Family Adventure in San Cristobal de las Casas

Finding Serenity in San Cristobal's Outdoors

Today was all about escaping the vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, energy of San Cristobal de las Casas and immersing ourselves in the tranquility of nature. With Zayn in tow, and Aisha ever the enthusiastic photographer, we set out to explore the natural parks surrounding this charming city. It was a day filled with fresh air, stunning scenery, and a much-needed dose of serenity for the whole family.

Our day began, as it often does, with the promise of good food. We ventured to La Casa De Las Lolas for breakfast. The cozy cafe was a delightful start to the day. Aisha enjoyed a traditional Mexican breakfast, while Zayn opted for pancakes, a familiar favorite that always brings a smile to his face. I had some eggs. Fuelled up, we were ready for our first adventure: Parque Natural El Encuentro.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Parque Natural El Encuentro, a serene park in San Cristóbal de las Casas, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Located just a short drive from the city center, Parque Natural El Encuentro felt like stepping into another world. The reserve is dedicated to preserving the local ecosystem, and you can feel the dedication as soon as you enter. We followed a nature trail, the air filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. Zayn, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by every insect and plant we encountered. Aisha, of course, captured it all with her camera, determined to document every moment of our family adventure. The park is more than just a pretty place; it’s involved in projects that bring water to communities that don’t have it and promote sustainable living. It was inspiring to see such dedication to the environment and the local people.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of nature.

After a morning of hiking and exploration, our stomachs started to rumble again. We decided to head back towards town for lunch at TierrAdentro Restaurante. This restaurant offered a delightful mix of local and international cuisine, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. Aisha and I shared a pizza, while Zayn devoured a plate of pasta. It was the perfect midday refuel before our next adventure.

With renewed energy, we set off to Arches Park, also known as El Arcotete. This unique park features a stunning natural archway carved by the Fogotico River over thousands of years.


Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture at Arches Park, the perfect urban escape in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
As we approached the park, the landscape transformed into a lush, green paradise. The kids were excited to explore the caves and rock formations that surrounded the arch. We spent hours wandering through the park, marveling at the natural beauty that unfolded around every corner. Zayn was particularly thrilled by the opportunity to climb on the rocks and explore the small caves, his imagination running wild with every new discovery.

El Arcotete is more than just a pretty rock formation; it’s a place of adventure. You can go rock climbing, cycling, or even take a boat tour. For the truly adventurous, there are zip lines that soar through the forest canopy. We opted for a more leisurely boat ride along the Fogotico River, which gave us a unique perspective of the arch and the surrounding landscape. The cool water and gentle breeze were a welcome respite from the afternoon sun.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to indulge in some authentic Mexican cuisine for dinner. Achiote Cochinita Pibil was our choice, a restaurant known for its traditional slow-roasted pork.


Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Achiote Cochinita Pibil, home to delectable cochinita pibil tacos and more in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The aroma alone was enough to make our mouths water. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tacos, tortitas, and, of course, the signature cochinita pibil. The flavors were rich and complex, a true celebration of Mexican culinary heritage. Even Zayn, who can be a picky eater, couldn't resist the tender, flavorful pork.

To cap off our day, Aisha and I decided to sneak away for a quick drink at Mezcalito420.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Mezcalito420, a lively live music bar in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering delicious tapas and unforgettable performances.
This bar is known for its extensive selection of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit made from agave. I sampled a smoky mezcal, while Aisha enjoyed a refreshing margarita. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the cultural heart of San Cristobal with a visit to the Museo de los Altos de Chiapas Ex Convento de Santo Domingo and the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya. Zayn is particularly excited about the textile center, as he has a budding interest in arts and crafts. Aisha is eager to learn more about the history of the region, and I am always up for exploring new museums and cultural landmarks. We might even pop into Artesanias de los Altos de Chiapas to pick up a souvenir or two.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. San Cristobal de las Casas has exceeded all of our expectations, and I am excited to see what adventures tomorrow will bring. The blend of culture and nature is something special.

Before drifting off to sleep, I realized I still hadn’t managed to find a travel adapter. It’s a small thing, but it’s definitely on my list for tomorrow. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll find a decent guidebook to help us navigate the city’s hidden gems. For now, though, I’m content with the memories we’ve made today, and the promise of more to come.

Goodnight from San Cristobal!