Near Palenque, there are a number of places that can be visited on short trips, thanks to their proximity, and the frequent tours which make them accessible.

Imagine swimming in a refreshing pool that is 40 meters in diameter and 23 meters deep, in front of a waterfall that cascades down more than 25 meters. It is a picture of paradise, and it can be found at Misol-Ha. This natural jewel is located in the heart of the Lacandon Jungle, where rock formations become caves and stunning waterfalls.

Misol-Ha along with many other places of extraordinary beauty, forms part of Palenque, the city founded in 1567 as a result of the evangelization campaign led by Fray Lorenzo de la Nada, of the Chole people. The Chol name of this city, Otolum, means "Place of fortified houses."

And so, like impregnable fortresses set to survive the erosion of time, the majestic Archeological Site of Palenque, The City of Kings, stands.

It was discovered in 1785 among the thickets of the forest, erected in white stone, with stunning views and balanced structures, resting in nature and in the silence of the buildings. Its stones still contain the palpable Mayan wisdom, a testimony to the ancient culture, lost in a mystery that has no place in the modern world before us.

The most important places to visit are very unique, and together comprise a pulsating display of nature that dazzles the senses with their incredible vitality and great diversity among the species that coexist in harmony. One example is Las Guacamayas, a natural reserve of Scarlet Macaws, measuring in size 1,200 hectares in the forest, where two flowing rivers join together, yet without the waters mixing, which results in a singular river with two simultaneous colors: deep blue and emerald green. 

Other noteworthy mentions are: Agua Clara, a natural spring measuring 300 meters long and about 100 meters wide, where you will admire lush vegetation, a suspension bridge, and a hill from whose summit the breathtaking panorama of the waterfalls of Agua Azul can be seen.

Agua Azul is known for the indigo color of the water and the rhythmic sounds of the water as it rushes along delighting the senses; Bonampak, a temple left as a legacy to future generations at the hand of the disappeared Mayan, whose 3 pyramids display murals that reveal the social and political organization, rites and customs from the height of their time; Following the route of Palenque's archaeological heritage, we are led to a very special place, which like many other sites in the areas hidden in dense foliage of the Lacandon Jungle: Yaxchilan, located on the banks of the river Rio Usumacinta and famous for the magnificent carved beams in its main buildings. Yaxchilan is a superb example of Mayan architectural vision and skills, whose origin dates back over 2,000 years ago. And just as superb is the unforgettable boat ride along the banks of the Rio Usumacinta that takes you to the site, allowing one to admire the bounty of the region that frames the Mayan ruins. Another archaeological site in the region is Tonina, a Tzetzal name whose meaning is "Large House of Stone".

Tonina‘s rocky lines follow in the sculptural tradition of the Maya, but with one particularly outstanding feature, that it has magnificent high reliefs in stone and stucco. Palenque holds unforgettable experiences, immersing visitors in an area that continues to be ‘out of time‘ with an enduring testament of what was once a prominent center of Mayan wisdom.

It is recommendable to consult a travel agent, to help you create a full and rich experience. We can guarantee that in and around Palenque, you will have one of the most enriching trips of your life.

Palenque is a land of legends and living spirit in the state of Chiapas ... exposed to the world with unique beauty.