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Table of contents:
- Introduction to Palenque Mexico
- Palenque Ruins
- Agua Azul Waterfalls
- Misol Há Waterfall
- Aluxes
- Lacandona Jungle
- Lak Puj Kul Museum
- Catazajá Lagoon
- Plaza del Artesano
Introduction to Palenque Mexico
Palenque is a special place in Chiapas, Mexico. You can find many attractions that will make you fall in love with this place. The jungle here hides some of the best treasures from the old Maya civilization. This town is famous for its old ruins. Big green trees grow around them, and you can hear many birds singing. Every year, many people come to see the old pyramids, feel the power of the temples, and look at the stories carved in the stones.
But Palenque is not only about old buildings. It is also a place with beautiful nature and strong traditions. Close by, there are pretty waterfalls like Agua Azul and Misol Há. The blue water runs fast and makes a nice sound. You can also visit parks that take care of jaguars, monkeys, and many birds. In the town, small markets and museums show the colors and food of Chiapas.
If you like history or enjoy being in nature, Palenque has many great things for you. You can take a quiet boat ride on the Catazajá Lagoon or go hiking in the Lacandona Jungle. There is something here for everyone. Come and see why Palenque is one of the most special places in Mexico.
1. Palenque Ruins
Discovered in 1740, the Archaeological Zone of Palenque Chiapas was a Mayan City during the Classic period. UNESCO considers the ruins and the surrounding National Park a World Heritage Site. This place is truly a masterpiece! A place where time and the present collide in these majestic ancient ruins. Indeed, you can still feel that sensation of power and war. This place is pretty essential for Mesoamerican history. Its most important structures are:
🎒Visit Palenque ruins and Chiapas with us by joining our tours:
- Palenque tour: Explore Wonderful Chiapas and Beauty Waterfalls (10 Days)
- Chiapas: a Fascinating Trip from Mexico City to San Cristobal (9 Days)
The Temple of the Inscriptions
“The Impressive Temple of the Inscriptions is noted for its hieroglyphic inscriptions. In 1952, a crypt was discovered under the temple, and the jade-ornamented remains of what may have been a ruler-priest of the 7th century were preserved.
The Temple of the Sun is noted for a large stucco bas-relief of a beautifully modeled throne and figures”. Info by Britannica. 🌍Check out our post: Mayan Pyramids in Mexico (& where to see them)
The Palace and the Aqueduct
“The Palenque water-work system included 50 natural springs, nine rivers, and streams that fed the aqueducts, channels, and pools. Some archeologists believe they invented the first pressurized water system in the New World. People built a walled channel under the palace and the central ceremonial plaza to ensure an open space for religious and political ceremonies.
You can see part of the fantastic stonework when you follow the path from the Palace to the Plaza of the Crosses. The roof of parts of the channel collapsed, giving a partial view. A carving of an alligator on a vast stone symbolizes the importance and protection of the waterway”. Info by On the road in.com
The temple of the Red Queen
“Surrounded by treasure and covered in blood-red dust, the Red Queen was discovered in a seventh-century Maya tomb, but her true identity remains unknown. In the vaulted burial chamber of Temple XIII at Palenque, Mexico, a researcher examines the stained interior of the stone sarcophagus of the Red Queen”. Info by National Geographic.
The Temple of the Count
“It was named after Jean-Frédéric Waldeck, an eccentric scoundrel who lived for two years inside the temple with his Mayan mistress. In fact, it is a classic Palenque Maya pyramid, sits directly adjacent to the north group of structures, and faces east towards the ball court. The temple has three entrances with a rear and front passageway leading to a central room and two side rooms.
The pillars were covered with stucco sculptures and images. On top, it is adorned with a richly decorated roof comb. Constructed between AD 640 and 650, it is the oldest excavated building so far. Three tombs with some human bodies and sacrificial offerings were found underneath the portico’s floor. “ Info by On the Road in.
The Ball Game
“If you’ve ever visited an archaeological site in Mexique – think Chichen Itza, Palenque, or Monte Alban – the chances are you’ve come across at least one Mesoamerican ballcourt in your time. By 1400 BCE, at the very least, the Mesoamerican ballgame was in full swing across much of southeast Mexico.
To date, there are thought to be some 1300 ballcourts still in existence, although the addition of the now iconic ‘hoops’ was something introduced by the Mayas, before being copied by the Aztecs and Toltecs”. Info by The Culture Trip.
✈️Learn more about Maya culture with us on our tours:
- Valladolid Tour: Plus Incredible Chichen Itza and Relaxing Cenote (12h)
- Chichen Itza Tour: Admire World Famous Pyramids and Relax in Cenote Waters (12h)
- Mayan Route Tour: Impressive Riviera Maya, Ruins, and Canyon (9 Days)
- Mexico Travel Cities: Unveil Mayan Places and Magical Moments (8 Days)
What to do?
Here, you will find the archeological site’s museum, which has two permanent exhibition rooms, a temporary one, an auditorium, replicas, and a souvenir shop. Some pieces were recovered by foreign archaeologists in the ’40s. Public access hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.
How to get there?
The archaeological zone of Palenque (Palenque ruins) is about 4.97097 miles from the city. First, you have to get to Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport. From there, you can take cabs to the archaeological site of Palenque.
However, it is expensive to leave directly from the airport. Indeed, you can ask the locals how to get there by collective transport or non-airport cabs. The collective transport leaves from the Maya traffic circle, next to the ADO Bus station, for $28 (Mexican pesos). By Taxi, it is somewhat more expensive but not subject to schedules.
Where to stay?
⭐ Hotel Villa Mercedes Palenque
⭐ Hotel Maya Bell
2. Agua Azul Waterfalls
This spot is just two hours away from Palenque, Chiapas. In 1980, these waterfalls were declared a biosphere reserve because they are a natural refuge for the howler monkey, jaguar, toucan, and other regional species. In addition, Cascadas de Agua Azul is named after the turquoise blue color that has characterized them.
What to do?
Here, you can freely swim and relax; rafting and snorkeling tours are also available if you’re feeling adventurous. Admission to the general public is from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How to get there?
It can be reached by road from the city of Palenque, which is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes away. But if you are in Tuxtla Gutierrez, you must go to San Cristobal de las Casas and from there to Palenque, although it will take 5 to 6 hours to get there by this route. You can also get there by transportation; in Palenque, a bus goes directly to the entrance of Agua Azul.
Where to stay?
⭐ Cabañas Yax-ha
3. Misol Há Waterfall
If you are around the Agua Azul Waterfalls, you might as well visit Misol Há. Although you can see both places on the same day, it is best to dedicate a whole day to each place. By the way, did you know that Arnold Schwarzenegger’s film Predator was filmed here?
Misol há is a waterfall 30 meters deep and a fall 45 meters high. There is a path that allows you to see behind the waterfall, offering stunning views. If you want to be in touch with nature near the main town, this is the place you were looking for. This refreshing place is in the high tropical jungle of the Chiapas Sierra, in the middle of a super-rich vegetation area.
What to do?
You can hike up the viewpoint. It is one of the secret corners of the waterfalls and one of the most unique places in the world. In addition, you can go into the waterfall grotto, swim, and cool off for a while. It is advisable to be accompanied by a guide to better orient you in these subway places. Finally, you can take amazing pictures of the surroundings of the jungle. You will find excellent angles from which to admire the splendor of the crystalline waterfall.
How to get there?
It is located 11.8061 miles from Palenque on federal highway 199 to Ocosingo, where a detour is approximately 0.932057 miles (20 minutes). More information on how to get there here!
Where to stay?
⭐ Winíka Alterra
⭐ Hotel Nututun Palenque
💦Enjoy a waterfalls experience with our tours:
- San Luis Potosi Tour: a Fantastic Journey Through Waterfalls, Mountains and Sea (15 Days)
- Mil Cascadas Taxco Tour: Enjoy Amazing Waterfalls and Crazy Rappel (14h)
- Oaxaca Tour: Explore Ruins, Incredible Waterfalls, Charming Towns and Much More (15 Days)
4. Aluxes
Aluxes eco-park is ideal for visiting Palenque, Mexico, to see jaguars. It is a center for the region’s conservation and rescue of plants and animals. Moreover, there are endless activities to do here.
This ecological park is inspired by Mayan culture. Although it was created to help endangered animals, it is also designed for tourists. That is, its design is perfect for family recreation and environmental education.
What to do?
From boat rides and night tours to feeding different species and interacting with the giant tortoise, everyone will have fun there. You can see beautiful animals naturally and learn more about their conservation and reproduction systems.
This place seeks to continue preserving and conserving endangered animals so visitors can learn more about their history and how we can save these species, plants, and our world.
How to get there?
This eco-park is on the road to the Palenque Archeological Zone, at 2.6 kilometers. Get there by car or with a tour operator. 🚗
Where to stay?
⭐ Cuatro Lunas Hotel Boutique
5. Lacandona Jungle
The Lacandona Jungle is located in the state’s eastern mountains, between the municipalities of Las Margaritas, Altamirano, Ocosingo, and Palenque, Chiapas.
What to do?
The Lacandona Jungle has great tourist attractions such as Bonampak and Yaxchilán. Equally, there are Ecotourism Centers such as ‘Las Guacamayas’ and ‘Las Nubes’ where you can spend a pleasant night in rustic cabins surrounded by the sounds of the wild-life of the jungle. You can enjoy many adventure activities here, such as rafting, kayaking, and walking tours. Also, the definition of the trails is fantastic, and the landscapes you see are awe-inspiring.
How to get there?
It is just two and a half hours away from Palenque, Mexico, and it is worth the ride. The most convenient way to travel is to arrive at the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. You can stay in San Cristobal de las Casas, Comitan, or Chiapa de Corzo.
In fact, all these places are very close to Tuxtla, so you can get there by car or public transportation. There are buses from Palenque to the community of Lacanjá; ask at the market for the route that goes there. Info by Alma de Chiapas.
Where to stay?
⭐ Las Guacamayas Lodge Resort
6. Lak Puj Kul Museum
If you want to learn about the history and culture of Palenque, Mexico, you can start by visiting one of its museums. The Maya name of this museum means “our clothing.” In this textile museum, you will find different garments that are full of color and in a very particular Mexican style.
What to do?
Here, you will learn how fabrics are made, colored, and woven. Additionally, you can understand the different uses they may have. The garments of the town you need to know are the huipil, the “jorongo”, the skirts, and the tunics. Finally, you may be able to create your own shirt or skirt like a local. It is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm and from 5 pm to 9 pm.
How to get there?
This museum is located in the heart of Palenque, Chiapas Central Park. Precisely at the central avenue, corner with the central street, col. Tuxtla Gutierrez Center, Tuxtla Gutierrez Chiapas. From Tuxtla Gutierrez airport, you can take a taxi or ask for collective transport to the locals. They are very easy-going and friendly!
Where to stay?
⭐ Hotel Chablis Palenque
7. Catazajá Lagoon
This splendid paradise and fishing tradition is located just 30 minutes away from Palenque. It is a beautiful place to relax while admiring the fantastic views of the lagoon and its surroundings. The gastronomy of this place is something that every foodie has to experience at least once in a lifetime.
For instance, after getting to know the fauna through a boat trip on the lagoon, you can try the exquisite dishes in the community of Catzajá. 🌽Learn more about Maya food with our article about The Mayan Food & The Ancient Secrets of its Gastronomy.
What to do?
You can take a boat ride and see various local and migratory birds here. Catazajá has approximately 16,000 hectares of water and is home to the manatee. However, you will find many flying species if you enjoy bird watching here.
Nonetheless, if you want to learn about the plants and animals of this jungle region of Palenque, the traditional boat tour is a must-do activity. To conclude, visitors can enjoy the gastronomy of the place, based on fish and shellfish, in the different restaurants found in the surroundings.
How to get there?
In Palenque, retake federal highway 199 and head north. At 17.3984 miles is the Villahermosa – Escárcega highway intersection, and 0.621371 miles further, you will find the town of Catazajá. The best way to get there is by car.
Where to stay?
⭐ Bungalow in Catazajá
8. Plaza del Artesano
You must visit this place before leaving Palenque. Here, you can find many crafts typical of the region, such as ceramics and textiles. It has more than 98 artisanal premises where artisans expose their work to national and foreign tourism in different categories.
Most crafts are hand-made and inspired mainly by Maya culture. Briefly, the government of Chiapas created this space in 2006 to provide talented artisans with a space for exhibition, elaboration, and product sales. You can visit Monday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
What to do?
In Plaza del Artesano, you can buy different hand-made souvenirs you will remember for the rest of your life. What’s more, you can appreciate the way many textiles are made and see diverse, beautiful works of art you can only admire in Palenque, Mexico.
How to get there?
Highway to the Archaeological Zone KM 0.5, Palenque. In front of the sculpture “La Madre Chol.” Plaza del Artesano, Ruinas-Palenque, Siglo XXI, Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico, is the exact location.
Where to stay?
⭐ Hotel Maya Rue
Palenque, Mexico, is a unique, magical town where you can experience many adventures. Whether visiting its archaeological site or exploring the jungle, you will find a natural paradise with spectacular views. What are you waiting for? Come and explore it!
Do you like this kind of destination? Tell us if you would like to visit Palenque. And if you have already done so, which attractions are missing?
Let’s travel and feel the local vibes together! Check out our 1 Day Tours and Multi-Day Tours.