Solo Exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day of Discovery in San Cristobal

Today, my second day in San Cristobal de las Casas, was a deep dive into the soul of this vibrant city. I traded the familiar comfort of Berlin for the colorful chaos of Mexico, and I'm already finding that the experiences here are etching themselves into my memory. Today was a blend of history, nature, and a dash of local flavor—exactly what I needed to feel truly immersed.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at Jardines de San Cristóbal. Fuelled up, I set off to explore Casa Na Bolom, a place that resonated with my love for history and photography.


Explore the rich heritage of Chiapas at Casa Na Bolom, a cultural center offering a museum, gardens, and accommodations in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Casa Na Bolom: A Journey Through Time

Stepping into Casa Na Bolom felt like entering a different world. This wasn't just a museum; it was a home steeped in history, once inhabited by Frans Blom, a Danish archaeologist, and Gertrude Duby Blom, a Swiss journalist and photographer. Their combined passion for the Lacandon Maya and the rainforests of Chiapas permeated every corner of the building.

The neoclassical building, originally intended as a seminary in 1891, was purchased by the Bloms in 1950. They transformed it into a cultural and research center, a testament to their dedication to preserving the indigenous culture and the environment. The name itself, 'House of the Jaguar' in Mayan, hinted at the spirit of the place.

Wandering through the rooms, I was captivated by the collection of Mayan artifacts, Trudi's powerful photographs of the Lacandon people, and Frans' extensive library. It was fascinating to learn about their work, advocating for the Lacandon community and fighting to protect the rainforest.

It's inspiring to see how two individuals can dedicate their lives to preserving a culture and an environment, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

I learned that Frans and Trudi arrived in the region in 1922 and 1943 respectively, drawn to the area's beauty and the indigenous communities. They documented the lives of the Lacandon people, advocating for their customs, traditions, health, and housing. Their dedication extended to environmental protection, with Trudi establishing a tree nursery in 1975 to support reforestation efforts in Chiapas.

Casa Na Bolom also functioned as a small hotel, hosting notable guests like Henry Kissinger and Diego Rivera. It maintained a tradition of offering free rooms to Lacandon Maya seeking medical care in San Cristóbal. Today, it continues to operate as a hotel, museum, and research center, run by Asociación Cultural Na Bolom, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the Lacandon Maya and preserving the Chiapas rainforest.

Reserva Ecológica y Jardín de Orquídeas Moxviquil: A Breath of Fresh Air

After immersing myself in history, I craved a dose of nature. So, I headed to Reserva Ecológica y Jardín de Orquídeas Moxviquil. Located in the mountains north of San Cristobal, this ecological reserve and orchid garden offered a serene escape.


Explore the enchanting Moxviquil Ecological Reserve and Orchid Garden, a botanical haven in San Cristóbal de las Casas, rich in biodiversity and tranquility.

The name 'Moxviquil,' meaning 'meeting place' or 'gathering of ways' in the local Tsotsil language, hints at the area's history as a pre-Hispanic Mayan trade center. Today, it serves as a sanctuary for both nature and those seeking tranquility.

The reserve spans 230 hectares and features a cloud forest and oak forest, vital for capturing water and maintaining the springs that supply the city. I followed the 1700-meter trail, choosing to explore on my own, though guided tours are available. The path wound through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

The highlight was undoubtedly the orchid garden. I was surrounded by a vibrant collection of native orchids, each one a tiny masterpiece of color and form. It was fascinating to learn about the different species and their importance to the local ecosystem. The reserve also has greenhouses recreating the humid Chiapas rainforest, with diverse plant species.

As I wandered through the gardens, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of flowers and damp earth. It was a welcome contrast to the bustling city, a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds San Cristobal.

Shopping and Sipping: A Taste of Local Life

In the late afternoon, I decided to explore the local shops. Boutique Arte Sandía caught my eye with its vibrant display of artisan crafts. The shop offered a range of handcrafted items, from traditional textiles to intricate pottery. I picked up a few small souvenirs, each one a unique reminder of my time in San Cristobal.


Explore Boutique Arte Sandía for unique handicrafts and art that embody the vibrant spirit of Chiapas in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

For dinner, I ventured to Tierra y Cielo Restaurante, known for its contemporary twists on classic Mexican dishes. The terrace setting was lovely, and the food was delicious. I savored every bite, enjoying the flavors of Chiapas.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Tierra y Cielo Restaurante in San Cristóbal de las Casas - where tradition meets flavor.

As the evening drew to a close, I found myself at Mezcalito420, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. I sipped on a mezcal, enjoying the music and the company of fellow travelers. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, soaking in the energy of San Cristobal.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Mezcalito420, a lively live music bar in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering delicious tapas and unforgettable performances.

Final Thoughts on Day Two

Today was a day of contrasts, blending history with nature, culture with relaxation. I feel like I'm starting to understand the heart of San Cristobal, its blend of indigenous traditions and modern life. It is also worth noting that the weather in San Cristobal in October is quite pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20°C and about 5 hours of sunshine. There is a chance of rain, so it's good to be prepared.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo and the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, continuing my exploration of the region's rich cultural heritage. I'm also looking forward to trying some local breakfast at Casa Jasmine and perhaps finding some unique souvenirs at Artesanias de los Altos de Chiapas.

As I reflect on my experiences, I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city and share my journey with you. San Cristobal de las Casas is a place that stays with you, a place that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul. I am glad I decided to come here on my own. Max would have loved it too, but sometimes, a solo journey is exactly what you need. Perhaps we'll come back together someday.

Until tomorrow!