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There are an array of things to do in Mexico, with Tapachula sharing quite a few of those!
Tucked away in the lush green mountains and surrounded by serene waterfalls, Tapachula is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and endless activities, this city is a true haven for those seeking an adventure-filled escape.
So put on your wanderlust hat and get ready to explore the many wondrous things that Tapachula has to offer!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Tapachula:
1. Izapa Archaeological Zone
Izapa Archaeological Zone is an ancient Mayan city located in Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the ruins and marvel at the intricate stone carvings that depict both historical and mythological events.
Visit the ball court, which is one of the largest in Mesoamerica, and learn about the ancient Mayan sport of Pok-a-Tok.
Don’t miss: The stelae – large stone slabs covered in carvings that served as markers for important events and dates in the Mayan calendar.
Keep an eye out for Stela 5, which depicts the Maize God and is considered one of the most significant pieces of Mayan art.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as the ruins are spread out over a large area. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the site, consider hiring a local guide.
2. Parque Bicentenario
Parque Bicentenario is a public park that spans over 7 hectares in the city of Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: The park has a large lake with a variety of birds like ducks and herons. You can rent paddle boats and explore the lake.
There are also walking paths, playgrounds, and exercise equipment for those who want to stay active.
Don’t miss: Check out the amphitheater which holds regular music and dance performances. The park also has a food court with local and international cuisine options.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring sunscreen and water as it can get hot during the day. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes since there is a lot of walking involved.
If you’re traveling with kids, they will love the playgrounds and the paddle boats on the lake.
3. Ecoparque Interactivo San Miguelito
Ecoparque Interactivo San Miguelito is an interactive nature park located in Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems, including a tropical jungle, wetlands, and a mangrove forest. The park also has several exhibits featuring local wildlife, such as crocodiles, monkeys, and toucans.
Don’t miss: The park’s star attraction is the giant suspension bridge that spans 500 meters over the jungle canopy, providing breathtaking views.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes for walking on dirt paths and across the suspension bridge.
4. Volcan Tacana
Volcán Tacaná is an active volcano located on the border between Mexico and Guatemala, towering over the city of Tapachula in the state of Chiapas.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit of the volcano. The hike takes around 2-3 days with views of the stunning landscape, nearby volcanoes, and indigenous communities.
Along the way, visitors can observe exotic flora and fauna, including rare bird species, orchids, and bromeliads.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view from the top of the volcano is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the Sierra Madre mountain range, and several volcanoes in Mexico and Guatemala.
The Tacaná crater, 180 meters deep and 450 meters wide, is also a mesmerizing attraction.
Insider travel tips: Before embarking on the hike, make sure to pack warm clothing, comfortable hiking boots, and plenty of water and snacks.
It’s also recommended to hire a local guide to lead the way, as the trail can be steep, rocky, and challenging.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views from the top.
5. Catedral del Sagrado Corazon de Jesus
The Catedral del Sagrado Corazon de Jesus is a stunning Catholic church located in the heart of Tapachula in the state of Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Admire the intricate architecture of the cathedral’s exterior, including its impressive twin bell towers and striking rose-colored dome. Step inside the cathedral to see the stunning stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings that adorn the interior.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit on Sunday to witness the beautiful Mass and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the church. Take a moment to light a candle and offer a prayer.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to dress modestly when visiting the cathedral and remember to turn off your phone.
If you have time, consider visiting the nearby coffee plantations for a taste of some of the best coffee in Mexico.
6. Museo del Cafe
Museo del Cafe is a museum dedicated to coffee in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history of coffee, its cultivation, and the different methods of processing and roasting it. The museum also showcases coffee-related artifacts and artwork.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try a cup of coffee at the museum’s café, where visitors can taste different blends of coffee grown locally in Chiapas.
Insider travel tips: Visit the museum in the morning when it’s less crowded. The museum offers guided tours in Spanish and English.
Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful view of the surrounding mountains from the museum’s terrace.
7. Mirador del Cristo
A viewpoint located at the top of a hill overlooking the city of Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: Enjoy amazing panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, take photos, and unwind in a peaceful setting.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views from the Mirador.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there are some steps to climb. Bring a jacket or sweater in the evening as it can get chilly.
Avoid visiting on weekends if you prefer to avoid crowds.
8. Malecon Tapachula
Malecon Tapachula is a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk stretching along the Pacific coast in Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and admire the stunning views of the ocean. It’s a perfect place to relax, unwind and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze.
You can spot a variety of sea birds and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
Don’t miss: The colorful sunsets from the boardwalk are simply breathtaking.
If you happen to be there during the evening hours, make sure to stay and watch the sun setting over the Pacific.
Insider travel tips: Visit the boardwalk early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Also, there are plenty of street vendors selling local snacks and refreshing beverages.
Try out some of the street food and indulge in the authentic flavors of Tapachula.
9. Parque Cultural Bicentenario
Parque Cultural Bicentenario is a cultural park located in Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: The park is home to several attractions, including a planetarium, botanical garden, art museum, and an archaeological museum showcasing pre-Hispanic artifacts.
The park also has plenty of green spaces, walking trails, and playgrounds for children.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the planetarium’s educational shows on astronomy and the botanical garden’s collection of native flora and fauna.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the park during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
10. Casa de la Cultura
Casa de la Cultura is a cultural center located in Tapachula, Mexico.
What to see or do: The center offers a range of cultural activities including theater performances, dance classes, art exhibits, and workshops.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the impressive mural by local artist Walter Solón Romero, which depicts the history of Tapachula.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the cultural center. Also, check out the schedule in advance to catch a performance or workshop that interests you.
11. La Joya del Huanacaxtle Sanctuary
La Joya del Huanacaxtle Sanctuary is a nature reserve and wildlife rehabilitation center located in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours of the sanctuary and see various animals in their natural habitat, including monkeys, jaguars, toucans, and parrots.
The sanctuary also has several walking trails and gardens to explore.
Don’t miss: The sanctuary’s highlight is the jaguar rescue and breeding program, which offers visitors an up-close look at these majestic creatures.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. It is recommended to visit the sanctuary in the morning when animals are most active.
Visitors can also bring snacks and water as there are not many food options available within the sanctuary.
12. Casa de Piedra
Casa de Piedra is a stunning archaeological site located in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico, which dates back to the pre-Columbian era.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the well-preserved ruins of Mayan stone structures and learn about the history and culture of the ancient civilization.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the intricate stone carvings and hieroglyphics that tell the stories of the Mayan people.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, as the site is outdoors and can be hot.
13. Soconusco Museum
Soconusco Museum is a cultural institution that showcases the history, art and culture of the Soconusco region in Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of ancient artifacts, precious stones, pottery, costumes, and handicrafts that belonged to the ancient Mayan civilization.
You can also see the history of the Soconusco region from the pre-Columbian era until the colonial period.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive jade mask and other valuable pieces recovered from the nearby Izapa archaeological site. Also, don’t forget to check out the beautiful murals that adorn the walls.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least two hours to explore the museum thoroughly.
14. Santuario de las Guacamayas
Santuario de las Guacamayas is a nature reserve and animal sanctuary located in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary to see a variety of birds and animals, including macaws, toucans, spider monkeys, and more.
The sanctuary is also home to a butterfly breeding area and a botanical garden with a variety of tropical plants.
Don’t miss: The highlight of a visit to the sanctuary is seeing the spectacular sight of hundreds of macaws flying overhead. Visitors can also watch the feeding of the animals and learn about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the sanctuary is in the morning when the animals are most active.
15. Manglares de Tajumulco Wildlife Reserve
Manglares de Tajumulco Wildlife Reserve is a protected natural area located in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas, near the city of Tapachula.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the reserve’s mangrove forests and observe a variety of wildlife species, including crocodiles, turtles, marine birds, and more.
The reserve also has a network of hiking trails that let visitors get up close to the flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a boat ride through the mangrove canals to experience the beauty of this unique ecosystem up close.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy.