Family Cultural Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day of Wonders

Today was a beautiful blend of nature, history, and, of course, delicious food here in San Cristobal de las Casas. It’s amazing how much this city has to offer, and I'm so excited to share our experiences with you. From the serene orchid gardens to the depths of Mayan history, every moment was a new discovery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cardamomo Cocina Hindu. I know, I know, Indian food in Mexico? But trust me, it was a delightful surprise! We decided to try it based on a recommendation from a fellow traveler we met yesterday. The aroma of spices filled the air as we stepped inside, a comforting scent that reminded me of home. I ordered the butter chicken, and Umar opted for the tandoori pork. Aisha, of course, went for the safe option of naan bread, which she devoured in minutes. The food was incredible, each dish bursting with authentic flavors that transported us straight to India. Even Aisha, surprisingly, enjoyed the butter chicken, declaring it her favorite meal so far. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with colorful decor and soft lighting. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I even had a chance to chat with the owner, who shared his journey of bringing authentic Indian cuisine to San Cristobal. It’s stories like these that make traveling so enriching; connecting with people and learning about their passions.

Fueled and ready, we headed to Reserva Ecológica y Jardín de Orquídeas Moxviquil. The name 'Moxviquil' apparently means 'tripas de gato' in the local Tsotsil language, but don't let that put you off ! In a territorial context, it means 'crossing' or 'meeting of roads', as the location of the ecological reserve was once a pre-Hispanic center inhabited by the ancient Mayans, where they traded with nearby villages. As we entered, we were immediately enveloped in a world of lush greenery and vibrant colors. The air was thick with the sweet fragrance of orchids, a scent so intoxicating it felt like a natural perfume. Aisha was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she spotted the delicate blooms peeking out from every corner. We wandered along the winding paths, marveling at the incredible variety of orchids. I never knew there were so many different kinds! The reserve is dedicated to rescuing, protecting, and conserving the orchids and other native plants of the Chiapas region. It’s truly a haven for endangered species, a place where nature thrives in its purest form.


Explore the stunning Moxviquil Ecological Reserve and Orchid Garden, a natural paradise in Chiapas, featuring diverse flora and serene walking paths.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the gardens, taking photos and simply soaking in the tranquility. Aisha loved spotting the tiny hummingbirds flitting between the flowers, their iridescent feathers shimmering in the sunlight. It was a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, a reminder of the importance of preserving these natural spaces. I learned that the reserve collaborates with Pronatura Sur A.C. in the conservation of the state's flora, especially forests, by managing two reserves of cloud and oak forests of great relevance. They also focus on orchids, developing Orquídeas Moxviquil, a unique botanical garden.

Next on our list was the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo. Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century convent, the museum is a treasure trove of Mayan history and culture. As we walked through the ancient halls, I felt a sense of awe and respect for the people who came before us. The exhibits showcased traditional textiles, historical artifacts, and intricate artwork, each piece telling a story of a rich and complex civilization. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the displays of Mayan clothing, marveling at the vibrant colors and intricate designs. I was impressed with the building which, as a colonial building, served as a military barracks in the government of Venustiano Carranza and was an important stage during the Cristero era. The museum was consolidated as a museum space in 1988, with the support of the historian Jan de Vos and his wife Emma Cosío.


Discover the cultural richness of Chiapas at the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas, showcasing art, heritage, and tradition in a historic convent.

Umar, with his keen interest in history, spent ages reading the descriptions and examining the artifacts. He was particularly drawn to the exhibits on the Spanish conquest, a period of immense upheaval and change for the Mayan people. It was a sobering reminder of the impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures, a lesson that resonated deeply with both of us, given our own background. The museum is annexed to the Templo de Santo Domingo, whose façade is cataloged as one of the best examples of the Baroque in Latin America.

By this point, we were all feeling a bit peckish, so we decided to grab lunch at Achiote Cochinita Pibil. This restaurant specializes in cochinita pibil, a traditional Yucatecan dish of slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste. The aroma alone was enough to make our mouths water! We ordered a selection of tacos, tortitas, and panuchos, eager to sample the different variations of this regional specialty. The pork was incredibly tender and flavorful, the achiote paste adding a unique smoky sweetness. Aisha, surprisingly, loved the panuchos, devouring them with gusto. It was a true taste of Mexico, a culinary experience that we won't soon forget. I appreciated how the marinated red onions and pickled yellow chiles added a refreshing crunch and a touch of heat.


Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Achiote Cochinita Pibil, home to delectable cochinita pibil tacos and more in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Casa de Willy Restaurante for dinner. Recommended as a place where everything is bueno, bonito y barato (good, beautiful, and cheap), it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with live music adding to the ambiance. We ordered a selection of traditional Mexican dishes, including chilaquiles, empanadas, and the famous sopa mamalona. The chilaquiles were amazing, the perfect combination of crispy tortillas, savory sauce, and creamy avocado. The empanadas were equally delicious, filled with melted cheese and flavorful spices. But the real star of the show was the sopa mamalona, a huge, hearty soup that warmed us from the inside out. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a comforting meal that left us feeling content and satisfied.


Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Casa de Willy Restaurante in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to check out Pipiripau, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. The bar was buzzing with activity, locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the music. We ordered a round of drinks and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere. Aisha, of course, stuck to juice, while Umar and I enjoyed a couple of local beers. It was a fun and festive end to the day, a chance to unwind and let loose after a day of sightseeing. The staff were efficient and the service professional.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Pipiripau, a vibrant bar in San Cristóbal de las Casas offering craft cocktails and a taste of local nightlife.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. San Cristobal de las Casas is a city that truly captivates the senses, a place where culture, history, and nature come together in perfect harmony. I am looking forward to tomorrow where we plan to visit Andador Turistico Miguel Hidalgo and Arco del Carmen. I am also hoping to get some shopping done at Na Casa Galería. I am also looking forward to breakfast at Jardines de San Cristóbal, lunch at Te Quiero Verde, and dinner at Bangcook Tailandés.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.