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There are an array of things to do in Mexico, with San Juan Chamula sharing quite a few of those!
A sensory explosion awaits in the vibrant town of San Juan Chamula, where centuries-old traditions blend with modern-day charm.
From exploring mystical spiritual practices to indulging in local delicacies, this enchanting pueblo has something for everyone.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in San Juan Chamula:
1. San Juan Chamula Church
San Juan Chamula Church is a Catholic church located in the town of San Juan Chamula, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the unique blend of pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions within the church. The interior is decorated with numerous statues of saints and offerings, and the floor is covered in pine needles.
Don’t miss: The church’s atmosphere is a major attraction.
Tourists can observe the rituals and prayers of the local Tzotzil people who come to the church to perform their own religious ceremonies, which can include the use of candles, incense, and chicken sacrifices.
Insider travel tips: The church is located in the center of San Juan Chamula, and it is recommended to visit with a guide who can provide insight into the customs and culture of the local community.
Visitors should also be respectful of the traditions and avoid taking photos inside the church without permission.
Additionally, it is important to note that the church does not allow any kind of religious service that is not Catholic and official.
2. Plaza Central
Plaza Central is a vibrant town square located in the heart of San Juan Chamula, a small indigenous village in Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by dozens of traditional shops selling handmade textiles, clothing, and other artisanal goods. Visitors can witness locals practicing ancient rituals and traditions, including healing ceremonies and shamanic rituals.
Don’t miss: While exploring Plaza Central, don’t miss the chance to visit the San Juan Chamula Church, a unique spiritual site that blends pre-Hispanic and Catholic religious beliefs.
The interior of the church is lined with hundreds of candles and local flowers, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: If you plan on exploring the square, be sure to dress respectfully and ask for permission before taking photos.
Visitors should also be aware that San Juan Chamula is an autonomous community with its own set of rules, customs, and traditions.
It’s recommended to hire a local guide or to do research beforehand to fully appreciate and honor the local culture.
3. Iglesia de San Pedro
A 16th-century church located in the town of San Juan Chamula, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the unique blend of pre-Hispanic and Christian beliefs represented in the church’s decorations and rituals.
Admire the striking interior adorned with colorful flowers, candles, and statues of Catholic saints mixed with elements of traditional Maya spirituality.
Witness the local Tzotzil community performing ancient ceremonies such as healings and cleansings.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to witness the vibrant and mystical atmosphere inside the church during one of Chamula’s many religious festivals or events.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should be respectful and avoid taking photographs inside the church, as photography is strictly prohibited.
It is advisable to visit with a guide who can help navigate the complex religious and cultural beliefs represented in the church and its rituals.
Additionally, travelers should take caution and be mindful of the altitude, climate, and indigenous customs when visiting Chamula and the surrounding areas.
4. Church of San Juan Bautista
The Church of San Juan Bautista is a Catholic church located in the indigenous town of San Juan Chamula, in the state of Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: The church is known for its unique blend of Catholic and indigenous traditions, as well as its impressive architecture.
Inside, visitors can see the floor covered in pine needles, candles, and images of saints, while local shamans perform ancient rituals in front of them.
The church is also home to a number of beautiful paintings and sculptures.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to the Church of San Juan Bautista is watching the shamans perform their rituals.
Visitors can also purchase candles and other offerings to leave at the altar.
Insider travel tips: – Photography is strictly prohibited inside the church, and visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
5. Casa de la Cultura
Cultural center and museum in the town of San Juan Chamula, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the traditional Tzotzil Maya culture through exhibits on art, textiles, folklore, and history. Attend classical music and dance performances or participate in workshops on weaving, painting, and traditional medicine.
Don’t miss: The intricate hand-woven textiles made by local artisans. Admire the colorful clothing and intricate designs on display and take home a unique piece of local craftsmanship.
Insider travel tips: Respect the local customs and traditions when visiting this indigenous community. Photography is limited and sometimes prohibited, so ask for permission before taking pictures.
Combine your visit to the Casa de la Cultura with a trip to San Juan Chamula’s iconic church, where traditional rituals and ceremonies are still performed.
6. Cementerio Municipal
The Cementerio Municipal is a famous cemetery located in the town of San Juan Chamula in Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness unique rituals that take place in the cemetery, mixing indigenous and Catholic traditions. It is not uncommon to see families gathered around the graves, burning candles, offering food and drinks, and praying.
Don’t miss: The colorful graves decorated with flowers, ribbons, and crosses create a beautiful and eerie atmosphere. Some graves even have chairs or benches for visitors to sit and chat with the deceased.
Insider travel tips: Be respectful and abide by the local customs and rules, such as not taking photos without permission.
It is also advisable to visit with a guide or a local as some rituals may be hard to interpret for outsiders.
7. Casa Museo Na Bolom
A former home turned into a museum and cultural center dedicated to the preservation of indigenous culture in Chiapas.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, traditional clothing, and photography documenting indigenous tribes in Chiapas. The lush gardens and architecture of the house itself are also worth admiring.
Don’t miss: The library, which contains over 10,000 books on the history and culture of Chiapas, and the chance to purchase handmade crafts created by local artisans.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s schedule for special events and workshops, which may include traditional dance performances or cooking classes. Photography is not allowed inside the museum, so be sure to snap pictures outside in the gardens instead.
8. Textile Museum
The Textile Museum in San Juan Chamula is a small museum dedicated to the traditional textiles made by the indigenous communities of Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the rich history and techniques used to create the intricate textiles and view examples of them on display.
Don’t miss: The stunning collection of traditional costumes worn by the locals during their annual fiestas and religious ceremonies.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring cash to make any purchases as the museum does not accept credit cards. Also, consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds.
9. El Arcotete Ecological Park
El Arcotete Ecological Park is a natural reserve located in San Juan Chamula, Chiapas.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy hiking through the park’s trails, exploring the natural rock formation known as “El Arcotete,” and swimming in the freshwater pools and waterfalls.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the stunning natural bridge formation known as “El Arcotete.” Visitors can also admire the biodiversity of the region, including different species of birds, reptiles, and mammals.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen. It’s recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peacefulness of the reserve.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning natural beauty of the area.
10. Cascada El Chiflón
Cascada El Chiflón is a stunning waterfall located in San Juan Chamula, a small town in Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Witness the breathtaking scenery as the waterfall drops into a deep blue natural pool, surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation.
Visitors can also explore the area around the waterfall, including a series of smaller waterfalls and cascades.
Don’t miss: In addition to the main waterfall, make sure to check out the nearby viewpoint for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The viewpoint is accessible through a short hike and offers stunning photo opportunities.
Insider travel tips: – Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the viewpoint and around the area.
11. El Sumidero Canyon
El Sumidero Canyon is a natural wonder located in San Juan Chamula, in the State of Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour to admire the impressive vertical walls that reach heights of up to 1,000 meters, and observe the abundant flora and fauna that call the canyon home.
Keep an eye out for crocodiles, monkeys, and colorful birds.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view from the mirador (viewpoint) located at the top of the canyon, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Also, the cave paintings located in the walls of the canyon, which date back to the pre-Hispanic era and depict scenes of everyday life.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the canyon. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as there may be a bit of hiking involved.
Also, bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
12. Parque Nacional Cañón del Sumidero
Parque Nacional Cañón del Sumidero is a national park located in the southern part of Mexico, near the city of San Cristobal de las Casas.
The park is known for its stunningly beautiful 1000-meter deep canyon carved by the Grijalva River.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a boat tour along the river to marvel at the towering canyon walls and search for the abundant wildlife, which includes crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of birds.
The park is also home to several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the canyon, as well as caves and waterfalls.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the park is undoubtedly the boat tour through the canyon, which allows you to see the sheer rock faces and spectacular views that may be impossible to see from land.
Also, the viewpoint known as “Mirador de la Ceiba” offers a stunning view of the canyon.
Insider travel tips: – It is advised to visit the park early or late in the day so as to avoid the heat and crowds.
13. Tonina Archaeological Site
Tonina Archaeological Site is an ancient Mayan city located in the Mexican state of Chiapas.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of Tonina, which include impressive structures such as the Acropolis, the Great Plaza, and the Ballcourt.
The site also features intricate carvings, stelae, and hieroglyphs that offer insights into the history and culture of the Mayan civilization.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the towering Pyramid of the Sun, which rises over 70 meters above the surrounding landscape.
The view from the top offers a stunning panorama of the ruins and the river valley below.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and steep.