Palenque

Palenque is considered one of the most elegant and sophisticated Mayan cities ever discovered, set deep within the emerald rainforests of Chiapas. This UNESCO World Heritage site is most famous for the Temple of the Inscriptions, where the magnificent tomb of King Pakal the Great was found in 1952. The discovery of his jade-covered remains remains one of the most significant moments in archaeological history. The site’s intricate carvings and hieroglyphics tell a detailed story of its ancient rulers. The complex features 'The Palace', notable for its unique four-story watchtower, and the Temple of the Cross group. Visitors are often treated to the sounds of howler monkeys and sightings of tropical birds, adding to the site's primordial atmosphere. Because only a small percentage of the city has been excavated, the surrounding jungle-covered mounds give a true sense of mystery and discovery. The onsite museum is exceptional, housing the original sarcophagus lid and other artifacts. Palenque can be reached from the nearby town of the same name, which is well-connected to Villahermosa and San Cristóbal de las Casas. The climate is hot and humid year-round, making early morning visits and plenty of water essential. Nearby natural wonders like the Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls make for well-suited side trips. The best time to visit is during the drier months from November to February. Palenque gives a unique opportunity to witness the peak of Mayan artistic achievement in a setting that feels untouched by time.

Nearby cities

Tuxtla Gutiérrez

The capital of Chiapas and the state's busiest urban center.

Tapachula

A city in Chiapas near the Guatemala border, an important agricultural center.

San Cristóbal de las Casas

A picturesque colonial city in the highlands of Chiapas with a strong indigenous culture.

Sumidero Canyon

A majestic natural canyon with vertical walls reaching up to 1000 meters, carved by the Grijalva River.

Malacatán

Important border town with Mexico in the San Marcos department.

San Pablo

A municipality in the San Marcos department.

La Libertad (Huehuetenango)

A municipality in the Huehuetenango department.

Coatepeque

One of the largest cities in Guatemala, an important commercial center.

Ciudad del Carmen

A city on an island that is a major hub for the offshore oil industry in the Bay of Campeche.

San Marcos

Capital of the San Marcos department, near the Tajumulco volcano.

Colomba

A coffee-growing town in the Quetzaltenango department.

Jacaltenango

Town in the Huehuetenango highlands, home to the Jakaltek Maya people.

Retalhuleu

Capital of Retalhuleu department, a gateway to the Pacific beaches.

Concepción Chiquirichapa

A municipality in the Quetzaltenango department.

Ostuncalco

A town in the Quetzaltenango department with a well-known market.

History & landmarks

Nature

Laguna Brava (Yolnabaj)

A remote, picturesque lake near the Mexican border, known for its turquoise waters.

More places

Tacaná Volcano

An active stratovolcano on the border between Mexico and Guatemala.

Chiapas Coffee Fincas

Expansive coffee estates in the rugged mountains of Chiapas, a world leader in organic and fair-trade coffee production.

Sierra Madre de Chiapas

A mountain range running parallel to the Pacific coast in the south.

Lacandon Rainforest

One of the last large tropical rainforests in Mexico.

Lacandon Jungle

One of North America's largest remaining rainforests, home to the Lacandon Maya and an incredible variety of tropical wildlife.

Bonampak

An ancient Maya site renowned for its remarkably well-preserved murals.

Yaxchilán

A powerful Maya city on the banks of the Usumacinta River, known for its impressive stone lintels.

Temple of the Inscriptions

A significant monument in the Maya city of Palenque.