Eastern Chiapas

Chiapas [1]’s beautiful and ecologically rich eastern corner is slowly opening to ordinary travelers, with improved roads and new attractions that help shake off a reputation for isolation and frontier-style lawlessness.

Lagunas de Montebello National Park [2] has long been a highlight of the state, with dozens of picturesque lakes nestled in a hilly pine forest. But rather than marking a turn-around point for travelers, Lagunas de Montebello now serves as gateway to a handful of new (or newly accessible) natural attractions.

Don’t miss Las Nubes [3], a small ecocenter perched alongside an impressive series of river rapids and waterfalls with nearby hiking and rafting; or Las Guacamayas [4], where you can hike or boat through the lush Montes Azules biosphere reserve, spotting monkeys, toucans, macaws, and lush rainforest flora.

The region also offers access to Laguna Miramar [5], a stunning forest lake and another longtime state highlight.