Solo Exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day of Ascensions and Authentic Tastes

Today was all about embracing San Cristobal from new heights and diving deeper into its culinary soul. I set out to explore, armed with my camera and a healthy dose of curiosity, ready to soak in everything this vibrant city had to offer. It's amazing how each day here brings a fresh perspective, a new layer to the city's story that unfolds before me.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at LA PEREGRINA COCINA YUCATECA. I was eager to try something new, and the Yucatecan cuisine was calling my name. I opted for the *huevos motuleños*, a regional specialty. The combination of flavors—crispy tortillas, black beans, perfectly fried eggs, and a vibrant salsa—was an absolute delight. It was the perfect fuel for the day’s adventures, and I made a mental note to try recreating this dish back in Berlin for Maximilian. He'd love it! The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, a great spot to start the day.

With my stomach happy, I made my way towards Arches Park. Now, before you get any ideas, this isn't the famous Arches National Park in Utah. San Cristobal's Arches Park is a charming, smaller-scale attraction, but a lovely green space nonetheless. I enjoyed a leisurely stroll, admiring the unique arches and the surrounding gardens. It was a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets, a place to catch my breath and appreciate the simple beauty of nature. I even took a few photos, trying to capture the play of light and shadow on the stone.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that lead us to unexpected discoveries, both within ourselves and in the world around us.

Next on the agenda was Iglesia de San Cristóbalito. The climb up to the church was quite the workout! The steps seemed endless, but the panoramic view from the top was worth every drop of sweat. I could see the entire city spread out before me, a tapestry of colorful buildings and winding streets. The church itself was small but beautiful, with a sense of serenity that washed over me as I stepped inside. I lit a candle, said a little prayer for my family, and spent a few moments in quiet reflection. It's amazing how these places of worship can offer such a sense of peace, regardless of one's beliefs.

For lunch, I ventured to Maya Pakal Restaurant. I had heard great things about their traditional Mexican cuisine, and I was not disappointed. I decided to try the *sopa de lima*, a Yucatecan lime soup, and it was absolutely divine. The broth was so flavorful and refreshing, with just the right amount of acidity. It was the perfect midday pick-me-up. The restaurant had a really nice vibe, with colorful decor and friendly staff. I also noticed that Maya Pakal offers vegetarian options.

After lunch, I decided to do a little shopping. Boutique Guadalupe Narvaez de Ruíz caught my eye with its display of local crafts and textiles. I spent a happy hour browsing through the colorful array of goods, admiring the intricate designs and the skill of the artisans. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-embroidered blouse as a souvenir for myself, a little reminder of my time in San Cristobal. I also picked up a small, woven bag for my niece, Lena. She loves collecting little trinkets from my travels.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Casa de Willy Restaurante for dinner. I was in the mood for something hearty, and their menu looked promising. I ordered the *chilaquiles*, a classic Mexican dish of fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa, topped with cheese, cream, and avocado. It was the perfect comfort food after a long day of exploring. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, with live music and friendly staff. It was a great place to unwind and soak in the city's vibrant energy. Casa de Willy provides vegetarian options.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Puro Mexicano Mezcalería. I've been wanting to learn more about mezcal, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. The bartender was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the spirit, guiding me through a tasting of different varieties. I learned about the different types of agave, the production process, and the unique flavors of each mezcal. It was a fascinating experience, and I gained a newfound appreciation for this traditional Mexican drink. I even tried a Mezcal Mule !

As I walked back to Hotel Sombra del Agua, I couldn't help but smile. Today had been a whirlwind of experiences, from scaling the heights of San Cristóbalito to savoring the flavors of Yucatecan cuisine and discovering the allure of mezcal. It was a day that perfectly captured the essence of this magical city.

Tomorrow, I plan to delve into the city's history with visits to the Museo de San Cristóbal MUSAC - Palacio de Gobierno and Casa Mazariegos Recinto Histórico. I'm also looking forward to exploring the local shops, Carmen Rion + Sna Maruch, and perhaps ending the day at Baruva Food&Drinks. It's exciting to think about the new adventures that await!

San Cristobal continues to surprise me, and I am eager to experience even more of what this city has to offer. I'm so glad I decided to embark on this solo adventure, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Discover the best of Yucatecan cuisine at La Peregrina Cocina Yucateca - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.


Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture at Arches Park, the perfect urban escape in San Cristóbal de las Casas.


Discover the charm and spiritual beauty of Iglesia de San Cristóbalito, a captivating Catholic church in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas.


Experience exquisite Mexican and Italian cuisine at Maya Pakal Restaurant in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where flavor meets culture.


Explore Boutique Guadalupe Narvaez de Ruíz in San Cristóbal de las Casas for unique women's fashion that blends local culture with contemporary style.


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


Experience the vibrant culture of San Cristóbal at Puro Mexicano Mezcalería, where mezcal meets live piano music in an inviting atmosphere.


Discover the charm of Hotel Sombra del Agua, a historic Chiapas gem offering elegance, tranquility, and modern amenities for all travelers.