Geographical Position and Climate of Chiapas
Chiapas is located in the southeastern part of Mexico, bordering the states of Tabasco to the north, Veracruz to the northwest, and Oaxaca to the west. To its east, Chiapas shares an international border with Guatemala, and to the south, it has a coastline along the Pacific Ocean.
The climate in Chiapas varies significantly due to its topography, which includes coastal plains, highlands, and mountainous regions.
Best time to visit Chiapas
The optimal time to visit Chiapas is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During these months, visitors can enjoy pleasant weather with less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the state’s natural attractions, archaeological sites, and colonial towns.
- Cooler Temperatures: The highland areas, such as San Cristóbal de las Casas, can be quite cool, especially at night, so this period offers comfortable daytime temperatures for sightseeing.
- Outdoor Activities: The dry season is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking in the Lacandon Jungle, visiting waterfalls such as Agua Azul and Misol-Ha, and exploring the Sumidero Canyon.
- Festivals: If you’re interested in cultural events, consider visiting during traditional festivals like the Parachicos in Chiapa de Corzo in January or the vibrant Fiesta Grande in San Cristóbal de las Casas during Holy Week (Semana Santa).
Keep in mind that while the dry season is generally the best time to visit, it is also the peak tourist season, so popular destinations may be more crowded, and prices could be higher. For those looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder months of October and May still offer good weather conditions with fewer tourists.
Travel to Chiapas
- By Air: The main airport in Chiapas is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ), also known as Tuxtla Gutiérrez International Airport, located near the state’s capital. It offers domestic flights from major cities in Mexico and some international routes. Another option is the Palenque International Airport (PQM), though it has fewer connections.
- By Bus: Chiapas is well-connected by bus with major cities across Mexico. ADO and OCC are among the main bus companies operating comfortable long-distance services to various destinations within Chiapas, including Tuxtla Gutiérrez, San Cristóbal de las Casas, and Palenque.
- By Car: If you’re driving, Chiapas can be accessed via Federal Highway 190 from Oaxaca or Federal Highway 200 along the Pacific coast. The roads offer scenic views but can be winding and mountainous, so drive with caution.
When planning your trip to Chiapas, consider the type of activities you want to do and the areas you wish to visit, as this may influence your choice of transportation. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and, if required, a tourist visa or tourist card (FMM).
Places to visit in Chiapas
- Tuxtla Gutiérrez
- Palenque National Park
- Sumidero Canyon National Park
- El Chiflón Waterfalls
- San Cristóbal de las Casas
Important Information
Capital – Tuxtla Gutierrez
Largest City – Tuxtla Gutierrez
Territory – 73,311 km2
Population – 5,543,828
Time Zone – UTC-6