El Chiflón Waterfalls
Discover the majestic El Chiflón Waterfalls, home to Mexico's tallest cascade, Velo de Novia, in the heart of Chiapas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
El Chiflón Waterfalls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the majestic El Chiflón Waterfalls, home to Mexico's tallest cascade, Velo de Novia, in the heart of Chiapas.
"Pictures and videos don’t do justice to the views and experience."
🎯 Hike to the Top!
Don't stop at Velo de Novia! Continue to the upper falls for fewer crowds and stunning views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails involve walking and some inclines. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascada Velo de Novia
Main waterfall
Marvel at Mexico's tallest waterfall, a breathtaking 120-meter cascade plunging into turquoise pools.
Cascada El Suspiro
Lower trail
A beautiful, less crowded waterfall with inviting pools perfect for a refreshing dip (when permitted).
Cascada Ala de Ángel
Mid-trail
This delicate cascade offers a serene beauty, a peaceful stop on your journey to the main falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Plan Your Hike and Swim
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hike to the Top!
Don't stop at Velo de Novia! Continue to the upper falls for fewer crowds and stunning views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails involve walking and some inclines. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the hike.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on your hike. While there are vendors, having your own supplies is convenient.
🚗 Choose Your Route Wisely
Opt for the right-side path for better access to all waterfalls and viewpoints.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hike to the Top!
Don't stop at Velo de Novia! Continue to the upper falls for fewer crowds and stunning views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trails involve walking and some inclines. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the hike.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on your hike. While there are vendors, having your own supplies is convenient.
🚗 Choose Your Route Wisely
Opt for the right-side path for better access to all waterfalls and viewpoints.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect to pay around 80 pesos for park entry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise El Chiflón Waterfalls for its breathtaking natural beauty, with the towering Velo de Novia waterfall being a major highlight. Many describe the experience as stunning and worth every step of the hike. However, some find the local vendors to be overly persistent, and the prohibition of swimming during certain seasons can be a drawback for those hoping to cool off.
"Nice place, a bit crowded even during weekday (we were on tuesday), but still worth it. Swimming in the lagoons (unfortunately) prohibited during rainy season.
Quite easy hike, I recommend to hike all the way to the last of the waterfalls - most of the visitors end by the most popular Bride’s veil waterfall but there are 2 more and much less crowded.
Did it in 2 hours easily but it would be better to have at least 3 hours to have time to chill and enjoy the nature"
Kateřina Junková
"Insanely beautiful!! Absolutely the most stunning and amazing experience I have ever lived. The waterfalls make this journey worth every single step it takes to get to them. Pictures and videos don’t do justice to the views and experience. Honestly, if you’re thinking of going, do so. You will not regret it!"
Valeria Lino
"On of the most impressive waterfalls which we visited in mexico.
The place run by locals and they take care that the place safe, clean."
Abd Masoud
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach El Chiflón by taking a 'colectivo' (shared shuttle) from San Cristobal de las Casas or Comitán. Many tours also depart from San Cristobal. 
From Comitán, you can catch a 'colectivo' heading towards Trinitaria or Las Margaritas and ask to be dropped off at El Chiflón.
Yes, you can drive to El Chiflón. There is parking available at the entrance of the ecological park.
The journey from San Cristobal de las Casas to El Chiflón typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by car or tour.
The park is designed for walking and hiking. There are no internal shuttle services, so be prepared to walk to explore the different waterfalls.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is approximately 80 Mexican pesos per person.
The park is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit.
Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance to the park. Advance booking is usually not necessary unless you are part of a guided tour.
No, the entrance fee covers access to the entire ecological park and all the waterfalls within it.
Information on discounts for children, students, or seniors is not widely advertised, but it's worth inquiring at the ticket booth.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
To fully enjoy the hike to the top waterfalls and relax, plan for at least 3 hours. Many visitors spend half a day here.
Swimming is often prohibited in the main lagoons, especially during the rainy season. Always check local signs and regulations.
The hike is considered moderately easy, with some inclines. It leads you past several waterfalls, culminating in the impressive Velo de Novia.
Some visitors mention zip-lining (tirolesa) as an available activity within the park.
The lower parts of the park are accessible, but the hike to the upper waterfalls can be challenging for very young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are local vendors and small restaurants near the entrance and along the trails selling food and drinks.
You'll likely find traditional Mexican snacks, meals, and refreshing drinks.
Many visitors enjoy the local food options. However, some reviews mention persistent vendors, so be prepared.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally allowed and recommended, especially for longer hikes.
Options may be limited, but you can usually find fresh fruit, corn-based snacks, or ask for simple preparations.
📸 📸 Photography
Every viewpoint offers stunning photo opportunities, especially from the bridges and viewpoints overlooking Velo de Novia. +1
Some videos show drone footage, but check park regulations regarding drone usage before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic experience.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially vendors.
The viewpoints directly facing Velo de Novia are iconic. Also, look for spots along the trails that capture the lush greenery and smaller cascades.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, as the trails can be long. If swimming is permitted during your visit, the calmer pools can be a fun spot for kids to cool off. Remember to check the current regulations regarding swimming before you go. The overall experience of witnessing the powerful waterfalls and exploring the natural surroundings is a memorable one for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for 'colectivos' for transportation from Comitán is significantly cheaper than organized tours. Packing your own food and drinks will also help save money, although there are local vendors offering affordable snacks and meals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls of El Chiflón
+1 Many visitors are captivated by its sheer power and beauty, often describing it as a truly magical experience. Beyond Velo de Novia, the trail leads to other beautiful falls like Cascada El Suspiro and Cascada Ala de Ángel. These offer a more intimate encounter with the water and surrounding nature. While Velo de Novia can be crowded, continuing further up the trail often leads to less populated areas where you can truly appreciate the tranquility of the environment.
It's important to note that swimming in the lagoons is often restricted, particularly during the rainy season, to ensure visitor safety. Always adhere to posted signs and local guidance. The park is run by locals, who are dedicated to maintaining its cleanliness and safety, contributing to the overall positive visitor experience.
Getting to El Chiflón: Local Transport and Tours
+1Alternatively, you can opt for the more budget-friendly 'colectivo' system. From San Cristobal, you'll likely need to take a colectivo to Comitán first, and then another colectivo from Comitán towards Trinitaria or Las Margaritas, asking to be dropped off at El Chiflón.
When planning your route, pay attention to the specific paths within the park. Some reviews suggest that certain tour operators might take a less scenic or complete route. To ensure you experience the full beauty of El Chiflón, consider arriving with your own transportation or confirming with your tour provider that they will take you along the right-side path, which offers better access to all the waterfalls and viewpoints.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit