A 3-Day Road Trip Through the Heart of Chiapas

Chiapas is a state that awakens the senses. From the intense green of its jungles to the mystical mist of its highlands, every mile traveled is a living postcard. Unlike sun-and-beach destinations like the Riviera Maya or Playa del Carmen, where relaxation is often static, Chiapas invites movement, exploration, and the open road.

If you are planning a quick but deep getaway, a weekend road trip is the perfect formula to fall in love with southern Mexico. Forget rigid itineraries where you have to "book the tour" and wait for the rest of the group; taking the wheel gives you the freedom to stop for high-altitude coffee on the roadside or admire an unexpected landscape. Here is a practical guide on what to do in Tuxtla Gutiérrez and its surroundings in 72 hours.

Air Connectivity: How to Get to Tuxtla?

The gateway to this adventure is the Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ). Fortunately, air connectivity has grown exponentially, facilitating weekend getaways from major cities.

Airlines such as Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris operate regular routes with notable frequency. If you are flying from Mexico City, you will find a robust offer with approximately 45 flights a week, allowing for great schedule flexibility.

Additionally, there are direct connections from key cities like Cancun, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, Mérida, and the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU). The logistics are on your side: most flights depart and arrive in the morning (starting at 6:00 am), which is ideal for seizing the day, and there are late-night return options (up to 11:00 pm), perfect for maximizing your Sunday.

Day One (Friday): Landing and First Contact

Your adventure begins upon landing. When you reach the arrivals area of the airport, head directly to the MEX Rent A Car counter. You will find our contact point right in the baggage claim area, where uniformed agents will direct you to pick up your car.

To streamline your departure, remember to have your valid official ID (Passport), your valid driver's license, and your physical credit card ready. At MEX, we know that age requirements can be a frequent question; the minimum age to rent is 18 years old. However, if you are between 18 and 24 years old (under 25), an additional young driver fee applies.

Once you have the keys in hand, drive toward the capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez. The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Car rental in Chiapas is essential because the distances, although short on the map, require autonomous mobility to optimize your time.

Where to Stay in Tuxtla?

For this first night, we recommend hotels that combine comfort and easy parking:

• Marriott Tuxtla Gutiérrez: A modern and safe classic, located in a strategic area for a quick exit to any point.
• Hilton Garden Inn: Situated in the commercial zone, ideal if you need services close by and guaranteed rest.
• Fiesta Inn Tuxtla: Practical, functional, and with excellent road access, perfect for business travelers or families on the road.

Dinner with Chiapaneco Flavor

Tuxtla has a diverse gastronomy. For dinner, we suggest:

• Las Pichanchas: More than a restaurant, it is an institution. Here you can try tamales and regional dishes with live marimba music. It has valet parking.
• El Giraldillo: Located on the banks of the Grijalva River, it offers a spectacular view and an international menu with local touches.
• Otilia: A more contemporary option in the western zone, with a signature cuisine proposal that reinterprets local flavors.

Day Two (Saturday): The Majesty of the Canyon and the Ascent to the Highlands

Saturday is the highlight of your 3-day road trip route. We recommend leaving the hotel early (approx. 8:00 am) and heading to the "Pueblo Mágico" (Magical Town) of Chiapa de Corzo, located just 20 minutes from downtown Tuxtla.

Breakfast in Chiapa de Corzo

Before the adventure, recharge your energy. We recommend these places:

• Jardines de Chiapa: A beautiful place with a traditional buffet. You cannot leave without trying the "cochito horneado" (baked pork) or the chipilín tamales.
• El Campanario: Overlooking the main square, it is ideal for enjoying a "café de olla" and observing the famous Mudejar fountain known as "La Pila."

The Imposing Sumidero Canyon

Chiapa de Corzo is the starting point for navigating the Sumidero Canyon. Head to the pier (either the boardwalk or Cahuaré). You do not need a prior reservation; you arrive, buy your ticket, and are assigned a boat.

• Approximate cost: Between $300 and $400 MXN per person.
• Duration: The tour lasts about two hours. You will see crocodiles, spider monkeys, and rock walls exceeding 3,000 feet in height.

Upon finishing the boat ride (around noon), return to your MEX car and take the highway toward San Cristóbal de las Casas. In less than an hour, you will feel the climate change: from the tropical heat of the central depression to the fresh air of the mountains.

Afternoon and Night in San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal is one of the most cosmopolitan and charming magical towns in Mexico. Upon arrival, check in and leave the car in a safe spot to walk around.

Recommended accommodations:

• Hotel Bo: Design, luxury, and tradition meet in this boutique hotel that reinterprets local architecture.
• Casa del Alma: An elegant themed hotel, very close to the center, ideal for walking to the tourist walkways.

To close the afternoon, the chill invites a good coffee and sweet bread. Visit Carajillo Café on the Real de Guadalupe walkway for a perfect espresso, or stop by Oh La La! Pastelería if you are looking for fine pastries that rival those of any European capital.

Day Three (Sunday): Living Culture and Safe Return

Sunrise in San Cristóbal is a unique experience. The mist coming down the hills and the smell of woodsmoke create a nostalgic atmosphere.

"Coleto" Breakfast

• Te y Chocolate: Located on the walkway, offering copious breakfasts with local ingredients.
• Frontera: An open space, surrounded by a garden, where coffee is the absolute protagonist.

Unmissable Tourist Points

Dedicate the morning to visiting three key points before returning:

Real de Guadalupe Walkway: The pedestrian heart of the city. Cultures from all over the world, crafts, amber, and textiles converge here. It is the ideal place to buy souvenirs.

Na Bolom: A museum and cultural center founded by archaeologist Frans Blom and photographer Gertrude Duby. It is vital for understanding the Lacandon culture and the history of the region.

Guadalupe Church or Santo Domingo: If you have the energy, climb the steps of the Guadalupe Church for a panoramic view of the city. If you prefer shopping, the Santo Domingo esplanade houses the most impressive textile market in the area.

The Return to Tuxtla

After lunch in San Cristóbal (perhaps a traditional bread soup), it is time to take your rental car and return to Tuxtla to catch your flight.

The San Cristóbal-Tuxtla toll road is modern and safe.

• Distance: Approximately 37 miles (60 km).
• Time: Between 45 minutes and 1 hour (depending on traffic at the toll booth).
• Cost: The toll is around $89 MXN (subject to change). Cash only.
• Safety: It is a well-traveled road, perfect for any driver. The mountain views are spectacular, but keep your attention on the curves.

It is important to remember that all cars must be returned with the same amount of gasoline with which they were delivered at the start of your rental to avoid refueling charges. There are several gas stations near the Tuxtla airport, so we suggest filling the tank about 3 miles before reaching the terminal.

FAQs and Final Tips

Many travelers ask us if it is complicated to drive in Chiapas. The reality is that the main tourist routes, such as the one connecting the airport, the canyon, and San Cristóbal, are in good condition. Having a car allows you to avoid public transport and manage your own time, which is vital on a weekend trip.

Another common doubt refers to archaeological zones. Although Palenque or Bonampak are world-class gems, they are many hours away (more than 5 hours from San Cristóbal). For a 3-day road trip route, focusing on the center and the highlands is the smartest decision to enjoy without spending the whole day driving.

If you come from places with white sand beaches and turquoise waters, the change of scenery will be refreshing. Chiapas offers a deep cultural immersion, comparable in artistic richness to the museums of Mexico City.

Fall in Love with Chiapas with MEX

Chiapas is not just visited; it is lived. And the best way to live it is at your own pace. A weekend might seem like a short time, but with the right mobility, it becomes a transformative experience.

From the modern hotel and commercial zone of Tuxtla to the cobblestone streets of San Juan Chamula or San Cristóbal, every corner is accessible when you have the keys in your hand.

At MEX Rent A Car, we want to be part of your journey. We have a modern and safe fleet waiting for you at the airport. If you are ready to plan your getaway, check our availability for car rental in Tuxtla Gutiérrez and secure your vehicle today.

Start the engine and let Chiapas surprise you at every curve!