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Indigenous culture and colonial heritage in the highlands of Chiapas
San Cristóbal de las Casas is a charming town in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico, known for its rich indigenous culture, colonial architecture and artistic atmosphere. Surrounded by impressive mountains and picturesque landscapes, the city offers visitors a variety of activities, including visits to traditional markets selling handmade artwork and local products. The impressive churches, such as the Cathedral of San Cristóbal and the Iglesia de Santo Domingo, reflect the colonial history. San Cristóbal de las Casas is also a centre for indigenous communities who keep their traditions and customs alive.
Highlights
in San Cristóbal de las Casas
✓ Admire the colonial architecture and colourful buildings in the old town
✓ Explore the lively markets with handmade crafts and local products
✓ Enjoy traditional indigenous cuisine in local restaurants
✓ Visit the Na Bolom Museum, which focuses on Lacandon culture
✓ Go on excursions to nearby indigenous villages and nature reserves
Popular activities in San Cristóbal de las Casas
Cookery course for traditional Chiapanecan cuisine
Take part in a cooking class and learn how to prepare delicious local dishes to discover the flavours of Chiapas.
Canyon de Sumidero
Take a boat tour through this impressive canyon, which is known for its steep walls and abundant wildlife.
Visit to the San Cristóbal Cathedral
Visit the impressive cathedral in the heart of the city, which is known for its beautiful façade and impressive interior.
Zapatista Museum
Learn more about the history and culture of the Zapatistas and their role in the 1994 uprising at the Museo de la Revolución.
Visit Tzotzil and Tzeltal villages
Take a trip to the surrounding indigenous villages to experience the local culture, traditions and craftsmanship.
Explore the city
Stroll through the charming, cobbled streets of the city and admire the colonial architecture and colourful markets.
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Start your perfect round trip
Group Tour
17 days / 16 nights
Mexiko Cities and the Sea
- Aztec ruins of Teotihuacán
- Magical villages of Puebla, Cholula and Atlixco
- Relax on the beaches of Playa del Carmen
Group Tour
16 days / 15 nights
Mexico, Belize and Guatemala
- Mayan ruins and crystal-clear water in Tulum
- Snorkeling underwater world of Caye Caulker
- Sunrise ruins of Tikal in the jungle
Private round trip
Group Tour
9 days / 8 nights
Traditional Mexico
- Hearty Mexican cuisine
- Ruins of Teotihuacán
- Magical villages of Cholula and Atlixco
History of the place and interesting facts
San Cristóbal de las Casas was founded by the Spanish in 1528 under the name "Villareal" and quickly developed into an important religious and cultural centre in the Chiapas region. The city was named after the Spanish priest Bartolomé de las Casas, who campaigned for the rights of the indigenous population. Over the centuries, San Cristóbal has experienced various social and political changes, including the Zapatista uprising of 1994, which drew attention to the living conditions of indigenous communities and made the city a symbol of the resistance and cultural identity of Mexico's indigenous peoples.
Culture of Playa del Carmen
The culture of San Cristóbal de las Casas is strongly characterised by indigenous traditions, which are reflected in the arts, crafts and local customs. The city is known for its lively markets, where traditional handicrafts, textiles and culinary specialities are on offer. Regular festivals and celebrations, such as the Día de los Muertos celebrations, are deeply rooted in the culture and offer insights into the spiritual beliefs of the population. The city is an important place for cultural expression and encourages exchange between different ethnic groups, resulting in a colourful and diverse community.
Our tips on site
Best time to travel
Find out about the best time to travel to Mexico, which is from November to April, when mild, dry weather offers ideal conditions for exploring and beach holidays.
Best time to visit Mexico
Mexican cuisine
Mexican cuisine is one of the most diverse and richest in the world, known for its vibrant flavours, fresh ingredients and cultural influences.
Locomotion
Getting around in Mexico is varied and offers numerous options for exploring the different regions and cities.
Our varied travel offer
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Individual travel
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Individualreisen Mexiko »Interesting places in the neighbourhood
Just ten kilometres southwest of San Cristóbal de las Casas is the village of San Juan Chamula, home to the proud Tzotzil Mayas. This indigenous group, which primarily speaks Tzotzil and not necessarily Spanish, is the largest group of indigenous people in Chiapas, accounting for over 30 per cent of the population. In San Juan Chamula, you not only have the opportunity to purchase the handmade, high-quality handicrafts of the Tzotzil at the Sunday markets, but also to visit the Cathedral of San Juan Batista. The church, which at first glance appears rather plain, is decorated inside with countless statues of saints, but has neither pews nor an altar. The faithful kneel on the pine-needle-covered floor and perform religious, shamanic rituals in which sugar cane schnapps, burping and the sacrifice of live chickens are used to heal the sick, among other things.
In just 45 minutes from San Cristóbal de las Casas, you can also reach the Cañón del Sumidero, which is over 1000 metres deep and 25 kilometres long. The gorge carved into the rock by the Río Grivalja can be explored on a two-hour boat tour, during which you can discover not only the impressive rock formations and small waterfalls, but also numerous animals such as crocodiles, monkeys and bird species.
Places of interest in the neighbourhood
Palenque
One of the most important Mayan sites in Mexico, known for its impressive ruins and temples in the jungle, around two hours from San Cristóbal.
Agua Azul
A chain of impressive waterfalls known for their crystal-clear, turquoise-coloured water and a popular destination for relaxation and swimming.
Chiapas
A fascinating state in the south of Mexico, known for its impressive Mayan ruins, breathtaking natural landscapes and rich indigenous culture.
All important travel information
Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trip to Mexico. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on the time change and recommendations for important health precautions you should take before you leave.
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