San Cristóbal de las Casas★★★
San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of Mexico's most atmospheric cities: a colonial town at 2,200 m altitude in the Chiapas highlands, surrounded by indigenous Tzotzil and Tzeltal communities that have preserved their languages, clothing, and customs to this day.
The town itself is a labyrinth of colorful colonial houses, cobblestone streets, coffee houses (Chiapas produces Mexico's best coffee!), amber workshops, and indigenous handicraft markets. The air is cool and clear, the atmosphere bohemian.
Sights
- Templo de Santo Domingo: The most beautiful church in Chiapas. Baroque facade made of pink stone. In front: the largest handicraft market in the region (textiles, amber, jade).
- San Juan Chamula: 10 km away. A Tzotzil village with one of the world's most unusual churches: No pews, the floor covered with pine needles, thousands of candles, Coca-Cola as a ritual drink (burping drives away evil spirits), chicken sacrifices. Photography strictly forbidden!
- Zinacantán: Neighboring village, known for its flower cultivation and embroidered textiles. Visit with a local guide.
- Na Bolom Museum: Former home of Lacandon Maya researcher Gertrude Duby-Blom. Museum, library, and garden.
- Cañón del Sumidero: 1,000 m deep canyon, 60 km away. Boat tour from Chiapa de Corzo (from 250 MXN). Crocodiles, monkeys, vultures.
Achtung
San Cristóbal is at 2,200 m — it gets cold at night (5–10°C)! Pack warm clothing. Those coming directly from the tropical lowlands will also notice the altitude: acclimatize slowly.
