Cultural Exploration in San Cristobal de las Casas

A Day of Caves and Cliffs

Today, Lena and I ventured beyond the familiar cobblestone streets of San Cristobal de las Casas in search of some natural wonders. We were eager to trade the urban landscape for the rugged beauty that Chiapas is known for, and today's itinerary promised just that. We were ready to embrace the outdoors and see what hidden treasures awaited us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cardamomo Cocina Hindu. It might seem odd to start a day of Mexican exploration with Indian food, but after reading some great reviews, we had to try it. Plus, it was a nice change of pace. I opted for the butter chicken, while Lena enjoyed the palak paneer. Fuelled up with masala chai and some delicious samosas, we set off for our first destination: El Arcotete.


Explore the ecological wonders of El Arcotete, a breathtaking park in Chiapas, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The drive to El Arcotete was an experience in itself. Leaving the city behind, the landscape transformed into rolling hills and lush greenery. The air was noticeably fresher, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. As we approached the park, the anticipation grew. I had seen photos online, but nothing could quite prepare me for the real thing.

El Arcotete is essentially a massive natural arch carved by the Fogótico River over millennia. The scale of the arch is impressive, towering over the river below. We spent a good hour just wandering around, taking in the views from different angles. There's something incredibly humbling about standing in the presence of such ancient natural architecture. I felt a familiar sense of awe, reminiscent of hiking through the rainforests of my native Costa Rica. Lena, ever the shutterbug, was in her element, snapping photos from every conceivable vantage point.

We decided to explore the caves that run through the arch. The cool, damp air inside was a welcome respite from the midday sun. The stalactites and stalagmites created eerie shadows, adding to the sense of mystery. At one point, we even considered trying some rock climbing, but decided to save that for another day. Instead, we opted for a gentle boat ride along the river, which offered a unique perspective of the arch from below. The guide shared some interesting stories about the local flora and fauna, as well as the legend of a lovesick Frenchman who supposedly met his end in one of the caves.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After El Arcotete, we made our way to Parque Ecoturístico Rancho Nuevo.


Discover the beauty and adventure of Parque Ecoturístico Rancho Nuevo in San Cristóbal de las Casas, an ecological haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
This park is known for its extensive cave system, and we were eager to explore its depths. Before heading underground, we stopped for lunch at Restaurant Las Nubes Café.


Experience authentic Chiapas flavors at Restaurant Las Nubes Café – your go-to spot for delicious meals and aromatic coffee in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
I had some delicious fish, and Lena enjoyed some Nachos. The restaurant had a lovely, hospitable atmosphere, and the prices were quite reasonable.

The caves at Rancho Nuevo are truly something to behold. Stretching over 10 kilometers, with depths of up to 550 meters, they are a subterranean wonderland. Thankfully, the park has installed a well-lit walkway that allows visitors to explore the first 750 meters without getting completely lost. The formations inside are incredible – stalactites and stalagmites in all shapes and sizes, sculpted by water and time. It felt like stepping into another world, a hidden kingdom beneath the earth. I couldn't help but think about the contrast between this silent, dark realm and the vibrant, bustling city we had left behind that morning.

We also took some time to explore the above-ground attractions at Rancho Nuevo. The park is surrounded by a beautiful pine forest, perfect for a leisurely stroll. We saw families picnicking, children playing, and couples enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. There were even opportunities for horseback riding, though we decided to pass on that particular activity.

Before heading back to San Cristobal, we stopped by Artesanias de los Altos de Chiapas.


Discover the rich cultural heritage of Chiapas at Artesanias de los Altos de Chiapas, a treasure trove of traditional clothing and handmade crafts.
Lena had been wanting to pick up some authentic textiles, and this place came highly recommended. The store was a riot of colors, filled with hand-woven shawls, embroidered blouses, and other handcrafted items. We spent a good hour browsing, admiring the intricate designs and chatting with the friendly staff. Lena finally settled on a beautiful shawl, while I picked up a small, hand-carved wooden figure as a souvenir.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante Al Sazón Que Me Toquen...


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante Al Sazón Que Me Toquen – where every bite tells a story.
It was a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away from the main tourist streets, but the reviews were too good to ignore. The restaurant was bustling with locals, which is always a good sign. I opted for one of their traditional Chiapaneco meat dishes, while Lena chose a vegetarian option. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. I am definitely trying the Chiles en Nogada the next time we come.

As we walked back to Hotel D' Monica,


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel D' Monica, centrally located in San Cristobal de las Casas, where vibrant culture meets homely hospitality.
I reflected on the day's adventures. We had traded the familiar comforts of the city for the raw beauty of nature, and it had been a truly rewarding experience. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of travel, rushing from one attraction to the next. But sometimes, it's important to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the simple wonders that surround us. San Cristobal de las Casas has so much more to offer than just its colonial architecture and colorful markets. It's a gateway to a world of natural beauty, waiting to be explored. I am glad Lena and I got to experience it together.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore some of the local churches, including the Iglesia de San Cristóbalito, and visit La Enseñanza, Casa de la Ciudad. I’m looking forward to diving back into the city’s cultural side after our nature-filled day. And perhaps we'll cap off the evening with a drink at Pipiripau.

It's funny, before leaving Berlin, I was so focused on seeing all the main attractions, ticking off items on a list. But these past few days in San Cristobal have taught me the value of spontaneity, of veering off the beaten path, and of simply being present in the moment. It’s a lesson I’ll carry with me long after we’ve left this magical place.

Good night from San Cristobal!