Natural beauty in the Palenque region

Palenque Archaeological Zone - Located just 6 km (4 mi) from the town of Palenque, it is one of the main Mayan archaeological sites and a delightful destination for ecotourism enthusiasts. Here, paths cutting through the jungle lead to various temples and the gorgeous Montiepa waterfalls, where over time, curious figures have taken shape in the rock formations. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Parque Nacional Cascadas de Agua Azul (Agua Azul Waterfalls) - Located 50 km (31 mi) south of the town of Palenque, off Highway 199 in the direction of Ocosingo. Because of its abundant vegetation and its impressive waterfalls, which are formed from the water flow of the Tulija River, Agua Azul was declared a national park in 1980. Here you can appreciate an abundance of flora and fauna in a natural habitat full of mahogany, cedar and sapodilla trees, as well as birds, insects and small mammals. You can also marvel at the beautiful blue waters, which have that color as a result of erosion; water flowing past the rocks causes small particles of lime containing magnesium salts and other chlorides to break off and dissolve.

Agua Clara - To get to Agua Clara you need to head 55 km (34 mi) west of the town of Palenque along Highway 199 and then take the turnoff at km 27. This tourist zone covers 90 hectares (222 acres) and lies between the Tulija and Shumulja rivers. This is an excellent spot to go on a photo safari while hiking along beautiful trails among the lush jungle vegetation. You will also have the opportunity to observe toucans, doves, parakeets and howler monkeys, go swimming or kayaking. At this place you can also go horseback riding amongst the exotic vegetation along the trails through the jungle. Experienced guides will lead you down the best paths, allowing to you fully enjoy the experience.

Cascada Misol-Ha (Misol-Ha Waterfalls) - This is an ideal place for a hiking excursion, as the area offers trails that lead to the impressive waterfalls (approx. 30 m high). During the hike, you will see such flora as mahogany, sapodilla and jiggerwood trees. At Cascada Misol-Ha there are also local tour guides offering horseback outings down the long paths, giving you the opportunity to observe the jungle landscape and take in the aromas of the bountiful vegetation.


Source: Mexican Tourism Board (www.visitmexico.com)