Indigenous villages: Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula
Cultural tour in Chiapas
About Indigenous villages: Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula
This tour takes you to two indigenous communities near San Cristóbal de las Casas: Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula. It's a daily experience designed to bring you closer to the living traditions of the Tsotsil Maya people of Chiapas.
In Zinacantán, known as the place of bats, you'll visit a local family. There you can watch women work with the backstrap loom — a pre-Hispanic tradition — taste Pox (a traditional drink), and see handmade tortillas made over an open fire.
You'll then head to San Juan Chamula, a village where Tsotsil is spoken. Inside its church you'll witness rituals and ceremonies performed by shamans: a unique blend of religion and ancient customs.
Departure is at 9:30 am and return is around 2:00 pm, with drop off at the central park in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The experience
- Departure from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the community of Zinacantán.
- Visit a local family and watch backstrap loom weaving, an ancient pre-Hispanic Maya technique.
- Taste Pox, a traditional drink from the region.
- Tour the kitchen to see handmade tortillas prepared over an open fire.
- Visit San Juan Chamula, a Tsotsil-speaking Maya village.
- Witness shaman rituals and ceremonies inside the church, a blend of religion and ancient traditions.
Itinerary
- Departure from San Cristóbal — We depart from San Cristóbal de las Casas heading to the community of Zinacantán.
- Visit to Zinacantán — Meet a local family, watch backstrap loom weaving, taste Pox, and see handmade tortillas made over an open fire.
- Visit to San Juan Chamula — Explore this Tsotsil-speaking Maya village and witness shaman rituals and ceremonies inside the church.
- Return to San Cristóbal — Return at approximately 2:00 pm, with drop off at the central park in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Approximate times; they may vary by day.
What's included?
Included
- Entrance fees
- Shared transportation
- Basic travel insurance
- Guide in Spanish and English
Not included
- Drinks
- Food
- Tips for guides and driver
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation
Gallery
Location
Before you go
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes Light clothing and a layer for the mountain climate Sunscreen Cash for drinks, food, and tips
Important
A minimum of 2 people is required to run the tour. Book before 8:00 PM the day before the tour. Food and accommodation are not included. Availability is subject to change. Maximum group size of 20 people. Please follow photography guidelines inside the church at San Juan Chamula.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my tickets?
We send your tickets by email and WhatsApp as soon as you pay.
Can I change the date or cancel?
Yes. Cancel free of charge up to 48 hours before your visit, or change the date and party size from My bookings, subject to availability.
What should I know for the day of my visit?
Check the “Before you go” section of this page for your experience's details.
