Tuxtla Gutierrez: Palenque Ruins Day Tour with Breakfast

Traveling through Chiapas, Mexico, offers an adventure filled with lush waterfalls, striking landscapes, and ancient Mayan ruins. The Palenque Ruins Day Tour from Tuxtla Gutiérrez promises a full day of natural beauty and historical discovery, wrapped up with a generous breakfast. While it’s not perfect and has some mixed reviews, it remains a popular choice for those eager to explore beyond the city.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to swim in the vibrant waters of Agua Azul, a highlight for many travelers. Second, the delicious buffet breakfast offers a taste of regional flavors early in the day. Third, the imposing Palenque archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage location, is a major draw. On the flip side, the long travel hours and some logistical quirks might be a concern for travelers looking for a more relaxed pace.

If you’re after a full immersion into Chiapas’s natural and cultural gems and don’t mind early mornings or long transit times, this tour might suit you well. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a guided experience with a local touch, but it’s important to keep expectations realistic regarding the scope and pacing.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls provide stunning scenery and refreshing dips.
• Cultural Insight: Guided exploration of Palenque’s ancient ruins offers a glimpse into Mayan history.
• Early Start: The tour kicks off at 3 a.m., demanding patience but rewarding early morning views.
• Long Travel: Expect over 20 hours in transit, which can be tiring but is part of the adventure.
• Value: At $165, the tour covers transportation, entrance fees, breakfast, and a guide, representing decent value for a full day.
• Mixed Reviews: Experiences vary — some praise the scenery and food, others report logistical issues or lack of guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect on This Tour

An Unforgettable Start at 3 a.m.

This tour begins with hotel pickups at 3:00 am, meaning you should be ready early in your hotel lobby. The early departure allows you to maximize daylight for exploring Chiapas’s highlights. As one traveler observed, “Leaving at 3 AM was tough, but it’s the only way to beat the crowds and see everything in a long day.” Expect to be in a small group limited to 14 people, which can help with a more personalized experience but also means the bus fills up quickly.

The Scenic Drive and Natural Stops

A significant chunk of this tour is dedicated to transportation. The drive from Tuxtla Gutiérrez to Agua Azul takes several hours. According to reviews, the transfer time is considerable, often over four hours each way, which is a major consideration if you’re not used to long bus rides.

However, the journey itself offers opportunities to observe Chiapas’s changing landscapes and chat with fellow travelers. The first major stop is Agua Azul, renowned for its turquoise waters. Despite being the rainy season, which can turn the pools muddy, many still find the scenery breathtaking. Travelers have mentioned that the waterfalls are “extremely pretty,” and some took a refreshing dip in the bright blue ponds.

Breakfast at Agua Azul

A highlight for many is the buffet breakfast, included in the tour. It’s described as generous and regional, with traditional Mexican dishes that give you a taste of local flavors. One reviewer specifically enjoyed the “delicious” meal at Ocosingo, a stop en route. Keep in mind that the quality of the restaurant in Agua Azul could be better according to some, with recommendations for better dining options in that area.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Misol-Ha Waterfall

After breakfast, the journey continues to Misol-Ha, a striking 25-meter waterfall. This spot offers a chance to relax and listen to the thunderous water crashing down. Many find it a peaceful break from the long drive. One traveler described it as “a beautiful natural wonder” and appreciated the opportunity to sit beside the cascading water and soak in the scenery.

The Grand Finale: Palenque Archeological Site

The core of the tour is Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Mayan ruins. Expect to spend several hours exploring the expansive remains, including temples, palaces, and hieroglyphic inscriptions. Your guide will share insights into Mayan culture and the significance of the site.

However, some reviews point out that guidance at Palenque may be limited. One traveler noted that they had to pay extra for a guide at the ruins, and the included guide did not provide detailed explanations for all the structures. Franco, the guide mentioned in reviews, was praised for his attentiveness, but the overall experience could vary based on what you expect from a guided tour.

Free Time and Return Journey

After exploring Palenque, you’ll have some free time — possibly for a quick dinner or to take more photos. The return trip to Tuxtla Gutiérrez is lengthy, often extending late into the evening. Some travelers expressed that the long hours in transit can be a downside, especially if you’re eager to relax after a busy day.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $165, this tour covers transportation, entrance fees, breakfast, and guide services, which is reasonable given the full-day itinerary. But, as some reviews suggest, long travel times and variable guidance mean you’re paying for a package that requires patience and a sense of adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour fits travelers who are keen to see multiple highlights of Chiapas in one day and don’t mind early mornings or long bus rides. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an affordable guided experience that includes natural wonders and archaeological sites. However, if you’re sensitive to lengthy transportation or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be the ideal choice.

It’s also worth noting that the tour isn’t suited for pregnant women, those with back problems, or travelers over 75, due to the physical demands and long hours. If you’re interested in authentic, guided insights combined with stunning scenery, this tour offers a solid introduction — just go with an open mind regarding the logistical quirks.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from your hotel in Tuxtla Gutiérrez is included, starting at 3:00 am.

What is the duration of the tour? The full day lasts approximately 21 hours, including transportation, stops, and exploration.

Are meals included? A buffet breakfast is included. Additional meals are not provided, but there’s free time for dinner in Palenque.

How much time do we spend at each site? Expect several hours exploring the Agua Azul waterfalls, Misol-Ha, and the Palenque ruins, though exact times depend on the flow of the day.

Is transportation comfortable? The tour uses round-trip transport in a small group vehicle, but the long hours in transit can be tiring.

Can I stay longer in Palenque? Yes, you can choose to stay after the ruins, but you need to inform the operator beforehand; luggage storage is provided.

Is there guidance at the archaeological site? An included guide is provided, but some reviews mention that detailed explanations may require an extra guide.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors? The physical demands and early start may be challenging for very young children or elderly travelers. Not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.

Are there any restrictions? Alcohol, drugs, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are not allowed.

What should I bring? Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. A swimsuit is recommended if you want to swim at Agua Azul.

Final Words

In the end, the Palenque Ruins Day Tour with Breakfast offers an action-packed way to experience some of Chiapas’s most iconic sights. You’ll get a taste of the region’s natural beauty, a glimpse into ancient Mayan civilization, and a hearty breakfast to start your day. It’s a long adventure that requires patience and a sense of adventure, but many find it worthwhile for the stunning views and cultural insights.

The tour’s value depends heavily on your expectations — if you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience in a small group, it can deliver memorable moments. But if you prefer more relaxed pacing or detailed guides, you might want to explore other options or consider extending your stay in Palenque itself.

This trip is best suited for travelers who are eager to see a lot in a single day and don’t mind long travel hours. Prepare for an early start, enjoy the natural scenery, and soak up the history — it’s a whirlwind, but one that could be well worth the effort.

You can check availability for your dates here: