A Journey Through Time: Best Palenque Mexico Attractions
Are you interested in exploring some attractions in and around Palenque, Mexico?
Curious about how to reach these attractions?
Wondering about the activities you can enjoy at these places?
In this complete guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about attractions in Palenque, Mexico. Let’s dive into exploring the Palenque together!
Contents:
Palenque Archeological Zone 🔺
Agua Azul Waterfalls 💦
Misol Há Waterfall 💧
Aluxes Eco-Park 🌴
Lacandona Jungle 🌱
Lak Puj Kul Museum 🖼️
Catazajá Lagoon 🏊
Plaza del Artesano 🎨
We will then connect with the great gods to get to know the best attractions near the wonderful and mystical city of Palenque. Enjoy!
Palenque, Chiapas Archeological Zone
Discovered back in 1740, the Archaeological Zone of Palenque in Chiapas was once a bustling Mayan City during the Classic period. Today, the ruins and the surrounding National Park are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s truly a magnificent place!
These ancient ruins make you feel the collision of time and the present. You can sense the power and history of wars from centuries past. This place is crucial in Mesoamerican history and has significant structures like:
- The Temple of the Inscriptions is renowned for its hieroglyphic inscriptions.
- The Palace and the Aqueduct, are fascinating water systems and ceremonial sites.
- The Temple of the Red Queen is full of mystery and treasures.
- The Temple of the Count is an ancient pyramid with a rich history and discoveries.
- The Ball Game is an iconic Mesoamerican sport with historical significance.
- These structures show incredible architecture and interesting stories from ancient times.
What to do?
The old place has a museum that shows valuable old artifacts found by diggers in the 1940s. You can go check it out from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday.
How to get there?
The Palenque archaeological zone is approximately 4.97097 miles away from the city. From the Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport, you can take a taxi to Palenque, although direct transportation from the airport might be expensive. Consider local collective transportation or non-airport taxis for more affordable options.
Agua Azul Waterfalls
Just a two-hour drive from Palenque, Chiapas, lies the stunning Agua Azul Waterfalls.
These waterfalls have been designated a biosphere reserve since 1980 due to their natural beauty and habitat for wildlife like howler monkeys, jaguars, and toucans. The name Agua Azul means ‘blue water,’ reflecting the falls’ signature turquoise hue.
What to do?
At Agua Azul, visitors can swim, relax, or partake in adventurous activities like rafting and snorkeling. The falls are open to the public from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Sunday.
How to get there?
Access Agua Azul by road from Palenque, about a 2-hour and 10-minute drive. Alternatively, you can reach Agua Azul from Tuxtla Gutierrez via San Cristobal de las Casas, but this route takes around 5 to 6 hours. There’s also a direct bus from Palenque to Agua Azul.
Misol Há Waterfall
Close to Agua Azul, the Misol Há waterfall awaits your visit. This 45-meter high waterfall offers a refreshing experience, and did you know, it was featured in the Arnold Schwarzenegger film ‘Predator’?
You can explore behind the falls for incredible views and take a dip in the waterfall’s grotto. The nearby tropical jungle makes it even more attractive.
What to do?
Go on a hike to a spot where you’ll see an amazing view. Check out the grotto and take some stunning pictures of the beautiful jungle.
How to get there?
Located about 11.8061 miles from Palenque along federal Highway 199 to Ocosingo, followed by a short detour. For more information on reaching Misol Há, check: https://www.misol-ha.com/en/.
Aluxes Eco-Park
The Aluxes eco-park is a sanctuary for wildlife conservation in Palenque, Mexico. Inspired by Maya culture, this park serves as both a conservation center and a tourist attraction. It’s designed for family recreation and environmental education.
What to do?
You can enjoy various activities here, from boat rides and night tours to interacting with various animal species. The park’s mission is to raise awareness about endangered species and environmental conservation.
How to get there?
Located about 2.6 kilometers from the Palenque Archeological Zone, reachable by car or with a tour operator.
Lacandona Jungle
The Lacandona Jungle covers the mountains in the east of Chiapas, including places like Bonampak and Yaxchilán. This jungle houses ecotourism centers like ‘Las Guacamayas’ and ‘Las Nubes,’ offering rustic cabin stays amid the jungle’s wildlife.
What to do?
Adventure seekers can enjoy activities like rafting, kayaking, and guided walking tours while reveling in the breathtaking landscapes.
How to get there?
Just two and a half hours from Palenque, the journey to the jungle is worth it. Reachable via Tuxtla Gutierrez airport, the Lacandona Jungle offers adventure and nature. You might want to stay in close towns such as San Cristobal de las Casas, Comitan, or Chiapa de Corzo, and explore this lush paradise from there.
Lak Puj Kul Museum
To learn about Palenque’s history and culture, go check out the Lak Puj Kul Museum. Lak Puj Kul means “our clothing” in Maya, and this museum displays colorful clothes with a unique Mexican style.
What to do?
Discover how fabrics are made, colored, and woven at the museum. You’ll see various clothing like huipils, “jorongos,” skirts, and tunics, and you might even have a shot at making your local-style shirt or skirt. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 1 pm, and 5 pm to 9 pm.
How to get there?
Situated in Palenque’s central park at the Central Avenue corner with the central street, this museum is easily accessible. You can reach it from Tuxtla Gutierrez Airport by taxi or collective transport.
Catazajá Lagoon
The Catazajá Lagoon, a peaceful spot with crystal-clear waters, and a great place for fishing, is just a short 30-minute drive from Palenque. It’s a beautiful place where you can unwind and enjoy amazing views of the lagoon and its surroundings.
What to do?
Take a boat trip to witness local and migratory bird species or spot manatees as the lagoon is their habitat. If you enjoy birdwatching, Catazajá is home to a variety of bird species.
Experience a traditional boat tour to explore the jungle’s plants and animals. Afterward, try some of the delicious local gastronomy, for instance, fish and shellfish dishes available in the surrounding restaurants.
How to get there?
From Palenque, head north on Federal Highway 199 for about 17.3984 miles until you reach the Catazajá town. The easiest way to access it is by car.
Plaza del Artesano
Before you leave Palenque, don’t miss out on Plaza del Artesano — it’s a place you’ve got to visit. This lively spot has more than 98 artisan shops where you can find local crafts like ceramics and textiles on display.
What to do?
Discover and buy special handmade souvenirs that represent the Maya culture. Watch how textiles are made and see various artworks that are exclusive to Palenque, Mexico.
How to get there?
Located on the highway to the Archaeological Zone, Plaza del Artesano is a short distance from Palenque. It sits in front of the “La Madre Chol” sculpture, making it easy to find.
Palenque, Mexico,
is a fantastic place for special adventures. Whether you’re checking out old ruins, enjoying beautiful waterfalls, or diving into the lively culture, this enchanting town gives you a natural paradise with stunning views. Why wait? Come and explore it now!
