Lodging in Chiapas truly runs the gamut: camping, thatch-roofed bungalows, hostels, small hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, boutique hotels, ex-haciendas turned deluxe hotels, and chains.

Taxes on your hotel bill, referred to generally as IVA (value-added tax, pronounced EE-va), are usually 12 percent but can be as high as 17–22 percent. Be sure to ask if the rate you’re quoted includes taxes (¿Incluye impuestos?); in many cases, especially at smaller hotels, the taxes are applied only if you pay by credit card.

You may be required to make a deposit in order to reserve a room, especially in popular areas during high season. However, in Mexico credit cards cannot be charged without a physical signature, so they aren’t much help as a deposit. Many hotels utilize PayPal or a similar service; those that do not will give you the name of their bank and account number, and you must pass by a branch and make the deposit with the teller. Be sure to get a receipt, and notify the hotel after making the deposit.

Cancellation policies tend to be rather unforgiving, especially during high season; you may be required to give a month or more advance notice to receive even a partial refund. Trip insurance is a good idea if your plans are less than concrete.