free walking tour san cristobal

Free Walking Tour San Cristobal

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FREE WALKING TOUR SAN CRISTOBAL (San Cristobal de las Casas) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Mexico , Favorites , San Cristobal de las Casas · December 7, 2023

The Ultimate San Cristóbal de las Casas Itinerary: 3-10 Days

Nestled amongst vibrant green mountains at a striking 7,218 feet (2,200 meters) above sea level, San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of Mexico’s many hidden gems.

This endearing colorful city is a hot spot for artsy travelers, nature and history lovers, budget backpackers, and those intrigued by southern Mexico’s indigenous culture. It is also one of the places that the government of Mexico has designated as a pueblo magico (magical town) because of its historical charm.

After spending a month in San Cristobal de las Casas, I’ve carefully designed this flexible San Cristobal de las Casas itinerary . I include options for 10 days in San Cristobal, a week long itinerary, five days, three days, and one day, and of course you can customize if you’re staying longer like I did.

Before you scroll onto the San Cristobal itinerary, be sure to bookmark or pin my other Chiapas travel guides:

★ 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Sumidero Canyon ★ Mexico Instagram Captions

Note : This article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through these links, at no cost to you. But don’t worry, I only share products I’d truly recommend to a friend.

Photos Above: Montebello Lakes (Photo by Kaan Kosemen ), San Juan Chamula, and Sumidero Canyon

San Cristobal Itinerary

In my humble opinion this San Cristobal de las Casas itinerary is the perfect mix of adventurous day trips, immersion in the city, eye-opening artisan workshops, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Oh, and you can expect to eat plenty of yummy food and delicious drinks along the way!

One day you’ll be witnessing controversial rituals in a syncretist church and the next you’ll be cruising on a speedboat through a massive canyon. And if you’re like me, you’ll start most days with local cacao (it’s a speciality here!) and end each day with pox (Chiapan liquor) or wine.

Of course, you can always adjust the itinerary based on the activities that interest you most. If you loathe long car rides (like me) and want to skip some of the longer day trips, I offer suggestions of more things to do in the city. Or, if you want to explore more of Chiapas off the beaten path, you can rent a car or hire a private local guide.

San Cristobal Itinerary Overview:

My base San Cristobal de las Casas itinerary is for a one-week trip, but I also include adapted itineraries for 10 days, 5 days, 3 days, and 1 day later in this guide.

Day 1-2 : Get to know San Cristobal on a walking tour, join local artisan workshops, taste cacao, pulque, and pox

Days 3-4 : Go on a boat tour through Sumidero Canyon, visit the charming town of Chiapa de Corzo, witness syncretism at San Juan Chaumla, and climb to San Cristobal’s hilltop churches

Days 5-7 : Visit local markets, shop for authentic hand embroidered textiles, go on a bike tour, go on hike, and go on an day trip to one of Chiapas’ most breathtaking sites (Palenque, Montebello Lakes, or El Chiflon Waterfalls)

San Cristobal de las Casas 1 Week Itinerary

Spend your first two days in San Cristobal getting your bearings and learning about the city’s history, culture, and people.

Day 1: Free Walking Tour, Cacao, and Nourishing Food

Free Walking Tour

On your first day in San Cristobal I highly recommend joining the city’s free walking tour. I’ve taken free walking tours in cities all around the world and this one is one of the best!

The tour is offered in English twice a day (10am and 4pm) and in Spanish daily at 10am. The tour guides are well-spoken young locals who are not afraid to share both the beautiful and difficult parts of city’s history and current issues.

During the three hour tour, you’ll walk all around the city, wander through local markets, down lesser-visited side streets, admiring street art and tasting food here and there as you go. The tour ends with a complimentary pox (indigenous alcohol) tasting.

Even though it is ‘free,’ the tour guides make a living off of tips, so be sure to come with cash (pesos or USD) for your guide.

On your first day, I also recommend trying cacao (before or after the tour). Cacao drinks are essentially more raw versions of hot cocoa (or hot chocolate) and they’re hugely popular here with local chocolate.

Unlike hot cocoa, cacao drinks have less processed bits of chocolate in them. It is almost like you put pieces of roasted cacao beans in a blender and then steeped them in hot water. So expect lots of small chunks of antioxidant-rich cacao in your cup.

You’ll find Cacao Nativa throughout the city where you can order a diversity of chocolatey drinks. For the most authentic experience, order a ‘chocolate mas cacao’ calient (hot) with water (no milk) and no sweetener. You can choose between several levels of “darkness,” I typically go for 72-80%.

Fuel up with local food

A great place to eat on your first day is El Caldero , a popular local restaurant that specializes in flavorful soups inspired by traditional Chiapan flavors.

Although soup might not be the first thing on your mind, with jet lag and changes in elevation, your body will be craving something wholesome and this is the perfect place for it!

Choose between their vegan and meat soups, perhaps order a drink, and then sit back and enjoy music from local artists that tend to always make their way into the restaurant.

Note : San Cristobal de las Casas is located at a very high elevation, so you may feel the effects of altitude sickness upon arriving. The best way to avoid, or treat altitude symptoms is to stay hydrated, rest when needed, and avoid too much alcohol. Liquid IV is a great product that you can buy at home and bring with you to help you stay hydrated while traveling!

Day 2: Artisan Workshops, Casa Na Bolom, and Pulque

Artisan Workshops Tour With Nayib

Plan your second day in San Cristobal around what I consider to be the city’s best tour (yes, the free tour is unmissable, but this tour with Nayib is next level)!

Offered as an Airbnb Experience titled ‘ Learn from the young producers ,’ this three-hour immersive tour is led by artist and entrepreneur, Nayib who is a prominent figure in the local artisan scene.

Nayib instantly makes you feel like family and invites you into three unique experiences (which change every day) with small businesses and artists.

On my tour with Nayib we got to visit a small cacao factory that a local business owner started in his house, we tried embroidery with an artist who combines traditional techniques with contemporary style, and we tasted delicious food at a locally-owned plant-based restaurant. Depending on the day, any of these activities could be swapped out for experiences like flower arranging, gallery visits, demos with local nonprofits, and more.

Regardless of which activities you partake in, you will have an incredible time talking to Nayib and asking him anything and everything about life in Chiapas. He is deeply rooted in the local community, but speaks perfect English and has lived abroad.

Casa Na Bolom

Reserve some time to check out Casa Na Bolom (House of the Jaguar in English), which is one of the best museums in San Cristobal de las Casas.

The museum is situated in the former home of archeologist Frans Blom, and his wife Gertrude Duby Blom, who was a photographer, journalist, and environmentalist.

Frans Blom led excavations at many ancient sites throughout Mexico, include nearby Palenque. Together, Frans and Gertrude were the first outsiders to ever make contact with the Lacandon people, an indigenous group that lived isolated in the Lacandon jungle long after the arrival of the Spanish.

Casa Na Bolom features a restaurant, hotel, and gift shop on site, but in my opinion, the highlight is the Lacadon photography exhibit which you a unique look into indigenous life in southern Mexico.

However, the Lacadon Room is just one of several exhibits at this small museum. In other rooms you get to know the Blom’s and see their extensive collections of artifacts, books, and personal belongings.

Taste Pulque

Pulque is a pre-hispanic fermented alcoholic beverage made from the maguey plant, which is also used in tequila and mezcal. Sometimes compared to kombucha, pulque is much thicker and has a higher alcohol content. Most people love it or hate it, but I always recommend trying it when visiting Mexico for the first time.

Pulque used to be the drink of Mexico, consumed daily by the majority of the population. Although other beverages like Coca-Cola and beer have replaced pulque, plenty of pulquerías still exist throughout the country.

One of the best places to try pulque in San Cristobal de las Casas is at Nectar de las Madre Tierra Pulquería. This charming small pulquería is located on Real de Guadalupe, San Cristobal’s main pedestrian street.

Day 3: Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo

On day three take an unforgettable day trip to the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon and the charming city of Chiapa de Corzo.

During this day trip you’ll cruise through the Rio Grijalva, which flows through the base of Sumidero Canyon, spotting wildlife along the way. Then you’ll get the chance to see the canyon from viewpoints above, and explore Chiapa de Corzo on your way back to San Cristobal.

I recommend reading my full Sumidero Canyon guide ahead of time , which details everything you should know before going on a day trip here.

Truth be told, there aren’t any amazing tour companies that offer day trips to Sumidero Canyon, mostly just drivers who will provide roundtrip transport to the canyon and not much else.

However, it is still important to book a tour ahead of time and you can book a day trip from San Cristobal here .

Day 4: San Juan Chamula and San Cristobal Church Hikes

San Juan Chamula

On your fourth day in San Cristobal de las Casas you have the opportunity to head seven miles outside of the city to the San Juan Chamula. The town’s main church is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, and it is certainly one of the most interesting places I’ve visited in all of my travels.

From the outside, Templo de San Juan looks like a beautifully decorated Catholic Church. But a regular mass hasn’t been held in this building since the 1970s.

The type of religion practiced at this church is a perfect example of syncretism—a term I learned about when completing my degree in Anthropology, but probably a term most people haven’t heard of.

The Oxford English Dictoinary defines syncretism as “‘the  amalgamation  or attempted amalgamation of different religions, cultures, or schools of thought.” In more simple terms, syncretism is what happens when different religions and spiritualities get mixed, creating something new.

In the case of San Juan Chamula, Catholic practices and beliefs are mixed with indigenous spirituality and even modern marketing campaigns. It’s difficult to explain, but certainly worth experiencing in person. Visitors are allowed to enter the church for a small fee (bring pesos), but you cannot take photos inside. However, its unlikely you’ll forget what you wittness.

There are no pews in the church, and at any given time, the church floor is covered with thousands of melting, burning candles and pine needles. Worshippers sit on the ground lighting candle by candle, sipping pox (hard alcohol) and Coca Cola because the carbonation causes burping which is believed to release evil from the body. And you’ll almost definitely see a chicken or two being sacrificed on the floor.

You can hire a Spanish speaking guide outside of the church, or visit by yourself. Either way, after visiting the church, you can explore the town a little more. The majority of the town’s population are of indigenous decent who speak Tzotzil instead of Spanish. Women wear unique traditional clothing consisting of wool skirts and embroidered tops, and most locals drink more Coca Cola (roughly 2 liters a day) than water.

Wandering around the town and visiting the church is interesting to say the least! To get to San Juan Chamula from San Cristobal you can hire a taxi, take a colectivo (shared shuttle), or drive a rental car.

If you’re willing to pay a little more and are okay with a long-ish bike ride, I highly recommend booking this guided bike tour to San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan from San Cristobal . Not only is it one of the highest rated tours in Chiapas, but it is also a way to explore Chiapas off the beaten path and meet with Tzotzil Mayans in their own community.

The San Cristobal Hilltop Churches

After spending a few hours in San Juan Chamula, head back to San Cristobal de las Casas. Perhaps you’ll want to grab lunch or relax for a little bit at your hotel.

Once you’re ready, get ready to hike to one or both of San Cristobal’s hilltop churches. The first church is on a hill on the western side of the historical center called Iglesia de San Cristóbalito. The second church is up on a hill on the eastern side of the historical center called Templo de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

The two hilltop churches both offer incredible views, and are about 1.5 miles (2.3 kms) apart, making the trek between the two a decent walk. You’ll walk through the main part of downtown San Cristobal between the two hikes, offering an opportunity to stop for a drink or snack along the way.

As you walk, you can take some time to process what you experienced in San Juan Chamula, and also think about what other things you want to do in your remaining days in town.

Day 5: Day Trip to Palenque and Agua Azul, or Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfalls

A week in San Cristobal de las Casas gives you the opportunity to explore other parts of Chiapas on day trips.

For this day, choose between two day trip options: Palenque and Agua Azul Waterfalls, or a day trip to the Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfalls. It is a difficult choice, but if you want to see them all, you can add more day trips to your San Cristobal schedule and condense your time exploring the city itself.

To help you figure out which day trip(s) to take, here is a brief overview of each of these incredible destinations:

Palenque & Agua Azul Waterfalls ( Book here )

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Palenque is a remarkable archeological site with well preserved ruins of a classical period Mayan city. It is the most visited site in the state of Chiapas and for good reason. While a day trip to Palenque from San Cristobal is certainly possible, keep in mind that you will spend most of your day in the car (it is nearly a 6 hour drive one way). Most tours leave around 4am and include a stop at the Agua Azul waterfalls.

Montebello Lakes & El Chiflon Waterfalls ( Book here )

Chiapas’ Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello (Montebello Lakes National Park) is an enchanting UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with 59 turquoise lakes and a diversity of wildlife. Most tours stop at the El Chiflon Waterfalls along the way. They are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country and certainly rival my favorite Mexico waterfalls in Santiago Apoala, Oaxaca .

Keep in mind that if you book a guided tour, most are offered only in Spanish. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to these destinations yourself.

Day 6: El Arcotete Park and Optional Bike Ride

El Arcotete Park

After a full-day adventure on day five, you may sleep in and grab brunch in town before anything else.

However, if you’re up for an 8am bike ride, I recommend booking this incredible bike tour to El Arcotete Park , a park on the edge of town that features caves, ziplines, and an even an underground maze that was discovered just over ten years ago.

You can also visit El Arcotete on your own by taking a taxi or colectivo from downtown. The drive is about 20 minutes. However, to experience it all with a professional guide and get some exercise in, book this tour .

The tour takes about 4-6 hours, but you can spend as much time as you’d like at the park if you go by yourself.

Optional Intimate Dinner With Plant-Based Chef

If you’re up for a unique dinner experience, make your way over to Art Liberia , a tiny vegan restaurant in San Cristobal with one communal table. You’ll get to watch as the quirky chef makes a flavorful plant-based meal from scratch. Expect interesting conversations and delicious food made with local ingredients. If you’re nervous about trying vegan food, this is the place is a great introduction!

Update : Since I visited Art Liberia in Autumn 2022, I believe that they have moved into a larger space with more tables!

Day 7: Shopping for Artisan Goods, Local Markets, and Last San Cristobal Adventures

After such a packed 7 days in San Cristobal de las Casas, spend your last few hours in town soaking in the city’s charm, buying locally made goods, and visiting any last places that have been on your San Cristobal bucket list.

As you may have learned on tours earlier in the trip, unfortunately the majority of the embroidered textiles and other souvenirs sold on the streets and even in shops are made in China and Taiwan. Vendors will tell you otherwise, but sadly it is true.

However, finding locally made textiles is easier in San Cristobal compared to most other places in Mexico. Some places I recommend to shop include:

★ Maya Kotan Textiles : My favorite shop to buy handmade textiles made by Chiapan artisans. Prices are fair and designs are beautiful. ★ artisan2you : Another great place, located above Restaurante Xut. It can be difficult to find but you can ask the servers for help. ★ Casa Na Bolom Gift Shop : The gift shop at this hotel is another place you can find locally made gifts.

Keep in mind that handmade embroidered goods will (and should) cost quite a bit more than the fake ones on the street. However, buying authentic textiles is one of the ways you can give back to the local community as a visitor.

Another thing you can do on your last day is explore the Mercado Viejo, a local market just north of the main downtown area. Some city tours (including the free walking tour I recommend) stop here, but if you didn’t get a chance to visit earlier, stop by on your last day.

Finally, fill your last day with any other activities you missed throughout the week! Maybe there are some churches you wanted to visit, or perhaps you wanted to spend some time wandering the Zocalo (main square). Or, maybe there was one more restaurant you wanted to check out.

How to spend 1 day in San Cristobal de las Casas

If you only have one day in San Cristobal de las Casas, you’ll probably want to just focus on exploring the city. Here are some recommendations for your day:

★ Take the free walking tour or learn from the young producers tour depending on which interests you most ★ Try cacao at Cacao Nativa ★ Dine at El Caldero, one of the best restaurants in San Cristobal de las Casas ★ Climb to one of the two hilltop churches, either Iglesia de San Cristóbalito or Templo de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe ★ Shop for artisan made goods at stores like Maya Kotan Textiles

How to spend 3 days in San Cristobal de las Casas

You’ll have a decent amount of time to explore the city with a three day San Cristobal itinerary.

On your first day, get to know the city by joining the free walking tour or learn from the young producers tour, trying caccao at Cacao Nativa, eating at El Caldero, and perhaps climbing to one of the hilltop churches if you have time.

Go on a day trip to Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo on your second day. My my full Sumidero Canyon guide will explain you everything you need to know before this day trip, including tour recommendations. You’ll probably get back to San Cristobal late but you can get a yummy dinner and try pulque at Nectar de las Madre Tierra Pulquería or sip wine and eat tapas at La Viña de Bacco.

On your third day in San Cristobal, I recommend visiting either San Juan Chamula, or El Arcotete Park, depending on your interests. Both are about 20 minutes from downtown San Cristobal. San Juan Chamula is where you will find a syncretist church and a vibrant indigenous community, whereas El Arcotete Park is the place to go for caving, ziplining, and other outdoorsy activities. I recommend this El Arcotete bike tour and this San Juan Chamula bike tour , if you’re in good physical shape and don’t mind biking long-ish distances. Both of these are half-day trips, leaving you plenty of time to recoup, explore more, and pack back in San Cristobal.

How to spend 5 days in San Cristobal de las Casas

With five days in San Cristobal de las Casas, I recommend following my three day San Cristobal itinerary (above) for the first three days.

On day four, it is up to you whether you want to go on one of those longer day trips in my weeklong San Cristobal itinerary (above) to either Palenque and Agua Azul or the Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfalls. If you’re up for an adventure, book one of those long day tours. If not, opt for whichever experiences you missed on day one and three: the free walking tour or learn from the young producers tour, El Arcotete , or San Juan Chamula .

On your final day in San Cristobal, explore local markets like the Mercado Viejo, wander through Real Guadalupe (the city’s main pedestrian-only street), hang out at the Zocalo (main square), and perhaps climb to the two hilltop churches if you haven’t already.

How to spend 10 days in San Cristobal de las Casas

If you’re lucky enough to have ten whole days in town, you’ll be in for a treat!

You can follow my seven day San Cristobal de las Casas itinerary (above), and perhaps break up the activities more so you can take it a little slower. In addition, you can go on one more day trip, to either Palenque and Agua Azul or the Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfalls, whichever you weren’t able to do earlier in the trip. You can also spend one day hiking at Montetik , an ecological park south of town.

Where to Stay in San Cristobal

There are plenty of beautiful, affordable hotels in San Cristobal de las Casas. If you’ve read any of my other articles, you probably know my go-to hotel booking platform is Booking.com . You can browse hotels on there. However, my top recommendations based on my own research (and experience) include these spots:

Casa de Alma Hotel Boutique & Spa

Casa de Alma is the place to stay in San Cristobal if you’re looking for pure luxury. This gorgeous boutique hotel is located just a few blocks from the center of town and features a rooftop, an in-house restaurant, and a spa with massages, a steam room, sauna, and gym. Check prices here .

Uvence Arte + Hotel

Tucked away 15 minutes outside of the city center, Uvence Arte + Hotel is a one-of-a-kind place with a museum and two restaurants, plus suites with their own private pools. The grounds are full of vibrant nature and the hotel’s architecture is stunning. Check prices here .

Hotel Parador Margarita

This is the hotel I booked for my mother when she came to visit while I was living in San Cristobal. It is a highly-rated beautiful hotel that feels quite luxurious but has prices starting at about $70 USD per night. It is quieter since it is a few blocks away from the main part of town and it features a beautiful garden and peaceful rooms. Check prices here .

Hotel Casa de Gandhi

One of the highest-rated hotels in San Cristobal de las Casas, Hotel Casa de Gandhi is a breathtaking boutique hotel in a historical building. Each room comes with its own patio, and access to the beautiful shared garden. Free parking is available for guests with cars. Check prices here .

Hotel La Casa de Mamá

Hotel La Casa de Mama is the most affordable hotel on this list, but it has one perk that none of the others do: an outdoor swimming pool. Of course San Cristobal is a bit chilly most of the year, but having access to a pool is always a plus in the summertime. Hotel La Casa de Mama is also simply a beautiful hotel with both colonial and Mexican influences displayed in the design. Check prices here .

Where to Eat (and Drink) in San Cristobal de las Casas

Full transparency: I’m vegan, but I thought I’d still include my favorite places to eat and drink in San Cris in this guide. Even if you’re not plant-based, I think these vegan-friendly San Cristobal de las Casas restaurants are worth checking out!

★ El Caldero : A simply good soup place with vegan and non-vegan options. I only went here because my (non-vegan) mom was in town and actually loved this place! ★ La Viña de Bacco : The place to go for a drink (especially wine) and tapas. This place is always packed but the service is great and little tapas (bread with toppings) are included with each drink! ★ Art Libreria : An intimate vegan restaurant where the chef cooks right in front of you. Go for wholesome local food and interesting conversation. ★ La Casa Del Pan : I never actually ate at this restaurant, but there is a small bakery and shop attached with tons of yummy stuff. It’s the perfect place to stop if you want to homemade, delicious ingredients to cook with at your hotel. ★ Casa Jasmine : Really good Asian-inspired bowls (fully vegan) if you’re craving something different during your visit to Chiapas. ★ Te Quiero Verde : Go-to plant-based restaurant in San Cristobal with sweet servers, a great atmosphere, and a diverse menu of local and international dishes. ★ Falafel : Vegetarian Israeli restaurant with really good falafel, if you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern flavors. ★ Cacao Nativa : Cacao shop with several locations across town. The most convenient place to try authentic Chiapan cacao!

San Cristobal de las Casas Itinerary FAQs

How many days do you need in san cristobal de las casas.

You’ll need at least five days to fully immerse in San Cristobal’s historical center, explore nearby villages, and take a day trip to the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon.

Of course, you can also spend 2-4 days in the city, though you won’t be able to do as much and you’ll probably be exhausted by the end of it.

When is the best time to visit San Cristobal de las Casas?

When considering what time of year to visit San Cristobal de las Casas, you need to factor in weather and temperature. Even though San Cristobal is located in the southernmost part of Mexico, it gets quite cold in the fall and winter because of its high altitude. I visited in October and was totally unprepared for how chilly and rainy it was.

For the best weather, I would recommend visiting in the late spring or early summer as it will be slightly warmer and less rainy. However, the rain does start in late summer, so packing a rain jacket or travel umbrella is always a good idea.

If you don’t mind rain and cold, visit during the rainy fall and winter months and you’ll be blessed with vibrant greenery and smaller crowds.

What is San Cristobal de las Casas known for?

San Cristobal de las Casas is one of Mexico’s official pueblo magico (magical towns) because of its cultural heritage and colonial architecture. San Cristobal and nearby villages are famous for their intricate hand embroidered textiles, and many of the traditional clothing sold throughout other parts of Mexico come from artisans in this part of Mexico. San Cristobal de las Casas’ high population of indigenous Mayans is also notable, though Mayans has been historically expelled from the city.

A little more historical context about indigenous people and the citys’ formation :

The city was founded in 1528 by Spanish colonial forces after a violent conquest of the area. Although Chiapas has one of the largest indigenous populations in Mexico, San Cristobal de las Casas specifically has a history of forcibly removing indigenous people from the city. You will see plenty of indigenous people when walking the streets of San Cristobal today, but most of them live in villages outside the city because of the city’s history.

Is San Cristobal de las Casas expensive?

San Cristobal de las Casas is one of the more affordable destinations in Mexico, with even luxurious hotels costing about $100 a night, restaurant meals costing anywhere from $40-150 pesos ($2-9 USD), and transportation costs being minimal since most of the city is walkable.

Is San Cristobal de las Casas safe?

The state of Chiapas is the most impoverished state in Mexico, but it has a much lower violent crime rate than other Mexican states. The US Department of State has issued a level 2 travel advisory for the state of Chiapas. This is the same type of travel advisory for most of the country’s most popular tourist destinations : Quintana Roo (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum), Baja California Sur (Los Cabos), Mexico City, and Oaxaca.

Also, for context, the state of Jalisco, which is where Puerto Vallarta is located, has a level 3 travel advisory, meaning it is considered more dangerous than Chiapas, yet Puerto Vallarta is still one of the most popular destinations in Mexico. I’ve lived in both Puerto Vallarta and San Cristobal de las Casas and never felt unsafe in either.

I don’t want to sugarcoat how safe or unsafe San Cristobal de las Casas is though. Crime does happen, and you should exercise caution like the US Department of State recommends. For instance, locals in San Cristobal told me to avoid walking on dark residential roads alone at night, and to not bring any valuables if you go hiking in the hills surrounding the city.

How to do you get to San Cristobal de las Casas?

The nearest airport is the Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (Tuxtla Gutiérrez International Airport) in the nearby city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez. From the airport you can take a shuttle (taxi) directly to your hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas. Most flights to Tuxtla Gutiérrez include a layover in Mexico City, and making it a long layover is always an option so you can see Mexico’s vibrant capital city.

Where else should you visit in Mexico?

Mexico is such a diverse country full of so many hidden gems! Whether you’re a first time traveler to Mexico, or someone who visits every single year, here are some places that should be on your Mexico bucket list—plus links to my other travel guides where relevant!

★ Mexico City : Often overlooked, Mexico City is a metropolis full of surprises where you can do everything from riding a cable car above the city to floating down Mayan-made canals past vibrant gardens. Read my four day Mexico City itinerary . ★ Oaxaca de Juarez (Oaxaca City) : Home to the best food in Mexico and all the artsy charm you could ever imagine, Oaxaca is one of my favorite places in the country. If you visit, stay in Jalatlaco and make sure you take a day trip to Santiago Apoala . ★ La Paz : Two hours north of Cabo you’ll find the most beautiful beaches in Mexico and the slow yet expansive city of La Paz. If you don’t stay in La Paz, make sure to visit it on a day trip from Cabo San Lucas . ★ Puerto Escondido : An increasingly popular beach destination on the Oaxacan coast, Puerto Escondido is a surf town with my all-time favorite beach in Mexico , delicious food, and opportunities to swim with dolphins in the wild . Read my Puerto Escondido itinerary . ★ Quintana Roo : Even though Quintana Roo’s main cities (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, etc) are not my favorites, I can’t get enough of this region’s cenotes and jungle landscapes. If you go, be sure to check out Sian Kaan , Cozumel, and Bacalar .

Essential Mexico Travel Resources

Have a Mexico trip coming up soon? There are a lot of travel companies out there, but some are better than others. After traveling to dozens of countries and living abroad on several continents, here are some of my favorite websites and resources for planning unforgettable trips.

🗺️ Hotels + Vacation Rentals : I always use this site for hotels. They have an easy-to-use platform and great rewards. When I’m looking for a vacation rental, I compare Vrbo and Airbnb.

💪 Travel Insurance : Travel insurance is essential for any trip! I use SafetyWing , which has affordable rates and coverage for many adventure sports.

🚠 Tours + Activities : Viator (owned by Trip Advisor) is the best site for comparing and booking experiences with local tour operators.

🚗 Car Rentals : Use DiscoverCars , a highly-rated platform for comparing and booking rental cars around the world.

📱 Easy phone plans abroad : Use this company to get an eSIM for phone coverage while traveling—without getting a SIM card or canceling your existing plan (unless you want to!)

🎒 Essentials always in my bag : Check out my ‘ in my bag ‘ page for the items I always have in my carry-on.

About Annie

Annie is the founder of Your Friend the Nomad and an expert in the digital nomad lifestyle and vegan travel. She's lived abroad in Mexico, Italy, and Palestine, and traveled extensively in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

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Free Walking Tour › San Cristobal de las Casas

Free Walking Tour San Cristobal de las Casas

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Best Free Tours in San Cristobal de las Casas

Highlights of a free tour in san cristobal de las casas, things to do in san cristobal de las casas, free tours in more cities.

Free Walking Tour San Cristobal

• Professional Tour Guide
• Entry/Admission - Catedral de San Cristóbal Mártir
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Start See departure details
• 1 Catedral de San Cristobal Martir Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 2 Iglesia de Guadalupe Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 3 Templo de Santo Domingo Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 4 Catedral de San Cristobal Martir Stop: 20 minutes - Admission excluded See details

• crowellc 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Not too insightful It took us 4h and we focused on trying coffee, Pox and visiting galleries. Topics like zapatistas or local information that is hard to get on your own were just scratched while we heard a lot of information that is available in any guide on the main 2 pages. Too much spiritual art and general info. Afterwards we still don't know which tour to take afterwards and which places are hidden gems. Really boring special. Read more Written July 18, 2019
• restlessfeetsyndrome 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent guide Our guide Bee was very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. I’d highly recommend this tour. Read more Written March 28, 2019

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Free Walking Tour San Cristobal provided by Free Tour San Cristobal

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La Laguna Free Tour

• 9.10 / 10 2,915 reviews | 17,903 travellers Great. The guide Carlos was very knowledgeable and explained it very well. 10 Maria Amparo

Discover the city in northern Tenerife with this La Laguna Free Tour. This walking tour is an ideal way to get to know its history and main points of interest.

We'll meet in the Plaza del Adelantado, in the heart of the historic centre of La Laguna . From this point, we'll admire the facades of the 17th-century convent of Santa Catalina de Siena and the Nava Palace. What better way to start the free tour?

Afterwards, we'll stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site city , to see the parish of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the chapel of the Green Cross.

The tour will take us along the two main streets of La Laguna, Herradores and Obispo Rey Redondo , you'll be captivated by their colourful facades! We'll also talk about the different nicknames that some streets receive due to their old uses. 

We'll see the exteriors of the Casa de la Alhóndiga , the Casa del Corregidor , the Palacio Salazar , the Casa de los Capitanes ... La Laguna has many historical buildings that deserve to be known!

One of our stops will also be the Cathedral , which has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. After finding out all about its history, the free tour will end in front of the Teatro Leal.

We don't accept reservations for more than 6 people. If you're a larger group, please contact us.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

When to book.

You can book up until 10 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. Accessible toilets. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Juan Carlos Guía Oficial De Turismo Show more

Corporate name: Juan Carlos Melian Galvan

Allowed, only in outdoor areas.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Plaza del Adelantado.

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Masca & Northern Tenerife Viewpoints Tour

La Laguna Guided Tour

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• Destinations
• Tours in San Cristobal de las Casas

Free Walking Tour San Cristóbal de las Casas

Overview of the tour in San Cristobal de las Casas

What we would like to achieve with our tour is to stimulate the integration and contacts between visitors and locals and to preserve and promote San Cristobal de Las Casas’ customs and traditions. The whole tour will take about 3 hours and gives information about the historical places (amongst other things; Santo Domingo church, the San Cristóbal cathedral, cultural centre el Carmen, el Cerrillo, the principal market, Guadalupe church and Cerrito de San Cristóbal). The tour also provides the tasting of local products, this is included in our tour. There is the opportunity to try coffee, chocolate, sweets, soups, tamales (typical food in Chiapas) and pox (traditional drink from Chiapas). Visiting galleries is another part of the tour, for example we visit a textiles' gallery where indigenous people work. We also show you street art and tell you more about the messages behind it. During the tour we will give recommendations about where to eat, drink, buy and sleep. The complete information about all these places you can also find in our own map which you can take for free after the tour. The tour works with donations as an appreciation, we suggest 150 MXN pesos per person.

This activity includes:

• Guadalupe Church
• Catedral de San Cristóbal de las Casas
• Jardines de San Cristóbal
• El Cerrillo Antojería
• Historical information
• Information about cultural events
• Information about where to eat, drink, buy and sleep
• Local tastings

Meeting point

Plaza de la Paz, Wooden cross right in front of the cathedral

You can find the guides at ´plaza de la paz`, at the wooden cross in front of the cathedral. Our guides wear an orange t-shirt with the text free walking tour, and they have an orange umbrella.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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About San Cristobal

Join one of our free guided tours for an overview of the magical city of San Cristóbal de las Casas, with great recommendations and insights about the local culture and the highlights you cannot miss

San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a magical colonial city located in the highlands of Chiapas. It's one of Mexico's most popular pueblo mágicos, with its rich culture, colonial architecture and cobblestone streets surrounded by hills.

Free Walking Tour

Our walking tour offers you a general overview of this magical town. We meet at Park 31st March just between the central kiosk and the ancient city hall. You will be able to recognise our guides because they will be with a very visible pink umbrella and a smile to welcome you. From the meeting point we start to explore different neighbourhoods each one with its own traditions and atmosphere. 

History and Culture

From the meeting point we appreciate the City Hall, now an art museum. We discover the different neighborhoods of the city, each of them bearing the name of a colonial church that served as the main parish.

We talk about the different aspects of the local life in San Cristóbal de las Casas and the relations / interactions between the Mayan heritage and the Spanish Catholic traditions

Walking Tour Gallery

Free Walking Tour San Cristobal de las Casas

Free walking tour San Cristobal de las Casas shows you the gorgeous city of San Cristobal de las Casas, located in the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico, is a colonial gem known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant indigenous culture, and picturesque mountain setting. The city is a popular destination for visitors seeking to explore the rich history and traditions of the region, as well as for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. With a rich mix of art, music, and food, San Cristobal de las Casas is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the authentic side of Mexico.

General information

Meet your guide at Playa 31 de marzo

11:00 hrs / 16:00 hrs

Tip only basis

Booking this tour is mandatory

Free Walking Tour San Cristobal de las Casas – Itinerary

Free walking tour San Cristobal de las Casas begins in the city’s main square, Plaza 31 de marzo. From there, visitors will be able to admire the stunning baroque-style Cathedral of San Cristobal, which dates back to the 16th century. Next, the tour will continue to the colorful artisanal market of Santo Domingo, where visitors can find a wide variety of locally made handicrafts and textiles.

Read more...

The tour will also take visitors through the picturesque streets of San Cristobal’s historic center, passing by charming colonial-style houses and plazas. Along the way, visitors will learn about the city’s rich history and culture, including the influence of the local indigenous communities.

After walking through the historic center, the tour would take visitors to the Mirador El Cerro del Chiquihuite, which offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

The tour will conclude with a visit to the Templo de Santo Domingo, a beautiful baroque-style church that houses an impressive collection of colonial-era art and artifacts.

Free Sancris Tour

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• Spanish • English

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