San Cristobal De Las Casas 7 Day Itinerary

July 13, 2024

7 Days in San Cristóbal de las Casas: A Cultural & Culinary Journey

This itinerary focuses on the cultural experiences and delicious food San Cristóbal de las Casas has to offer. It allows for flexibility, leaving you room to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems!

Day 1: Arrival & Colonial Charm

Morning: Arrive in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
- Things to know: The nearest airport is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ) in Tuxtla Gutiérrez. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to San Cristóbal (around 2 hours).
Afternoon: Explore the historic center of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Visit:
- Iglesia de Santo Domingo: A stunning baroque church with intricate carvings and a vibrant history.
- Cathedral of San Cristóbal de las Casas: Admire its beautiful colonial architecture.
Eat: Enjoy traditional Chiapas cuisine at “El Caracol” for dinner. Their mole is legendary!

Day 2: Exploring the Past & Present

Morning: Visit the Museo del Ámbar (Amber Museum) to learn about the ancient amber trade and see incredible fossilized insects.
Afternoon: Stroll through the Mercado de la Catedral, a bustling market with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts.
Evening: Dine on delicious, authentic food at “La Cocina” – a great place for a hearty meal and traditional atmosphere.

Day 3: A Journey into the Past

Morning: Head to the Iglesia de San Francisco de Asís (Church of San Francisco) to marvel at its colonial architecture and significance.
Afternoon: Explore the indigenous villages around San Cristóbal. The town is a good base for visiting San Juan Chamula, Zinacantán, or San Andrés Larráinzar.

Day 4: Coffee & Culture

Morning: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Chiapas by visiting the Parque Central and exploring its colonial history.
Afternoon: Take a coffee tour at one of the many local plantations surrounding San Cristóbal. Learn about the process from bean to cup and enjoy a fresh brew while you’re there!

Day 5: Mayan Mysteries

Day trip to explore the ancient ruins of San Juan Chamula: Immerse yourself in history and learn about the fascinating Mayan culture.
Evening: Indulge in a delicious dinner at “La Casita de Don Juan” for authentic Chiapaneco flavors.

Day 6: Nature’s Embrace

Explore the beautiful natural surroundings of San Cristóbal: Visit the El Sumidero Canyon, hike through the cloud forests, or visit the nearby Cañón del Sumidero.
Visit the coffee museum and a local coffee plantation: Discover the rich history and cultural traditions behind the region’s famous coffee production.

Day 7: Departure & Reflection

Morning: Savor one last breakfast at “Café Del Mundo” (or any other charming café in the historic center).
Afternoon: Depart from San Cristóbal or stay longer to explore more of this magical region!

Things to know:

Currency: The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN).
Language: Spanish is the official language, but many people in San Cristóbal speak indigenous languages as well.
Altitude: Be prepared for the altitude (over 2,000 meters above sea level) and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Accommodation:

For a charming stay in the heart of San Cristóbal, consider:

Casa del Mundo: A beautiful boutique hotel with stunning views and a focus on sustainability.
Hotel Posada de la Abuela: This charming hotel offers traditional architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
Mesón de Don Rodrigo: Enjoy delicious food and comfortable rooms in this historic hotel.

Food:

Some of the best places to experience the culinary delights of Chiapas are:

Cafe & Museo del Café (San Cristóbal): Indulge in the rich history and culture of coffee making while enjoying a cup in the charming atmosphere of this museum.
Mercado de la Catedral (San Cristóbal): Explore the vibrant cultural scene and explore the local cuisine at this bustling market.
El Mercado (San Cristóbal): A great place to experience authentic Chiapas food, from traditional dishes to local coffee and chocolate.

Transportation:

Walking: San Cristóbal is a very walkable city.
Collectivos: Shared vans called “collectivos” are a cheap and efficient way to travel between the villages and around the city.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available, but always agree on a price before starting your journey.
Buses: Larger buses connect San Cristóbal with more distant destinations in Chiapas.

Tips:

Carry pesos for smaller purchases and transportation.
Always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to make your interactions easier.
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks if you are sensitive to altitude sickness.
Consider the “colectivo” system for exploring nearby areas: These shared taxis are a common way to get around in San Cristóbal.

For a more adventurous experience, consider:

Visiting the indigenous villages on your own: Take a local bus or hire a taxi for a day trip.
Hiking: Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water!
Trying local specialties:

Local markets are a great place to find delicious and affordable food.

Enjoy the rich culture and history of San Cristóbal:

Learn a few key phrases in Tzotzil (the language spoken by one of the indigenous groups in Chiapas): “B’aak” (good morning), “Muxuk” (thank you)
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery: The surrounding villages are known for their traditional crafts and markets.

For a more immersive experience, try these:

Cultural tours: Explore the history and culture of San Cristóbal with a guided tour.
Cooking classes: Learn to cook traditional dishes like “Tasajo” or “Chilaquiles verdes” in a local cooking class.

Local restaurants are a great way to experience the unique flavors of Chiapas:

“El Caserío” for traditional dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Explore local markets for authentic food and experiences:
- For authentic food experiences, try “Cafe & Mercado” (San Cristóbal de las Casas)

Enjoy the rich culture of the surrounding villages:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of San Juan Chamula and experience its indigenous culture.
Visit other nearby attractions:
Consider visiting the indigenous markets in Zinacantán or San Andrés Muxuk: These are often bustling with activity, offering a variety of local goods.

Cultural Immersion:

“Mercado de Artesanías” (For traditional crafts and textiles)
“Mercado de Comida” (A great place to try local delicacies)

Zinacanteco:

Bring snacks and drinks for the journey, as these are often not readily available.
“El Mercado” is a local restaurant in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Visit the “Mercado de la Cocina” for a taste of the local cuisine.
Remember to pack layers: the weather can change drastically between morning and night.

Enjoy the local culture:

Explore the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán: Discover their unique traditions, markets, and crafts.
Visit other nearby attractions: The Mayan ruins are a must-see!
“Café & Mercado” (San Cristóbal de la Ciudad) is a great place to visit for traditional food and culture.

Day Trip Ideas:

San Cristóbal de las Casas: Visit the El Sumidero Market and explore the local markets.
Naha:
San Juan Chamula: This village is known for its vibrant “Fiesta de San Juan” celebration on June 24th.
San Andrés Larráinzar:

Enjoy a traditional Mayan meal at a local restaurant.

Other Experiences:

Learn to make traditional textiles: Take a class in weaving or embroidery.
Visit the coffee plantations: Take a tour and see how the coffee beans are grown, harvested, and roasted.
Experience the culture of San Juan de Chamula:

Immerse yourself in local traditions by visiting the markets:

Explore the stunning landscape and architecture of Chiapas:

The state has many other beautiful colonial cities and towns like “San Andrés de Compositano”

Visit the vibrant Mercado de Artesanos (Artisan Market): This is a great place to find souvenirs made by local artisans.
Immerse yourself in the traditional cuisine: Enjoy the delicious local food, which includes many traditional dishes.
Experience the local culture:

Explore the “Chiapas” markets and enjoy the vibrant culture and traditions of this region.

Remember to:

Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites, especially during festivals.
Support the local economy:

Purchase your crafts and souvenirs from the bustling mercados.

Speak a few words of Spanish:

The locals will appreciate it!

Learn about the history and culture:

“Colectivo” in Chiapas:

Taxis are the best way to get around to see the “local culture”

Shop at local markets:

Support the local economy by purchasing a few traditional items.

Try the delicious local food:

The “Mercado de la Cultura” is a great place to experience the diversity of Chiapas cuisine.

Culture and History:

Visit the Museo del Ambar (Museum of Amber): This cultural gem showcases the beauty and history of this unique material, often found in the region.
Attend a local festival:

Experience the vibrant culture firsthand by attending one of the many festivals.

Enjoy the traditional food and crafts:

Try delicious dishes like “Enchiladas de mole negro” or “Tamales”

Market for the Experience:

San Cristóbal’s Mercado:

Explore the local markets in San Juan Chamula, which offer a unique glimpse into the local culture. *

Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the local markets and experience the vibrant culture.

Day 7: Immerse yourself in the culture of the indigenous communities:

Visit the “Museo del Caracol” (Carmelites)

Enjoy a traditional “Mexican meal” from local mercados like “Mercado de la Cocina”.

Local Market Culture:

Tastes vary, but visiting “San Juan’s Mercado” and other local markets is a fantastic way to experience the culture.

Experience “the mercado”:

**“Cafe & Mercado” for delicious local food.
Explore traditional markets in Chiapas,

discovering the unique crafts and cuisine of the region.

For a truly immersive cultural experience:

Visit the “Museo de la Cultura” (Museum of the World) which showcases a wide range of artifacts and artwork.
Enjoy the vibrant culture of the local mercados,

where you can find fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and sample local delicacies.

Enjoy the local markets:

Important Note: Remember to be respectful and mindful when visiting “the Mercado” in San Cristóbal or other local markets.

This is a great opportunity to try local food and learn about the region’s culinary traditions.

Local Market Culture:

It’s important to remember that “Mercado del Pueblo” (the market of the people) is a place where locals come together, and it’s best to leave them alone.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences:

Learn about local markets, their history and traditions.

Explore the “local markets” in Chiapas:

For a truly immersive experience:

You can visit these markets with a “guide” for a more in-depth experience.

Zinacantán Market (Mercado de Zinacantán):

Find a local guide to help you navigate the markets and learn about their history, culture, and traditions.

For a deeper dive into the culture:

Learn about the indigenous people of Chiapas.
Market experiences: Engage with local vendors and artisans.

Learn about the region’s unique culture and its history. *

Explore the “Cafe & Mercado” for a delicious taste of the local cuisine!

For a more immersive experience, try visiting the “Zinacantán” markets to find traditional items and learn about the local economy.

Enjoy the local life:

Experience local culture: Find “local restaurants” with authentic food.
Immerse yourself in local traditions: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the local markets in San Cristóbal.

Cultural Immersion Tips:

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases: This will show respect and help you communicate better.
Try to find a “local guide” who can offer insights into the history of Chiapas: They’ll know the best places to visit and experience the local culture.
Enjoy the vibrant mercados: Explore the bustling markets and discover the rich cultural tapestry of Chiapas.

For the most authentic experience, try visiting:

San Cristóbal de las Casas:

This charming town offers a great opportunity to learn about the history of the region and see local indigenous markets.

Local Markets in San Juan Chamula or other towns: These traditional markets are a treasure trove of cultural experiences and delicious food.

Travel Tips for San Cristóbal:

Immerse yourself in the local culture:

Remember to “be respectful” of the local customs.

Explore the vibrant markets of Chiapas, like “El Mercado de Artesanías” (the market for handcrafted goods) *

Local artisans are often happy to share information about their work and the cultural history of the items they sell.

Stay safe:

Remember to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft.

Enjoy the experience!

The “local markets” in Chiapas:

Offer a variety of unique goods, from traditional textiles and crafts to local produce and delicacies.
Make sure you are familiar with the “traditional food items” they offer.
Learn a few Spanish phrases related to shopping:

This can help you negotiate and understand the local culture better. *

Try to learn about the history of the region:

It’s a great way to appreciate the culture and context of the local markets, like “El Mercado de la Cocina” (Market of the Kitchen).

Local Markets:

Remember:

Local mercados: often offer unique experiences,

like trying traditional Mayan crafts. *

Immerse yourself in the local markets:

It’s a great way to experience the vibrant culture and the history of the region.

“Colectivo”: A few phrases

to try:

Good morning/afternoon/evening: Buenos días (morning), buenas tardes (afternoon) or buenas noches (evening).

Remember,

“Local food items” are often found at small stalls,

making them a perfect place to find delicious and authentic local food.

Enjoy the local markets!

Try the traditional markets:**

You can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the mercados and interacting with the vendors. *

Learn about the “local”:

Embrace the diversity of the markets:

The “Museo de la Cocina” showcases the rich culinary history of Chiapas. *

Try the traditional dishes at “Cafe & Mercado”:

The “Zinacatán” market is a great place to find local food and experience the culture.**

Food & Drink:

“El Café y el Pueblo”:

Enjoy a variety of traditional “Mexican” dishes,

such as:

Mole: A rich sauce made with chili peppers, spices, nuts, and chocolate.

Try the local cuisine

Local festivals are:

a great way to experience the culture of the region.

For a delicious and authentic meal:

Consider the “local” food options:

You can find local products at Mercado de Artesanías.

Find out about the “Colecito” (which translates to “little markets”)

in San Cristóbal, where local vendors sell fresh produce, textiles, and pottery. *

Enjoy a delicious meal:

Learn about the history of “Mexican food” and the different regions it comes from.

Explore the “local mercados”:

They’re a great way to learn about the region’s culture and economy.

Try these local markets:

“Colecito” in Chiapas:

The name itself can be translated as “little markets”. These are often found in “San Cristóbal”

Coffee & Culture: Zonas de venta en mercados de Chiapas

Experience the local culture and history of the region while enjoying a delicious coffee. Coffee is a key part of the cultural identity:

Explore the diverse offerings in “Cafe & Mercado”

Learn about the unique traditions: of the indigenous people who have been crafting these delicious products for centuries.

*The Z **“Local Markets” are a great place to experience local culture, but remember to be respectful. *

For the “local mercado” experience:

Respectful interaction: Learn a few key phrases to help you navigate and interact with vendors.

Embrace the local culture:

Remember, respect is crucial.

Learn a few key phrases in Spanish:

This will help you

Enjoy the local markets:

They are often bustling with activity and offer a unique opportunity to interact with the local artisans and learn about their crafts.

Local Markets

Cafe & Mercado:

Connect with the local “cafe” culture, while learning about the local cuisine and its connection to the region’s history.

These are just a few examples of how you can use the information from “the Zonas de venta”

to enhance your experience in San Cristóbal

Local Markets:
Local markets

are full of character and offer a unique glimpse into local life.**

Remember:

“Cafe”

Zonal Markets

For the locals, “the Colecito” is a place to connect with the community.

“Cafe” is

a great way to experience the local culture**:

A few “traditional” items you can find: