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How to get to Palenque from San Cristobal de las Casas Chiapas

(Last update: July/10/2023)

Map of road from San Cristobal to Palenque Chiapas Mexico

Distance: 191 Km More details
Road: Lots of hills and bumps
Driving time (oficial): 3:10 hours
Driving time (real): Around 5.5 hours

Note: Because of road safety bus companies might take alternative road through Villahermosa.

Find information about how and where to book this trip. Shared or private tranfers. Try not to miss the two waterfalls between these two cities: Agua Azul and Misolha waterfalls. Here we show you all the options you have. We hope you find this information helpful. Contact us if you have any questions.

Door-to-door car transfer

A door-to-door car transfer is the ideal choice for transportation between these two towns for several reasons. Firstly, the road connecting the towns is characterized by numerous hills and speed bumps. By opting for a private car transfer, you can navigate these obstacles comfortably and smoothly. Additionally, this mode of transportation allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way, giving you the opportunity to stretch your legs and appreciate the breathtaking views that adorn the road.

Another significant factor to consider is the timing of most trips on this route, which typically start very early in the morning, around 4 AM. This may seem excessively early for a holiday. The door-to-door option normally starts at 7 AM with the option to start at any other time during the day.

During the transfer, we recommend making three stops to enhance your experience. The first stop is at a local restaurant in Ocosingo, which boasts a magnificent view. Here, you can savor a delightful meal while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The second stop is at Agua Azul, where you will have up to two hours to explore the area. The natural beauty of Agua Azul is truly captivating, and this extended break allows you to fully immerse yourself in its wonders. Lastly, the third stop is in Misol-Ha, where you can spend 45 minutes to one hour. This scenic location offers an opportunity to admire a stunning waterfall and take memorable photographs. Following these stops, our driver will drop you off at your hotel in Palenque, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

The next morning, you can conveniently visit the archaeological site of Palenque. We recommend arriving early in the morning to make the most of your visit, allowing you to appreciate the site's historical significance and grandeur without the crowds. By utilizing the door-to-door car transfer service, you can enjoy a well-planned itinerary that maximizes your travel experience between these two towns.

Ask questions or quote a price for your group. Or See comments from other travellers on our TripAdvisor web page.

Getting to Palenque by shared shuttle:

This shared shuttle service begins at 4:00 A.M. from your hotel in San Cristobal and takes you to Palenque city. The drop-off is at any point along the road between Palenque archaeological site and the ADO bus station. It's a convenient shuttle service that makes stops along the way, too, allowing you to visit Agua Azul waterfalls and Misol-ha Waterfall. The main advantage of this option is its price (if you are one person). If you are 2 or more people the door-to-door service might be your best choise.

The first stop will be in the town of Ocosingo, which is about 2 hours away from San Cristobal. Here, you'll have time to enjoy breakfast.The next stop will be at the Agua Azul waterfalls for about 1.5 hours, where you can take your time to relax, go for a walk, or even swim if you'd like. The third stop will be at Misol-ha waterfall. And last, there is an optional stop at the archaeological site of Palenque.

By the end of the trip, the driver will drop you off in Palenque city between 4:30 and 5:00 P.M.

Check availability and prices here.

By bus:

There are two bus companies going to Palenque everyday from San Cristobal. The first one is the OCC bus company (Omnibus Cristobal Colon) also called ADO. They have buses almost every hour. Their units are 1st-class buses, with comfortable seats and air conditioning. If the bus goes through Ocosingo, the trip lasts for about 5.5 hours. But now, they are taking the road through Villahermosa and the trip takes between 8 and 9 hours. You can check their schedule here.

AEXA bus company is a second class bus company and has less buses going to Palenque than OCC, but you wont lose anything to check their schedule. Their terminal is across the street from OCC´s bus terminal. Their website is not working now.

Location map of OCC/ADO and AEXA bus stations. (click on the little bus)


View ADO (OCC) and AEXA Bus stations. in a larger map

By colectivo (mexican public shuttle):

Very good choise if you want to break this more than 5 hours trip in to trips of two or three hours each. Remember, you have very nice places to see on your way to Palenque. Tonina Ruins, Agua Azul and Misol ha waterfalls are some of them. A tipical trip will involve a first colectivo to Ocosingo (2 hours driving fron San Cristobal) and then another one to Palenque. Expect to get some "car sickness".

Colectivos can be found just meters from ADO bus terminal. They leave every 30 minunes aprox.

By shared tour:

Most travel agencies in San Cristobal offer a tour service to Palenque everyday. They pick you up infront of your hotel between 4:00 and 4:30 in the morning. The trip has stops in Ocosingo (for breakfast), Agua Azul, and Misol-ha waterfalls. Visit to Palenque ruins is optional. You can stay in Palenque city or come back to San Cristobal.


See also


Transportation from Palenque to San Cristobal

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