Cultural Adventures in San Cristobal de las Casas with Family

A Day Woven with Amber and Ancient Threads

Today was a day where San Cristobal de las Casas truly revealed its artistic heart. It was a sensory feast, a journey through time, and a deep dive into the soul of Chiapas. From the shimmering depths of amber to the intricate stories woven into Mayan textiles, every moment felt like a vibrant thread adding to the rich tapestry of this cultural haven. The day ended with a culinary exploration, tasting traditional Chiapanecan dishes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Maya Pakal Restaurant. Amara was especially excited, having heard whispers of their famous hot chocolate. It’s a cozy little spot, and the reviews were right – the food was solid and very affordable. Maximilian and I enjoyed the traditional Chiapan breakfast, while Amara devoured her hot chocolate and some pastries. Apparently, Maya Pakal is gaining popularity, as some reviewers mentioned it being their new favorite spot. I must say, it's quickly becoming one of ours too with its cozy atmosphere and friendly service.


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

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the Museo del Ámbar. Housed in the former convent of La Merced, the building itself has a fascinating history, having served as a convent, a military barracks, and even a prison. Now, it's a treasure trove of Chiapas amber, the only museum of its kind in Mexico.


Explore the captivating world of amber at Museo del Ámbar, a must-visit destination in San Cristóbal de las Casas for art and nature lovers.

The museum showcases over 300 pieces of amber, each with its own unique story. Amara was captivated by the pieces with inclusions – ancient insects and plants trapped within the golden resin. I was fascinated by the displays explaining the origin and extraction of amber, learning that Chiapas amber is considered one of the most beautiful in the world due to its texture, transparency, and variety of colors. Maximilian, ever the architect, was impressed by the building's architecture, particularly the Roman arch adorned with floral motifs.

To walk through the Museo del Ámbar is to step back in time, each piece whispering tales of ancient forests and the patient artistry of nature.

Leaving the Museo del Ámbar, we headed to the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya. Located inside the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo, this museum is a celebration of Mayan textiles from Mexico and Central America. The sheer variety of handwoven pieces was astounding.


Explore the colorful world of Mayan textiles at the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, a cultural gem in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

I've always been drawn to textiles; the way threads intertwine to create patterns and tell stories. This museum was a dream. Amara loved opening the drawers to discover hidden textiles. Each piece told a story of the Mayan people, their traditions, and their artistic expression. Maximilian appreciated the cultural significance of the textiles, noting how they reflect the history and identity of the Mayan communities. We learned that the use of traditional apparel is a symbol of conviction and a way for Mayans to identify themselves.

After immersing ourselves in the world of textiles, it was time for lunch. We chose Restaurante Sabor a mi, drawn in by the promise of traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is located in the heart of San Cristobal. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. I enjoyed a hearty bowl of sopa de tortilla, while Maximilian savored the enchiladas. Amara, of course, opted for a quesadilla, which she declared was the best she'd ever had.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante Sabor a mi in San Cristóbal de las Casas - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full, we joined a free walking tour of San Cristobal de las Casas. These tours are a fantastic way to get acquainted with a new city, and San Cristobal is no exception. Our guide, Daniel, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about his city. He led us through the cobblestone streets, sharing stories and pointing out hidden gems.


Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of San Cristobal de Las Casas with an insightful Free Walking Tour led by local guides.

We visited the Templo de Santo Domingo, admiring its intricate baroque details. We strolled through Plaza 31 de Marzo, soaking in the atmosphere of the city's heart. Daniel also took us to some lesser-known spots, sharing insights into the local culture and traditions. Amara was particularly fascinated by the story of Na Bolom, a cultural center dedicated to preserving the Lacandon Maya culture.

One of the highlights of the tour was a visit to the Mercado de Artesanías de Santo Domingo. This bustling market is a riot of colors and textures, filled with handmade crafts and textiles. Amara was immediately drawn to the knitted jumpers, and after some haggling, she proudly purchased one with a vibrant design. I found myself admiring the intricate embroidery and weaving, a testament to the skill and artistry of the local indigenous communities.

Before dinner we did some shopping at Boutique El Camino de los Altos. I was interested to see the textiles that resulted from the collaboration between French designers and local artisans. The shop is located on the second floor of a plaza. The pieces were beautiful with a wide range of high-quality handmade textiles. I ended up buying a scarf with unique patterns that will remind me of this trip.


Explore Boutique El Camino de los Altos for unique artisanal crafts in San Cristóbal de las Casas, reflecting the rich culture of Chiapas.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurante Las Pichanchas for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Chiapanecan cuisine and its lively atmosphere. The restaurant’s slogan is “Siéntase Chiapaneco,” or “Feel Chiapanecan”. As we settled into our seats, we were immediately enveloped in the warmth and energy of the place.


Experience authentic Chiapas cuisine at Restaurante Las Pichanchas in San Cristóbal de las Casas – a feast for your senses.

The food was incredible, a true celebration of Chiapas flavors. We started with a selection of appetizers, including empanadas and tostadas. For our main courses, I opted for the mole chiapaneco, while Maximilian chose the cochito al horno, a traditional roasted pork dish. Amara, surprisingly, decided to try the sopa de pan, a hearty bread soup that she thoroughly enjoyed. Las Pichanchas also sometimes has a folkloric dance show. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was festive.

As we walked back to Hotel Mansion del Valle, the cool December air nipped at our cheeks. The city was quiet, the day's energy slowly dissipating. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we'd shared, the memories we'd made. San Cristobal de las Casas had truly captured our hearts.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Mansion del Valle, located in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas, perfect for travelers and tourists alike.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the natural beauty surrounding San Cristobal, with a visit to the Reserva Ecológica y Jardín de Orquídeas Moxviquil and Parque Ecoturístico Rancho Nuevo. And perhaps, after a day of hiking and exploring, we'll treat ourselves to a mezcal at Mezcalito420. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure in this magical corner of Mexico.

It is nice to travel here in December as the Christmas spirit is in the air. The Posadas are about to begin on December 16, which recreates Mary and Joseph's pilgrimage. I heard that some hotels organize special activities and dinners for their guests.