Excursion to the Maya villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán

Fancy immersing yourself in Maya culture? Join us on this excursion to two fascinating Maya villages, where life is still lived according to age-old traditions and customs passed down through countless generations.

This excursion offers an intriguing insight into Maya culture with visits to the villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. Located a short drive from San Cristóbal, you’ll have a knowledgeable guide with you all day, providing captivating information about the villages and their inhabitants, and assisting you in visiting the towns while respecting their traditions and values – for example, always asking for permission before taking photos of the locals.

San Juan Chamula is home to about 50,000 indigenous Mayas, primarily Tzotzil and Tzeltal. The Mayas are deeply committed to preserving their traditions and heritage, evident in the fact that they have their own language, their own police force, and their own rules. You’ll visit the distinctive church on the town’s central square, which is definitely worth a visit. The church exemplifies the blend of the indigenous Maya beliefs and Catholicism. Mayas pray to the Maya deity or saint relevant to the illness or wish prompting their visit. There are no benches in the church, so one kneels to pray on the floor amid many lit candles. The air is thick with incense, and along the walls are wooden figures of their saints and John the Baptist, the town’s patron saint.

Both San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán are renowned for their weaving techniques, with each village having its own unique costumes featuring carefully crafted patterns and colours.

You’ll have the opportunity to purchase colourful clothing and blankets as souvenirs at reasonable prices here, supporting the local communities at the same time.

You’ll return to San Cristóbal by the afternoon, and have the rest of the day at your leisure.

Duration: Approx. 4 hours

The tour includes: Transport, guide, and entrance fees