About
Chiapas is the southernmost state of Mexico, lying in North America along the border with Guatemala. It is a destination for travellers drawn to indigenous Maya culture, to ancient ruins set among forest, and to landscapes of lush rainforest.
What a visit offers
- Maya culture: Chiapas is home to a strong indigenous Maya presence, and visitors can encounter that heritage in the life of its communities and towns.
- Ancient ruins: The state holds archaeological sites from the Maya past, which make a natural focus for a day of exploring.
- Rainforest: Its lush forests give the region a green, humid character that differs sharply from much of the rest of Mexico.
- Coffee: Chiapas is an important centre of coffee production, so the crop is part of the landscape and the local economy.
Planning your trip
Because Chiapas is large and varied, it suits a trip built around one or two areas rather than a rushed tour of the whole state. Travellers interested in ruins, forest and Maya communities can combine these themes in a single visit, moving between archaeological sites, rainforest and the towns that surround them.
Whether Chiapas suits you depends on what you want from a journey. If you value cultural depth, historic sites and a green, forested setting, it is well worth considering. Check current conditions and travel arrangements before you set out, as these can change.