Chiapas

The state

Get to know Chiapas

Chiapas is the southernmost state of Mexico, on the border with Guatemala. It has high, cool mountains, tropical rainforest, blue-water rivers and one of the largest indigenous populations in the country, of Maya peoples such as the tsotsiles and tseltales, who maintain their language, clothing and festivals.

Near the capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the Grijalva River runs through the Sumidero Canyon, between cliffs that reach about a thousand meters, navigated by boats that depart from Chiapa de Corzo, a colonial town with the mudéjar fountain La Pila. Going up the highlands, San Cristóbal de las Casas, at about 2,200 meters, has colonial churches, low houses and craft markets.

Near San Cristóbal, the church of San Juan Chamula shows a mix of Catholic and Maya rites, with the floor covered in pine needles and candles; visits require respect and photography inside is prohibited. To the east, near Comitán, the Montebello Lakes form a group of lakes of different colors among pine trees.

To the north, in the jungle, lies Palenque, one of the best-known Maya cities, with the Temple of the Inscriptions and the palace, a World Heritage Site. On the route are the Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls. On the table are chiapaneco tamales and highland coffee, one of the state’s best-known products.