A Quick Guide to Las Nubes Waterfall, Chiapas, Mexico
Las Nubes waterfalls, located deep within the Lacandon Jungle in a remote, untouched section of southern Mexico, were some of our favorite waterfalls in Chiapas.
The powerful Las Nubes waterfalls do not have the sheer height or the accessibility of El Chiflón; however, what puts Las Nubes amongst Mexico’s best falls is the sprawling size of the turquoise Rio Santo Domingo, which flows through this region and the absolutely breathtaking surrounding scenery.
Our Journey to Las Nubes Waterfalls:
We drove here from San Cristobal de las Casas, where fwe had been battling intense food poisoning for six days prior. Even in our weakened state, it was hard not to be in awe of the beautiful scenery as we drove toward the Guatemalan border.
Due to the remote location, you are unlikely to see many other tourists while visiting Las Nubes. When we visited in January, there were only two other guests in the eco-tourism center.
Entry to Las Nubes costs $30 pesos per person. The tourism center is right next to the falls, so you don’t have to hike to experience the falls; however, there are some hikes in the area with views of the waterway and surrounding areas.
You can swim in the beautiful blue pools above the falls. White water rafting is also another popular activity here. You can organize rafting at the tourism center for $1,500 pesos per boat, which can carry up to five people.
Some simple cabanas are available for rent at the tourism center starting from $1,000 pesos.
Vehicle and tent camping is available for $70 pesos per person. A restaurant and small store are also located at the eco-tourism center.
How to Get to Las Nubes
With Your Own Vehicle
Las Nubes is a five-hour drive from Tuxtla Gutiérrez and six from San Cristobal de las Casas. The roads are in okay condition but very windy and full of topes, making for slow travel. You will want to break up this journey, and we recommend camping or staying in accommodation at the beautiful Lagos de Montebello, which is halfway between the cities and Las Nubes. It will be a worthwhile trip in its own right.
Tour Group
If you do not have your own set of wheels, joining a tour group is the next best option. There are a number of companies organizing tours departing San Cristobal and Tuxtla.
Public Transportation
Reaching the remote Las Nubes by public transport is difficult and potentially costly. We recommend renting a vehicle to save money and increase flexibility in exploring both Las Nubes and the Lagos de Montebello.
Accommodation Near Las Nubes
Ecolodge Las Nubes Chiapas
Access to Las Nubes waterfalls is run by the Ecolodge Las Nubes Chiapas. Consider extending your stay in this tranquil and beautiful setting by spending a night in one of their small cabanas. Each cabana features two double beds and a private bathroom. There is an on-site restaurant available as well.
If you are traveling with your own vehicle, you can camp at the Las Nubes tourism center for only seventy pesos per person, including access to shower facilities.
Cabañas Cinco Lagos
Another great option for staying near the Las Nubes Waterfall is Cabañas Cinco Lagos. These rustic cabins are approximately 40 kilometers from Las Nubes in the Parque Nacional Laguna de Montebello. This basic accommodation has everything you need for a comfortable stay and allows you to break up the five-hour journey from Las Nubes to Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristobal de las Casas. Each cabin features a balcony with beautiful views over the lake.
The Parque Nacional Laguna de Montebello is also a great Chiapas attraction in its own right, so it is worth spending a day or two here if time permits.
Hopefully, we’ve been able to answer some of your questions about the stunning Las Nubes Waterfalls, but if you have a question or a comment, leave it in the comments below!