From San Cristóbal: 3-Day Adventure to the Arch of Time

Exploring the remote corners of Chiapas can be a game-changer for those craving authentic natural beauty and a bit of adventure. This 3-day tour from San Cristóbal promises just that—covering hidden gems like the Arch of Time, the Sima de las Cotorras, and the wild jungles of El Ocote. It’s a carefully curated experience for travelers who want more than just surface sightseeing and are ready to get their hands a bit dirty (literally and figuratively).

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll love the variety—ranging from breathtaking limestone formations to impressive waterfalls. Second, the chance to camp overnight in the jungle adds an authentic touch that’s hard to match. Third, the tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience and flexibility. The only possible concern? It involves some physical activity, so it’s not ideal for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or expecting a leisurely stroll.

This adventure is perfect for those who enjoy nature, small-group exploration, and truly off-the-beaten-path experiences. If you’re seeking an active escape that combines geology, wildlife, and outdoor camping, this tour could be your next highlight in Chiapas.

Key Points

• Authentic natural sights like the Arch of Time and underground rivers
• Active adventure with hiking, caving, and camping in the jungle
• Private group experience for personalized attention
• Accommodation includes both camping and a cozy cabin stay
• Cost offers good value for access to remote and exclusive sites
• Physical activity involved, suitable for outdoor enthusiasts

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Chiapas’s Hidden Gems in 3 Days

This tour is designed to showcase some of the most extraordinary sites in Chiapas, far from the tourist crowds. Starting from San Cristóbal de las Casas or Tuxtla Gutiérrez, you’ll quickly step into a world where nature rules—craggy limestone formations, lush jungles, and powerful waterfalls. The itinerary balances exploration with enough downtime for enjoying the scenery, so don’t expect a rushed pace.

Day 1: Into the Depths of the Sima de las Cotorras and El Aguacero

Your journey begins with a hotel pickup and private transport, making the transition into Chiapas’s wilderness smooth and comfortable. First stop: Sima de las Cotorras, a sinkhole about 140 meters deep and 160 meters across. From the rim, you’ll descend about 20 meters into this natural wonder, where cave paintings such as red and black handprints tell silent stories of the past. According to reviews, the descent is manageable, and the guides are very informative about both geology and local history.

Next, you’ll head to El Aguacero, a natural park famous for its caves, underground river, and the Don Niche waterfall. The waterfall is accessible after descending 740 steps through dense vegetation—an activity that offers a real sense of adventure and connection to nature. The lush surroundings, combined with the sound of rushing water, make it a memorable experience. Travelers have appreciated the quiet beauty of this site, though some note the descent is physically demanding, so sturdy shoes are essential.

Overnight, you’ll stay in a cabin in Cárdenas, a cozy spot that provides some respite after a day of exploration. Reviewers mention that the cabin’s basic comfort is balanced by its proximity to nature, making it a charming place to rest.

Day 2: The Magnificence of the Arch of Time and Jungle Camping

After breakfast, your journey continues to the Arch of Time, one of the tour’s main highlights. Standing at 158 meters high and 255 meters long, this limestone arch is an incredible natural sculpture that appears to defy gravity. The guides will take you close to the base, where you can appreciate its grandeur and the way it hugs the La Venta River. The scenery here is stunning, and many mention the arch’s impressive scale as a photo opportunity you won’t forget.

Following this, you’ll step into the dense jungle of El Ocote. This part of the tour offers a glimpse into Chiapas’s vibrant biodiversity. The guides, who are fluent in both English and Spanish, seem to have a real passion for the flora and fauna, pointing out various plants and animals along the trail. Many reviews highlight the lush greenery, the bird calls, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature.

The night is spent camping in the jungle, a chance to truly connect with the environment. Campers have shared that falling asleep to the sounds of the forest is a highlight, though it requires embracing a more rustic experience—bats and insects included. The camping setup is straightforward, but it’s enough for a comfortable night under the stars.

Day 3: Wrapping Up and Returning

The final morning involves packing up and heading back to San Cristóbal or Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Travelers appreciate the smooth organization, with breakfast provided before departure. The journey back offers time to reflect on the wild, geological, and cultural treasures you’ve encountered over the past days.

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What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour provides a lot of value for the price of $1,284 for up to two people. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, entrance tickets to Sima de las Cotorras and El Aguacero, guided tours, two breakfasts, two dinners, one lunch, water, and snacks. The inclusion of guided commentary and private transport allows for a flexible, personalized experience—no crowded buses or generic group tours here.

However, some activities, like rappelling or perimeter walks at Sima de las Cotorras, are not included. If you’re interested in adrenaline-packed activities, you’ll need to arrange those separately. Also, the physical demands should be considered: descending steps, hiking, and camping require a good level of fitness.

Transport & Group Size

The tour’s private setup means you’ll share the experience with just your group, making it more intimate and tailored. The transportation is reliable, with comfortable vehicles that handle the sometimes rough roads well. Timing is flexible, but check availability in advance to align with your schedule.

Accommodations

Staying in a cabin in Cárdenas and camping in the jungle strikes a balance between comfort and adventure. Reviewers found both accommodations charming and authentic, though those expecting hotel luxury may need to adjust expectations.

Packing Tips

Be prepared with comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water. Pack light but include essentials like a camera and snacks. The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is crucial. Remember, no smoking, alcohol, or littering—respect the natural environment.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine peek into some of Chiapas’s most striking natural features. It’s a well-rounded mix of geological marvels, lush jungles, and authentic camping experiences that appeal to active travelers seeking adventure beyond the usual sights.

Some highlights include the imposing Arch of Time, the cultural echoes in Sima de las Cotorras, and the thrill of sleeping overnight in the forest. It’s a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature in a meaningful way.

While physically demanding, the tour is a fantastic way to see Chiapas’s wild side with a knowledgeable guide and a private group. It’s best suited for those who love outdoor activities, aren’t afraid of a little dirt, and want to experience the region’s natural beauty in a profound, memorable manner.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, entrance tickets to Sima de las Cotorras and El Aguacero, guided tours, two breakfasts, two dinners, one lunch, water, and snacks.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, expect some hiking, descending steps, and camping. It’s best suited for those who are physically active and comfortable with outdoor activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience is not recommended for children under 8 years old or those with mobility issues, due to the physical nature of the activities involved.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and hiking pants are recommended.

Is this tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Would I be able to do extra activities like rappelling?
Rappelling and perimeter walks at Sima de las Cotorras are not included, so if interested, you should arrange these separately.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
The overnight stay in the cabin and jungle camp offers a rustic but cozy experience, praised for its authenticity and proximity to nature.

This 3-day adventure from San Cristóbal truly offers a chance to see some of Chiapas’s most remarkable natural features — perfect for explorers eager to combine physical activity, stunning scenery, and authentic outdoor living.

You can check availability for your dates here: