Lagunas de Montebello National Park Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Lagunas de Montebello National Park with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring recommendations on attractions, activities, food, and accommodations.


Introduction to Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Lagunas de Montebello National Park, located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico, is a natural paradise consisting of 59 lakes of different sizes and colors nestled in the mountains. The crystal-clear turquoise waters, the lush greenery, and the diversity of flora and fauna make it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

List of Places to Visit in Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of the Lacandon Culture
  • Maya archaeological site of Chinkultic

Natural Attractions of Lagunas de Montebello National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tziscao Waterfall
  • Bosque de las Nubes (Cloud Forest)
  • Boating on the turquoise lakes
  • Hiking and biking trails in the park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Some popular hiking and biking routes in Lagunas de Montebello National Park are:

  • Tziscao-Pojoj road trail
  • Mountain Bike Circuit 60 km: Tziscao-Pojoj Road Circuit
  • El Zotz trail
  • Tziscao Lagoon Trail

Best Things to Do in Lagunas de Montebello National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Take a boat ride to explore the turquoise-blue lakes.
  • Visit the museum of the Lacandon Culture to learn more about the culture and heritage of the indigenous people.
  • Explore the Maya archaeological site of Chinkultic.
  • Go hiking and biking in the mountains.
  • Visit the Bosque de las Nubes (Cloud Forest) for a nature walk and bird watching.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Day 1-2: Explore the natural attractions like the turquoise lakes, the Tziscao waterfall, and the Bosque de las Nubes.

Day 3: Visit the Museum of the Lacandon Culture in Lacanja Chansayab.

Day 4: Explore the Maya archaeological site of Chinkultic.

Day 5: Go on a hiking or biking trail in the park.

Day 6: Take a boat ride to explore the turquoise lakes.

Day 7: Visit the nearby town of Comitan for a day trip and explore its colonial architecture.

Food and Drink Scene of Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tamales
  • Chalupas
  • Quesadillas
  • Cochinita pibil
  • Chiles en nogada
  • Mole

Local Beverages

  • Pozol (a traditional drink made with corn)
  • Chocolate de agua (Mexican hot chocolate)
  • Tejate (a traditional Oaxacan drink)

Where to Stay in Lagunas de Montebello National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Some popular accommodation options in Lagunas de Montebello National Park are:

  • Hotel Hacienda Montebello
  • Posada El Puente
  • Finca Argovia
  • Hospedaje Quinta Real

What to Buy in Lagunas de Montebello National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handcrafted textiles
  • Pottery
  • Traditional Lacandon handicrafts
  • Coffee

Local Culture and Customs of Lagunas de Montebello National Park

The park is home to the Lacandon people, who have maintained their traditional way of life. Visitors are advised to respect their customs, traditions, and beliefs.

Best Time to Visit Lagunas de Montebello National Park

The best time to visit Lagunas de Montebello National Park is from November to February, when the climate is mild and rainfall is low.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and take care of the flora and fauna.
  • Learn about and respect the customs and traditions of the Lacandon people.
  • Pay the entrance fee to support the conservation efforts of the park.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter in the park.
  • Damage or remove flora and fauna.
  • Disrespect the customs and traditions of the Lacandon people.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria when visiting the park.

Health in Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Visitors should take care to avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water.

Getting to Lagunas de Montebello National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lagunas de Montebello National Park

The nearest airport to Lagunas de Montebello National Park is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport, located in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas.

Bus Stations Near Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Buses run to Comitan de Dominguez, the closest town to the park, from Tuxtla Gutierrez.

Other Options

Private transportation companies offer tours to Lagunas de Montebello National Park from Tuxtla Gutiérrez and San Cristobal de las Casas.

How to Get Around in Lagunas de Montebello National Park

Boats, bikes, and on foot are the main modes of transportation for exploring the park.

Where to Go Next from Lagunas de Montebello National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Cristobal de las Casas
  • Palenque Archaeological Site
  • Yaxchilan Maya Site

Conclusion

Lagunas de Montebello National Park is a natural gem in the heart of Mexico. Visitors can enjoy the turquoise lakes, hike through the mountains, and learn about the culture and heritage of the indigenous Lacandon people. With our comprehensive guide, you can plan your visit to Lagunas de Montebello National Park with confidence and make the most of your time there.

Laguna Tziscao, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello Laguna Tziscao, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello Mayan Pyramid at Chinkultic, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello Mayan Pyramid at Chinkultic, Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello