Chiapas

Archaeological sites of Chiapas

Chiapas contains some of the most dramatic archaeological sites in Mexico. Palenque rises from the edge of the rainforest. Bonampak preserves extraordinary Maya murals. Yaxchilán sits beside the Usumacinta River, while Toniná offers a very different view of Maya architecture and political power.

Explore the sites

Palenque

Famous for the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Palace and its rainforest setting.

Bonampak

Remarkable surviving Maya murals showing ceremony, warfare and court life.

Yaxchilán

An ancient Maya city overlooking the Usumacinta River.

Toniná

A powerful Maya centre near Ocosingo, with monumental hillside architecture.

Tenam Puente

A highland site overlooking the Comitán valley.

Chinkultic

A dramatically situated Maya site in the Chiapas highlands.

Planning your route

Do not judge Chiapas driving time by distance alone. Mountains, traffic, weather and road conditions can make short distances take longer than expected. Start early and check current official access information before setting out.

Before you travel

Hours, admission charges and access rules can change. Check official INAH information before setting out.

Continue exploring

Locate sites on the Mexico map · Major sites still on our list

For practical road-travel information, visit OnTheRoadIn.com. Find more travel stories at DriveMexicoMagazine.com.