The best time to visit Chiapas is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities like exploring ruins, taking boat trips through Sumidero Canyon, and wandering the charming streets of San Cristóbal de las Casas. The cooler temperatures in the highlands during December to February are especially comfortable for sightseeing. This period is also great for cultural festivals, with Día de los Muertos (October 31 - November 2) and Semana Santa (March or April) being particularly vibrant times to experience local traditions.

For those who don’t mind a little rain, the wet season from May to October offers a quieter experience with lush, green landscapes. While rain can be frequent, it usually comes in short bursts, and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak. However, some rural roads may be more challenging to navigate. If you're looking for fewer crowds and a more serene atmosphere, the rainy season can be a good option, but be prepared for occasional downpours.

Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the modern capital of Chiapas, serves as a convenient transportation hub for those looking to explore the region’s many attractions. While it’s an important gateway, most visitors choose to stay in the charming mountain city of San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Famous for its colourful colonial architecture, vibrant weekly markets, and traditional villages, San Cristóbal is a captivating blend of cosmopolitan life and indigenous heritage. The city’s historic centre features picturesque cobbled streets, a variety of dining and accommodation options, and a lively nightlife scene, making it an ideal destination for culture and relaxation.

San Cristóbal is also a perfect base for discovering Chiapas’s surrounding natural and archaeological wonders. Take a boat tour through the towering cliffs of Sumidero Canyon, explore the nearby El Chiflón Waterfalls, or venture to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, nestled deep in the jungle. For outdoor enthusiasts, Montebello Lakes National Park offers kayaking and serene hikes around its 59 turquoise lakes. Its location near the Guatemalan border also opens up access to lesser-known gems like Cenote Chukumaltik, perfect for a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters.

Things to do in and around Chiapas State, Mexico: 

• Explore the Palenque Ruins: One of Mexico’s most famous Mayan sites, Palenque features impressive temples and pyramids surrounded by lush jungle.
• Sumidero Canyon: Take a boat tour through this dramatic canyon with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife like crocodiles and colorful birds.
• Visit San Cristóbal de las Casas: Stroll the cobbled streets of this charming mountain city, known for its colonial architecture, lively markets, and nearby indigenous villages.
• El Chiflón Waterfalls: Hike to these powerful, multi-tiered waterfalls with turquoise pools—great for swimming and nature photography.
• Montebello Lakes National Park: Paddle or hike around 59 scenic lakes framed by pine forests. A peaceful spot near the Guatemalan border.
• Toniná Ruins: Discover this lesser-known Mayan site with some of the tallest pyramids in Mexico and unique stone carvings.
• Yaxchilán Ruins: Accessible only by boat on the Usumacinta River, this jungle-covered site is rich in Mayan history and adventure.
• Cenote Chukumaltik: Swim or dive in this serene cenote surrounded by greenery—ideal for a refreshing break.
• Coffee & Cacao Tours: Visit local plantations to learn how Chiapas produces some of Mexico’s best coffee and cacao, with tastings included.
• Visit Indigenous Villages: Explore towns like Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula, where traditional customs, weaving, and local rituals offer a deep cultural insight, from San Cristobal de las casas.
  Tonalá Beaches: For a more off-the-beaten-path beach experience, head to Tonalá on the Pacific coast for seafood, surf, and sun in a relaxed setting.