San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico: Travel Guide
San Cristóbal de las Casas is a cool, colorful colonial town in the highlands of Chiapas — a Pueblo Mágico of cobblestone streets, indigenous markets and strong Maya culture.
Why visit San Cristóbal de las Casas?
San Cristóbal de las Casas is a cool, colorful colonial town in the highlands of Chiapas — a “Pueblo Mágico” of cobblestone streets, indigenous markets, lively cafés and a strong Maya culture. It is the best base for exploring the region: nearby Tzotzil villages, the Sumidero Canyon and Chiapas's waterfalls.
How to get to San Cristóbal from the US
Fly into Tuxtla Gutiérrez (TGZ), about an hour away by road, usually connecting through Mexico City. Shared and private shuttles run from the Tuxtla airport up to San Cristóbal (which sits at about 2,200 m / 7,200 ft, so pack a layer — it gets chilly at night).
Best time to visit
November to April is the dry season and most comfortable. The highlands are green and rainier from June to October. The town is especially vibrant around Day of the Dead and the winter holidays.
Top things to do in San Cristóbal
Walk the Andador Guadalupano pedestrian streets, visit the cathedral and the Santo Domingo church and craft market, and browse the amber and textile shops. Take day trips to the Tzotzil villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, the Sumidero Canyon, and the El Chiflón or Agua Azul waterfalls.
Where to stay
Stay in the Centro near the cathedral and the two main pedestrian streets to walk to the markets, cafés and restaurants. Boutique hotels fill restored colonial houses.
Is San Cristóbal safe to visit?
The state of Chiapas carries a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory from the US Department of State. San Cristóbal is a popular backpacker and cultural hub, but parts of Chiapas have seen unrest and occasional road blockades. Many travelers visit San Cristóbal de las Casas without incident by flying in, staying in the main areas and avoiding intercity travel at night; review the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before you go.
Excursions from San Cristóbal de las Casas
San Cristóbal is the ideal base to explore Chiapas. The Sumidero Canyon is 80 km away, and the Zapatista community of Oventic is 40 km. Palenque, with its jungle-surrounded Mayan ruins, is 5 hours north. Near the Guatemalan border, Comitán and the Montebello Lakes are well worth the trip. For the complete southeast circuit, include Oaxaca, Campeche, and Mérida.
Frequently asked questions
Where is San Cristóbal de las Casas?
In the highlands of Chiapas, in southern Mexico, about an hour from Tuxtla Gutiérrez. It sits at about 2,200 m (7,200 ft), so nights are cool.
How do I get to San Cristóbal from the US?
Fly into Tuxtla Gutiérrez (TGZ), about an hour away by road, usually via Mexico City; shuttles run from the airport up to San Cristóbal.
What is there to do in San Cristóbal?
Walk the pedestrian streets and markets, visit the cathedral and Santo Domingo, and take day trips to San Juan Chamula, Zinacantán, the Sumidero Canyon and waterfalls.
When is the best time to visit?
November to April is dry and most comfortable. The highlands are green and rainier from June to October; nights are cool year-round.
Is San Cristóbal safe to visit?
Chiapas carries a Level 3 ‘Reconsider Travel’ advisory. San Cristóbal is a popular cultural hub; review the current US advisory and its area notes before you go.