Visitors in Mexico’s southern state of Chiapas should not miss the chance to see the breathtaking turquoise waters of Cascadas El Chiflón. Cascadas El Chiflón are not far from the Guatemalan border. They’re about 45 minutes west of the small city of Comitán de Domínguez. If you’re in San Cristóbal de las Casas then all you need is a short-day trip.
Cascadas El Chiflón feature five stunning waterfalls. Each surrounded by lush green jungles. This creates a stark contrast as the water descends into a stunning turquoise pool below. The color contrasts made for a major highlight in Chiapas, Mexico.
This is a topic that has already been extensively covered. So, I’m going to explain the most cost-effective way to visit! An adventure from San Cristóbal de las Casas is mighty simple. The easiest and most expensive way to visit will be with a taxi. The next option, also pricey, is with a rental car and using Google Maps.
Collectivo’s leave from next to the ADO bus station. They generally save travelers, and locals, pesos and time. A collectivo can travel faster and maneuver easier than a commercial bus. At the time of writing, a collectivo from San Cristóbal to Comitán de Domínguez cost 60 MXN ($3 USD) per person.
Upon arrival to Comitán de Domínguez, the transfer is across the street. Yet, if you get lost, the locals are ready to help and willing to point people in the right direction. The collectivo from Comitán to El Chiflón park takes about 45 minutes. The bus drops visitors at the Natural Park entrance for only 35 MXN ($1.75).
Once the collectivo drops visitors off there are two options. Either walk 15 minutes to the beginning of the hike, or take a Tuk-tuk for 10 MXN ($0.50). Visitors need to pay 50 MXN ($2.50) to enter the waterfall hike of the Natural Park. It is open seven days a week from 730 am until 5 pm.
Visitors can pay to camp at the entrance station for 35 MXN ($1.75) per person per night. There is a designated camping area. Yet, I’ll take this moment to note that it is okay to camp anywhere along the river.
My group left San Cristóbal, at noon, on a bus, and arrived at the park entrance around 345pm. This was perfect for camping, as a majority of the day’s visitors had already cleared out for the afternoon. We had the entire park to ourselves, along with a handful of working staff.
The hike itself is straightforward. The paved path leads to the main viewing area of the waterfall. The hike takes around 30-minutes. The path winds in and out of the lush green jungle and follows the turquoise waters.
Plan ahead and bring a lunch for a break at one of the many rest areas with picnic tables along the path. If not prepared, then stop at one of the restaurants or snack shacks. They can be a little pricey, but it’s better than getting hangry. The park provides two-bathroom areas that are both free to visitors.
All five of the falls are individually named with their own pool and viewing area. Each section has a sign that marks the short turnoff to the viewing area. The first section is Cascada El Suspiro, followed by the impressive Cascada Ala de Àngel.
I’ll take this moment to note that the pools look inviting and incredible to swim in. There are several signs that caution against swimming at the base of the falls. It is paramount for safety to follow all signs posted by the Park
Also note, that the park designates safe areas where visitors can swim along the river. Each of these include a place where a flotation device once hung. I noticed that most of these floatation devices are generally missing. Signs hang from trees with empty wooden posts. There are several strong currents present. Be sure to follow all signs posted by the park. It is imperative for the safety of visitors, especially children.
Cascada Velo de Novia
The main site of El Chiflón is the third section, with the name Cascada Velo de Novia (or Bridal Veil Falls). It offers an incredible sight. A powerful force of water spills over 120 meters (400 feet). It surges with immense power into the basin below.
The colossal waterfall has four separate viewing areas. The best part is the picturesque staircase that climbs to a viewing platform at the base of the falls. For obvious reasons, this area is extremely slippery. It can be dangerous. But, the views of the valley below, and the roaring falls above, are worth getting a little wet.
The fourth viewing area is behind the zip-line station. Don’t miss the extra 30 to 45 minute hike to the top. There are two more waterfall sections hidden above. This is where visitors can get away from the busy tourist area. Most people stop at Cascada Velo de Novia. Yet, the trail continues past the ziplines and is not marked well. This causes most people to miss out on the incredible views above.
Both the fourth and fifth falls are spectacular in their own right. They’re secluded and offer a feeling of serenity that is only found in nature. The fifth services sweeping views of the valleys below. The name of the fourth set of falls is Cascada Arcoiris. The name of the final falls is Cascada Quinceañera.
The ziplines are the perfect break for any adrenaline junky. There are two different lines, one is 300-meters and the other is 600-meters. The 300-meter line costs 150 MXN, and the 600-meter line costs 200 MXN. However, if you really want to, you can sign up for both lines at the low price of 300 MXN.
Cascadas El Chiflón Natural Park is a fantastic stop for every type of traveler. It’s perfect for the entire family, the everyday backpacker, the nature enthusiast, and casual travelers alike. The park includes a little something for everyone.
Take a hike and escape into nature. Or, get the adrenaline rush you’ve been searching for. For an affordable price, take yourself off the beaten path. Disappear into nature tucked away in Chiapas, Mexico.
Quick Notes:
- Collectivo from San Cristóbal to Comitán de Dominguez – 60 MXN
- Collectivo from Comitán to El Chiflón Natural Park – 35 MXN
- El Chiflón Natural Park Entrance Fee – 35 MXN
- Tuk-Tuk’s ride to the Waterfalls Entrance Fee – 10 MXN
- Entrance Fee to El Chiflón Waterfalls – 50 MXN
- Camping Fee – 35 MXN
