A full-day loop from San Cristóbal that pairs the thunder of Cascada del Chiflón with the jewel-toned basins of Montebello Lakes. Expect long drives, short walks, a possible swim, and vivid freshwater scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out before dawn in San Cristóbal de las Casas and the van hums away from town into a thinning mist. Mountain air pushes at the windows as the road descends toward the sound of water—the Chiflón cascade announces itself first: a multi-tiered fall that throws spray like a dare. Later the landscape opens into bright, shallow basins—Montebello’s chain of clear lakes—each a different shade of blue, each edged by pine and limestone.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12–14 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate day-trip fitness; must manage multiple short walks, stairs, and a full day on the road.
Wildlife
History
The lakes sit in a borderland with long-standing indigenous communities; the area’s lakes and karst topography have long influenced local settlement and resource use.
Conservation
High visitor pressure and sunscreen runoff threaten freshwater clarity—use reef-safe sunscreen, stay on marked paths, and pack out waste to protect the park.
Reserve your spot on the Chiflon Waterfall And Montebello Lakes today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Tour begins in the Zócalo; early departure avoids crowds at the lakes and keeps temperatures cooler for photos and swimming.
Footwear for wet rock
Choose shoes with good grip—staircases and paths at Chiflón get slippery from spray and algae.
Hydrate for altitude and travel time
Carry 1–2 liters of water—the day includes long drives and light hiking at elevations around 1,600–2,200 m.
Respect swim areas
Only swim where permitted; currents and cold pools near waterfalls can be deceptively strong.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Grip and ankle support for wet steps and uneven trail sections at the falls.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)
Hydration for long driving stretches and short hikes; refill where available.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Optional swim at designated spots beneath the falls—bring a towel and dry bag.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Strong sun on exposed lake shores; also useful for long drives between sites.