During the last decade, Chiapas has been the focal point of intense economic development. The cities that have benefited the most are Tuxtla Gutierrez, capital of the State, Tapachula and Comitan, where there is the opportunity to get involved with all kinds of eco-touristic activities, or enjoy marvelous views of the Sumidero Canyon, the Tacana Volcano and the Montebello lakes.

We also find towns rich in history that mix traditions and culture with folklore and hospitality, which is the key characteristic of the people of Chiapas. There is an abundance of tourist attractions of incomparable beauty and amazing diversity in the flora and fauna. This excellent variety of activities not only provides adventurous days, but relaxation as well, which all add up for a well rounded view of the magical place that is Chiapas.

The areas famous for wonderful landscapes include a group of destinations (Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapa de Corzo, San Cristobal de las Casas, Comitan, Palenque, Tonala and Tapachula) and make this State just like paradise, providing the visitor with an array of places to choose from.

To talk about Chiapas is to talk about one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world. The lush green fields, forest and jungles, the fresh air, its unique flora and fauna, the endangered species and much more are all clear examples of the abundant natural wonders that fill this amazing state.

The Sumidero Canyon is a geological fault formed millions of years ago. The journey through the Canyon, that confines the Grijalva River, is considered one of the most spectacular in Mexico. The El Chorreadero (which name alludes to the way in which the water cascades from a 25 meter-high cave onto the forest floor), the Agua Azul and Aguacero Cascades, and the Montebello Lakes, are just a few of the many beautiful places waiting to be explored in this magical region.

Sumidero Canyon
The deep caverns of the Sumidero Canyon are ideal places to stimulate the imagination and refresh the spirit, and the rock formations with their mystical figures are truly impressive yet at the same time graceful and delicate. The Grijalva River passes through the Canyon on its tireless journey to the Gulf of Mexico.

This area was declared a National Park in 1982, and is filled with beautiful flora and fauna and many interesting species, among which there are crocodiles, spider monkeys and sea birds.

Agua Azul Cascades
These impressive waterfalls are formed by the Agua Azul River which meets at its end the Shumulha River. The indigo blue color of the water, the green vegetation, the constant breeze, and the never ending sound of the water makes this site one of the most spectacular and unforgettable in Mexico. It is located 64 kilometers (40 miles) south of the city of Palenque. Around this area there are regional arts and crafts for sale, you can also go camping and it's an excellent spot for photography, and swimming.

Comitan de Dominguez
The city of Comitan de Dominguez was dismissed as an Indian village by the Dominic Monks; nevertheless, it later went on to become one of the most important cities in the Colonial Provinces, famous for its large estates and haciendas. Nowadays you can tour the actual route of independence, retracing Friar Matias de Cordova's steps as he proclaimed this territory's independence from Spain. This is a small but interesting city and there are many natural attractions in the surrounding areas.

Palenque
The great Mayan metropolises were built in the forested areas of Chiapas. The closeness these people were searching for to their gods, their refined architectural taste and the perfection of the sculptures are marvelously reflected in the site at Palenque. Among its well preserved buildings, travelers can see El Palacio, which features an intricate structure that includes patios, corridors, sculptures, and towers.

The Temple of Inscriptions, presents the most refined architecture in the entire complex, and it is the site where an enormous mausoleum was found underground in 1949 containing the King Pacal's Tomb. When it was opened they discovered a whole treasure trove of precious offerings and jade decorations, which can now be seen at the National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City. Other outstanding buildings include the Temple of Skulls, the Temple of the Sun, and the Fourteenth Temple. All theses vestiges are reminders of the Mayan wisdom and talent, for they are one of the most interesting and mysterious civilizations of all times.

San Cristobal De Las Casas
lFounded in 1528, San Cristobal was named after its first bishop, Bartolome de la Casas, who was a fervent supporter of the local natives' rights. This town is home to the Santo Domingo Church, an elaborate baroque structure that now houses an excellent museum of Mayan culture.

Today San Cristobal is a classic Spanish Colonial town with a lively and celebrated Indigenous heart. It is a city of cobblestone lanes, red tile roofs, opulent churches and small tree-filled plazas. Surrounding San Cristobal are many traditional Indigenous villages, where no fewer than 10 different dialects are spoken.

San Cristobal is a wise choice to use as a base for exploring the numerous, spectacular, intimate and seldom visited wonders of Chiapas, as well as the colonial city itself.

Ruta del Cafe
La Ruta del Cafe (The Coffee Route) is an ecotourist project created by the coffee farms in the beautiful region of Soconusco, in southwestern Chiapas. The main purpose of the project is to promote ecotourism as an instrument for conserving natural and cultural resources of the area, which in turn, helps preserve the ecological heritage of the state. The tours are conducted across the protected reserves and through the coffee plantations, crossing rivers and waterfalls, and sharing the jungle with unique endangered species.

This excursion is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, fun and full interaction with nature. In contrast with other ecological trips, the Coffee Route aims to create a unique experience that leaves the participant with a sense of environmental awareness. There are also special techniques implemented for a proper agronomic management of resources. The coffee farms that currently participate in the project are: Hamburgo, Irlanda, San Francisco, Chiripa and Argovia. They offer rustic cabins, restaurants, spas, temascal and infrastructure for lodging and special events.

Tapachula
The city of Tapachula lies partly on the Sierra Madre and partly on the Pacific Coastal Prairie; hence it has a variety of different terrain, and weather ranging from warm to chilly in the same day. The architecture consists of brightly painted houses with wooden motifs and wrought iron balconies. The Tacana Volcano, which can be seen from different vantage points in the city, has an altitude of 4,100 meters above sea level, and spans an area from Mexico to Guatemala.

Tapachula is predominantly a business destination, and considered one of Chiapas' most prominent cities, mainly because of its impressive coffee plantations, exuberant natural attractions and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds the city.

Tuxtla Gutierrez
This, the Capital city of Chiapas, has grown and evolved throughout its history with vigor and energy. Proof of this can be seen in the modern constructions in the city, created by a down to earth, vibrant population. Although modern, the city retains its charm and the special magical flavor of the state. As in most Mexican cities, it has a central square (Zocalo) in the heart of the city.

The cuisine of Chiapas is varied and rich in flavors and aromas. Chiapanecans take pleasure in eating; and dining is an important part of everyday life. Even death is received with a special mole, typically served on memorial services. Praying is a good excuse for eating Chiapanecan tamales, made with local herbs, spices, and ingredients such as saffron, Dutch cheese, Mexican pepper leaf, longbeak rattlebox weed, mole tamales and more.

Food in ChiapasFurthermore, each region of Chiapas is known for its typical food and ingredients, for instance, ham comes from San Cristobal, white sausages from Comitan, Dutch cheese from Ocosingo, bean tamales from Tuxtla Chico, and pucsaxe an Zoque Indian beverage, along with 'comida grande' which is a dish made with meat jerky and ground pumpkin seeds and spices comes from Chiapa de Corzo.

Chiapas is also famous for its sweets and traditional candies which are as varied as the cuisine. San Cristobal in known for their sweet potato and quince sweets, in Chiapa de Corzo they make 'suspiros' or 'sighs' which are made with wild yam, and in Tuxtla Gutierrez, they make pucxinu with corn and honey. This extensive variety of candies can be found in restaurants or purchased in the markets, village fairs, and from street vendors.

To complement this state's cuisine, there are refreshing traditional beverages such as tlascalate and pozol, both made with corn and their origins can be traced back to the Pre-Hispanic period.

Chiapas is certainly full of unique flavors and aromas, come and enjoy a culinary experience as well as everything else this state has to offer.

The nightlife in Chiapas is as diverse as the landscapes of its different regions. Nighttime activities and attractions vary depending on the area.

In Tuxtla Gutierrez for instance, it is common to see young and old gathered together at the Marimba Park in the evenings to listen to live Marimba bands. There are many cafes and it is also customary to watch the performances at Las Pichanchas Restaurant, where there is a comical re-enactment of old Indian customs and dances, and of course there are also modern attractions such as bars and clubs in Tuxtla as well.

In Palenque the most popular restaurant is Don Mucho's, also known as El Panchan. This bar features live performances every night featuring a different guest band, and it is a great place for all the family.

In Tapachula it is customary to attend a club or bar to watch a soccer game with friends and enjoy a drink or a nice cold beer.

In San Cristobal de las Casas people usually walk along the Tourist Promenade before going to a bar, club, or cafe. Nightlife in this city is perhaps a little more varied than in other places in Chiapas and has something for everyone's taste, from artistic performances to wild parties.

Chiapas is a blend of cultures, tastes and customs that you are definitely going to find appealing, no matter which area you visit. Come to Chiapas and enjoy the array of nighttime entertainment that this beautiful state has to offer.

Songs and dances, gifts and crafts, colorful items, costumes and sounds are just a few of the elements that give life to the Chiapanecan people. The craft work, produced by people of immense character, joins together with the music, dance and the spectacular local costumes to give an eye-catching amalgamation of tradition and folklore.

Imagination plays an important part in artistic creation. An object can at the same time be useful, decorative and religious in nature. The clay candelabrums and jars tell stories through their intricate engravings about how mother earth protects the Chiapanecan people and keeps them safe from harm.

The traditional weaving machines, the housing programs in work areas and the use of local materials is making Chiapanecan crafts appreciated more and more. The imagination of these men and woman is offering to the world ideas and models that have been made reality by hours of active labor.

Local Markets
You can buy beautiful clothes in the many markets, all expertly embroidered by the local craftspeople, and each village has a distinct style of its own.

Also on offer are shoes, sarapes, dresses, rebozos, and all kinds of linen for tables.

The "mercados" (markets) in Chiapas are wonderful places to browse around, and the prices aren't that bad either.

The different aromas and sounds make for a great way to enjoy the local culture!