About this trip
San Cristóbal de las Casas is a magical, chic, international town high up in the Sierra Madre mountains of Southern Mexico. Magical, in part, because it is surrounded by Mayan villagers whose ancestors built the great cities of Palenque and Bonampak. Today they live in largely autonomous communities with feet planted in both the traditional and modern worlds. They speak their own languages, make their own clothes, practice a syncretic religion blending Catholicism and native ideas but also use cell phones and WiFi. The legacy of colonialism, liberation theology and the Zapatista rebellion of 1994 are all part of the story of resiliency we witness. We’ll use San Cristobal as our homebase while take day trips to nearby villages. We have planned the trip around several village festivals both religious and secular. You’ll visit six different indigenous communities and learn how clothing, food and ceremony contribute to a unique and vibrant community life, one very different from ours. Please note the itinerary is subject To change based on opportunity, enthusiasm and whim.
Highlights of the Trip Include
- Visits to 6 different indigenous villages
- Visits to 3 different community festivals
- A focus on learning about the textile traditions, IMO, the most intact and active in all of Mexico. Meet with a curated selection of award winning artisans, curators, designers and women’s co-operatives.
- Time at a ceremonial center blending Catholicism and native religions described by travel writer Nick Ryder as ”one of the most intense religious centers anywhere“.
- Boat ride through a stunning natural canyon with monkeys, alligators and great birdwatching
-Many opportunities to shop artisan direct and also to shop the San Cristóbal street markets some of the best in the country. Pom Pom lovers take note.
Terms and Conditions
- DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS
Your $500 deposit is non refundable and holds your place. Final non refundable payment is due 30 days before the start of the trip. Please be committed to this trip Failure to make your final payment in 30 days before the trip may forfeit your deposit and your place. We only offer refunds if the tour is cancelled because of government imposed restrictions and or lockdowns in which case there there will be a full refund This is the rare exception to our no refund policy. We feel we have to offer this as planning travel under Corona has uncertainties.
INSURANCE -
Medical Travel insurance will be required for this trip as we will be in a remote location. We also recommend trip cancellation insurance as well for your own peace of mind. Lots of people like https://www.travelinsure.com and they cover both
Some thoughts on Corona - The last thing I want is the gringa tourist bringing death and disease to vulnerable indigenous populations. We all know how that turned out in the past. All tour goers will need proof of current Covid vaccinations. I know there may be those among you who are unable to get vaccinated because of medical vulnerabilities and I am sorry but no exceptions.
What’s included
- TransportationComfortable and private vans
- LodgingBased on double occupancy. We’ll stay in a centrally located hotel with beautiful gardens.
- Most mealsWe’ll take most meals together but you’ll have several evenings to explore the great food scene in San Cristóbal. We’ll explore a variety of cuisines from street food to four star
- Guide ServicesOur charming guides are bi lingual and have both lived in San Cristóbal for many decades .
- Entrance Fees
- Educational MaterialsWe’ll provide you with a Chiapas centered reading list and our personal recommendations for shopping, food and drink. Plus complimentary travel journal
What’s not included
- AirfareYou will be responsible for airfare. The closest airport is Tuxtla Guittierez about 75 minutes by vehicle fromsan Cristóbal. Shuttles are plentiful and can be arranged for an additional charge
- Gratuity & TipsCompletely at your discretion
- 4 DinnersWe want to give you the opportunity to explore San Cristobal on your own. It’s tiny, walkable and full of great restaurants. Or stay close to home and eat at our hotel. Your choice
- Personal ShoppingThere are lots of great things to buy from market trinkets to weaving commanding large sums. We recommend budgeting about $500 to $2,000 for shopping.
- AlchoholOn your own Amigos.
- Travel insuranceINSURANCE - Travel insurance will be required for this trip as we will be in a remote location. We recommend travelinsure.com
Available Packages
Available options
Itinerary
We’ll meet for a light meal in our cozy hotel and have a little meet and greet.