Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

Day 6: Caves, Arches, and Chiapas Charm

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural wonders surrounding San Cristobal de las Casas. After several days exploring the city's cultural heart, Aisha, Zayn, and I were excited to venture into the highlands and experience the region's stunning landscapes. We knew that Chiapas was famous for its nature, but today´s adventure exceeded all our expectations.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Miura. This place came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The reviews I had read online were spot on. The atmosphere was cozy, the service was friendly, and the food was delicious. Fuelled up, we set off towards 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.
The drive to Rancho Nuevo was scenic, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the surrounding pine forests. Zayn was particularly excited, craning his neck to take in every detail of the landscape. As we arrived at the park, the fresh mountain air was invigorating. The park was bustling with families and tourists alike, all eager to explore the famous caves. We decided to start our adventure with a horseback ride through the forest. Zayn was thrilled to be on horseback, and Aisha, despite her initial hesitation, soon relaxed and enjoyed the ride. I felt a sense of peace as we trotted along the trails, surrounded by towering pines and the sounds of nature. It reminded me a little bit of the Maldives, where even away from the ocean, nature is always so present.

After our ride, we ventured into the Grutas de Rancho Nuevo. The caves were impressive, with stunning stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. Zayn was fascinated by the rock formations, and we spent a good hour exploring the illuminated pathways, learning about the cave's geology. I am not usually a fan of caves, as I am a bit claustrophobic, but these caves were large enough that I didn´t feel any discomfort.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our itinerary was El Arcotete. This natural arch is located just a short drive from Rancho Nuevo, and the change of scenery was remarkable.
Explore the ecological wonders of El Arcotete, a breathtaking park in Chiapas, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
El Arcotete is a park built around a natural stone arch formed by the Fogótico River. The park offered a variety of activities, including hiking, zip-lining, and boat tours. We opted for a leisurely hike along the river, taking in the stunning views of the arch and the surrounding forest. Zayn enjoyed climbing on the rocks and exploring the small caves along the riverbank. It was incredible to witness nature's artistry, the arch standing tall as a testament to the power of time and the elements.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante TULUC.
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante TULUC in San Cristóbal de las Casas – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
This restaurant is known for its authentic regional cuisine, and we were eager to try some local specialties. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were welcoming. We ordered a selection of dishes, including *butifarra*, local cheese, and *Jacuane* tamales. The food was delicious, and we savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the flavors of Chiapas.

After lunch, we decided to take a boat tour through the arch. The boat ride was relaxing, and we enjoyed seeing the arch from a different perspective. Zayn was particularly excited, pointing out the various rock formations and the lush vegetation along the riverbanks. As we floated under the arch, I felt a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of nature.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to San Cristobal de las Casas. Before heading back to Hotel Helvérica,
Experience the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas at Hotel Helvérica, offering cozy accommodations, delightful dining, and convenient access to local attractions.
we made a pit stop at La Popu Mezcalería.
Discover the flavors of Mexico at La Popu Mezcalería, a vibrant grill and bar in the heart of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
I had read about this place and wanted to sample some authentic mezcal. The mezcaleria had a lively atmosphere, and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly. I tried a few different types of mezcal, each with its unique flavor and aroma. Aisha and I enjoyed the relaxed ambiance, while Zayn enjoyed a soda.

For dinner, we had made reservations at Restaurante Las Pichanchas (San Cristóbal).
Experience authentic Chiapas cuisine at Restaurante Las Pichanchas in San Cristóbal de las Casas – a feast for your senses.
This restaurant is a San Cristobal institution, known for its traditional Chiapaneco food and its vibrant cultural performances. As we arrived, we were greeted by the sounds of a live marimba band. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, with colorful murals and traditional crafts. We were seated at a table with a great view of the stage, and soon the performances began. Dancers in traditional costumes took to the stage, performing folk dances from different regions of Chiapas. The energy was infectious, and we found ourselves clapping along to the music. The food was also excellent, with a wide variety of regional specialties to choose from. We tried the *pozole*, *laing*, and *asado*, each dish bursting with flavor and authenticity.

As we walked back to our hotel, filled with delicious food and wonderful memories, I reflected on the day's adventures. Today was a perfect blend of nature, culture, and gastronomy, and it was a day that we would cherish for years to come. San Cristobal de las Casas continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. I am so glad that we decided to come here with the family. Experiencing this with Aisha and Zayn makes it all the more special.

Tomorrow, we plan to take a free walking tour of San Cristobal de las Casas, exploring the Andador Turistico Miguel Hidalgo and immersing ourselves even further in the city's rich history and culture. I am also hoping to find some time to do some shopping at the Panamera Concept Store.

Good night from San Cristobal de las Casas!