-perfect sight to behold.

6. Walking Tour

You guys might already be aware of how much I adore a leisurely walking tour! Therefore, it comes as no surprise that exploring San Cristóbal this way is a must for me. I highly suggest embarking on this journey as your initial experience in the city, as it familiarizes you with the key sites and attractions. The local guides are equipped with insider knowledge and can provide valuable insight into planning your itinerary and making the most of your time in town.. https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/44798-free-tour-of-san-cristobal-de-las-casas

7. Mercado de Artesanias (Artist Market)

I spent a significant amount of money at this craft market, but every penny was worth it. Without a doubt, this was my favourite one in all of Mexico. The array of exquisite handmade crafts and textiles here was truly remarkable. It's a paradise for anyone looking to indulge in a bit of shopping, whether for themselves or to bring back mesmerizing gifts for family and friends.

A few other places to check out if you have the time includes:

  • Cerritos San Cristóbal

  • Iglesia de Guadalupe

  • Ambar Museum

  • Casa de la Culrtura

  • Cooking Class

  • El Tzitz Cooking School

Top Experiences in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico

Where to Eat

You'll never go hungry in San Cristóbal. The town is bursting with an abundance of incredible dining options that will leave you craving for more. From charming local eateries to trendy cafes, each bite promises a tantalizing experience that's bound to keep you lingering in this gastronomic paradise.

Breakfast in San Cristobal De Las Casa, Mexico:

Lunch & Dinner in San Cristobal de Las Casas, Mexico:

Drinks & Dancing in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico:


Top Experiences in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico


Top Tips for San CRISTOBAL 

  • Best place to watch the sunset in Town is Kinoki, I don’t really recommend the food here but it’s a good spot to have a drink and watch the sun go down. https://www.instagram.com/kinokisancris

  • A lot of people say they get sick here in San Cristóbal (Stomach problems), this is due to Coca Cola. There is a Coca Cola plant on the edge of town that extracts water daily and with the rise in tourists, the town doesn’t have the infrastructure and proper waste management to deal with demand. So be very cautious here, no showering with your mouth open, use bottled water to drink and brush your teeth, no ice in drinks, stay away from salad at restaurants and wash any fresh produce with filtered water.

  • Safe for Solo female travellers, I walked around this town by myself on many occasions and felt very safe. In saying that, at night it’s best to walk with others and avoid flashing expensive items.

  • Do bring cooler clothes when visiting as it does get a bit chilly during the evening, a nice jacket/jumper or pants/ long dress will do the trick to keeping you a bit warmer.

  • I would say that 3/4 days would be the perfect amount of time here to explore and experience many different activities.

  • This was one of my favourite places in Mexico, so I definitely recommend visiting if you can.

mexicoJulia MarrMexico travel, Mexico travel guide, San Cristóbal, travel guide, photography Mexico