Mexico’s southernmost state, Chiapas is also
one of its most scenic. On this trip we visit Indian villages, colonial
mountain towns, beautiful waterfalls and the jungle-draped Mayan ruins
of Palenque.
1st Day: We are met at the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport and travel
to Cañon de Sumidero, where we board a boat for the trip down
the Grijalva river. Beneath towering 2,500-foot cliffs we watch for monkeys,
alligators and other tropical wildlife. Here Chiapanecan Indians chose
to jump into the sacred canyon rather than submit to Spanish invaders.
Then we travel on to the delightful town of Chiapa de Corzo, where we
spend our first night.
2nd Day: After breakfast we visit the villages of San Juan Chamula
and Zinacantán, with their bustling Indian markets. In Chamula’s
colonial church, ancient Indian rituals intermix with Catholicism. We
continue on to San Cristóbal de las Casas, one of the prettiest
cities in Mexico, where we spend our next two nights. At an elevation
of 7,000 feet and surrounded by wooded forests, San Cristóbal
is cool and refreshing.
3rd Day: In the morning we tour the town’s cathedral, convent,
monuments and museums. Afterwards we have plenty of free time to wander
the cobblestone streets, colorful markets and small, tree-filled plazas.
4th Day: Today we leave the mountains for the lowlands, stopping
to swim at magnificent Agua Azul Falls—a long series of turquoise
cascades set against a deep-green jungle background. After lunch we visit
the Misol-Há waterfall, where we can hike the short trail that
leads behind the cascading falls. Then on to the town of Palenque, where
we spend the next two nights.
5th Day: We visit the archaeological park of Palenque, one of
the most impressive ancient sites in Mexico. Located in the middle of
a tropical rainforest, its pyramids, palaces and temples are magnificent
examples of Mayan artistry.
6th Day: After breakfast we drive to the airport in Villahermosa
for our flight home, sad to leave but taking along wonderful memories
of our Chiapas adventure.
What’s included: The trips are fully escorted by English-speaking
guides and include all accommodations, transportation, five breakfasts
and five lunches.
| 2010 Price per person (double occupancy): |
|
Two or three persons: |
$1780* |
|
Four or five persons: |
$1270* |
|
Six or seven persons: |
$ 960* |
|
Eight or more persons: |
$ 810* |
Departures: Daily
Best Time: Late October thru Early May
Minimum Number of Persons: Two
*Note: Prices subject to change without notice.
