Mayan Heritage Escape: Takalik Abaj, Farm Encounter & Downtown
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2d
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About this experience
We will discover an ancient Mayan city and learn about crops of extreme importance from ancient times to the present. In addition, we will go downtown Retalhuleu. We will do all these activities on a two-day tour from Tapachula in Mexico.
This is the ideal tour for all history and archeology lovers interested in the Mayans, their heyday, their cities, and how modern Mayans live today.
We will depart from the immigration building of Guatemala in Tapachula, specifically located in Talismán Chiapas on day 1 at 8:00 AM and return to the same point on day 2 around 2:00 PM. Relax and enjoy while you get to know a new place in the company of an expert tour guide with years of experience, so you don't miss a single detail.
Travel in a modern air-conditioned bus and stay at a hotel located inside a natural reserve with mesmerizing views of Santiaguito Volcano. Don't give it second thoughts and reserve your spot.
Available options
Mayan Heritage Escape: Takalik Abaj, Farm Encounter & Downtown
What's included
Bottled water for each participant
1 night stay in a double room in one of the best hotels in the region
Entrance fee to the Takalik Abaj archaeological site
Tour guide who will be always with the group
Private transportation for the group with air conditioning
Entrance fee to the agronomic tour
Guided visit to an archeological site + agrotourism + downtown Retalhuleu
What's not included
Meals and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
ES
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Accommodation is in double rooms. One double room will be given to every 2 passengers
Bring fresh clothes for tropical weather, sun protection and mosquito repelent
A sweater for the night
Meeting point
Our pilot will pick you up at the Guatemalan immigration building at the border of Talisman, Chiapas. He will be holding a sign with your name on it.
About Chiapas
Chiapas is a state in southern Mexico known for its rich indigenous culture, stunning natural landscapes, and colonial architecture. It offers a unique blend of Mayan heritage, biodiverse jungles, and breathtaking waterfalls, making it a must-visit for culturally and ecologically minded travelers.
Top Attractions
Palenque
Palenque is one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites, nestled in the jungle. It features stunning temples, palaces, and hieroglyphic inscriptions.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate (entry fee around 70 MXN)
Cañón del Sumidero
A stunning canyon formed by the Río Grijalva, featuring towering cliffs and diverse wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to explore its beauty.
Nature
Half day
Budget (boat tour around 200 MXN)
San Cristóbal de las Casas
A charming colonial city known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant markets, and rich indigenous culture. It's a great place to experience the local way of life.
Cultural
Full day or overnight
Budget to moderate
Aguas Azules
A beautiful waterfall and natural pool with turquoise waters, surrounded by lush vegetation. It's a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Nature
Half day
Budget (entry fee around 30 MXN)
Chiflón Waterfalls
A series of stunning waterfalls, including the impressive Cascada Velo de Novia (Bride's Veil), set in a lush, tropical environment.
Nature
Full day
Budget (entry fee around 20 MXN)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tamales de Chipilín
A traditional Chiapas dish made with masa (corn dough) filled with chipilín leaves, a local green vegetable, and often includes pork or chicken.
Breakfast
Contains meat, can be vegetarian if made without
Pozol
A traditional drink made from fermented corn dough, often served with chocolate or cinnamon. It's a refreshing and energizing beverage.
Drink
Vegetarian
Cochito Chiapaneco
A traditional dish made with pork, tomatoes, onions, and spices, slow-cooked until tender. It's often served with tortillas or rice.
Main Course
Contains pork
Sopa de Pan
A comforting soup made with stale bread, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes meat or cheese. It's a popular dish in the highlands of Chiapas.
Soup
Can be vegetarian or contain meat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Zip-lining
Rafting
Canyoning
Swimming in cenotes
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Visiting archaeological sites
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather and ideal conditions for exploring both the highlands and lowlands. It's the best time for outdoor activities and visiting archaeological sites.
18-28°C
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Spanish, various indigenous languages (e.g., Tzotzil, Tzeltal)
- English: Limited
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
CST (UTC -6)
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Chiapas is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transport. Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Angel Albino Corzo International Airport • 25 km from Tuxtla Gutiérrez
By bus
Tuxtla Gutiérrez Central de Autobuses
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Chiapas. They range from small minibuses (colectivos) to larger, more comfortable buses for longer distances.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber is available in larger cities like Tuxtla Gutiérrez and San Cristóbal de las Casas
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico, San Cristóbal de las Casas
Tuxtla Gutiérrez Centro
Palenque Pueblo
Day trips
El Chiflón Waterfalls
100 km from San Cristóbal de las Casas • Full day
A series of stunning waterfalls, including the impressive Cascada Velo de Novia (Bride's Veil), set in a lush, tropical environment.
El Arcotete
20 km from Tuxtla Gutiérrez • Half day
A beautiful natural park featuring a large dam, walking trails, and picnic areas. It's a great spot for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.
Naturaleza Viva
10 km from Tuxtla Gutiérrez • Half day
A small, family-friendly zoo and nature park featuring a variety of animals, including jaguars, monkeys, and birds. It also has a small water park and playground.
Festivals
Festival de la Candelaria • February 2nd
Feria de Chiapas • April
Día de los Muertos • November 1st and 2nd
Pro tips
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
- Hire local guides for a more authentic and informative experience, especially when visiting archaeological sites or indigenous communities.
- Visit local markets for fresh, delicious, and affordable food, as well as unique souvenirs and crafts.
- Pack layers and be prepared for both warm and cool temperatures, as the climate can vary significantly between the highlands and lowlands.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and ask before taking photos of people, especially in indigenous communities.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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