Cultural Adventures in San Cristobal de las Casas with Family

A Day of Caves, Castles, and Chiapas Charm

Today was a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, a true reflection of what makes San Cristobal de las Casas so special. We ventured out, ready to immerse ourselves in the local landscapes and stories, and the day certainly delivered. It's amazing how much history and nature can intertwine to create such unique experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cardamomo Cocina Hindu, a delightful surprise in the heart of Chiapas. The aroma of spices filled the air as we stepped inside, a comforting reminder of home, even thousands of miles away. I opted for a masala chai, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty plate of samosas. Amara, ever adventurous, tried a mango lassi and declared it her new favorite drink. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration. The cozy and quiet atmosphere of Cardamomo made it a great place for families.


Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Cardamomo Cocina Hindu in San Cristóbal de las Casas – a culinary journey awaits!

Fueled and ready, we set off to our first destination: El Arcotete. The drive itself was scenic, winding through the outskirts of San Cristobal and offering glimpses of the surrounding countryside. As we approached El Arcotete, the landscape transformed, becoming lusher and greener. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city's bustle.


Explore the ecological wonders of El Arcotete, a breathtaking park in Chiapas, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

El Arcotete is truly a natural wonder. This ecotourism park, just a short drive from San Cristobal, is built around the Fogótico River and features a massive natural stone arch, the result of centuries of erosion. The archway serves as the entrance to a series of caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, creating an otherworldly landscape. We decided to explore the caves first, hiring a local guide to navigate the dimly lit passages. Amara was wide-eyed with wonder, pointing out the various rock formations and asking endless questions about how they were formed. Maximilian, ever the architect, was fascinated by the geological processes at play.

Sometimes, the most captivating stories are etched in stone and whispered by the wind.

Emerging from the caves, we decided to take a boat ride along the Fogótico River. Gliding beneath the towering arch was an awe-inspiring experience, the scale of the natural formation truly sinking in. The reflections of the surrounding greenery in the water created a mesmerizing scene, and for a few moments, we simply drifted in silence, soaking it all in. I made sure to capture some photos, hoping to preserve the magic of the moment.

After our morning of cave exploration and river adventures, we were ready for lunch. We drove back towards town and stopped at Te Quiero Verde, a vegan restaurant that had caught my eye. As someone who is trying to incorporate more sustainable choices into our lifestyle, I was eager to try their plant-based offerings. The restaurant had a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, and the menu was full of creative and flavorful dishes. I opted for the vegan tacos al pastor, while Maximilian chose a hearty veggie burger. Amara, surprisingly, went for the nachos with guacamole. Everything was delicious, fresh, and satisfying. It's always a joy to find places that cater to different dietary preferences without compromising on taste.


Discover delicious vegan cuisine at Te Quiero Verde in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where flavor meets sustainability in every bite.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we embarked on our next adventure: Castillo Zavaleta. This mysterious castle, located in the San Diego neighborhood, has a fascinating and somewhat eerie history. Built in the 1970s by Jorge Juan Zavaleta Ramos, the castle is shrouded in local legends and rumors. Some say that Zavaleta was inspired by European castles and designed every detail himself, without the help of architects. Others whisper tales of Zavaleta being a vampire, with the castle serving as his gothic lair.


Explore Castillo Zavaleta, a historical castle in San Cristóbal de las Casas, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Chiapas' rich cultural heritage.

Unfortunately, gaining access to Castillo Zavaleta proved to be a challenge. The castle is currently abandoned and, according to locals, closely watched by neighbors who quickly alert the police if anyone attempts to enter. We drove around the perimeter, admiring the castle's unique architecture from afar. Its imposing structure and somewhat dilapidated state only added to its mystique. I couldn't help but imagine the stories hidden within its walls, the echoes of a bygone era.

Despite not being able to explore the castle's interior, the experience was still worthwhile. It sparked our curiosity and led to a lively discussion about the history and legends of San Cristobal. We learned that the castle had even been rumored to be for sale. It's amazing how a single building can capture the imagination and fuel so many stories.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a delicious Thai dinner at Bangcook Tailandés. The restaurant is known for its authentic Thai cuisine and upscale setting. The flavors were vibrant and complex, a delightful explosion of sweet, spicy, salty, and sour. I savored a green curry with seafood, while Maximilian opted for the classic pad thai. Amara, surprisingly adventurous, tried the spring rolls and loved them. The attentive staff and clean atmosphere made it a truly enjoyable dining experience.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Bangcook Tailandés in San Cristóbal de las Casas—where every bite transports you to Thailand.

To cap off our day, we ventured to CALACA CASA DE MIXOLOGIA, a bar known for its unique cocktails and cozy atmosphere. The bar was lively and welcoming, with a vibrant energy that drew us in. We ordered a round of margaritas, expertly crafted by the skilled bartenders. The drinks were delicious and refreshing, the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. Amara enjoyed a non-alcoholic fruit punch and soaked in the lively atmosphere. It was a fantastic way to end our day, surrounded by good company and great drinks.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Chiapas at Calaca Casa de Mixologia, where grill meets innovative mixology in a lively atmosphere.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel. The opportunity to explore new places, discover hidden gems, and immerse ourselves in different cultures is truly enriching. San Cristobal de las Casas continues to surprise and delight us, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Speaking of tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Museo Jtatik Samuel and the Iglesia de San Cristóbalito. I'm particularly excited about the church, as I've heard it offers stunning views of the city. We'll also be stopping by Na Casa Galería, a shop that I'm hoping will have some unique souvenirs to bring back home. It sounds like another day full of culture and exploration, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

As I reflect on our adventures today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such incredible places with my family. Seeing Amara's eyes light up with wonder as she explores new caves or tries new foods is priceless. These are the moments that make travel so special, the memories that we'll cherish for a lifetime. And as we continue our journey through San Cristobal de las Casas, I'm excited to see what other treasures we'll uncover.

Tonight, as I sit here writing, I'm reminded of a quote by the great travel writer, Pico Iyer:

We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next, to find ourselves.

It's a sentiment that resonates deeply with me, as I believe that travel has the power to transform us, to broaden our perspectives, and to help us discover who we truly are. And as we continue our adventures in San Cristobal de las Casas, I'm excited to see what we'll find, both in the world around us and within ourselves.

Perhaps we will even catch some live music. There are events happening all over San Cristobal de las Casas this December.